Civil society organizations and regional groups have strongly criticized Vice Admiral Ibok-Etteh Ibas (rtd), the Sole Administrator of Rivers State, over the recent appointment of local government administrators.
The groups described the move as illegal and in violation of a Supreme Court ruling that upholds local government autonomy.
The Civil Liberties Organization (CLO), the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC), and the Pan Niger Delta Elders Forum (PANDEF) voiced their opposition to the appointments, warning that the development threatens Nigeria’s democratic foundations and may be part of a broader political strategy ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Speaking with Vanguard, Karl Chinedu, Chairman of CLO South-South, said, “This appointment is illegal and raises serious constitutional issues. It is a sad development for democracy as public funds are now being controlled by individuals who were never elected by the people.”
The Ijaw Youth Council expressed similar concerns. Its President, Dr. Alaye Theophilus, alleged that Ibas acted on directives from Abuja, suggesting a political motive behind the move.
“This is a power grab designed to benefit those who orchestrated the emergency rule in Rivers State,” Theophilus stated.
He further alleged a deeper political agenda driven by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and former Governor Nyesom Wike.
“There is no legal provision that allows a sole administrator to make political appointments.
“If this continues, we may be forced to consider drastic measures, including the declaration of an Ijaw Republic,” he warned.
Chief Anabs Sara-Igbe, a PANDEF chieftain, also decried the appointments, labeling them unlawful and politically motivated.
“The position of the Sole Administrator is legally unfounded, and any decisions made under this administration lack legitimacy.
“The man is in a hurry to implement an agenda that serves those who appointed him,” he said.
The controversy continues to spark outrage across the Niger Delta, as more voices demand the reversal of the appointments and a return to constitutional order in Rivers State.
