In a bold move to restore discipline and performance-driven governance, Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru of Ebonyi State has reshuffled key positions in his cabinet and issued stern warnings to underperforming commissioners. The action, which follows months of internal performance reviews, reflects the governor’s determination to strengthen accountability across ministries and agencies.
At the heart of the reshuffle is a strategic redeployment of commissioners. Mr. Jude Okpor, who previously headed the Ministry of Information and Orientation, was reassigned to the Ministry of Rural Development. In his place, Chief Ikeuwa Omebe now takes charge of the Ministry of Information and Orientation.
Similarly, the leadership of two critical ministries—Primary and Secondary Education, and Border Peace and Conflict Resolution—were exchanged. Professor Paul Obasi moved from Education to Border Peace, while Dr. Donatus Ilang took over the education portfolio.
Briefing the press after the State Executive Council (EXCO) meeting where the reshuffle was announced, Chief Omebe said Governor Nwifuru did not mince words. He reportedly gave a three-month ultimatum to the Commissioners for Environment, Mr. Victor Chukwu, and Tertiary Education, Professor Omari Omaka, SAN. Both were warned to improve their performance or risk being dropped from the cabinet.
“His Excellency has made it clear that only results will be tolerated going forward,” Omebe stated. “This is not a time for excuses. The governor has asked all cabinet members to recommit themselves fully to the service of the state.”
The reshuffle is believed to be part of a broader effort to refocus the Nwifuru administration’s agenda on delivery and impact, especially as the government approaches its midterm mark. Analysts say the move signals a zero-tolerance stance on inefficiency and non-performance.
Governor Nwifuru, who came into office with a message of continuity and consolidation, is now taking visible steps to ensure that his team is aligned with that mission. With the new appointments and deadlines issued, the weeks ahead will test the resolve of commissioners and determine who stays or goes.
This development has sparked interest among political observers and citizens alike, many of whom see the governor’s action as timely and necessary to drive real change across the state.
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