Fubara, Wike brainstorm with Rivers elders over new cabinet

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has held a meeting with Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, and some prominent elders of the state amid preparations for the formation of a new cabinet.

Lere Olayinka, Wike’s media aide, shared a photo of the meeting on social media, revealing that the Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Martin Amaewhule, was also present.

Although Olayinka did not reveal details of the discussion, the meeting is believed to be the first known engagement between key stakeholders since Governor Fubara dismissed his loyalists ahead of constituting a new executive council.

Appointing new commissioners is among the terms reportedly agreed upon during a peace meeting President Bola Tinubu brokered between Wike and Fubara during the emergency rule in the state.

Speaking earlier at Government House, Port Harcourt, during a valedictory session with his outgoing cabinet on Wednesday, Governor Fubara explained that the decision to relieve his loyalists of their duties was connected to a Supreme Court judgment affecting their appointments.

READ ALSO:Court summons Speaker Abbas, others over plot to remove Wike’s ally as Minority Leader

Recall that in February, the Supreme Court recognised the faction of the Rivers State House of Assembly loyal to Wike.

During the peak of the political crisis between the two leaders, Fubara’s appointees had been screened by a rival assembly faction led by Victor Oko-Jumbo — a move rejected by lawmakers loyal to Wike.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, Nelson Chukwudi, Fubara’s spokesman, quoted the governor as expressing appreciation to his cabinet members for their contributions to the state’s development over the past two years.

He said:“The Governor highlighted the significance of Nigeria’s Independence, and called on all Nigerians to work together with Mr President to build a peaceful, secure and prosperous country and a brighter future for all.

“The Governor also reiterated his commitment to serve the State with renewed vigor, while thanking all citizens for their support, and wished all Nigerians a happy Independence anniversary.

“Furthermore, the Governor has relieved all Commissioners and other public officers affected by the recent Supreme Court judgement of their appointments with immediate effect,” Chukwudi said.

At their first sitting after the expiration of emergency rule, members of the Assembly asked Governor Fubara to forward a list of commissioner nominees.

The governor is now expected to unveil a new cabinet in the coming days.