Fresh Tension in Rivers Over Alleged Move to Appoint LG Caretakers

Panic has gripped parts of Rivers State following reports that the recently appointed Sole Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas (rtd), is allegedly preparing to appoint caretaker administrators for the 23 local government areas of the state.

According to sources familiar with the development, President Bola Tinubu had tasked Ibas with establishing a leadership structure at the local government level following his appointment. However, the move is stirring controversy, with growing fears that it may contradict the Nigerian Constitution and a recent Supreme Court ruling that reaffirmed the autonomy of local governments and insisted they be governed by elected officials.

Critics argue that any plan to install unelected administrators would not only undermine constitutional provisions but also violate the principles of democracy. A source, who requested anonymity, described the reported action as “alien to all known laws” and warned that it would be seen as a disregard for democratic norms and a violation of the Supreme Court judgment.

There are also claims that a list of potential caretaker administrators has already been compiled, with appointments allegedly favouring a powerful political figure in the state. This has heightened suspicion of a calculated move to manipulate the local government system for political advantage.

Opposition groups are said to be preparing a firm response if the appointments go ahead, warning that such actions could trigger unrest and further polarize the political climate in the state. Observers are concerned that the development may set a dangerous precedent for executive interference in local governance.

A source close to the matter warned, “Nigerians must remain vigilant against this unconstitutional manoeuvre, as it threatens the foundation of grassroots democracy. Any attempt to impose unelected administrators on LGs must be met with firm resistance from law-abiding citizens, political stakeholders, and civil society groups.”

With political tensions mounting, all eyes are on Rivers State as the next 24 hours are expected to be critical in determining whether the rule of law will prevail or be overshadowed by political expediency.