Local Government Chairman Appoints Over 300 Special Advisers

In a move that has raised eyebrows, Chijioke Ihunwo, the Chairman of Obio-Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers State, has appointed a staggering 280 Special Advisers (SAs) in two batches, in addition to the over 50 previously appointed, bringing the total number to over 300.

This development has sparked interest among political observers, who are keen to understand the rationale behind such a large-scale appointment. According to reports, Ihunwo had initially appointed 130 Special Advisers, in addition to the over 50 previously appointed. However, in a surprise move, he made a fresh appointment of another 100 SAs, further expanding his team.

The Role of Special Advisers

Special Advisers play a crucial role in supporting the chairman and the local government council in their administrative duties. They provide expert advice, facilitate communication between the council and various stakeholders, and help implement policies and programs.

However, the appointment of such a large number of Special Advisers has raised questions about the financial implications and the potential impact on the efficiency of the local government administration.

Previous Appointment Record

Interestingly, this is not Ihunwo’s first large-scale appointment. In July 2024, he appointed 100 Special Advisers as the caretaker committee chairman of Obio-Akpor LGA. This move was seen as a strategic effort to strengthen his administration and drive development in the local government area.

Comparison with Other Local Governments

The trend of local government chairmen appointing a large number of aides is gaining traction in the country. For instance, Yusuf Imam, the chairman of Nasarawa LGA in Kano State, approved the appointments of 60 aides. While the numbers may vary, the underlying motivation appears to be the same – to build a strong team that can support the chairman in delivering good governance and development to the people.

The appointment of over 300 Special Advisers by Chijioke Ihunwo has undoubtedly raised eyebrows. While the move may be seen as a strategic effort to strengthen his administration, it also raises important questions about financial management, efficiency, and the potential impact on the local government’s effectiveness. As the situation unfolds, it will be interesting to observe how this large team of Special Advisers contributes to the development of Obio-Akpor Local Government Area.