AMAECHI READS RIOT ACT TO NEW COMMISSIONERS

Rivers State governor, Mr. Chibuike Amaechi yesterday swore in six newly appointed commissioners, with a warning that they should shun corruption or risk being kicked out.

The governor told the new cabinet members, who include four former commissioners, that he would not hesitate to sack any of them found to be corrupt. He harped on the need for the commissioners to be careful, as the state's fiscal responsibility law would be used against public officers caught playing loose with state funds.

He said: 'I enjoin all of us today to know that we are holding the commonwealth of Rivers people.  Therefore, the target is high, but even if we cannot get to the target, if we get close to the target, we would have achieved what would be to the best interest of Rivers State.

'I am sure most of you are my friends and know my goals.  You must key into the goals. If I am not satisfied that you are at the same frequency with me, I will not hesitate to drop you.

'There is a difference between Chibuike Amaechi, as your friend and Chibuike Amaechi, as the governor of Rivers State because Amaechi as governor of the state cannot afford to take people for granted.'

He pointed out that his re-election places huge responsibility on the common shoulders of state officials, adding that he deliberately decided to appoint commissioners in batches.

'I could have selected all the commissioners at once, but I want to send a message, especially to those returning that there is need to perform better.  I asked you to start now because we just have two years for effective concentration before politics begins to distract you.'