Pressure Mounts on Tinubu to Sack Rivers Sole Administrator Amid Criticism

A coalition of 100 civil society organizations, under the Civic Room for Rule of Law, has thrown its weight behind human rights lawyer Femi Falana (SAN) in calling for the removal of Vice Admiral Ibok-ete Ibas (rtd.) as the sole administrator of Rivers state. In a statement issued by the group’s president, Barrister Maxwell Egboh, the coalition condemned Ibas for violating presidential directives and acting outside the constitutional framework, which it claims threatens the stability and democratic integrity of the state.

The coalition referred to a presidential directive from March 18, 2025, which outlined regulations governing the sole administrator’s role. Despite this, the group alleged that Ibas had unilaterally made appointments and dismissed officials previously appointed by Governor Siminalayi Fubara, actions they argue were not authorized by any legal framework.

The coalition accused Ibas of disregarding the president’s orders, describing his conduct as illegal and destabilizing, and called for his immediate removal. They emphasized that Ibas’ actions had created an atmosphere of uncertainty in Rivers state, and the people deserved lawful governance led by officials chosen through democratic means.

The coalition also expressed support for the Ad-Hoc Committee of the House of Representatives on Rivers state, which recently summoned Ibas for questioning. They called on the committee to conduct a thorough investigation to ensure justice.

In related news, the Save Democracy Vanguard, another Nigerian civil society group, has petitioned the United Nations over what it described as an illegal suspension of democratic governance in Rivers state. The group urged the UN to intervene, warning that the situation posed a serious threat to Nigeria’s democracy.

The Civic Room for Rule of Law has vowed to continue monitoring developments in Rivers state and advocating for transparency and accountability in governance.