On Tuesday, the faction of the Rivers State House of Assembly loyal to Governor Siminalayi Fubara screened and confirmed eight commissioners-designate for the State Executive Council. This session, led by Speaker Victor Oko-Jumbo, took place in the temporary legislative chambers at the Government House in Port Harcourt.
Two former commissioners, Dr. Peter Medee and Eloka Tasie-Amadi, who served under the previous administration of Nyesom Wike as Commissioners of Energy and Works, respectively, were asked to take a bow and leave without extensive questioning. The remaining six nominees were questioned briefly by the pro-Fubara lawmakers and subsequently approved as commissioners-designate.
The recent resignation of five pro-Wike commissioners created vacancies in the cabinet. These commissioners cited a toxic working environment resulting from the feud between Wike and Fubara as their reason for leaving.
Speaker Victor Oko-Jumbo urged the newly screened commissioners-designate to collaborate with Governor Fubara to deliver the dividends of democracy to the people of Rivers State. He also advised the governor to stay focused on his mandate and not be distracted.
Oko-Jumbo stated, “As a legislature, our role is to create an environment that enables His Excellency to perform effectively. We commend His Excellency for his numerous achievements in office and urge him to remain focused and undistracted. We also call on him to deliver unbiased and equitable benefits of democracy to our people.”
Speaking to journalists after the screening, House Leader Sokari Goodboy praised the governor for nominating highly reputable individuals with strong credentials. He expressed confidence in their ability to serve effectively, highlighting their impressive backgrounds and the importance of filling executive positions with capable individuals.
