In a recent development, President Bola Tinubu has taken action by removing Chukwuemeka Woke from his position as Managing Director (MD) of the Ogun-Osun River Basin Development Authority (OORBDA).
Woke, who previously served as Chief of Staff to former Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike, faced protests following his appointment on May 9, 2024.
The decision to appoint Woke as head of the authority sparked controversy and dissatisfaction among various groups and individuals, who criticized the move as contrary to principles of impartiality and regional representation.
The protests highlighted concerns over perceived familiarity and political affiliations influencing key appointments.
Responding to the protests, Ajuri Ngelale, presidential spokesman, released a statement on Wednesday announcing Woke’s removal from his position.
Ngelale further disclosed that Dr. Adedeji Ashiru has been appointed as Woke’s replacement at the Ogun-Osun River Basin Development Authority.
Additionally, Tinubu has reassigned Woke to the National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency (NOSDRA), where he will serve as the Director-General/Chief Executive Officer.
The statement read, “Engr. Woke, besides being an engineer, is an environmental specialist and politician. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Chemical/Petrochemical Engineering, and had served under the Environmental, Safety, and Operations Departments of the then Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC).
“He was Chairman of Emohua Local Government Area of Rivers State and Chief of Staff, Government House, Port Harcourt, for many years.
“Dr. Ashiru holds a Doctorate degree in Engineering from the Common Wealth University, UK, and has led a consortium of blue-chip companies, in addition to earning many stripes in his professional endeavour.
“The President expects the new Chief Executive Officers to deploy their competencies to these critical agencies for sustainable gains and turnaround, while maintaining utmost transparency in their operations.”
As the new appointments take effect, expectations are high for the appointed officials to demonstrate competence, integrity, and dedication in their respective roles.