In a related development, a coalition of 17 Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) in Rivers State has formally submitted a petition to the House of Representatives Ad-Hoc Committee overseeing the political crisis in the state. The petition, which outlines grave concerns about the state of governance under the Sole Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (rtd), accuses him of financial misconduct and alleges that he is acting under the influence of former Governor Nyesom Wike, now the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory.
The petitioners argue that Ibas’ actions have exacerbated the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State and urged the committee to take immediate steps to restore democratic governance. They contend that the Sole Administrator’s conduct not only undermines the spirit of the emergency rule declared by President Bola Tinubu on March 18, 2025, but also violates the constitutional principles that should guide the state’s recovery and eventual return to democratic rule.
The CSOs expressed deep concern over what they described as “severe, provocative, and brazen acts of lawlessness and impunity” committed by Ibas. They accused him of behaving in a manner that is both unconstitutional and detrimental to the people of Rivers State, highlighting his alleged disregard for due process and legal norms. The petitioners stated that Ibas has acted more like a political appointee of Wike rather than a neutral administrator, further deepening the political and administrative crises in the state.
“We have credible evidence to show that the Sole Administrator is not working in the best interests of Rivers State, but instead continuing the policies of the outgoing administration,” the petition read. “His actions are undermining the restoration of peace and order, and it is imperative that urgent steps are taken to bring Rivers back to democratic governance.”
A particularly serious allegation in the petition is the claim that over 100 billion naira of state funds has been spent recklessly, with no tangible development or accountability. The petitioners assert that despite the vast sums allegedly expended, there has been little to show in terms of infrastructural or social progress, raising questions about financial mismanagement under Ibas’ administration.
The CSOs have called on the Ad-Hoc Committee to investigate these allegations thoroughly and take swift action to restore constitutional governance in Rivers State. They also urged the federal government to ensure that the emergency rule is used strictly to stabilize governance and ensure a fair and transparent political process, rather than perpetuate political control by a select few.
The petition has sparked further debate over the legitimacy of the state of emergency in Rivers and the actions of Ibas as Sole Administrator. As the federal government considers these concerns, the question of how to balance emergency governance with the need for accountability and democratic principles remains a critical issue.
