Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has officially inaugurated 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 on Monday, at about 5 pm.
During his address after the oath-taking ceremony, Governor Fubara reiterated his recognition of the Oko-Jumbo-led assembly as the legally sanctioned legislative body.
He voiced his disappointment with the police for their inadequate investigation into a recent bomb explosion in Port Harcourt, implying a lack of action because the suspects were not among his supporters.
“I’ve been wondering why the Nigeria police have not issued a statement weeks after the attempted detonation of dynamite in front of Hotel Presidential,” Fubara remarked. He noted a strong contrast in response when his supporters were wrongfully arrested and charged with terrorism for other incidents.
Despite these challenges, Fubara expressed his reliance on divine grace and protection in his governance of the state.
Immediately following the swearing-in, Governor Fubara appointed the new commissioner to the Ministry of Finance, emphasizing his search for a diligent individual to manage this critical department.
Although Barrister Frank-Fubara is not an accountant, the governor highlighted his diligence and commitment observed during the 2023 governorship campaign.
Governor Fubara expressed confidence in the new commissioner’s ability to effectively handle the responsibilities of his new role, looking forward to his contributions to the state’s financial management.
Governor Fubara also gave his deep appreciation to his political benefactor, attributing his restraint in taking certain actions, to his political benefactor. He made this remark during a courtesy visit from stakeholders of the Ikwerre Ethnic Nationality, including leaders from the Ogbakor Ikwerre Cultural Organisation Worldwide and the Supreme Council of Ikwerre Traditional Rulers.
This statement comes in response to accusations of ingratitude in the midst of the ongoing conflict between him and former governor, now FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike.
The Ikwerre ethnic group, comprising the Port Harcourt, Obio/Akpor, Emohua, and Ikwerre local government areas, is also the ethnic group of Nyesom Wike.
Despite the political battles in the state, Governor Fubara assured that he would continue to exercise caution and respect for others.
