Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has relieved all commissioners and other public office holders in his administration of their duties.

The announcement, conveyed in a statement released on Wednesday evening in Port Harcourt by his Chief Press Secretary, Nelson Chukwudi, takes immediate effect and follows the recent Supreme Court judgment.

Speaking during a valedictory session with his cabinet at Government House, Port Harcourt, to mark Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary, the governor expressed gratitude to the outgoing officials for their service and contributions to the state’s development over the past two years.

The statement partly read:
“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 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.”

Governor Fubara reaffirmed his determination to serve Rivers people “with renewed vigour,” while appreciating their support and extending Independence Day wishes to Nigerians.

It will be recalled that Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd.), who administered the state during the emergency rule declared by President Bola Tinubu, had suspended all commissioners, special advisers, assistants, and dissolved boards as well as parastatal leaderships appointed by Fubara.

Since Ibas’ exit on September 18, uncertainty had surrounded the status of Fubara’s appointees. The Rivers State House of Assembly, in its first sitting after the lifting of emergency rule, subsequently urged the governor to present a fresh list of commissioner-nominees for screening, alongside the 2025 budget for passage.

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