In response to the escalating political crisis in Rivers State, the Rivers State Local Government Service Commission has issued a directive barring officers from the 23 LG areas in the state from attending the Rivers State Assembly.
A circular was sent to all heads of local government administration, signed by the Director of Information and Communications of the commission, Ebirieneuket, Nteile, outlining the new policy.
The circular states that any staff member who fails to comply with the instructions will face dismissal from service.
As per the circular, it reads, “I am directed to inform you and all officers of the 23 Local Government Councils in Rivers State not to honour/appear before the Members of Assembly or any purported invitation by anybody or group of persons in any guise without the permission of the Acting Chairman- Local Government Service Commission”.
It is believed that this action is linked to the ongoing political unrest in the state, which has been fueled by the conflict between the state governor, Sim Fubara, and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike.
The recent passing of the Rivers State Local Government (Amendment) Bill into law by the State House of Assembly on April 22, despite Fubara’s objection, has further heightened tensions.
At the 159th Legislative sitting held at the Assembly Quarters in Port Harcourt, the House, under the leadership of Speaker Martin Amaewhule, decided to override Fubara’s assent to the bill.
On Tuesday, the Rivers State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) instructed assembly members to initiate impeachment proceedings against Fubara.