The Rivers State House of Assembly on Monday, March 9, 2026, confirmed five commissioner-nominees and rejected four others following a rigorous screening session. The exercise, presided over by Speaker Martin Amaewhule, involved nine candidates put forward by Governor Siminalayi Fubara to reconstitute the state executive council after the cabinet dissolution in February.
Those cleared for appointment as commissioners-designate include Mr. Tonye Bellgam, Prof. Temple Nwofor, Dr. Peters Nwagor, Mr. Lekue Kenneth, and Sir Amairigha Edward Hart. The House, sitting for its 63rd legislative session, conducted the oral screening to evaluate the candidates' academic qualifications, professional backgrounds, and tax compliance.
However, the Assembly declined to confirm Professor Datonye Alasia, Mrs. Charity Deemua, Tamuno Williams, and Otonye T.K.D. Amachree. Speaker Amaewhule stated that the rejection was based on unsatisfactory performance during the two-hour questioning period and various controversies surrounding the individuals.
Explaining the House's decision, Amaewhule noted that the Assembly felt the rejected candidates were not "square pegs in square holes" for the intended offices. He specifically cited a lack of readiness and failure to demonstrate competence.
The Speaker directed the Clerk to formally communicate the resolutions to Governor Fubara, advising him to proceed with swearing in only the five cleared nominees. "It is our duty to get the best for Rivers people," Amaewhule stated, emphasising that the scrutiny ensures competent hands drive the administration's agenda. The House subsequently adjourned plenary until Tuesday, March 17, 2026.