Ibas Inaugurates RSIEC and Rivers Civil Service Commission Amid Legal Controversy
The Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (rtd), has inaugurated the newly reconstituted Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) and the Rivers State Civil Service Commission, in a move aimed at restructuring key governance institutions in the state.
The ceremony, which took place in Port Harcourt, marked the formal assumption of duty by newly appointed chairpersons and members of the two commissions. Dr. Micheal Ekpai Odey was inaugurated as Chairman of RSIEC, alongside six other members, while Dr. Livinus Bariki was named Chairman of the Civil Service Commission. The Local Government Service Commission was also reconstituted, with Ambassador Lot Peter Egopija appointed as Chairman.
The inauguration comes amidst legal tension, as a Federal High Court ruling had earlier barred the Rivers State government from making such appointments. Despite the court order, the appointments were backdated to April 7, 2025, with the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Ibibia Worika, confirming the decision and releasing a full list of the new commission members and 23 local government area administrators.
The development has drawn mixed reactions from political observers and civil society groups. While supporters say the move is necessary to restore administrative order and ensure continuity of governance during the state’s transition period, critics argue that it undermines the rule of law and sets a troubling precedent.
Observers note that control of RSIEC is particularly crucial, as it will oversee the conduct of local government elections—decisions that could shape the political future of the state amid its ongoing political crisis.
Despite the controversy, Ibas has reiterated his commitment to restoring functional governance structures and ensuring credible processes within the state’s institutions.
