Recent reports indicate that Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas (Retd), the Sole Administrator appointed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to oversee Rivers State following the declaration of a state of emergency, is allegedly planning to appoint new administrators for the state’s 23 local government areas (LGAs). This move has raised significant concerns regarding its constitutionality and potential impact on local governance. www.multilinks.biz
Sources close to the Rivers State Government House have expressed alarm over these plans, suggesting that such appointments could undermine the autonomy of local governments as enshrined in the Nigerian Constitution. The apprehension stems from the belief that imposing appointed administrators may contravene constitutional provisions that guarantee democratically elected local government councils. www.multilinks.biz
The Nigerian Bar Association has also criticized the broader context of the Sole Administrator’s appointment and the suspension of elected officials, labeling these actions as illegal. They argue that a declaration of emergency does not automatically dissolve or suspend elected state governments, raising questions about the legitimacy of subsequent decisions made under such an arrangement. www.multilinks.biz
As the situation unfolds, it is imperative for all actions taken by the Sole Administrator to adhere strictly to constitutional provisions to maintain the rule of law and uphold democratic principles in Rivers State.
www.multilinks.biz
By
