Rivers State Governor Fubara Sacks Commissioners and Public Officers After Supreme Court Ruling
- Nigeria News
- 03.10.2025
- No Comment
- 15
Rivers State Governor Fubara Sacks Commissioners and Public Officers After Supreme Court Ruling
In a significant political shakeup, Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has relieved all commissioners and other appointed public office holders in his administration of their duties with immediate effect.
The development was announced in a statement issued on Wednesday evening in Port Harcourt by his Chief Press Secretary, Nelson Chukwudi, shortly after the Supreme Court judgment that reshaped the state’s political landscape.
The governor made the announcement during a valedictory session with his outgoing cabinet, which coincided with activities marking Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary at the Government House, Port Harcourt.
He expressed appreciation to the commissioners and other aides for their dedication, contributions, and sacrifices in serving the state over the past two years.
Addressing his cabinet, Governor Fubara underscored the importance of the Independence Day celebrations, urging Nigerians to embrace unity, patriotism, and collaborative efforts in support of President Bola Tinubu’s leadership.
He noted that the country’s future depends on collective commitment to peace, security, and prosperity.
“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.
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 statement read.
Governor Fubara assured Rivers people that his administration remains committed to governing with “renewed vigour,” promising stability, progress, and effective governance in the months ahead.
He also used the opportunity to wish Nigerians a happy Independence Anniversary.
The mass dismissal comes against the backdrop of the recent Supreme Court ruling, which had far-reaching implications for Rivers State politics.
Following the court’s pronouncement, Governor Fubara was expected to restructure his cabinet to align with the new political realities.
The decision to sack commissioners and other public officials reflects a move to consolidate his administration and rebuild his team for the challenges ahead.
Recall that Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd.), who was appointed by President Bola Tinubu to oversee Rivers State during a period of emergency rule, had earlier suspended all commissioners, special advisers, and assistants appointed by Fubara.
He also dissolved boards and suspended heads of parastatals, a decision that left governance structures in limbo.
Since Ibas’ exit from the state on September 18, the fate of Fubara’s cabinet had been uncertain. The Rivers State House of Assembly, in its first sitting after the lifting of the emergency rule, called on the governor to submit a fresh list of commissioner-nominees for screening alongside the 2025 budget for passage.
This pressure from lawmakers further underscored the need for the governor to dissolve his cabinet and start afresh with a reconstituted executive team.
Political observers note that the governor’s decisive action is not just about compliance with the Supreme Court’s ruling but also about asserting his authority and reshaping his administration for smoother governance in the state.
The dissolution of the cabinet creates both challenges and opportunities for the Fubara administration.
While it may initially disrupt the flow of governance, it also provides an avenue to rebuild a stronger, more loyal, and more efficient executive team that aligns with the governor’s vision and priorities.
Experts believe that the upcoming appointments will be carefully selected to balance political loyalty, professional competence, and representation across different ethnic and political blocs in Rivers State.
The governor faces the task of ensuring that his new appointees can deliver on key sectors such as infrastructure, security, education, and economic growth.
News of the sack has generated widespread reactions among political stakeholders and Rivers residents.
While some see it as a bold step necessary for a fresh start, others fear it could deepen political tensions in the state.
Civil society groups have urged the governor to prioritize merit and inclusivity in appointing new commissioners and advisers.
Analysts also argue that Governor Fubara must tread carefully in balancing party interests, particularly with the influence of political godfathers and competing factions within the state’s political structure.
Moving forward, Governor Fubara’s ability to navigate this transitional period will determine his administration’s success.
Rebuilding trust with stakeholders, ensuring stability in governance, and driving development projects will be key expectations from Rivers people.
Furthermore, the swift submission of a new commissioner list and the passage of the 2025 budget will be critical in setting the pace for governance in the coming year.
Political analysts emphasize that the governor must take this opportunity to demonstrate independence, reinforce accountability, and ensure transparency in his administration.
With the right team, Fubara has a unique chance to chart a new course for Rivers State’s political and economic trajectory.
Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s decision to sack all commissioners and other public office holders marks a turning point in Rivers State governance.
While the move follows legal and political developments, it also underscores his determination to reshape his administration with renewed energy.
Nigerians, particularly Rivers people, now await the unveiling of his new executive team, which will be central to the success of his government and the state’s progress.
As Rivers celebrates Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary, the governor’s bold move symbolizes a fresh chapter—one that will test his leadership, political will, and commitment to serving the people.
