Their resignations follow a period of political turmoil in the state, during which nine commissioners had previously stepped down. This was before President Bola Tinubu's intervention. Fubara's predecessor and political godfather was also criticized by Fubara for leaving behind a substantial debt burden.
A copy of Gift Worlu’s resignation letter.Five commissioners have submitted their resignations in individual letters addressed to the governor through the Secretary to the State Government, Dr Tammy Danagogo.
In Mmom's letter, it stated, "I am writing 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 evident that a calm, safe, and friendly environment is essential for efficient service delivery and enhanced productivity. Unfortunately, my current workspace has become toxic and no longer provides a favorable environment to achieve my goals for the education sector in the state."
A copy of Prof Chinedu’s resignation letter.It is disheartening to witness the erosion of trust, the emergence of animosity, and sharp divisions among colleagues within the same cabinet. This unhealthy situation is very unfortunate. I would like to express my gratitude to Your Excellency for allowing me the opportunity to serve in your cabinet, and I wish your administration well.
Shortly after, Ben-Chioma sent his letter dated the same May 15. He explained that his decision to resign stems from the political crisis in the state.
His resignation letter stated, “On this day, May 15, 2024, I hereby submit my resignation as the Commissioner for Environment, Rivers State.
"I am sincerely grateful to Your Excellency for granting me the chance to be a part of the State Executive Council. My choice to resign is a result of the political crisis affecting our beloved Rivers State and other personal reasons.
"It has been a privilege to serve in your administration, and I extend my best wishes for your tenure."
A copy of Austen Ben-Chioma’s resignation letter.Similarly, Worlu in his letter dated May 15, said, “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.”
Also, Nbina, in his letter dated May 15, wrote, “I write to formally tender my resignation as Honourable Commissioner for Transport and member of Rivers State Executive Council with effect from May 15, 2024.
Aguma’s letter of resignation"It has been an honor to serve in this role, and I would like to express my gratitude to Your Excellency for the opportunity to serve our state diligently and with merit," stated the former Transport commissioner.
He also expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for his efforts in addressing the political crisis in the state, which he believes has led to a lack of trust and apathy.
In the meantime, Aguma, in a recently surfaced letter, announced her resignation due to the current unfavorable working conditions within the governor’s administration.
In her letter, she wrote, “Due to the current unfavorable working conditions, I find it necessary to tender my resignation as Commissioner for Social Welfare and Rehabilitation, Rivers State. I resign with a strong sense of responsibility, especially as there is no room for professional growth and development in the workplace."
Nbina’s letter of resignation.However, she added, "We appreciate the opportunity to serve."
Prior to the resignations of Mmom, Worlu, Aguma, Nbina, and Ben-Chioma, the former Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Prof Zacchaeus Adangor, and former Commissioner for Finance, Isaac Kamalu, also resigned.
Adangor and Kamalu stepped down after Fubara directed that they be redeployed to the Ministry of Special Duties (Governor’s Office) and Ministry for Employment Generation and Empowerment, respectively.
Adekunle Sulaimon
Adekunle, a fellow of Data and Solutions Journalism, has over four years experience with competences in data journalism and investigations.
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