By A coalition of 100 civil society organisations under the banner of Civic Room for Rule of Law has backed human rights lawyer Femi Falana (SAN) in demanding the removal of Vice Admiral Ibok-ete Ibas (rtd.) as Rivers State’s Sole Administrator.
In a strongly worded statement signed by the group’s president, Barrister Maxwell Egboh, the coalition accused Ibas of violating presidential directives and undermining the rule of law.
Referencing an Official Gazette dated March 18, 2025, the group noted that Ibas was required to act under regulations issued by President Bola Tinubu, which they claim he blatantly ignored.
“This blatant disregard for the President’s orders is a clear indication of the Sole Administrator’s contempt for the rule of law,” Egboh stated. “He has made illegal appointments and removed officials without any presidential framework, thereby compounding the illegality of his own position.”
The group warned that Ibas’ actions risk destabilising Rivers State, citing “an atmosphere of uncertainty and tension” caused by his arbitrary decisions.
They called on President Tinubu to “take swift and decisive action” by removing Ibas and restoring lawful governance in the state.
The civic coalition also commended the House of Representatives’ Ad-Hoc Committee on Rivers for summoning Ibas for a detailed inquiry, urging the lawmakers to ensure justice and accountability prevail.
“The people of Rivers State deserve better than to be governed by an unelected official who disregards the law with impunity,” Egboh added.
