Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has carried out a sweeping cabinet overhaul with the dismissal of several commissioners and senior government officials. The decision, announced on Wednesday, marks one of the most significant shake-ups of his administration since assuming office and is expected to reshape the political landscape of the state.
Although the government did not immediately release the official list of affected officials, reliable sources confirmed that key commissioners and aides across strategic ministries were relieved of their duties. The move is seen as part of the governor’s effort to reassert control and reposition his cabinet in line with his development agenda for the state.
Political analysts note that the decision may not be unconnected to the lingering internal disputes within the state’s political structure, particularly tensions between Governor Fubara and certain power blocs. The shake-up, according to observers, is a calculated step to consolidate his authority and eliminate perceived disloyalty within his ranks.
Reactions have been swift across the political spectrum, with some stakeholders describing the move as long overdue, while others criticized it as a politically motivated purge. Supporters of the governor argue that the reshuffle is necessary to inject fresh energy into governance, while critics warn it could deepen divisions within the ruling political establishment in the state.
The governor, however, defended his decision, stressing that his administration remains committed to delivering good governance and effective service delivery to the people of Rivers State. He maintained that the cabinet adjustments were in the best interest of the state and assured citizens that new appointments would soon be made to fill the vacant positions.
Civil society groups and policy experts have urged the governor to use the opportunity to bring in competent technocrats and individuals with proven integrity, warning that political loyalty alone should not be the yardstick for selection. They emphasized that the success of the administration would depend largely on the quality of the team assembled to drive development initiatives.
As the political class in Rivers State awaits the unveiling of new appointees, attention will be focused on how the shake-up impacts governance and whether it will ease or heighten the tensions that have defined the state’s political climate in recent months.
