By: Felix Ikpotor
Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike has lifted the suspension of the Chairman of Port Harcourt Local Government, Victor Ihunwo.
“The Chairman is to resume normal duties immediately, and has been strictly warned to abide by all the rules governing local government administration,” Wike said on Twitter on Monday.
“He is further warned to desist from engaging in all forms of illegal or double taxation or any other acts against public interest.”
Wike suspended Ihunwo in July for illegal tax collection. He directed traders at the Ogbum-nu-Abali Fruit Garden market not to have any dealing with anyone who claims to be acting on behalf of Port Harcourt City Local Government Area.
The governor also removed JAAC Accounts from all the Banks that gave loans to some Local Government Councils without the authorisation of the State Government as provided in the Local Government Law.
Wike authorised the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice to institute legal action against the defaulting banks.
Meanwhile, reinstated Mayor of Port Harcourt City, Victor Ihunwo has thanked the entire people of Port Harcourt for the belief and confidence they still have in him to stir the ship of the council to greatness and for their fervent prayers and support in the months he was suspended from office.
Ihunwo in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Bob Abayomi also appreciated the political leaders of Port Harcourt City such as Hon Austin Opara, Chief Azubuike Nmerukini and Hon Ken Chikere for standing up for him and vowed never to disappoint them going forward.
The council boss also thanked other leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, family in Port Harcourt City, the Rebisi Council of Chiefs, traditional rulers in the city, stakeholders, youths and women groups and the entire people of the city for all they did to keep the city safe and secure while he was away from office.
