Rivers Administrator Ibas Demands Financial Accountability from Council Chiefs

Rivers State Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, has issued a stern warning to council administrators, emphasizing that his administration will not tolerate financial recklessness. He stressed the importance of accountability, transparency, and dedicated service, stating that public funds must be used strictly for their intended purposes. ​

Ibas underscored that the selection of the 23 local government administrators was based on their leadership capabilities and commitment to public service. He reminded them of their responsibility to manage council affairs with utmost dedication, focusing on areas such as sanitation, healthcare, civil service welfare, primary education, and youth engagement. ​

However, Ibas's actions have faced legal challenges. The appointment of the 23 local government administrators has been criticized as illegal and in defiance of a court order restraining him from making such appointments. Legal experts argue that his actions amount to disobedience of a court order and violate constitutional provisions. ​

Opposition figures have also condemned Ibas's decisions. They question his authority to make political appointments, emphasizing that his position as Sole Administrator is not legally recognized. They argue that such actions undermine democratic processes and the rule of law. ​

In response to these developments, legal practitioners and political groups are calling for intervention from higher authorities. They urge President Bola Tinubu and the National Assembly to address the situation, emphasizing the need to uphold constitutional order and prevent potential abuses of power.