Court Asked to Sack Rivers State Sole Administrator

By MOHAMMED DANBABA

ABUJA – A legal challenge has been filed at the Federal High Court in Abuja seeking the removal of the newly appointed Rivers State Sole Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas (Rtd). The suit, filed by Abuja-based legal practitioner Mr. Johnmary Jideobi, argues that the appointment is unconstitutional and violates the provisions of the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria.

Legal Action Against Rivers State Sole Administrator

The lawsuit, marked FHC/ABJ/CS/572/2025, names President Bola Tinubu as the 1st defendant, while the Attorney-General of the Federation, Vice Admiral Ibas, and the Attorneys-General of the 36 states of the federation are listed as the 2nd to 39th defendants.

Jideobi is urging the court to declare all decisions and actions taken by the Rivers State Sole Administrator as null and void. He contends that there is no constitutional basis for appointing a sole administrator to govern any state in Nigeria, as such an action undermines democratic principles.

Key Demands of the Plaintiff

The plaintiff is seeking the following reliefs:

• A declaration that the President has no constitutional authority to remove, suspend, or interfere with the tenure of an elected governor and deputy governor in any state.
• A perpetual injunction preventing the President from appointing a Sole Administrator for Rivers State or any other state in Nigeria.
• A declaration that the appointment of Vice Admiral Ibas as Rivers State Sole Administrator is unconstitutional, null, and void.
• An order setting aside the appointment and directing Ibas to vacate the Government House in Rivers State immediatel

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Legal Grounds for the Case

The case hinges on the interpretation of various sections of the 1999 Constitution, including Sections 1, 5(2), 180, 188, 189, 305, and 306. The plaintiff argues that the constitution provides clear guidelines for removing a governor, including impeachment, resignation, or incapacitation, but does not recognize the concept of a Rivers State Sole Administrator or any similar position.

Constitutional Concerns Over Sole Administrator Appointment

Jideobi argues that the imposition of a Sole Administrator in Rivers State violates Nigeria’s federal structure and the separation of powers between the executive, legislative, and judicial branches. He warns that if the appointment is not overturned, it could set a dangerous precedent, leading to arbitrary removals of elected officials in the future.

Background on Rivers State Political Crisis

The appointment of Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas as Rivers State Sole Administrator followed a political crisis in the state. However, critics argue that the move undermines democracy and the rule of law. Opposition parties, civil society organizations, and legal experts have condemned the decision, calling for immediate judicial intervention.

Public Reaction and Legal Community’s Response

Legal analysts have weighed in on the issue, emphasizing that the Nigerian Constitution does not support the removal of an elected governor through executive orders. Many believe that the case will serve as a crucial test for the judiciary in upholding constitutional democracy.

A senior constitutional lawyer, Barrister Chimezie Enuka, who is representing the plaintiff, stated, “This case is not just about Rivers State; it is about preserving the integrity of Nigeria’s democracy. If a Sole Administrator in Rivers State is allowed to remain in power, it could happen in any other state.”

Judicial Proceedings and Next Steps

The Federal High Court is expected to set a date for the hearing soon. Observers anticipate that the ruling will have significant implications for governance and constitutional law in Nigeria.

Meanwhile, Rivers State residents and political stakeholders are closely monitoring the developments, awaiting the court’s decision on whether the appointment of a Rivers State Sole Administrator will stand or be declared unconstitutional.

Conclusion

The legal battle over the appointment of Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas as Rivers State Sole Administrator is shaping up to be a landmark case in Nigeria’s political and legal history. As the court prepares to hear arguments from both sides, the outcome will determine whether the presidency has the power to install a sole administrator in any state without due constitutional process. Stay tuned for further updates as the case unfolds.

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Dayo Adesulu, online editor, SEO expert.