Professor Chinedu Mmon, the Rivers State Commissioner for Education and a staunch ally of Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Chief Nyesom Wike, has tendered his resignation from Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s cabinet. Mmon’s departure marks the third resignation of a reappointed Commissioner, following the recent exits of former Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Professor Zacchaeus Adangor, and former Commissioner for Finance, Hon. Isaac Kamalu.
Both Adangor and Kamalu stepped down after being directed by Fubara to be redeployed to different ministries. Adangor was slated for the Ministry of Special Duties (Governor’s Office), while Kamalu was to be transferred to the Ministry for Employment Generation and Empowerment.
In a letter dated May 25, 2024, addressed to the governor via the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Mmon cited the toxic atmosphere in his current work environment as the reason for his resignation.
The letter reads, “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, 15th day of May, 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 work space has become toxic and no longer guarantees a favourable environment to enable me to realize my set targets for the education sector in the state.”
Mmon expressed concerns over the loss of trust, animosity, and sharp division among colleagues within the cabinet, deeming it unhealthy and detrimental to effective governance.
In closing, he thanked Governor Fubara for the opportunity to serve and wished the administration well in its endeavors. Mmon’s resignation highlights the challenges of maintaining harmony and cooperation within the state government, underscoring the need for unity and collaboration to address pressing issues facing Rivers State.
