Ijaw youths: Suspension of all political appointees in Rivers dictatorial

The Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide has condemned the suspension of all political office holders in Rivers state by Ibok-Ete Ibas, the sole administrator.

The suspension on Wednesday affected the secretary to the state government, chief of staff, commissioners, chairmen and members of all boards, councils of agencies, commissions, institutions, parastatals, special advisers, special assistants and senior special assistants.

In a statement signed by Maobuye Nangi Obu, its secretary-general, the IYC described the suspension as “an affront on the rights of Rivers people and nothing short of a full-blown military dictatorship in action”.

“This reckless move, executed under the guise of presidential authority, is a desperate attempt to remove all possible checks and balances,” the statement reads.

The IYC noted that the suspensions have left Rivers state at the mercy of a few handpicked loyalists.

“This action has grave security implications. By creating disaffection and sidelining legitimate government officials, the Administrator is fueling political instability and pushing Rivers State towards crisis,” the statement reads.

The IYC said the people of Rivers will not be deceived, adding that the suspension is not about governance “but about consolidating power”.

“We categorically condemn this dictatorial action and call on all Rivers people to stand against this blatant abuse of power. The state belongs to the people, not to a cabal of political opportunists seeking to milk it dry,” the group added.

The IYC demanded an immediate reversal of the suspension and a return to democratic governance.

“Democracy must be restored, and Rivers people must not be silenced. We demand an immediate reversal of this illegal suspension and a return to democratic governance. Rivers State must not be turned into the personal estate of a single individual and his cronies,” they said.