Fubara Recalls 1,000 Teachers After Assembly Pressure

Rivers State moved into another round of political tension on Tuesday as Governor Siminalayi Fubara ordered the recall of 1,000 teachers recruited in 2023.

The directive followed complaints from the State House of Assembly about the poor state of public schools across the state.

The development came days after lawmakers led by Martins Amaewhule raised concerns during plenary about the condition of primary and secondary schools. They argued that the system was overstretched and lacked the manpower needed to keep classrooms running smoothly.

The governor had pushed back on Monday, saying the decline in school infrastructure predates his tenure and cannot be blamed solely on his administration. He insisted that the problems had built up over several years and needed a broad approach rather than political attacks.

On Tuesday, the government made a public announcement confirming that the 1,000 teachers employed last year would be recalled for revalidation. The notice, issued by State Universal Basic Education Board Chairman Sam Ogeh, stated that the teachers must report to the board with their appointment and posting letters.

The announcement explained that the exercise is part of the governor’s plan to strengthen staffing levels in public schools and fill existing gaps across the state. It added that the revalidation is necessary before the teachers can be fully absorbed into the system.

The decision signals a shift in the ongoing power struggle between the governor and the Assembly and places fresh attention on the state’s troubled education sector.