GOVERNOR FUBARA’S LOYALIST CHAIRMAN FACES BACKLASH OVER EXCESSIVE APPOINTMENTS
By Aluta News
January 09, 2025
In a move that has sparked widespread outrage, Chijioke Ihunwo, Chairman of Obio/Akpor LGA in Rivers State, has appointed a staggering 130 personal assistants. This decision has been met with fierce criticism from Nigerians on social media, including notable figures, who have deemed the appointments excessive and unnecessary.
Many have questioned the logic behind Ihunwo’s decision, wondering why healthcare and education were not prioritized instead. This is not the first time Ihunwo has made headlines for his actions. Aluta News recalls his previous move to replace Nyesom Wike’s name on the council secretariat with that of the late Obi Wali, a decision that sparked controversy and debate.
Some Nigerians who have spoken to Aluta News correspondent suggests that instead of appointing personal assistants, the local government could have explored alternative strategies to improve their effectiveness and better serve their communities, such as inclusive community engagement through participatory budgeting, equitable policymaking through revised public participation laws, planning for the future by engaging residents in the planning process, increasing voter turnout through pro-voter policies, and transparency and accountability through co-designing policies and services with local residents.
By implementing these strategies, local governments can build trust with their communities, promote equity, and create a more inclusive decision-making process. The appointment of 130 personal assistants has raised eyebrows, with many calling for greater transparency and accountability in governance. As the backlash continues to grow, it remains to be seen how Ihunwo will respond to the criticism and whether he will reconsider his decision.