Chairman of the Obio-Akpor Local Government Area in Rivers State, Chijioke Ihunwo, has sparked widespread debate following his decision to appoint 130 individuals as special assistants.
Announcing the appointments via his social media accounts, Ihunwo noted that the new roles would take immediate effect.
However, the absence of assigned portfolios for the appointees has led to speculation and contrasting opinions among stakeholders.
While some questioned the practicality of such a large team, others viewed the move as a form of political patronage.
Public Reactions
The decision has drawn mixed reactions online, with several individuals taking to social media to voice their opinions:
– @Onsogbu: “Obio/Akpor LGA in Rivers State has 17 wards, yet the chairman employs 130 personal assistants. Na wa o!”
– @EmekaEK: “What’s with you people and flamboyance? A Local Government Chairman with 130 SAs? What then would be your duty?”
– @ChuksOhaxx: “Nah only women full your cabinet?? Oshey King Solomon of our time.”
– @Oludarrey: “Man is simply trying to employ people. Looks like an intentional setup to get people engaged.”
– @EmmyPromise71: “Maybe this guy wants to trend on X because I can’t believe what I just read. 130 individuals in an LGA, and everywhere is quiet. Okay o!”
Criticism of Oversized Appointments
Some commenters expressed scepticism about the chairman’s intentions:
– @NwankwoFrank6: “Politics in Nigeria has turned to a jamboree. A local government chairman appointing 130 SAs while already having numerous SSAs. What portfolios will these 130 assistants manage? This is the wastage we’re talking about in Nigerian politics.”
– @Sskid00: “I can’t help but imagine their take-home pay. The office sounds interesting, but the remuneration is likely discouraging.”
Alternative Perspectives
Others suggested there might be strategic or developmental motives behind the appointments:
– @LegacyNgLimited: “I’m part of the local government system in Anambra and understand what he did. This large army becomes useful during elections. They’re essentially the chairman’s foot soldiers and, by extension, the governor’s army. Most of them won’t have an office or desk at the Secretariat.”
– @SadiqMaunde: “This is a welcome development, Mr. Chairman. In other countries, many special assistants are appointed to handle workload. Nigeria is now matching international standards. I hope other chairmen follow suit. Bravo.”
– @Poju_klez: “That’s commendable, sir. At least the dividends of democracy are evident at the grassroots. Your government is closer to the people, but I’m curious about their exact roles. Anyway, if the people win, no issues.”
While some see Ihunwo’s appointments as a means of engaging the youth and bringing the government closer to the grassroots, others argue it reflects the excesses of political patronage in Nigeria.