The National Vanguard for Rule of Law has praised Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State for his adherence to democratic principles by allowing elected Local Government officials to complete their three-year tenure.
The commendation comes in an era where some governors undermine the democratic process by cutting short the terms of duly elected officials. The NVRL views Fubara’s commitment to the rule of law and democratic governance as a refreshing respite.
Recently, 23 local government chairmen, vice chairmen, and councillors vacated their offices after their tenure expired.
In a statement by Comrade Johnson Babatunde, the NVRL highlighted that by permitting the elected LG officials to serve their full term, Governor Fubara has shown an uncommon respect for the will of the people, who overwhelmingly elected these officials.
Babatunde emphasized that this action demonstrates that the Governor is a true democrat, a defender of the people’s rights, and a leader who prioritizes the welfare and interests of his constituents over personal or political considerations. The group hailed Governor Fubara as a champion of democracy, a prominent figure in Nigerian politics, and a role model for other leaders to emulate.
“The National Vanguard for Rule of Law commends the Governor of Rivers State, His Excellency Siminalayi Fubara, for allowing the 23 democratically elected local government chairmen and councilors in Rivers State to complete their 3-year tenure in office,” the statement said.
“Unlike his counterpart in Benue State, Hyacinth Alia, who without provocation dismantled the democratically elected local government chairmen and councilors he inherited from his predecessor, despite a court order restraining him from doing so, Governor Fubara allowed and supported the local government chairmen and councilors to complete their tenure, which came to an end on June 17, 2024.
“Despite the provocation from the local government chairmen because of their allegiance to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, Governor Fubara once again displayed his democratic credentials by not truncating the tenure of the chairmen and their councilors.
“We call on other Governors in the country today and in the future to emulate Governor Fubara in upholding democracy and the rule of law and also respecting the third tier of government.
“The immediate past local government chairmen in Rivers State also need to appreciate Governor Fubara for his magnanimity, democratic credentials, and for upholding the rule of law.”