Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has dismissed all commissioners and other public office holders within his administration, effective immediately.
The decision, announced Wednesday evening, follows a recent Supreme Court judgment, according to a statement released by his Chief Press Secretary, Nelson Chukwudi.
The Governor’s action was confirmed in a statement issued in Port Harcourt after a valedictory session with the cabinet to mark Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary. During the session held at Government House, Governor Fubara expressed his gratitude to the outgoing officials for their service and contributions to the state’s development over the past two years.
“Rivers State Governor, His Excellency, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has thanked members of his cabinet for their services and contributions to the development of the state in the last two years,” the statement read. “The governor highlighted the significance of Nigeria’s Independence, and called on all Nigerians to work together with Mr President to build a peaceful, secure and prosperous country and a brighter future for all. Furthermore, the Governor has relieved all Commissioners and other public officers affected by the recent Supreme Court judgment of their appointments with immediate effect.”
The Governor also reaffirmed his dedication to serving the state “with renewed vigour.” He expressed his appreciation for the ongoing support of the people of Rivers State and extended his well wishes for a happy Independence anniversary to all Nigerians.
The political landscape in Rivers State has been in flux following the lifting of emergency rule imposed by President Bola Tinubu. Former administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd.), had previously suspended all commissioners, special advisers, and assistants appointed by Fubara, as well as dissolving boards and suspending heads of parastatals. The return of the state’s governance to normalcy on September 18th left the status of Fubara’s appointees uncertain.
Following the lifting of emergency rule, the Rivers State House of Assembly, during its first sitting, urged the governor to submit a fresh list of commissioner-nominees for screening, alongside the 2025 budget for passage. This action by Governor Fubara now sets the stage for a potential cabinet reshuffle and new appointments in the coming weeks. Further developments on the impact of this decision and the subsequent appointments will be closely monitored.
