Respected People’s Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain and former Deputy National Chairman, Chief Bode George, has taken a swipe at the Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd.), over what he described as an unlawful wave of appointments and restructuring efforts in the state.
In a strongly worded statement issued on Friday, Chief George condemned Ibas’ actions, particularly his reported appointment of local government heads and attempts to alter the composition of state boards, calling them a direct violation of constitutional provisions and a standing Federal High Court order.
"Vice Admiral Ibas must understand that Nigeria is a democracy, not a barracks," George stated. "Your six-month interim appointment by the President does not confer any constitutional power on you to make such far-reaching decisions. This is not a military regime."
The PDP leader reminded the Sole Administrator that the Rivers State political climate is already fragile and advised caution. He emphasized that the judiciary must be respected and cited a recent Federal High Court ruling which clearly restrained any interference in the democratic structures of the local governments.
“The Constitution is supreme, and the court has spoken. Any act that undermines this order is not only contemptuous but dangerous to the rule of law,” George declared. “If we continue to allow executive overreach at state levels, then what example are we setting for the future of democracy in this country?”
George, known for his decades of experience in politics and his role as an elder statesman, warned that illegal appointments risk plunging the state into unnecessary chaos and might further damage Ibas’ personal legacy, especially after a distinguished career in the military.
He concluded by urging the Rivers Sole Administrator to focus on stabilizing the administration and preparing the ground for a smooth democratic transition rather than embarking on constitutionally dubious ventures.
“The interest of Rivers people must come first. Not ego. Not politics. Not expediency,” he said.
Chief George’s statement is seen as a reflection of growing unease among key political actors over the exercise of power by appointed administrators, especially in states facing intense political wrangling. As Rivers State continues to wrestle with its political uncertainty, the eyes of the nation remain fixed on how its leaders will navigate this legal and democratic minefield.