By Ogenyi Ogenyi,Uyo
Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom on Thursday in Uyo swore in 31 newly appointed Local Government Transition chairmen with a charge for them to reside in their Councils.
At the occasion,, Eno reminded the chairmen that have been selected not because they are the most qualified and urged them to work harmoniously with their people to advance the administration’s agenda of growth and prosperity.
The Governor said that the 2024 Budget has made provisions for the conduct of Local Government Election, after the expiration of the current Transition period adding that the State Independent Electoral Commission (AKISIEC), has already commenced the process.
He tasked them to partner with the state government to execute at least one laudable project that would touch and impact the lives of the people of their areas.
“My Monitoring and Evaluation Team will be on ground to ensure that, this is done. We are determined and dedicated to ensuring that we bring development to our people, especially in the rural areas, in line with the Arise Agenda.
“You are the Chief Security Officer in your respective Councils, you must ensure that you maintain peace and create harmonious relationship with your people.
“Let me state very clearly that you must reside in your respective Local Government Areas. You cannot administer your councils from another location.
“According to Section 78 of Akwa Local Government (Administration) Law 2017; “The principal Officers of the Local Government shall reside in their respective Local Government Councils.
“A contravention of this section shall be deemed to be a misconduct and as such an indictable offense.” The definition of the Principal Officers is further explained in Section 83 of the same law. I encourage you all to get familiar with these sections.
“In addition, I want to emphasize emphatically that zoning must and will be maintained. I encourage and expect this, to be followed to the letter. If zoning does not favour you, please do not waste your time or resources to pursue an office; you will not get it.” Eno stated.
He thanked members of the State Assembly for the expeditious manner they approved his request to constitute Interim Administration in the Local Government Areas.
The chairmen are expected to swear in other members of the transition committees in their respective Councils.
