Governor Siminalayi Fubara has dissolved the Rivers State Executive Council and dismissed all Special Advisers in a sweeping administrative move that signals a major reset within the state government. The decision was announced in a Government Special Announcement issued in Port Harcourt on Thursday, February 12.
The governor also appointed Onwuka Nzeshi as the new Chief Press Secretary, replacing Nelson Chukwudi, who has been relieved of his duties. No official reason was provided for Chukwudi’s removal, adding to speculation about the broader implications of the shake up.
The dissolution of a state executive council is one of the most consequential powers available to a governor under Nigeria’s constitutional framework. Commissioners serve as heads of ministries and are central to policy execution, budget implementation and administrative oversight.
Such actions often reflect internal political recalibration, strategic restructuring or preparation for a new phase of governance. In Rivers State, where political tensions have shaped recent developments, the move carries significant weight.
According to the official statement, Governor Fubara directed all commissioners and special advisers to hand over immediately to permanent secretaries or the most senior officers within their respective ministries. This ensures continuity in administrative operations while a new cabinet is constituted.
The statement expressed appreciation to the outgoing members of the Executive Council and wished them well in their future endeavours, but it did not outline the reasons behind the dissolution.
The decision affects the entire executive cabinet and advisory structure, effectively resetting the governor’s immediate governing team.
With the council dissolved, attention now shifts to the process of reconstituting the cabinet. Governor Fubara is expected to submit a fresh list of commissioner nominees to the Martin Amaewhule led House of Assembly for screening and confirmation.
Under Nigerian law, commissioner nominees must be vetted and approved by the state legislature before they can assume office. The speed and composition of the new appointments will likely offer insight into the governor’s political strategy and policy priorities.
The appointment of a new Chief Press Secretary further underscores the administration’s effort to reshape its communication strategy during a sensitive political period.
The decisive order for immediate handover marked the most significant turning point in the announcement. By instructing commissioners and special advisers to relinquish their positions without delay, the governor ensured that the transition would be swift and controlled.
The absence of an explanation for the removal of the former Chief Press Secretary adds a layer of uncertainty, though such changes are not uncommon during cabinet restructurings.
Cabinet dissolutions in Nigerian state governments have historically followed periods of political realignment, legislative disputes or strategic policy redirection. Rivers State, a key oil producing region, remains politically influential and economically vital, amplifying the national interest in developments within its executive leadership.
Observers will closely watch how the governor balances political alliances, administrative competence and regional representation in forming a new council.
As of Thursday evening, there had been no further clarification from the governor’s office regarding the rationale behind the sweeping changes. Political stakeholders and civil servants are awaiting the nomination list expected to be transmitted to the state assembly in the coming days.
The Martin Amaewhule led House of Assembly will play a pivotal role in shaping the next phase of the administration through its confirmation process.
The dissolution of the Rivers State Executive Council marks a defining moment in Governor Fubara’s tenure. Whether the move signals consolidation of authority, political recalibration or a shift in governance priorities will become clearer once a new cabinet emerges. For now, the state enters a transitional phase that could reshape its political and administrative landscape in the months ahead.
