Governor of Rivers State, Nyesom Wike, has sworn in Dame Anengi Barasua as the chairman of Bonny Local Government Area, following the death of the former council chairman, Mr. David Irimagha, in September.
Barasua, who was the vice chairman of the council, was sworn in yesterday at the Government House in Port Harcourt.
Speaking at the ceremony, Wike said he was shocked when he was informed of the abrupt demise of Irimagha, whom he described as one of his staunch supporters in Bonny and in the state.
He urged the newly sworn in council chairman to continue the laudable projects initiated by her predecessor, all of which are aimed at improving the well-being of the people of Bonny.
“Go ahead, continue with the projects he started and even initiate new ones.”
Wike urged Barasua to use the opportunity which providence has availed her to showcase her true leadership mettle.
“It is an opportunity for you to showcase your leadership. There is nothing stopping a woman from ascending to the highest position. You never can tell what other opportunities will come if you perform better.”
Furthermore, Wike advised the council chairman to work in unison with critical stakeholders in Bonny, led by the Commissioner for Local Government Affairs, Mr. Rodaford Long-John.
“I have never heard of political crisis in Bonny in terms of leadership. I don’t want to also hear of it. Keep the place together. Work with the leadership.”
He cautioned the council chairman to refrain from engaging in divisive politics that could be detrimental to the peace and development of Bonny.
“I don’t want you to go there and divide Bonny or create new structure for yourself. It will not work. The leadership must be there. Keep Bonny united. Make sure that you work for the development of Bonny.”
Wike, while charging the council chairman to work assiduously for the growth and development of the local government area, disclosed that the state government will play an active part in the burial ceremony of late Irimagha.
Meanwhile, Barasua, speaking to journalists, said she will adhere to the vision of her predecessor, further assuring good governance of the council.
“I will look up to God for wisdom and strength to carry Bonny forward. I will uphold the vision of my late boss and add mine. And by the grace of God, I am going to give Bonny people good governance.”
