The Federal High Court in Port Harcourt has summoned the Rivers State Administrator, Retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, to appear before it and explain why an interim injunction should not be granted to halt the ongoing appointment of Sole Administrators for the state’s 23 Local Government Areas (LGAs). The case, which is attracting significant public scrutiny, could have far-reaching implications for governance and the fight against corruption in Rivers State.
The court’s directive, issued by Honourable Justice Adamu Turaki Mohammed on Monday, April 7, 2025, followed an urgent ex-parte motion filed by the Pilex Centre for Civic Education Initiative, led by Coordinator Courage Nsirimovu. The applicants are calling for a halt to the controversial appointments, arguing that they undermine democratic processes and foster an environment ripe for corruption. This move comes at a time when the appointment of Sole Administrators, instead of elected local officials, has sparked intense debate over transparency and accountability in the state’s local governance.
In his ruling, Justice Mohammed underscored the importance of fairness in the appointment process, ordering the Rivers State Administrator to be officially notified and given the opportunity to “show cause” as to why the injunction should not be granted. The case is seen as a pivotal moment in challenging what many have described as an increasingly authoritarian approach to local governance.
Legal counsel for the applicants, A.O. Imiete, strongly urged the court to act swiftly, presenting a compelling case that the appointments serve as a cover for potential corrupt practices by the state administration. Despite the gravity of the matter, the respondent, Vice Admiral Ibas, was absent from the hearing, raising further concerns about the state’s commitment to transparency.
This development comes amid mounting accusations of corruption within the Rivers State government. Critics argue that the appointment of Sole Administrators, rather than holding democratic elections, consolidates power in the hands of a few individuals, opening the door for widespread mismanagement and financial misappropriation at the local government level. The state’s long history of political intrigue and the alleged use of public office for personal gain only adds fuel to these concerns.
As tensions rise, stakeholders, civil society organizations, and legal experts are closely monitoring the case. They argue that this legal battle may set a significant precedent in challenging administrative overreach and protecting democratic processes in Nigeria’s states. The hearing is scheduled for April 14, 2025, and the public is eager to see if the court will take a stand against the alleged corruption that continues to plague Rivers State’s governance.
The case, marked FHC/PH/CS/46/2025, is rapidly becoming a flashpoint for broader discussions about corruption, accountability, and the rule of law in Nigeria’s local governments. The outcome of this case could resonate far beyond Rivers State, potentially inspiring similar legal challenges in other regions grappling with issues of governance and transparency.
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