Three Rivers State Commissioners have tendered their resignation amid the ongoing political crisis rocking the state.
Those who resigned are Commissioner for Environment, Ben-Golden Chioma; Commissioner for Education, Professor Prince Chinedu Mmom; and Commissioner for Housing, Gift Worlu. All three are known loyalist of former governor Nyesom Wike.
Mom’s resignation letter, dated May 15, 2024, cited a “toxic” working environment as the reason, making it impossible to achieve “my set targets for the Education sector in the State.”
In his letter, Professor Mmom thanked Governor Siminalayi Fubara for the opportunity to serve in his administration, but highlighted the detrimental effects of the toxic work environment on productivity and efficient service delivery.
Mmom had earlier today submitted his resignation to the governor through the office of the Secretary the State Government, Dr Tammy Danagogo, citing toxicity in the administration of Fubara.
The letter read: “I write to formally tender my resignation as a member of the Rivers State Executive Council as the Honourable Commissioner for Education with effect from today the 15th day of May,2024.
“It is a truism that a calm, safe and friendly environment would stimulate efficient service delivery and enhanced productivity. It is however unfortunate to note that my current work space has become toxic and no longer guarantees a favourable environment to enable me realize my set targets for the Education sector in the State.
“There is loss of trust, animosity and sharp division among colleagues in the same cabinet which is unhealthy and very unfortunate.I want to thank Your Excellency for the opportunity to serve in your cabinet and wish your administration well.
Moments later, Chioma forwarded his matter, dated same 15th May, noted that his reason for resigning is because of the political crisis in the state.
He said: “I hereby tender my resignation as the Hon. Commission for Environment,Rivers State on this day the 15th May, 2024.
“I want to sincerely appreciate your Excellency,for giving me the opportunity to be a part of the State Executive Council. My decision to resign is due to the political crisis befalling our dear Rivers State and other personal reasons.
“It was a privilege to have been of service to you in your administration and wish you all the best in your tenure.”
Shortly after the reports of Mmom’s and Chioma’s resignation, Worlu also tendered his resignation from Governor Sim Fubara’s government.
Worlu, in his resignation letter which was contained in a letter dated May 15 and directed to the governor, thanked Furaba for the privilege to serve in his government.
