3 Wike’s loyalists quit as Fubara’s commissioners

Three commissioners serving in the cabinet of Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara have resigned from their positions.

The three commissioners announced their resignations in separate letters addressed to Fubara through the Secretary to the State Government, Dr Tammy Danagogo.

The letters were dated May 15, 2024.

The commissioners, who are loyalists of the immediate past governor of Rivers State and Minister of Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Nyesom Wike, include Prof. Chinedu Mmom (Education), Dr Gift Worlu (Housing), and Austen Ben-Chioma (Environment).

Mmom stated: “I write to formally tender my resignation as a member of the Rivers State Executive Council as the Commissioner for Education with effect from today, May 15, 2024.

“It is a truism that a calm, safe, and friendly environment would stimulate efficient service delivery and enhanced productivity.

“It is, however, unfortunate to note that my current workspace has become toxic and no longer guarantees a favourable environment to enable me to realise my set targets for the education sector in the state.

Fubara: I’ll probe Wike’s administration as Rivers governor

“There is loss of trust, animosity, and sharp division among colleagues in the same cabinet which is unhealthy and very unfortunate. I want to thank Your Excellency for the opportunity to serve in your cabinet and wish your administration well.”

Worlu’s letter read: “I write to resign my appointment as the Commissioner for Housing formally.

“One of the most difficult decisions in my life yet, it is precipitated by the toxic atmosphere that has characterised our working relationship, especially the smouldering arbitrariness of decisions and actions, including the attempt to fuse the executive and legislative arms of government in Rivers State.

“I thank you for the opportunity to serve in your government and wish you the best as you continue to steer the ship of state. Kindly accept the assurances of my esteemed regards.”

On his part, Ben-Chioma said: “I hereby tender my resignation as the Commissioner for Environment, Rivers State, on this day, May 15, 2024.

“I want to sincerely appreciate Your Excellency for giving me the opportunity to be a part of the State Executive Council. My decision to resign is due to the political crisis befalling our dear Rivers State and other personal reasons.

“It was a privilege to have been of service to you in your administration and wish you all the best in your tenure.”

The three commissioners were among the nine commissioners who had previously resigned in the heat of the political crisis in Rivers State before the intervention of President Bola Tinubu.

Before the trio, others who resigned were the former Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Prof. Zacchaeus Adangor; and ex-Commissioner for Finance, Isaac Kamalu.

The Star