Rivera State governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has reflected on past challenges during the period of emergency saying some permanent secretaries in the state failed to uphold due process and professionalism.

The governor spoke while inaugurating a new Permanent Secretary, Mr. Austin Ezekiel-Hart, in his first appointment since resuming office after the emergency rule.

Fubara charged the permanent secretary to remain unwavering in professionalism, uphold the values of the civil service, and shun any act of illegality in the discharge of his responsibilities.

The governor during the swearing in ceremony held at the Executive Chambers of Government House, Port Harcourt, also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to due process and integrity, stressing that the civil service must remain the backbone of good governance.

Fubara in a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Nelson Chukwudi, lamented that some Permanent Secretaries engaged in actions that undermined the principles of the service.

He warned that such conduct was unacceptable and that erring officials would ultimately be held accountable.

The governor praised Mr. Ezekiel-Hart for his professionalism and refusal to compromise his integrity despite pressures, noting that his steadfastness and principled stance earned him the new appointment.

He pointed out that the appointee’s colleagues could attest to his record of doing the right thing even in difficult circumstances.

Fubara further emphasised that civil servants must remain consistent in their service, prioritising truth, fairness, and due process above personal or political interests.

He stressed that no directive, regardless of its source, should override established rules and procedures, assuring that his administration would never pressure officers to act outside the law.

The governor reiterated that his government was more focused on tangible results than on rhetoric, adding that all appointments were based strictly on merit, professionalism, and a genuine commitment to service.

The governor explained that Mr. Ezekiel-Hart’s elevation reflected his choice to stand as a true professional, and that his administration expected every official to act rightly so that history would judge them well.

Fubara urged the new Permanent Secretary to justify his elevation with improved performance, reminding him of the greater responsibilities attached to the office, while assuring him of the government’s full support. (The Nation)

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