The recent resignations of two commissioners from the cabinet of Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State have sparked debates surrounding political loyalty and professional integrity. Prof. Zaccaeus Adangor(SAN) and Isaac Kamalu, both known loyalists of ex-governor Nyesom Wike, tendered their resignations just 24 hours after being reassigned to different ministries in a cabinet reshuffle, citing reasons ranging from alleged interference in their duties to skepticism about the reported rise in Internally Generated Revenue (IGR).
In response, Joseph Johnson, the Rivers State Commissioner for Information and Communications, characterized their reasons for resigning as afterthoughts, questioning why they waited until their resignation to voice their concerns. Johnson emphasized the governor's tolerance but also hinted at the political dynamics underlying the resignations, especially given the ongoing disagreement between Governor Fubara and his estranged political godfather, Nyesom Wike. According to The PUNCH reports, Johnson said, “Well, it was good that they took the path of honour to do the needful. They are lucky that they have a governor who has a calm spirit, somebody who can tolerate even what the least person on earth cannot take.
Regarding Adangor's accusation of interference in his duties as the Attorney General and Commissioner of Justice, Johnson questioned the timing of his complaint, suggesting that it may have been more politically motivated than driven by professional integrity. Similarly, Johnson criticized Kamalu for speaking out against the reported rise in IGR only after being reassigned, implying that his objection may have been influenced by political allegiances rather than genuine concern for financial transparency.
Johnson defended Governor Fubara's integrity, citing the administration's accomplishments in project execution without borrowing money. He portrayed Fubara as a "talk-and-do governor" who prioritizes action over rhetoric, implying that the governor's transparency in disclosing financial matters should be taken at face value. He emphasized Governor Fubara's authority as the chief executive officer and the prerogative to reassign or dismiss cabinet members as necessary.