The Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, has officially sworn in Dagogo Wokoma as Secretary to the State Government (SSG) and Sunny Ewule as Chief of Staff, cautioning them against turning their offices into political platforms.
The swearing-in ceremony took place shortly after the governor announced their nominations, underscoring the urgency attached to the appointments.
While administering the oath of office, Fubara made it clear that both roles are fundamentally administrative and rooted in service delivery rather than partisan interests.
He specifically warned the newly appointed Chief of Staff against organising meetings without proper authorisation or engaging in political dealings outside the scope of his office without express approval. According to the governor, the primary responsibility of the Chief of Staff is to function as his personal aide and ensure smooth coordination in achieving the administration’s goals.
Fubara stressed that the appointments should not be viewed as political rewards but as responsibilities that demand dedication and competence. He explained that the expectation is for both officials to contribute meaningfully to strengthening governance structures across the state.
Turning to the new SSG, whom he noted is a mathematics lecturer, the governor encouraged him to apply his academic discipline to the role. He urged him to prioritise diligence, fairness, and professionalism while representing the government in official capacities and managing state affairs.
The governor reaffirmed that his administration remains committed to consolidating ongoing projects and driving forward programmes inherited from previous administrations. He stated that the broader objective remains ensuring stability, development, and economic growth throughout the state.
Fubara cautioned that any conduct capable of bringing the government into “disrepute” would not be accepted, adding that the performance and actions of the new appointees would be carefully observed.
Expressing trust in his choices, the governor described the appointments as deliberate and strategic decisions intended to reinforce his administration’s agenda and enhance efficiency within government operations.
In his remarks to permanent secretaries present at the event, Fubara directed those who have attained retirement age but are still serving to commence preparations for handing over their duties. He also appealed for improved collaboration within the civil service, emphasising that the remaining period of his tenure should be marked by productivity, unity, and shared achievement.
What you should know
Governor Siminalayi Fubara has sworn in Dagogo Wokoma as Secretary to the State Government and Sunny Ewule as Chief of Staff, warning them not to politicise their roles.
He emphasised that their positions are administrative and service-oriented, with strict oversight expected. The governor also urged retiring permanent secretaries to prepare handover notes and called for stronger civil service cooperation.
The appointments, he said, are strategic moves aimed at strengthening governance, sustaining ongoing projects, and ensuring peace and progress in Rivers State.
