CSOs to Tinubu: Rivers deserves better than being governed by unelected official 

Civic Room for Rule of Law, a coalition of civil society groups, has asked President Bola Tinubu to sack Ibok-Ete Ibas, the sole administrator in Rivers, saying the state deserves better than to be governed by an unelected official. 

In a statement on Tuesday, Maxwell Egboh, the coalition’s president, said Ibas was supposed to operate on the basis of regulations issued by Tinubu, but claimed that the sole administrator has breached presidential orders and disregarded the rule of law.

The group alleged that Ibas has made appointments and removed officials appointed by Siminalayi Fubara, suspended governor of the state, without any regulatory framework from the president.

The group asked Tinubu to take “swift and decisive action” to address the situation and uphold the law.

“This blatant disregard for the president’s orders is a clear indication of the Sole Administrator’s contempt for the rule of law and the limits of his authority. By acting in this manner, he has compounded the illegality of his appointment and undermined the very fabric of our democratic institutions,” the statement reads. 

“The people of Rivers State deserve better than to be governed by an unelected official who disregards the law with impunity. We are deeply concerned about the implications of these actions on the stability and security of Rivers State. The Sole Administrator’s arbitrary decisions have created an atmosphere of uncertainty and tension, which can only be resolved by his immediate removal.

“We urge President Tinubu to take swift and decisive action to address this situation and uphold the law.”

The CSOs commended the ad-hoc committee of the house of representatives on Rivers state for summoning Ibas for a comprehensive interactive session. They urged the committee to thoroughly investigate Ibas’ actions and take necessary steps to ensure that justice is served.

The coalition reiterated its commitment to promoting transparency, accountability, and good governance in the country. It vowed to continue monitoring the situation in Rivers state and advocating for the rule of law to be upheld.

BACKGROUND

On March 18, President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency in the Rivers, citing the prolonged political crisis.

He also suspended Siminalayi Fubara, governor of the state; his deputy, Ngozi Odu; and all members of the Rivers assembly for a period of six months.

The president appointed Ibas, a retired naval chief, as the state’s sole administrator.After his appointment, Ibas suspended all political officeholders appointed by Fubara.

Several stakeholders, including the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) have criticised Ibas over the handling of the state affairs.

There have been protests in the state demanding the reinstatement of Fubara.