Fubara Yields to Legislative Scrutiny, Orders Re-Validation of 1,000 Teachers

Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has taken a decisive step to address the severe state of public educational facilities, apparently capitulating to intense pressure mounted by the State House of Assembly, which is helmed by Speaker Martins Amaewhule.

The legislative arm of the state government had, during its session two weeks ago, voiced strong disapproval regarding the deteriorating conditions prevalent in primary and secondary schools across Rivers State.

Initially, Governor Fubara had sought to deflect criticism on Monday, asserting that the systemic decline in public education infrastructure was a long-standing issue that predated his current administration.

However, the Governor performed a policy reversal on Tuesday, issuing a directive for the immediate recall and re-validation of 1,000 educators whose employment commenced in 2023.

This pivotal development was formally conveyed via a public announcement signed by Sam Ogeh, the Chairman of the Rivers State Universal Basic Education Board (RSUBEB).

The communication stated: “In honor of his commitment to close the workforce deficit in government-run schools throughout Rivers State, His Excellency, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, GSSRS, has sanctioned the engagement of new teaching staff statewide.”

The notice further mandated: “As a component of this initiative, His Excellency has instructed the revalidation process for the 1,000 teachers hired in 2023. Consequently, all affected personnel are required to present themselves at the Rivers State Universal Basic Education Board (RSUBEB) office for the revalidation exercise. All teachers appointed in 2023 must appear with their official letters of appointment and posting.”

The move is widely seen as a significant concession by the Executive branch following the firm stance taken by the state lawmakers on the critical issue of educational standards.