The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Port Harcourt Branch, has sharply criticised the conduct of the Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (rtd), accusing him of breaching the constitution and threatening democratic governance.
In a strongly worded statement issued by the Body of Chairmen in Rivers State and endorsed by the eight Branch Chairmen, the NBA expressed grave concern over recent events in the state since the imposition of the sole administrator system following a state of emergency.
The association condemned the ongoing disruption of constitutionally mandated structures, including the suspension of elected officials and recent appointments made by the administrator, calling such actions illegal, provocative, and damaging to democratic institutions.
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“The Nigerian Bar Association, Port Harcourt Branch, firmly denounces the Sole Administrator’s actions, which, in our view, contradict both the spirit and letter of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended),” the statement said.
Reaffirming its role as a defender of the rule of law, the NBA warned that it cannot stand by while constitutional norms are being blatantly violated.
The association described the current situation as a serious threat to Nigeria’s democracy and cautioned that unchecked power by unelected administrators could weaken public confidence in both governance and justice.
The NBA also raised concerns about reported cases of harassment and intimidation, especially targeting individuals who have criticised the emergency rule or tried to protest peacefully.
In what amounted to a direct message to President Bola Tinubu, the association called for an immediate reassessment and reversal of the emergency governance arrangement in Rivers State.
It also demanded the restoration of Governor Siminalayi Fubara and all other legitimately elected officials, stressing that the people’s mandate must be respected.
“We urge the Federal Government and all concerned institutions to honour and uphold the sanctity of the people’s democratic choice,” the NBA stated.
The association concluded by reaffirming its dedication to democracy, constitutional order, and peaceful conflict resolution. It warned that any effort to legitimize governance actions that circumvent the constitution could set a dangerous precedent nationwide.
As tensions continue to escalate in Rivers State, the NBA’s strong stance reflects growing pushback from civil society and professional groups alarmed by what they perceive as a steady erosion of democratic values.
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