The Rivers State House of Assembly has formally endorsed Barrister Lawrence Oko-Jaja, SAN, as the Chairman of the Rivers State Bureau on Public Procurement (RSBoPP).
In addition, the assembly has ratified the appointments of several board members, including Dr. Ernest Ibekwe Ekwe, Dr. Mina Ogbanga, Engr. Iseleye Amachree, Engr. Adokiye Oyagiri, Engr. Gift Alex-Hart, Mrs. Grace Osaronu, and Barrister Selinah Amonieah.
This confirmation followed an extensive vetting process undertaken by assembly members, prompted by a letter from the State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, which sought the House’s evaluation of the nominees’ qualifications.
The Governor’s correspondence, presented by Speaker Rt. Hon. Victor Oko-Jumbo, referenced Section 1, Sub-Section 4 of the Rivers State Public Procurement Law No. 4 of 2008, establishing the framework for the screening process.
During the screening sessions, nominees were interrogated regarding how their professional backgrounds would enhance effective policy execution and procurement practices within the state. Barrister Oko-Jaja pledged that, if confirmed, the board would focus on ensuring value for money in all government contracts.
The Speaker underscored the necessity for the nominees to uphold trust and allegiance to the State Government, advocate for best practices, and guarantee integrity and accountability in all procurement operations.
Upon concluding the screening, the lawmakers affirmed the nominees through a voice vote. Speaker Oko-Jumbo instructed the Clerk, Dr. G. M. Gillis-West, to relay the House’s resolution to Governor Fubara to facilitate the requisite swearing-in process.
The House of Assembly is scheduled to reconvene on Wednesday, September 4, 2024.
