Fresh Panic in Rivers Over Alleged Move by Administrator to Appoint LGA Caretakers

According to Report, A new wave of concern is sweeping across Rivers State following rumors that Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas (rtd), the newly appointed Sole Administrator, is considering appointing administrators to head the 23 local government areas (LGAs) of the state

Sources claim that President Bola Tinubu tasked Ibas with establishing a leadership structure at the local government level. However, fears have emerged that these appointments may be biased, favoring loyalists of a prominent political figure in the state. Political opponents have indicated they would resist the move if it proceeds.

A source close to the development expressed concerns that Ibas's actions could violate the Nigerian Constitution and a recent Supreme Court ruling affirming the autonomy of local governments. The ruling mandates that LGAs should be governed by elected officials, not appointees. The source, who chose to remain anonymous, described the potential appointments as an unconstitutional attempt to undermine democracy and subvert the will of the people.

The source added that names for the new administrators have already been compiled, raising alarms about an orchestrated effort to overrule democratic principles. If implemented, this could trigger a crisis within the local government system and set a dangerous precedent for executive overreach.

The source urged vigilance from Nigerians, warning that such a move threatens the foundation of grassroots democracy. Political stakeholders, civil society groups, and law-abiding citizens are encouraged to resist any unconstitutional attempts to impose unelected administrators on the local governments.

With tension mounting, the next 24 hours will be critical in determining whether the rule of law or executive impunity prevails in the state.