A legal battle is unfolding in the Rivers State High Court over the constitutionality of recent appointments made by Mr. Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas, who is currently acting as the Sole Administrator of Rivers State.
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In Suit No: PHC/2293/CS/2025, a legal practitioner, Chizy Enyi, Esq., and the civic group Initiative for Transparent Strategy and Good Leadership are challenging what they describe as the “unlawful” exercise of executive powers by Mr. Ibas.
The claimants argue that Mr. Ibas, not being the constitutionally recognized Executive Governor of Rivers State, lacks the authority to appoint members of the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC). They are contesting the legitimacy of appointments made on May 9, 2025, and presented to the National Assembly on June 12, 2025.
The suit lists the following as defendants:
1. Mr. Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas
2. Government of Rivers State
3. Attorney-General of Rivers State
4. Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC)
The claimants are seeking, among other reliefs:
A declaration that the appointments made by the 1st Defendant are null and void
An order setting aside those appointments and any related actions, including the conduct of local government elections
A perpetual injunction restraining the defendants from further usurping the powers of an elected governor ₦10 million in damages
The case has attracted public interest as it could potentially invalidate recent electoral decisions and reshuffle administrative authority within the state, pending the court’s ruling.
