TOO MUCH POWERS: Rivers State Sole (Military) Administrator summons Fubara
*As Ibas probes appointments since 2023
“Fubara is expected to present documents and records of all the appointments he made, their justifications, procedures followed, and explain why he thinks he should be reinstated as Governor.”
The suspended Governor of Rivers State, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, and his Deputy, Ngozi Odu, have been summoned by the Sole Administrator of the state, Retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, to appear before him to clarify some appointments made while on his constitutional duty as elected governor.
The directive by the administrator summoning the suspended elected Governor and his Deputy have been described as too much powers by watchers of events who believe that the idea of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to suspend an elected governor through means unjustified by constitutional provisions kills democracy in the state.
They are, therefore, asking questions demanding for answers.
For instance, many are asking: Does the mandate of the Sole Administrator covers his decision to summon the Governor under any circumstance since he is not appointed to probe the suspended administration.
The summons letter signed by Prof. Ibibia Lucky Worika, Secretary to the State Government, to Governor Fubara to appear before the sole administrator reads:
“The Sole Administrator, Vice Admiral (Rtd.) Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas, CFR, has formally summoned the suspended Governor of Rivers State, Sir Siminialayi Fubara, and his Deputy, Dr. Ngozi Ordu, to appear before him for an inquiry into the appointments made under their administration over the past two years.
“Sir Fubara is directed to present all relevant documents and records pertaining to appointments, including justifications and procedures followed during his tenure.
“The session will also serve as an opportunity for the suspended Governor to provide a clear and detailed explanation as to why he believes he should be reinstated to office.
“Both parties are expected to appear in person as follows:
Date: Friday, 18th April, 2025
Time: 10:00am Prompt
Venue: Conference Room, Rivers State Government House, Port Harcourt
“Attendance is mandatory. This process forms part of the Sole Administrator’s ongoing efforts to restore transparency and accountability and lasting peace in the governance of Rivers State.”
