The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has strongly criticized the actions of the interim administrator of Rivers State, retired Vice Admiral Ibok Ete Ibas, accusing him of systematically dismantling democratic structures within the state through unconstitutional actions.
HURIWA, in a statement by National Coordinator Emmanuel Onwubiko, specifically condemned Ibas for removing official portraits of Governor Siminalayi Fubara from public buildings. The organization views this act as a blatant disregard for democracy and believes the administrator is attempting to unlawfully supplant the elected government. They are calling on the people of Rivers State to resist this perceived overreach of power.
Furthermore, HURIWA pointed out that Ibas has allegedly ignored a Federal High Court order that prohibits him from appointing unelected local council administrators.
The organization also criticized Ibas's decision to make new appointments into the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission while existing commissioners and chairpersons are still in office.
Ibas, however, has declared his impartiality in the ongoing political crisis. He stated his commitment to upholding the law and ensuring all parties, regardless of their political affiliations, have a voice in the future of Rivers State. He made these remarks during a meeting with youth organizations and stakeholders in Port Harcourt. Ibas has pledged that his administration will focus on the collective well-being of the people of Rivers State.