Amidst the crisis rocking Rivers State, the Commissioners for Education, Professor Prince Chinedu Mmom and Environment, Hon. Austen Ben-Chioma have resigned their membership of the State Executive Council.
Prof. Mmom and Ben-Chioma a known loyalist of former governor Nyesom Wike communicated their resignation via a letter dated May 15, 2024.
Professor Mmom referenced a “toxic” working environment as his reason for resignation, stating that such an environment would make it impossible to achieve “my set targets for the Education sector in the State.”
The former Commissioner, however, thanked Governor Siminalayi Fubara for the opportunity to serve in his administration and wished him well.
The letter read, “It is a truism that a calm, safe 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 realize 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.
“I want to thank Your Excellency for the opportunity to serve in your cabinet and wish your administration well.
“Kindly accept the assurances of my esteemed regards.”
Also, Ben-Chioma who didn’t adduce any reason for his resignation, thanked the governor for giving him the opportunity to serve.
“I hereby tender my resignation as the Hon. Commission for Environment, Rivers State on this day the 15th May, 2024.
“I want to sincerely appreciate your Excellency, for giving me the opportunity to be a part of the State Executive Council. My decision to resign is due to the political crisis befalling our dear Rivers State and other personal reasons.
“It was a privilege to have been of service to you in your administration and wish you all the best in your tenure.
“Thank you and please accept my warmest regards.”
Professor Mmom was among the Commissioners that resigned from the Fubara cabinet last year during the heat of the political crisis in the state, before the intervention of President Bola Tinubu.
He returned to the Fubara administration as Commissioner for Education, but has publicly shown that his loyalty lies with the former Governor, now Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Nyesom Wike.
