JUST IN: Rivers commissioner Mmom steps down, citing Fubara's cabinet's toxicity

Professor Chinedu Mmon, the Rivers State Commissioner for Education, has resigned from Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s administration.

Mmon, a devoted follower of Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike, is the third Commissioner to leave after being reappointed.

Prior to Mmom, a few weeks ago, Professor Zacchaeus Adangor, the former Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, and Isaac Kamalu, the former Commissioner for Finance, resigned from their positions.

Fubara’s directive to redeploy Adangor and Kamalu to the Ministry of Special Duties (Governor’s Office) and the Ministry for Employment Generation and Empowerment, respectively, resulted in their resignations.

In a letter dated May 25, 2024, the former Commissioner of Education announced his resignation from his position due to a poisonous work environment. The letter was sent to the governor via the Secretary to the State Government.

The letter reads in part, “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, May 15, 2024.

“It is a truism that a calm and friendly environment would stimulate efficient service delivery and enhanced productivity. It is, however, unfortunate to note that my current workspace has become toxic and no longer guarantees a favorable environment to enable me to realize my set targets for the education sector in the state.

“There is a 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 you well in your administration.”

The commission, however, pleaded to his supporters and well-wishers to accept in good faith his decision to resign from the governor’s cabinet.

“My decision might not go down well with most of you, but it is best given the prevailing circumstances. Many thanks for your understanding,” he wrote on his Facebook.