Ebonyi State Governor Francis Nwifuru has ordered the immediate removal of the Commissioner for Works, Stanley Mbam. The governor directed Mbam to hand over all government property, including official vehicles, to the Secretary to the State Government. He is to transfer responsibilities to the ministry's permanent secretary.
Ebonyi State has faced criticism over infrastructure delivery. In 2024, residents protested over abandoned road projects. In 2025, the state government announced a renewed infrastructure push. Progress has been slow. The Works Commissioner oversees road construction and maintenance. Delays in project delivery often reflect funding gaps, contractor issues or poor planning. The commissioner’s removal may be an attempt to address these problems.
The governor’s statement did not give an official reason for the decision. Chief Press Secretary Monday Uzor announced the removal. The governor assured the people of his administration’s focus on delivering effective governance and improving public infrastructure.
The removal follows increased public outcry over delayed infrastructure. Residents have complained about bad roads and unfinished projects. The commissioner’s departure may signal a new approach. It may also be a political move. The governor is seeking to demonstrate responsiveness. Sacking a commissioner is a visible action. Whether it improves delivery depends on the successor.
The permanent secretary will oversee the ministry until a new appointment is made. The governor has not announced a replacement. The timing matters. The rainy season is ending. Construction work typically resumes in the dry season. When appointed, the new commissioner will face pressure to accelerate projects.
Winners: The governor, who shows action. Residents, if infrastructure improves. Contractors, who may see new opportunities. Losers: Mbam, who loses his position. The ministry, which faces uncertainty. The governor, if the removal does not improve delivery. Taxpayers, if projects remain stalled.
Bottom Line: A commissioner was sacked. No reason was given. Public outcry over roads may be the cause. The governor acted. The test is whether the next commissioner delivers. Sacking is easy. Building roads is hard.