08/09/2025
GIFT WORLU SWEARS IN VICE CHAIRMAN, PROCLAIMS TENTH OBIO/AKPOR LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL
The Chairman of Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, Hon. (Dr.) Gift Worlu, on Monday officially swore in the Vice Chairman, Dr. (Mrs.) Joyce Nyeche, and proclaimed the Tenth Obio/Akpor Legislative Council in a ceremony held at the Obio/Akpor Council Secretariat, Rumuodumaya.
Delivering his proclamation in accordance with the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Hon. Gift Worlu declared:
“WHEREAS it is provided in sections of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended), that the persons elected as head of the executive arm shall have the power to issue a proclamation for the holding of the first session of the legislative sitting immediately after his being sworn-in. NOW, THEREFORE, I, Hon. Dr. Gift Worlu, Chairman, Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, in exercise of the powers bestowed upon me by Section 7 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), and of all other powers enabling me in that behalf, hereby proclaim that the first session of the 10th Obio/Akpor Legislative Council shall hold forthwith, this day, 8th September, 2025, in the Obio/Akpor Legislative Council Chamber, Obio/Akpor Council Secretariat, Rumuodomaya. Given under my hand and seal this day 8th September, 2025.”
Following the proclamation, the seventeen newly elected Councillors took their oath of office, after which the Clerk of Council conducted the election of principal officers of the Tenth Obio/Akpor Legislative Council. At the end of the exercise, the following emerged as leaders of the Assembly:
1. Rt. Hon. Rex-Milia Abuchi Amadi – Leader of the House
2. Hon. Nyekwere Chinda – Deputy Leader
3. Hon. Joy Odomemene – Chief Whip
In his inaugural address, the Chairman of Obio/Akpor, Dr Gift Worlu described the day as “a new dawn in the annals of Obio/Akpor,” stressing that it marked not just a continuation of victory celebrations but the beginning of renewed hope and purposeful service at the grassroots.
“Let me first, in the capacity of the new title which you have collectively given to me as Chairman, Obio/Akpor Local Government Council, warmly welcome you all to this momentous event. This auspicious occasion heralds a new dawn in the annals of our great Local Government, as today is not just a continuation of celebration of our victory. It is, rather, the beginning of service, the beginning of another phase of renewed hope agenda at the 3rd Tier level of government. I, therefore, stand before you, my beloved people and party faithfuls, humbled, honored and deeply grateful.”
The Chairman first expressed gratitude to God Almighty for His grace and thanked the Honourable Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Chief (Barr.) Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, CON, GSSRS, POS (Africa), Life Bencher, describing him as a “God-ordained leader and rubicon breaker” whose steadfastness ensured the stability of the political structure in Rivers State.
He further extended appreciation to Vice Admiral (Rtd.) Ibok Ete Ibas, State Sole Administrator, for his role in the peaceful conduct of the just concluded local government elections, as well as to Sir Dr. Ndu Walter, immediate past Sole Administrator of Obio/Akpor, for his leadership in steering the affairs of the LGA prior to the transition.
Hon. Gift Worlu congratulated Vice Chairman, Dr. (Mrs.) Gloria Joyce Nyeche, and all 17 ward councillors, assuring them of a collective partnership that would deliver lasting progress. He emphasized that his administration would prioritize fairness, justice, humility, and people-driven service, while maintaining strong respect for political leaders, elders, and the citizenry whose mandate he pledged never to betray.
The Chairman outlined his development agenda for the next three years, vowing to consolidate on the achievements of the immediate past administration of Hon. (Barr.) George Ariolu. His roadmap includes education reform through school renovations and provision of learning materials, robust human capital development, improved healthcare delivery, road rehabilitation in collaboration with state and federal agencies, enhanced utilities such as electricity and water supply, market development, youth and women empowerment, scholarships for students, and strengthened security across Obio/Akpor.
He particularly assured residents of a pragmatic approach to waste management, traffic control, and the fight against social vices such as drug abuse, cultism, and land grabbing, which he described as a threat to investors and community peace.
“The philosophy of our campaign was anchored on unity. It is my conviction that a people united can never be defeated. With unity of purpose, the flame of our Local Government will glow brighter and brighter. This will ultimately translate to peace, love and progress for the mutual benefit of all,” Hon. Worlu declared.
The Chairman also paid tribute to his wife, Flora, for her unwavering support, describing her as the “strong pillar” behind his political journey.
In his acceptance speech, the newly elected Leader of the Obio/Akpor Legislative Assembly, Rt. Hon. Rex-Milia Abuchi Amadi, expressed profound appreciation to party leaders, dignitaries, and the people of Obio/Akpor for their trust. He pledged that the Tenth Obio/Akpor Legislative Council would work in synergy with the executive arm to enact laws and resolutions that directly address the aspirations of the people.
“As the Leader of the 10th Legislative Council of Obio-Akpor LGA, I assure you that we will work assiduously to fulfill our constitutional mandate. In synergy with the leadership of our esteemed Chairman, we will prioritize legislation that promotes the welfare and development of our local government area. With divine guidance and wisdom, I am confident that our collective efforts will yield positive results. Rest assured—we will not fail you.”
He also acknowledged the contributions of the FCT Minister, Chief (Barr.) Nyesom Wike; Minority Leader of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Kingsley Chinda; Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Martins Amaewhule; State PDP Chairman, Hon. Chukwuemeka Aaron; and past leaders of Obio/Akpor LGA for their visionary guidance and mentorship.
The ceremony concluded with cheers from party faithful, traditional rulers, stakeholders, and citizens who gathered to witness what was widely described as a “unity-driven fresh start” for Obio/Akpor Local Government Area.
Signed,
Office of The Chairman Obio/Akpor
September 8th, 2025