Rivers State Appoints New LG Caretakers and Electoral Commission Ahead of Key Polls
By Editor
Port Harcourt, Nigeria – April 8, 2025 – In a move signaling a significant shift in local governance, the Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral (rtd) Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas CFR, has announced the appointment of administrators for all 23 Local Government Areas (LGAs) in the state. This announcement, made public by Secretary to the State Government, Prof Ibibia Lucky Worika, also included the naming of a new Rivers State Electoral Commission (RSIEC), setting the stage for upcoming local elections.
The newly appointed LGA administrators, effective from Monday, April 7, 2025, are tasked with steering the affairs of their respective councils during this crucial period. The appointees reflect a diverse mix of experienced professionals, academics, and legal experts, poised to bring their expertise to local governance.
Key LGA Administrator Appointments:
- Mr. Okroiyobi Animiete (Abua/Odual)
- Mr. Goodluck M. Ihenacho (Ahoada East)
- Mr. Promise Jacob (Ahoada West)
- Dr. Tamunotonye Peters (Akuku Toru)
- Surveyor Atajit Francis (Andoni)
- Barrister Ibiapuve Charles (Asari Toru)
- Mr. Kingsley N. Banigo (Bonny)
- Dr. Sokari Ibifuro Francis (Degema)
- Dr. Gloria Obo Dibiah (Eleme)
- Barrister Franklin P. Ajinwon (Emohua)
- Dr. Onyemachi S. Nwankwor (Etche)
- Prof. Gospel G. Kpee (Gokana)
- Mr. Isaiah Christian Nobuawu (Ikwerre)
- Dr. Barinedum Nwibere (Khana)
- Dr. Clifford Ndu Walter (Obio Akpor)
- Dr. Chukwuma Aje (Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni)
- Eliel Owubokiri (Ogu/BOLO)
- Mr. Thompson Isodiki (Okrika)
- Manager Ikechi Wala (Omuma)
- Mr. Fred Apiafi (Opobo /Nkoro)
- Eletuuo Ihianacho (Oyigbo)
- Dr. Sam Kalagbor (Port Harcourt)
- Mr. Nuka O. S. Gbipah (Tai)
In a parallel move, the Administrator also unveiled the new Rivers State Electoral Commission, crucial for overseeing the upcoming local government polls. The commission is chaired by Dr. Micheal Ekpai Odey, with a team of esteemed academics and professionals as members:
New Rivers State Electoral Commission:
- Dr. Micheal Ekpai Odey (Chairman)
- Mr. Lezaasi Lenee Torbira (Member)
- Prof. Author Nwafor (Member)
- Professor Godfrey Woke Mbgudiogha (Member)
- Professor (Dame) Joyce Akaninwor (Member)
- Dr. (Mrs) Olive A. Bruce (Member)
- Professor Chidi Halliday (Member)
This comprehensive restructuring of both local government administration and the electoral body signifies a proactive approach by the Rivers State government in ensuring smooth and credible electoral processes. The appointments have sparked keen interest among residents, who are now looking forward to the impact of these changes on local governance and the forthcoming elections.
The appointments, effective immediately, are seen as a strategic step towards strengthening local governance and ensuring a fair and transparent electoral process in the state.
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