Rivers Assembly Rejects Four of Governor Fubara’s Commissioner Nominees
Port Harcourt, Rivers State – March 9, 2026 – The Rivers State House of Assembly has turned down four of the nine commissioner nominees submitted by Governor Siminalayi Fubara, PulseNets learnt, following a rigorous screening session on Monday at the Assembly complex.
Lawmakers approved five nominees while rejecting the remaining four, reflecting intensified scrutiny over the candidates’ qualifications, professional backgrounds, and alignment with the state’s strategic priorities amid ongoing political realignments.
Confirmed Nominees:
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Mr. Tonye Bellgam
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Professor Temple Nwofor
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Dr. Peters Nwagor
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Mr. Lekue Kenneth
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Sir Amairigha Edward Hart
PulseNets obtained that these five nominees successfully navigated the questioning process, satisfying the Assembly’s evaluation criteria, and are now poised for swearing-in and deployment to their respective ministries.
Rejected Nominees:
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Professor Datonye Alasia
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Mrs. Charity Deemua
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Tamuno Williams
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Otonye TKD Amachree
Lawmakers cited concerns raised during the screening regarding the nominees’ suitability. PulseNets learnt that the Assembly did not provide detailed public reasons for the rejections, which could relate to responses during questioning, perceived conflicts of interest, or other professional considerations. Under Section 192 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), the Assembly holds the authority to approve or reject commissioner nominees.
Also Read: Fubara Explains ‘Weakness’ Strategy in Rivers Political Crisis, Says It Was Deliberate for Peace and Survival
This decision comes weeks after Governor Fubara submitted the nine names, aiming to reconstitute his cabinet following prior resignations, dissolutions, and political reshuffles. PulseNets spoke to sources within the government who indicated that the confirmed nominees are expected to strengthen key sectors, while the governor may submit new candidates to fill the vacant positions in the State Executive Council.
