Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, inaugurated eight new commissioners late Tuesday night at the Government House in Port Harcourt.
This significant event follows a period of political reshuffling in the state, triggered by the mass resignation of several commissioners who were loyal to the governor’s former political ally, Chief Nyesom Wike. Wike, previously a dominant figure in Rivers State politics, now serves as the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory.
Governor Fubara emphasized the crucial role of meticulous record-keeping in ensuring the efficient operation of government ministries. He expressed his disappointment with previous commissioners for neglecting proper documentation practices. “It is regrettable how some commissioners, who had left my cabinet, ignored the culture of proper documentation because they had no record of activities in the ministries where they served,” he remarked.
The newly appointed commissioners are:
– Hon. Prince Charles Bekee
– Barrister Collins Onunwo
– Hon. Prince Solomon Abel Eke
– Dr. Peter Medee
– Hon. Elloka Tasie Amadi
– Hon. Basoene Joshua Benibo
– Mr. Tambari Sydney Gbara
– Dr. Ovy Orluideye Chinendum Chukwuma
Governor Fubara advised the new commissioners to collaborate closely with their Permanent Secretaries and to seek guidance whenever necessary. “Do this work as seasoned administrators. Work with your Permanent Secretaries. The things that you don’t know, ask questions from them. It doesn’t reduce you as not being the head, but it helps you to succeed as a good administrator,” Fubara said.
He highlighted the importance of discipline, a quality he developed during his extensive career in the civil service. Reflecting on his background, he stated, “This government is a government that is birthed by high-level discipline. From the time I started working as a civil servant, from the time I worked in the Office of the Accountant General, we didn’t play with keeping good records. The records are there for anybody to go and see.”
Fubara assured the commissioners that he maintains comprehensive records of all his actions and decisions, setting an example for them to follow.
“I have a day-to-day report of what I am doing. I am not bothered or afraid. Call me any day, call me anytime, I will stand and defend every action, every decision that we have taken. So, I want you to stand on that premise, knowing fully well that whatever you are doing, in case you are called upon tomorrow to give account, you can do so confidently. Keep your records straight,” he advised.
This call for diligence and transparency underscores Governor Fubara’s commitment to accountability and effective governance in Rivers State.
