Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has relieved all commissioners and other public office holders in his administration of their duties. The decision, which takes immediate effect, was announced in Port Harcourt on Wednesday evening by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Nelson Chukwudi. According to the statement, the move follows the recent Supreme Court judgment that nullified certain appointments and directed adjustments in the state’s governance structure.
Speaking during a valedictory session with his outgoing cabinet at the Government House in Port Harcourt, Governor Fubara expressed appreciation to the officials for their contributions to the development of Rivers State over the past two years. He also linked the decision to Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary, urging citizens to work with President Bola Tinubu to build a peaceful, secure, and prosperous nation.
The governor assured Rivers people of his renewed commitment to service, promising to lead the state with fresh energy despite the challenges. He thanked the people for their support and extended Independence Day wishes to all Nigerians.
The development comes after months of uncertainty surrounding Fubara’s appointees. During the emergency rule imposed by President Bola Tinubu, the state was administered by Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd.), who suspended commissioners, special advisers, and dissolved boards and parastatals. Since Ibas’ exit on September 18, the status of Fubara’s cabinet had remained unclear.
Meanwhile, the Rivers State House of Assembly, at its first sitting following the lifting of emergency rule, had called on the governor to submit a fresh list of commissioner-nominees for screening, alongside the 2025 budget. The Supreme Court also recently ruled that federal allocations to Rivers should be withheld until a proper budget is passed, while invalidating the October 5, 2024, local government election and ordering a fresh poll.
Governor Fubara has maintained that, although his administration disagrees with aspects of the Supreme Court ruling, he remains committed to implementing the judgment fully as a law-abiding leader.
