Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has directed heads of local government administration to take charge of the 23 council areas of the state.

This follows yesterday’s expiration of the statutory three-year tenure of the elected chairmen, vice chairmen and councillors.

Fubara gave the directive this morning in a statewide broadcast.

The governor said: “ Heads of Local Government Administration (HLGAs) are hereby directed to immediately take charge of the councils with renewed vigour and readiness to serve and await further directives as we navigate towards even greater accomplishments together.

“As we move forward in making sure that the constitution is upheld, and that law and order are maintained as we continue to strive to provide leadership and direction for our people, I hereby direct heads HLGAs to continue to provide leadership in their respective local government areas.”

He thanked the elected chairmen and councilors for their service which, according to him, expired yesterday.