In a move that raises concerns about constitutional procedure, President Bola Tinubu has sworn in Vice Admiral Ibok-Étè Ibas (rtd.) as the sole administrator of Rivers State, following the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara and other elected officials. The appointment, made without approval from the National Assembly, has sparked controversy and debate about the limits of executive power.
According to sources, the swearing-in ceremony took place at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, with Ibas pledging to discharge his duties to the best of his abilities. Among those present were the President’s Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila; the Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN; and the Principal Secretary to the President, Hakeem Muri-Okunola. The development comes on the heels of the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara and other elected officials in Rivers State.
The unilateral appointment has sparked intense debate about the constitutional implications of Tinubu’s actions. Lawyers and constitutional experts have questioned the legality of the move, arguing that it violates the principles of separation of powers and the doctrine of checks and balances.
“It’s a clear case of executive overreach,” said a constitutional lawyer, who preferred to remain anonymous. “The President cannot unilaterally appoint a sole administrator for a state without the approval of the National Assembly. It’s a blatant disregard for the Constitution.”
The appointment has generated widespread reactions, with many Nigerians taking to social media to express their outrage and disappointment. The opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has also condemned the move, describing it as a “brazen assault on democracy.”
“The PDP rejects this illegitimate appointment and demands its immediate reversal,” the party said in a statement. “We call on the National Assembly to rise to the occasion and defend the Constitution.”
