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Court Asked to Remove Rivers Sole Administrator, Declares Appointment Unconstitutional

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A legal challenge has been filed at the Federal High Court in Abuja seeking the removal of Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas (Rtd) as the Sole Administrator of Rivers State. The suit, lodged on Tuesday by Abuja-based lawyer Johnmary Jideobi, contends that the appointment of a sole administrator for the state is unconstitutional.

 

The case lists President Bola Tinubu as the first defendant, alongside the Attorney-General of the Federation, Vice Admiral Ibas, and the Attorneys-General of all 36 states, making a total of 39 defendants. The lawsuit, marked FHC/ABJ/CS/572/2025, seeks a court declaration that all decisions made by Ibas as Rivers State’s Sole Administrator are null and void.

 

The plaintiff is also asking the court for an order preventing President Tinubu or any of his agents from removing, suspending, or interfering with the tenure of any state governor or deputy governor. Additionally, the suit demands a perpetual injunction stopping the president from appointing sole administrators in any state government house across Nigeria.

 

Jideobi’s legal argument is based on constitutional provisions, including Sections 1, 5(2), 180, 188, 189, 305, and 306 of the 1999 Constitution. He asserts that these provisions do not grant the president the power to remove or suspend a duly elected governor and appoint a replacement, such as a sole administrator. He contends that only the legal processes outlined in the constitution, such as impeachment or resignation, can lead to the removal of a governor or deputy governor.

 

Among the declarations sought, the plaintiff asks the court to nullify the suspension of the Rivers State governor and deputy governor on March 18, 2025. He also wants the appointment of Ibas as sole administrator declared unconstitutional and for the retired admiral to vacate the Rivers State Government House immediately.

 

In a supporting affidavit, Jideobi argues that Nigeria operates a federal system based on separation of powers, and the president lacks the authority to suspend elected officials. He warns that allowing such actions could set a dangerous precedent, leading to the arbitrary removal of governors and potential instability in the country.

 

No date has been set for the hearing of the case.

Politics

Democracy must be protected, nurtured – Fubara

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Suspended Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to the rule of law, the protection of fundamental human rights, and the promotion of inclusive democratic participation for all citizens, regardless of political affiliation.

In his Democracy Day message on Thursday, Governor Fubara emphasized that his administration remains focused on protecting lives and property, while upholding the values of transparency, accountability, and inclusivity in governance.

He pledged to continue defending the interests of Rivers State and to lead a government grounded in fairness and openness.

Reflecting on Nigeria’s 26 years of uninterrupted democracy, Fubara called for unity and collaboration across political lines to build a society where every citizen is heard, empowered, and encouraged to contribute to collective progress.

Addressing the recent political tensions in Rivers State, including his own suspension alongside other elected officials, the governor described these events as a stark reminder of democracy’s fragility and the need for constant vigilance in its preservation.

In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Nelson Chukwudi, Governor Fubara acknowledged that Rivers State’s democratic journey has seen both triumphs and setbacks, all of which underscore the importance of remaining steadfast to democratic ideals.

He highlighted his administration’s commitment to fairness, civil liberties, and institutional oversight, noting that deliberate efforts have been made to foster inclusion, accountability, and openness, essential pillars for sustaining democracy for future generations.

Despite the challenges faced, Fubara expressed confidence in the resilience and determination of the people of Rivers State, as he urged citizens to “approach this critical moment with unity, courage, and renewed purpose”, emphasizing that “the state’s future depends on collective action, innovation, and shared aspirations.”

He also paid tribute to past leaders whose sacrifices laid the groundwork for today’s democratic gains, reminding citizens to honour that legacy by upholding the values they fought for.

Governor Fubara encouraged Rivers people to act with patriotism, dedication, and a sense of responsibility, just as he expressed optimism that, through collective effort and determination, Rivers State will emerge stronger and more united.

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We’ve Just Finished Renovating Conference Centre With N39B When Our Children Don’t Have Light- Peter Obi ‎

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‎Former Anambra State Governor and Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi has condemned the extravagant lifestyle of Nigerian politicians while basic education infrastructure remains in shambles.

‎Speaking during an interview with SYMFONI TV where he donated computers to Chibok girls, Obi decried the disconnect between political spending and the suffering of ordinary Nigerians, especially students.

‎”We have just finished renovating our conference centre with 39 billion naira when our children in school don’t have light, they don’t have computer, their classrooms are leaking, they don’t have water.”

‎Peter Obi who is Known for his meticulous approach to governance and strong emphasis on education, reiterated that no nation can progress when its leaders prioritize personal comfort over the welfare of its youth.

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I’ll continue to give Tinubu’s enemies high blood pressure – Wike

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Minister of the Federal Capital Territory Nyesom Wike has vowed to ensure that President Bola Tinubu’s enemies develop high blood pressure.

Wike said he had realised that Tinubu’s opponents are unhappy with his good works since assuming office in 2023.

The minister made this statement during the commissioning of the Arterial Road N16 (Shehu Shagari Way) from Ring Road 1 (Nnamdi Azikiwe Way) to Arterial Road N20 (Wole Soyinka Way), along with other roads in the Katampe district of capital city, by President Tinubu on Wednesday.

Wike recalled how he came to understand, while watching television, that some individuals harbour resentment towards Tinubu.

The minister vowed to continue rolling out commendable projects that would cause further dismay to the President’s critics.

He said: “Sometimes, I don’t know, spiritually I was touched. I was just touched to turn it (TV) on, and I was watching, and I didn’t realise that people could be in pain, but now I know that such people are in pain.

“I now must make sure I continue to give them high blood pressure. As they continue to be in pain, it’ll be sweetening us, and that’s now my job.

“I’ll be happy, moving around, and laughing every time, and they’ll be there shouting, fighting, and killing themselves. So, Mr President, thank you for being part of this revolution.”

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