In a dramatic shake-up that has sent shockwaves through Rivers State’s political landscape, Governor Siminalayi Fubara has dismissed all commissioners and public officers serving in his administration. The decision, announced on Wednesday in Port Harcourt, marks one of the most sweeping cabinet dissolutions in recent Nigerian political history.
The announcement was contained in a statement issued by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Nelson Chukwudi, and comes just weeks after a Supreme Court ruling that directly affected the structure and stability of Fubara’s government.
Fubara Appreciates Outgoing Cabinet at Valedictory Session
Speaking at a valedictory session held at the Government House, Port Harcourt, Governor Fubara expressed appreciation to his commissioners and political appointees for their loyalty, resilience, and contributions to the state over the past two years.
The governor highlighted several development projects executed during their tenure, noting that his administration had recorded significant milestones despite the turbulence of political battles and legal uncertainties.
“I want to sincerely thank each member of this cabinet for the role you played in moving Rivers State forward,” the governor said. “This is a moment of transition, but also a time of renewed commitment to the service of our people.”
He further emphasized the symbolic importance of Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary, urging Rivers people—and Nigerians at large—to remain hopeful and committed to a united and prosperous nation.
“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,” the statement noted.
Mass Sack Takes Immediate Effect
Governor Fubara made it clear that the dissolution of the cabinet was effective immediately. All affected commissioners, advisers, assistants, and heads of parastatals have been relieved of their duties, creating a political vacuum that observers say could redefine governance in Rivers State in the months ahead.
The governor assured Rivers people that he remains focused on delivering good governance, even as he restructures his administration. “This is not the end of the journey,” Fubara assured. “It is the beginning of a renewed focus on service, accountability, and people-centered governance.”
Link to Supreme Court Ruling and Recent Political Turmoil
The cabinet dissolution comes against the backdrop of intense political drama in Rivers State. Only a few weeks ago, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (rtd), who served briefly as interim administrator following Fubara’s suspension by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, dissolved boards and suspended several commissioners and advisers.
Since Ibas stepped down on September 18, speculation had been rife about the fate of Fubara’s appointees. Wednesday’s sweeping dissolution has now brought clarity to the political uncertainty that has gripped the state.
Political analysts believe the move is both strategic and symbolic, allowing the governor to restructure his team in line with the new legal realities created by the Supreme Court’s decision.
What Next for Rivers State?
With the mass sack now in effect, the big question is who Governor Fubara will appoint to steer key ministries such as Finance, Works, Education, and Health. The coming weeks are expected to witness high-level lobbying, negotiations, and political maneuvering, as stakeholders within Rivers State and the ruling party seek to influence the new appointments.
Observers also note that this development could further strain the already tense relationship between Governor Fubara and political loyalists of his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, who currently serves as Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Wider Implications for Nigerian Politics
The Rivers State saga underscores the deepening interplay between judicial rulings, executive actions, and political power struggles in Nigeria. For many, Governor Fubara’s decision is a clear signal that he is determined to assert his authority and re-establish control of his administration.
As Rivers State marks Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary amid this political shake-up, citizens are watching closely to see how the governor navigates the storm and whether his next set of appointees will stabilize governance in the oil-rich state.
