Rivers Governor Dissolves Cabinet After Supreme Court Verdict
Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has sacked all commissioners and other public office holders serving in his administration.
The announcement was made on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, through a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Nelson Chukwudi, in Port Harcourt.
According to the statement, the decision takes immediate effect and was prompted by the recent Supreme Court judgment that invalidated appointments approved by a faction of the Rivers State House of Assembly.
Valedictory Session with Cabinet
Speaking during a valedictory session with his cabinet at Government House, Port Harcourt, to mark Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary, Governor Fubara thanked the outgoing officials for their services over the past two years.
“Rivers State Governor, His Excellency, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has thanked members of his cabinet for their services and contributions to the development of the state in the last two years,” the statement read in part.
He also used the occasion to call on Nigerians to work together with President Bola Tinubu to build a peaceful and prosperous country.
Why the Sackings Happened
The mass sack follows the Supreme Court’s ruling that declared the 27-member House of Assembly led by Martins Amaewhule as the legitimate legislative body in Rivers.
This ruling invalidated the actions of a rival faction led by Victor Oko-Jumbo, including the screening and confirmation of commissioners during that period.
Consequently, all officials whose appointments were tied to that process were removed. Reports indicate over 19 commissioners were affected, including key portfolios such as Attorney-General, Finance, Energy, and Justice.
Political Background
In March 2025, President Bola Tinubu imposed emergency rule in Rivers, suspending Fubara and the State Assembly amid a leadership crisis.
Retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas was installed as sole administrator, dissolving boards and suspending commissioners.
The emergency rule ended on September 18, 2025, restoring Fubara but leaving the fate of his appointees uncertain.
The Supreme Court judgment has now clarified the matter, forcing the governor to dissolve his cabinet.
What’s Next
Governor Fubara is expected to submit a fresh list of commissioner-nominees to the recognized House of Assembly for screening, alongside the 2025 state budget.
Political analysts say some of the sacked commissioners could be re-nominated, but the move also opens space for fresh political realignments in the state.
