Nominations of 100 SA for the purpose of granting them powers

Obio-Akpor Local Government Chairman Chijioke Ihunwo said the appointment of 100 special assistants was aimed at empowering the residents.

Ihunwo said the decision was in line with that of the state governor to empower citizens and ensure the much-desired prosperity and development of the state.

The Guardian gathered that the appointees, all with the title of Special Assistants (SAs), provide services to the council such as sanitation marshals, security watch and other support services. It was also learnt that the special assistants are paid N50,000 per month.

The Chief Press Secretary of the Obio-Akpor Local Council Chairman, Mr. Ofonime Okon, in a statement made available to The Guardian on Thursday, confirmed that the appointees include Clement Ifelen Nwaru, Augusta Dafugbo Jaja, Bariasa Juliet Doba, Chigozie Emmanuel Esinuelo, Stella Nkechi Worlu and Ogbonna Ezinne Stella. The other members are Charity O. Amadi, Ejekwu Theresa Nkiruka, Ijeoma Wosu, Orlu Grace Oluchi, Emilia Seibidor, Silverline Oluchi, Blessing Worlu, Blessing Ndidi Chinda and Wosu Elizabeth Obinuchi.

In a statement, the chairman, while congratulating the newly elected officials, pledged that they would work effectively and implement a development programme that is in line with Governor Fubara’s vision.

The appointment of a large number of Special Assistants is not unique to Obio-Akpor. Ikwerre Local Government Chairman Darlington Orji, immediately after being sworn in last month, approved the appointment of 600 persons, including Special Assistants (SAs), Senior Special Assistants (SSAs) and Executive Assistants (EAs).

It was also reported that Khana local government chairman Marvin Yobana also appointed 100 board members.