‘I’ve forgiven you’ – Ex-minister Tallen tells Jang

Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has sworn in 12 newly appointed permanent secretaries during a formal ceremony held at the Executive Council Chambers, Government House, Port Harcourt, on Wednesday. The governor addressed the appointees, emphasizing the importance of adhering strictly to their oath of office, which mandates fairness and justice toward every citizen. This directive was communicated through a statement released by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Onwuka Nzeshi, and shared with media representatives present at the event. Among the officials sworn in were Mr Freddy Ndigbara, Mrs Fortune Akpila, Dr Promise Oguzie, Mrs Ibisoye Lolomari Nwankwo, Mrs Ibiyemibara Joseph Uzoma, and Mrs Mercy Dagogo Iboroma. Additional appointments included Dr Vincent Worgu Wachukwu, Mr Ifeanyi Anthony Ogboma, Dr Mina Gogo Jim-Jaja, Mr Henry Uzor, Mr Chimenum Anebo Mpi, and Dr Mina Tele Ikuru. The swearing-in process was conducted by Betty Sunny-Hart, the Deputy Chief Registrar (Administration) of the High Court of Rivers State. Following the oath-taking, Fubara reiterated that the new appointees had been elevated to the highest managerial cadre within the state’s civil service. He stressed that their promotion carried with it the duty of fulfilling the trust placed in them by serving both the state and the Federal Republic of Nigeria. “Do right to all, every man and woman,” he urged, adding, “Do right to your state and do right to the Federal Republic of Nigeria.” The governor expressed confidence that the current appointments would contribute positively to achieving the objectives of his administration. He highlighted that their roles were not driven by personal ambitions but aimed at advancing the progress and development of Rivers State. “It is a call to service,” he noted, explaining that the appointees were now leaders of their respective ministries and were expected to act with the authority and responsibility that such positions entail. Fubara emphasized that being at the pinnacle of the managerial cadre meant carrying the weight of leadership. “You are at the head, so you need to do the work as somebody who is at the head,” he advised. He believed that their contributions would lead to meaningful improvements in governance and efficiency. Furthermore, he anticipated that their efforts would lay a solid foundation for future administrations to build upon. “When we are done with our own, I believe that your good work will help whoever is coming to take over from us to also continue with the good work in our dear state,” he concluded. In concluding his address, Fubara extended congratulations to the new permanent secretaries and offered his best wishes for their successful tenure in public service. His remarks underscored the expectations placed upon these officials and the significance of their roles in shaping the administrative landscape of Rivers State.