Gathering Storm in Rivers State as Sole Administrator’s Actions Deemed Unconstitutional Power Grab

A storm of criticism is brewing over the actions of the Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, with prominent figures and legal experts denouncing his recent moves as an unconstitutional power grab akin to a military coup, having no bearing on security restoration as claimed.

Hon. C.I.D Maduabum a legal luminary, has condemned the administrator’s actions, echoing the sentiments of many who believe Vice Admiral Ibas is exceeding his constitutional mandate.

This condemnation comes on the heels of the Sole Administrator’s decision to appoint administrators for all 23 Local Government Areas (LGAs) in the state, as well as the chairman and members of the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC), and reconstitute various boards and commissions.

These actions have been met with stiff resistance, particularly as they appear to defy a Federal High Court order issued on April 8, 2025, which reportedly restrained the Sole Administrator from making such appointments. Courage Nsirimovu, Coordinator of the Pilex Centre for Civic Education Initiative, confirmed that the court processes were duly served, yet the appointments were announced regardless, with some appointments allegedly backdated.

This has led to accusations of contempt of court and a blatant disregard for the rule of law.

Legal experts have weighed in, describing the Sole Administrator’s appointments as illegal and lacking constitutional backing. They argue that an unelected individual cannot assume such significant powers, particularly in appointing officials for LGAs, a function constitutionally reserved for elected representatives.

Concerns are also mounting that these appointments, largely comprising allies of the former Governor Nyesom Wike, indicate a partisan agenda that further deepens the state’s political crisis.

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has taken a strong stance, relocating its 2025 Annual General Conference from Port Harcourt to Enugu in protest against what it deems the unconstitutional governance of Rivers State. The NBA stated that continuing with the conference in Rivers State would be a tacit endorsement of constitutional violations and the subversion of the rule of law.

Adding his voice to the chorus of disapproval, former Deputy National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Olabode George, warned Vice Admiral Ibas that his actions are illegal and could lead to regret. He emphasized that the Sole Administrator’s tenure is temporary and questioned the authority to make such far-reaching political appointments, especially in defiance of court orders.

The controversy surrounding the Sole Administrator’s actions continues to escalate, with civil society organizations threatening mass action and legal battles ongoing. The focus remains on the hearing scheduled for April 14, 2025, where the Sole Administrator is expected to justify his actions in court. The unfolding events in Rivers State are being closely watched as they raise fundamental questions about the respect for the constitution, the rule of law, and democratic governance in Nigeria.