Rivers State Head of Service, Dr. George Nwaeke, Steps Down
In a significant development, Rivers State Head of Service, Dr. George Nwaeke, has resigned from his position. The announcement was made on Tuesday via a statement signed by Retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas, Chief of Staff to the Sole Administrator of Rivers State.
The statement praised Nwaeke’s “immense contributions” during his brief tenure and wished him success in future endeavors. Dr. (Mrs.) Iyingi Brown, Permanent Secretary for Welfare, has been appointed Acting Head of Service pending the selection of a substantive replacement.
Political Context: State of Emergency Sparks Crisis
Nwaeke’s resignation comes just one week after President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State, suspending Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Nma Ordu, and all members of the State Assembly.
The presidential directive has drawn sharp criticism from:
- Major political figures
- Civil society organizations
- The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA)
- The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC)
- Residents of Rivers State
Critics argue the move undermines democratic governance, escalating tensions in the oil-rich state.
New Appointments Aim to Stabilize Governance
Amid the upheaval, Sole Administrator Ibas announced key appointments to steer the state’s administration:
1. Acting Head of Service: Dr. Iyingi Brown
Currently Permanent Secretary for Welfare, Brown will oversee civil service operations temporarily.
2. Secretary to State Government (SSG): Prof. Ibibia Lucky Worika
A renowned academic and legal expert, Worika was selected for his “extensive experience” in policy advisory and international law. His appointment took immediate effect.
The statement emphasized Worika’s credentials, citing his “distinguished career in academia” and ability to support the Sole Administrator in fulfilling President Tinubu’s mandate.
Sole Administrator Reaffirms Neutrality
Retired Vice Admiral Ibas reiterated his commitment to “neutrality, peace, and stability” in Rivers State. This pledge follows accusations of federal overreach after Tinubu’s emergency declaration.
Why This Matters
The resignation and appointments highlight deepening political instability in Rivers State, a critical economic hub. With a state of emergency in place and key offices in flux, concerns mount over governance continuity and democratic accountability.
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