Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has dismissed all commissioners and other public office holders in his administration with immediate effect, following a recent Supreme Court judgment that reasserted his executive authority after months of constitutional uncertainty.
The announcement was made in a statement released Wednesday evening by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Nelson Chukwudi, in Port Harcourt. It came shortly after a valedictory session held at the Government House as part of activities marking Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary.
“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.
Fubara, addressing the outgoing cabinet, expressed gratitude for their commitment to the state’s development and assured Rivers people of his renewed determination to lead with purpose and integrity.
“As we mark our nation’s 65th Independence, let us commit ourselves to building a peaceful, secure, and prosperous Nigeria. I also thank Rivers people for their continued support,” the governor stated.
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Tied to Supreme Court decision
The sweeping dismissal is linked to a recent Supreme Court ruling that clarified the status of public appointments during the emergency rule imposed earlier this year by President Bola Tinubu. The emergency measure, which saw the appointment of Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd.) as interim administrator, led to the suspension of all political appointees and the dissolution of boards and agencies.
Following Ibas’ departure on 18 September, the fate of Fubara’s original appointees remained uncertain. The Supreme Court’s clarification has now paved the way for the governor to reconstitute his government.
“The Governor has relieved all commissioners and other public officers affected by the recent Supreme Court judgment of their appointments with immediate effect,” the statement confirmed.
READ ALSO: Fubara assures Rivers people of continued service, humbled by warm reception
New cabinet, budget expected
The Rivers State House of Assembly, during its first sitting after the end of emergency rule, had urged Governor Fubara to submit a fresh list of commissioner-nominees for screening, alongside the 2025 appropriation bill for legislative consideration.
The dismissal of the current cabinet clears the way for a full reconstitution of the state’s executive council, setting the stage for renewed governance and policy direction as Fubara begins a new chapter of his administration.
Fubara’s action is seen as a political reset, aimed at consolidating his authority and ensuring alignment within his government after a period of uncertainty and disruption.
