Sources close to Government House in Rivers State have raised concerns over alleged plans by the state’s sole administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas, to announce new Local Government Area (LGA) administrators.
The move, if executed, would be in direct conflict with the Supreme Court’s recent ruling, which nullified the October 5, 2024, local government elections in the state and reaffirmed the autonomy of LGAs. Following the court’s verdict, suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara had directed all outgoing council chairmen to hand over to the heads of local governments until fresh elections are conducted.
However, reports from sources who requested anonymity indicate that Vice Admiral Ibas is allegedly preparing to install new council administrators despite clear constitutional provisions mandating that LGAs be governed by elected officials.
The development has sparked concerns about potential executive overreach and a deliberate attempt to subvert democratic principles. According to sources, a list of names for the supposed administrators has already been compiled, fueling fears that the local government system could be plunged into further crisis.
“Nigerians must remain vigilant against this unconstitutional maneuver, as it threatens the foundation of grassroots democracy. Any attempt to impose unelected administrators on LGAs must be met with firm resistance from law-abiding citizens, political stakeholders, and civil society groups,” a source told The Guardian.
Observers warn that the coming days will be critical in determining whether the rule of law prevails or if impunity takes hold. All eyes are now on Rivers State as tensions mount over the future of local governance in the oil-rich region.
