Rivers State House Of Assembly confirms 5 commissioner nominees, disqualifies 4 over controversies

The Rivers State House of Assembly has confirmed five commissioner nominees submitted by Governor Siminalayi Fubara while rejecting four others following a screening exercise broadcast live on television.

The approved nominees include

• Mr Tonye Bellgam
• Professor Temple Nwofor
• Dr Peters Nwagor
• Mr Lekue Kenneth
• Sir Amairigha Edward Hart.

They now await formal inauguration by the governor to join the state executive council.

The rejected nominees are

• Mrs Charity Deemua
• Tamuno Williams
• Otonye TKD Amachree
• Professor Datonye Alasia.

Lawmakers cited issues such as poor performance during the screening, questionable credentials, and controversies including unpaid taxes and petitions against some candidates.

The plenary session, presided over by Speaker Martins Amaewhule, lasted more than two hours. The assembly directed the speaker to communicate the outcome to Governor Fubara and recommended that only the confirmed individuals be sworn in.

This development occurs amid the long-running political tension between Governor Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, now Minister of the Federal Capital Territory. Some observers view the assembly’s selective approvals as a continuation of influence struggles, with critics accusing the legislature of overreach. Supporters of the decision argue it reflects due diligence on qualifications and compliance.

Public reactions on social media remain divided. Certain voices describe the governor as needing to assert stronger authority, while others praise the assembly for upholding standards. The episode highlights ongoing challenges in Rivers State governance as the administration works to reconstitute its cabinet.