There are indications that the Rivers State Governor, Sinminalayi Fubara, has forwarded a list of commissioner-nominees to the state House of Assembly for screening and approval, Saturday PUNCH has learnt.
One of the governor’s aides familiar with the process told our correspondent that the list was submitted to the Assembly Speaker, Martin Amaewhule, on Friday, barely 24 hours after Fubara dissolved his cabinet and dismissed all Special Advisers.
The governor had been working with eight commissioners unaffected by the Supreme Court judgment recognising the Amaewhule-led Assembly leadership, until Thursday’s cabinet dissolution.
Speaking on condition of anonymity, the aide said, “The governor has already sent the names of commissioner-nominees to the House of Assembly. It is now for the Speaker to invite them for screening. In the spirit of reconciliation, some names may come from the camp of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike. Commissioners who performed well may also be reappointed.”
The aide added that the reconstructed House of Assembly Complex would soon be commissioned, with lawmakers returning to the new facility for plenary sessions.
“The House complex undertaken by the governor will be commissioned soon, and lawmakers will move from their temporary quarters to the new facility,” he said.
Meanwhile, sources indicate Fubara may appoint a new Chief of Staff as part of the reconciliation agreement between him and Wike, brokered by President Bola Tinubu at a meeting in Abuja on Monday.
“As part of the agreement, the governor’s Chief of Staff, Edison Ehie, should not be seen near Government House, Port Harcourt,” a source said.
Attempts to reach the governor’s newly appointed Chief Press Secretary, Onwuka Nzeshi, were unsuccessful, as he did not respond to multiple calls and text messages.
However, when contacted, the House of Assembly Chairman on Information and Complaints, Enemi George, neither denied, nor confirmed the list.
“When we receive such list, don’t we usually make it public and we invite the people? So, don’t worry yourself, you will hear it when the time comes.”
Commenting on the cabinet dissolution, former National Assembly member and ex-Rivers State Commissioner for Information and Communications, Ogbonna Nwuke, said it was necessary to restore peace in the state.
“A lot of time has gone, and there are things to be done. Constituting a full cabinet is appropriate,” he said.
On the new list, Nwuke added, “The names will be published, and the Assembly will invite nominees for screening. Competent sons and daughters of Rivers State will be nominated.”
(Punch Newspaper)
