Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has sworn in Barrister Emmanuel Frank-Fubara as a commissioner, following his screening and confirmation by the Victor Oko-Jumbo-led assembly. The swearing-in ceremony took place at the Executive Council Chambers of the Government House in Port Harcourt at approximately 5 pm on Monday.
After the oath-taking, Governor Fubara reiterated his recognition of the Oko-Jumbo-led assembly as the lawful legislative body. He defended his stance, emphasizing its legitimacy and authority.
Governor Fubara also expressed his dissatisfaction with the police for their handling of a recent bomb explosion in Port Harcourt.
He criticized the lack of progress and public statements regarding the incident, suggesting a bias in the authorities’ response since the suspects were not his supporters.
“I’ve not been hearing anything and I’m wondering, after how many weeks now, the Nigeria police are still not able to come out and make a statement about the attempt by someone – who I don’t know what his name is – tried to detonate dynamite in front of Hotel Presidential,” Fubara stated.
He contrasted this with past instances where his supporters were swiftly arrested and charged with terrorism.
Despite these challenges, Governor Fubara emphasized his reliance on divine guidance and protection in governing the state.
He immediately assigned the new commissioner, Barrister Emmanuel Frank-Fubara, to the Ministry of Finance. Governor Fubara praised the new appointee for his diligence and dedication, which he had observed since their first meeting during the 2023 governorship campaign.
Meanwhile, the assembly led by Martin Amaewhule has demanded that Governor Fubara re-present the state’s budget within seven days. This directive came during their first session in several months.
The governor had previously presented the budget to lawmakers loyal to him, with his current Chief of Staff, Edison Ehie, presiding as Speaker. Despite the budget being passed and signed into law, the Amaewhule-led faction’s demand introduces another layer to the ongoing political crisis in the state.
This development follows a court ruling by the Rivers State High Court, which nullified the expulsion of Amaewhule and 24 others from the state assembly, further complicating the political landscape in the oil-rich state.
