The immediate past chairmen of the 23 local government areas in Rivers State have expressed their unwavering loyalty to Governor Siminalayi Fubara, reaffirming support for his administration during a solidarity visit to his private residence in Port Harcourt on Wednesday.
Led by Ezebunwo Ichemati, the former Chairman of the Association of Local Government Chairmen of Nigeria in Rivers State and ex-Port Harcourt City LG boss, the delegation reiterated their commitment to the “Rivers First” agenda under Fubara’s leadership. They assured the governor of their dedication to his mandate and encouraged Rivers citizens to remain steadfast in their support despite ongoing political challenges.
Ichemati stated, “This is the time for Rivers people to stand united and law-abiding so as not to give room for those plotting against the state’s progress.” The visit follows the Supreme Court’s recent ruling, which invalidated the October 5, 2024, local government elections that brought these chairmen to office. In response, Governor Fubara has directed them to vacate their positions, with fresh local government elections scheduled for August 9, 2025.
The former chairmen offered prayers for divine intervention and protection for the governor, describing the current period as a defining moment in the state’s political history.