Rivers Lawmakers Dismiss All Commissioners and Appointees

Pro-Wike Officials Remove All Political Appointees in Rivers

In a significant political development in Rivers State, members of the State House of Assembly, aligned with former Governor Nyesom Wike, have called for the dismissal of all commissioners and political appointees serving under Governor Siminalayi Fubara. The assembly accused these appointees of lacking proper legislative screening and confirmation, alleging that their appointments violate constitutional provisions.

Speaker Martin Amaewhule led the assembly in issuing a 48-hour ultimatum to Governor Fubara, demanding the removal of the 19 commissioners and other unvetted appointees. The lawmakers also instructed the governor to submit a new list of commissioner nominees for legislative screening within the same timeframe.

This action by the assembly exacerbates existing political tensions within the state government. Notably, the Supreme Court recently reinstated 27 lawmakers who had previously defected, further complicating the political landscape.

In response to the assembly’s demands, the Rivers State government has stated its intention to comply, acknowledging concerns over alleged illegal appointments and emphasizing the need for adherence to constitutional procedures.