Prominent human rights lawyer Femi Falana (SAN) has called for the immediate dismissal of Rivers State Sole Administrator, Retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, accusing him of unlawfully overstepping his mandate and disregarding President Bola Tinubu’s directives.
In a statement issued on Thursday, Falana cited the Federal Government Gazette, which stipulates that the Sole Administrator’s operations must follow regulations issued by the President. However, he noted that no such regulations have been provided, rendering Ibas’ recent appointments and dismissals of officials originally selected by Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara unconstitutional.
“The Sole Administrator has no legal basis to make these decisions,” Falana asserted. “By acting without presidential regulations, he has not only violated procedure but also shown contempt for the President’s authority.”
Falana described Ibas’ appointment itself as illegal and urged the Federal Government to remove him without delay. The controversy adds to the ongoing political tensions in Rivers State, where disputes over jurisdictional authority between state and federal officials have intensified.
The Senior Advocate’s intervention highlights growing concerns over constitutional adherence in the administration of states under federal oversight, with legal experts watching closely for the government’s response.
