Rivers Gov Denies Sacking Chief Judge, 23 LG Chairmen, Others

The Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, has vehemently denied reports of sacking the State Chief Judge, the Chief of Staff Government House, and 23 local government chairmen.

These allegations surfaced following a political turmoil and crisis that erupted in the Rivers State House of Assembly which led to a faction of the 32-man Assembly’s attempt to impeach Governor Fubara on Monday, led by the embattled Speaker, Rt. Hon. Martins Amaewhule.

The chaos and tension that unfolded in the state House of Assembly prompted various media outlets to claim that Governor Fubara had taken drastic actions against the State Chief Judge, Justice Simeon Chibuzor Amadi, the Chief of Staff Government House, Chidi Amadi, and 23 local government chairmen.

However, the state government moved swiftly to debunk these allegations and maintain transparency in the face of political uncertainty.

Speaking on behalf of the state government, Commissioner for Information and Communications, Joe Johnson, issued a statement on Tuesday to clarify the situation. Johnson emphasized that Governor Fubara had not given any directive for the dismissal of these officials.

He reassured the public that the governor, known for his technocratic approach and adherence to established procedures, would make any such decisions by the law and with the utmost consideration for due process.

“This is to clarify that His Excellency has not given me such directive (to announce their sack) as the official spokesman of the State government as of today Tuesday, October 31, 2023. Our dear governor is a technocrat, with a robust civil service background, kind-hearted and a very humane person who does things according to laid down rules and with the fear of God,” Johnson stated.

He went on to urge the people of Rivers State and the general public to disregard the unverified reports circulating in the media, assuring them that any official decisions regarding the removal of personnel from their positions would be communicated to the public in due course.

“It is pertinent to note that as the Commissioner for Information and Communication, I shall keep the public updated on events in due course,” Johnson affirmed.

The situation in Rivers State remains tense as political factions vie for control, but Governor Fubara’s commitment to due process and adherence to the rule of law appears to be a beacon of stability amidst the turmoil. Citizens and observers are now awaiting further developments and official announcements from the government as the situation unfolds.