Amid the ongoing political turmoil in Rivers State, the Head of Service, Dr. George Nwaeke, has officially resigned from his position, marking another significant development in the state’s unfolding political crisis.
The news of his resignation was confirmed on Tuesday through an official statement issued by Retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas, the Chief of Staff to the Rivers State Sole Administrator.
“The Office of His Excellency, The Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral (rtd) Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas CFR, is saddened to announce the resignation of the Head of Service, Rivers State, Dr. George Nwaeke, FCA, Mni.
“His Excellency, The Administrator appreciates the immense contributions he has shown to this administration in the short period he served and wishes him well in his future endeavors.”
In response to Nwaeke’s departure, the administration has swiftly appointed Dr. (Mrs.) Iyingi Brown, who previously served as the Permanent Secretary for Welfare in the Office of the Head of Service, as the new Acting Head of Service.
Dr. Brown will assume this role in an interim capacity until the government officially appoints a substantive replacement for the position.
In his official remarks following her appointment, Vice Admiral Ibas congratulated Dr. Brown and emphasized his administration’s commitment to upholding neutrality, ensuring peace, and fostering stability in Rivers State.
This resignation comes against the backdrop of mounting political tensions in Rivers State. Just a week ago, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu took an unprecedented step by declaring a state of emergency in the state, effectively suspending the democratically elected government.
The decision led to the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his Deputy, Ngozi Nma Ordu, and all members of the Rivers State House of Assembly.
This controversial move has triggered widespread criticism and backlash from key stakeholders, including prominent political figures, civil society organizations, and professional bodies such as the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) and the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC).
As the political crisis deepens, many observers are keenly watching how events will unfold in the coming days, particularly regarding governance and leadership transitions in the state.