‘My workspace is toxic’ — another pro-Wike commissioner resigns from Fubara’s cabinet

Chinedu Mmom, commissioner of education in Rivers state, has resigned from his position.

Mmom, a loyalist of Nyesom Wike, minister of the federal capital territory (FCT), said his current workspace has become “toxic”.

In a letter dated May 15 and addressed to Siminalayi Fubara, governor of the state, the commissioner said there is “loss of trust and animosity” in the cabinet which he considers unhealthy.

“It is a truism that a calm, safe and friendly environment would stimulate efficient service delivery and enhanced productivity,” the statement reads.

“It is however unfortunate to note that my current workspace has become toxic and no longer guarantees a favourable environment to enable me realise 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.”

Mmom is the third reappointed commissioner to resign from Fubara’s cabinet in recent weeks after Zacchaeus Adangor and Isaac Kamalu.

A GALE OF RESIGNATIONS

In April, Fubara redeployed Adangor, attorney-general and commissioner for justice, to the ministry of special duties.

Kamalu, commissioner for finance, was redeployed to the ministry of employment generation and economic empowerment.

In December 2023, the trio were among a raft of commissioners who resigned their positions following the political feud between Wike and Fubara.

They were reappointed after a peace deal between Wike and Fubara, which was facilitated by President Bola Tinubu.

Despite the peace deal, the political crisis in the state persists.

Since 2023, Fubara and Wike have been at loggerheads over control of the political structure of the state.

The rift has led to the polarisation of the Rivers state house of assembly.

While attending an event in Rivers at the weekend, Wike apologised for backing Fubara to succeed him as governor, adding that he would correct that mistake in 2027.

On Monday, Fubara said a judicial panel of inquiry would be set up to investigate the management of the state’s resources and affairs under past administrations.