Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has posed a direct question to his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, regarding the extension of local government chairmen's tenure.
In a video posted by AIT on their YouTube channel, Fubara expressed curiosity about whether such an extension was considered during Wike's tenure, underscoring that it contradicts established constitutional norms.
Governor Fubara highlighted the issue of extending the tenure of local government chairmen, an action he views as unconstitutional.
He rhetorically questioned if the Nigerian constitution is interpreted differently in Rivers State, drawing attention to the inconsistency between local practices and national legal standards.
Governor Fubara's remarks were directed towards addressing what he perceives as a deviation from the constitutional guidelines that govern local government administration.
He emphasised the importance of adhering to the Nigerian constitution, which provides a clear framework for the tenure of local government officials.
By questioning whether this practice was adopted during Wike's administration, Fubara aimed to shed light on the need for constitutional compliance.
Fubara further engaged the senators present at the meeting, inquiring whether the extension of local government tenure is a common practice in their respective states.
This question was posed to ascertain if Rivers State is an outlier in this regard or if the issue is more widespread.
The governor's inquiry is part of a broader effort to ensure that local governance in Rivers State aligns with national legal standards.
Governor Fubara's stance reflects a commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring that local government operations in Rivers State are conducted within the confines of the Nigerian constitution.
Fubara said, "Whatever situation we find ourselves today in this state, you all know the cause of it. Where on earth can the tenure of local government chairmen be elongated? You were a former governor; was it tried in your time?
"Even those of you who are senators here, even in your own state? Is it that the constitution that governs Nigeria is different from the one that operates in Rivers State? Those are the very pertinent questions we should ask."
Watch the video here (start from 1:12).