Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has dismissed all commissioners and public office holders serving in his administration, with immediate effect.

The decision, announced on Wednesday evening in Port Harcourt by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Nelson Chukwudi, follows the recent Supreme Court judgement that reshaped the state’s political landscape.

During a valedictory session with his cabinet at Government House, Port Harcourt, held as part of Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary celebrations, Governor Fubara expressed appreciation to the outgoing officials for their services and contributions to the state’s development over the past two years.

“The governor highlighted the significance of Nigeria’s Independence and called on citizens to work with the President in building a peaceful, secure and prosperous nation,” the statement read in part.

Fubara reiterated his commitment to serving Rivers people with “renewed vigour,” stressing that his administration

would continue to pursue policies that promote growth, stability and unity. He also extended best wishes to Nigerians on the Independence anniversary.

This marks a significant political shift in Rivers State, as the dismissal clears the way for the governor to reconstitute his cabinet.

It will be recalled that the immediate past administrator of the state, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd.), had upon assumption of office during the emergency rule declared by President Bola Tinubu, suspended commissioners, special advisers and dissolved boards, leaving Fubara’s appointees in limbo.

Since the end of the emergency rule on 18 September, the Rivers State House of Assembly has been urging the governor to submit a fresh list of commissioner-nominees for screening alongside the 2025 budget.

With this latest move, political watchers anticipate a new cabinet that could shape the future direction of governance in Rivers State.