In a move that has sparked controversy, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, the Sole Administrator of Rivers State, has appointed administrators for the 23 Local Government Areas (LGAs) of the state. This decision comes despite a Federal High Court order in Port Harcourt restraining him from making such appointments.
Court Order Ignored:
- Legal Background: Justice Adamu Turaki Mohammed issued an interim injunction on April 8, 2025, in response to a suit filed by the PILEX Centre for Civic Education Initiative. The court scheduled a full hearing for April 14, 2025.
- Ibas' Action: Despite the court's directive, Ibas proceeded with the appointments, which took effect from April 7, 2025. The move has been criticized for disregarding the judicial process and escalating tensions in the state.
New Appointments:
- Local Government Administrators: The list of appointed administrators includes names such as Mr. Okroiyobi Animiete for Abua/Odual LGA and Dr. Tamunotonye Peters for Akuku Toru LGA.
- RSIEC Reconstitution: Ibas also announced the appointment of Dr. Michael Ekpai Odey as the new Chairman of the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC), alongside six members and four professors.
Political Context:
- Power Struggle: The appointments are part of a broader power struggle in Rivers State, involving former Governor Nyesom Wike and current Governor Siminalayi Fubara. The state has been under a state of emergency since March 18, 2025, following intense political clashes.
- Constitutional Concerns: Critics argue that Ibas' actions undermine constitutional provisions and may further destabilize the state's political landscape.
As the situation unfolds, Rivers State remains in a state of political turmoil, with legal and political tensions likely to escalate ahead of the scheduled court hearing.
