The political turmoil in Rivers State has taken another dramatic turn as legal experts and civil society groups strongly condemn the suspension of political appointees by the state’s Sole Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd). Many argue that the move is unconstitutional and could further destabilize the state.
Outrage Over Ibas’ Decision
Several Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SANs) and political analysts have labeled the suspension illegal. According to Abeny Mohammed (SAN), Ibas’ appointment by President Bola Tinubu was unconstitutional from the start.
“You cannot put something on nothing and expect it to stand,” he stated, arguing that all actions taken by the Sole Administrator are unlawful.
Similarly, Chief Chukwuma Nwachukwu criticized the decision, calling it a violation of the 1999 Constitution. He emphasized that the President has no legal authority to remove Governor Siminalayi Fubara from office, let alone dismiss his appointees.
Tinubu Under Fire as CSOs Petition the UN
The controversy surrounding President Tinubu’s declaration of emergency rule in Rivers State has now reached the international stage. A coalition of civil society organizations has formally petitioned the United Nations, urging intervention to restore democratic governance in Rivers.
The petition also calls for sanctions against Nigeria for failing to uphold democratic principles.
The CSOs argue that the President’s decision to remove Governor Fubara was unconstitutional. They also accused FCT Minister Nyesom Wike of masterminding the political crisis to tighten his grip on the state.
APC Defends Tinubu’s Emergency Rule
Amid the backlash, the Rivers State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has thrown its full support behind President Tinubu’s decision. Chief Tony Okocha, the party’s caretaker chairman in Rivers, claims the emergency rule has resolved “90% of the crisis” in the state.
On the issue of whether FCT Minister Wike should also have been suspended, Okocha dismissed the idea, arguing that Wike was not directly involved in the fray.
“A Dangerous Precedent for Democracy” – CISLAC, IYC React
The Civil Societies Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) and the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) have warned that Ibas’ actions threaten democracy. IYC Secretary-General Maobuoye Nangi-Obu described the suspension of political appointees as a return to military dictatorship.
“This reckless move is a desperate attempt to remove all checks and balances, paving the way for unchecked looting of Rivers State’s resources,” he stated.
CISLAC’s Executive Director, Awwal Musa, accused the federal government of trying to dismantle Rivers State’s political structure to install a loyal administration.
Legal Battle Looms Over Ibas’ Powers
While many legal experts believe Ibas lacks the authority to sack political appointees, others have a different take. Lawyer Gbenga Ojo compared the situation to the state of emergency imposed in Plateau State under Joshua Dariye.
He argued that while Ibas may have the power to replace appointees, he cannot remove elected officials like local government chairmen and councillors.
On the other hand, Danie Sumola insists that Ibas’ sweeping dismissal of appointees is unconstitutional and an abuse of power. He cited past Supreme Court rulings that emphasize the limits of executive authority even in emergency situations.
What’s Next for Rivers State?
With mounting legal challenges, international attention, and growing resistance from civil society, the political future of Rivers State remains uncertain.
Will the courts overturn Ibas’ actions? Will the UN respond to the petition? One thing is certain—the crisis in Rivers is far from over.
Stay tuned to NIGPOST for more updates on this unfolding political drama.
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