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Tag: Rivers State

  • Rivers State is still fragile – Sole Administrator

    Rivers State is still fragile – Sole Administrator

    The Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas has disclosed that there is presently relatively calm in the State, but that the State is still fragile.

    TheNewsGuru.com (TNG) reports Ibas made this disclosure in Abuja on Friday when appeared before the House of Representatives Ad hoc Committee on Rivers State.

    The Committee had invited the Sole Administrator for a proper briefing on developments in Rivers State, following the suspension of the State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara by President Bola Tinubu.

    Speaking when he appeared before the ad-hoc committee, Ibas requested for more time to properly brief the committee on developments in the State.

    TNG reports the Sole Administrator had failed to honour the invitation of the committee to appear on Thursday April 17 and 24.

    Ibas, who expressed regret for his inability to attend earlier engagements, explained that the absence was not out of disregard, but rather due to the weighty and urgent demands of stabilising governance in Rivers.

    “I have always held the National Assembly in the highest regard. I recognise the importance of your oversight responsibilities and your interest in the progress being made in Rivers, which is presently relatively calm, but still fragile,” Ibas said.

    He went further to say: “That said, I only request your understanding and the indulgence of this committee to grant me additional time to adequately prepare and present a comprehensive and constructive briefing.

    “Given the complexities and sensitivities surrounding the current transitional period in Rivers. It is important that any engagement with this committee is done with the depth, accuracy and clarity it rightfully deserves.

    “I remain fully committed to cooperating with the committee and to ensuring that all relevant information is made available in due course to support your important work.

    “I only request the understanding and the indulgence of this committee to grant me additional time to adequately prepare and present a comprehensive and constructive briefing given the complexities and sensitivities surrounding the current transitional period in Rivers.

    “It is important that any engagement with this committee is done with the depth, accuracy and clarity it rightfully deserves.

    “I remain fully committed to cooperating with the committee and to ensuring that all relevant information is made available in due course to support your important work,” he said.

    Meanwhile, addressing newsmen after a close door meeting, the Chairman of the Committee, Rep. Julius Ihonvbere (APC-Edo) said that the committee resolved to give a new date to the sole administrator.

    Ihonvbere, underscored the constitutional role of the National Assembly in legitimising and overseeing the state of emergency declared in Rivers.

    According to the chairman, the federal legislature remains central to the state’s transitional process.

    Ihonvbere reaffirmed the committee’s constitutional mandate and expressed satisfaction that the administrator had finally honored the invitation after earlier delays.

    He emphasised that the committee’s mandate was rooted in constitutional authority and that some of its terms had already been communicated to the administrator in an earlier letter.

    The chairman encouraged the administrator to feel at ease, stressing that the committee members had been carefully selected to ensure broad representation across geopolitical zones and legislative experience.

    “I want you to feel relaxed because the members you see here were carefully selected based on zonal representation and membership of the House to advance the progress that Rivers needs to make in order to be part and parcel of the holistic structure of democracy that Nigeria represents today.

    “We have demonstrated again and again our preparedness to do this job efficiently and effectively,” he assured.

  • Finally, Rivers Sole Administrator holds meeting with Reps committee

    Finally, Rivers Sole Administrator holds meeting with Reps committee

    The meeting between the House of Representatives ad hoc committee on Rivers State and the Sole Administrator of the state, Retired Vice Admiral Ibok Ete Ibas, is finally taking place after two postponements.

    The House is exercising its constitutional right to take over the functions of the Rivers State House of Assembly.

    Ibas pleaded with members for not attending the previous meeting and requests for additional time to prepare to brief the committee.

    Recall that the Sole Administrator is barely two months old in office and he has been able to normalise things in the troubled State.

    Following his plea to the committee, journalists were then excused and the meeting goes into a closed door session.

    The House committee had last week rescheduled its interactive session with the Ibas.

    According to the statement announcing the meeting postponement, the change in time followed a formal request from Ibas.

    The Rivers Administrator was among state governors attending the National Economic Council (NEC) meeting at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, on Thursday.

    Ibas made his debut appearance at the NEC meeting after his appointment as Sole Administrator for Rivers State by President Bola Tinubu following the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara in March 2025.

    Vice President Kashim Shettima presided over the meeting which had in attendance many governors and some deputy governors from across the 36 states of the federation.

  • Flood scare: Residents of Rivers, Bayelsa told to relocate

    Flood scare: Residents of Rivers, Bayelsa told to relocate

    The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has urged residents of Rivers and Bayelsa to relocate to higher ground over impending flooding in both states.

    Mr Eric Ebhodaghe, South-South Zonal Coordinator of NEMA, made the remark during a news conference held on Friday in Port Harcourt.

    Recall that the Nigerian Metrological Institute (NIMET) recently forecasted flooding in 30 States across the country.

    Ebhodaghe highlighted that coastal States such as Bayelsa and Rivers were likely to experience significant flooding during the current rainy season.

    He noted that NEMA had already begun preparing communities to mitigate the anticipated impact of the flood, particularly as rainfall intensified in the affected states.

    “We are working to reduce the impact on the people by sensitising them, with the aim of minimising economic losses and protecting lives,” he stated.

    Following NIMET’s flood prediction, Ebhodaghe said NEMA initiated consultations with federal, state, and local governments to coordinate mitigation efforts.

    “In Rivers State, we have identified communities within various local government areas that are at high risk of flooding during the rainy season.

    “We have been visiting these flood-prone communities to raise awareness and educate residents, ensuring that they take precautionary measures to avoid major losses.

    “Although we cannot prevent the flooding, we can manage it, and encourage relocation to safe grounds within communities and to Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps,” he added.

    The zonal coordinator stressed that prevention was critical in disaster management, particularly in the context of flooding.

    He reported that an IDP camp had been established in each of the 15 local government areas identified as being highly vulnerable to flooding.

    “We have also engaged with Community Development Committees, youth leaders, traditional rulers, and the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) to prepare for the flooding.

    “The engagements are centred on improving local capacity to prevent and manage flooding through measures such as proper waste management systems,” he noted.

    Ebhodaghe urged residents to ensure that drainage systems were regularly cleared to allow the free flow of rainwater into natural channels.

    “When the water channels are blocked, the water will inevitably find alternative routes; therefore, if we adhere to responsible waste disposal and drainage maintenance, we will enhance our flood mitigation efforts,” he concluded.

  • Rivers community demands Renaissance inherits SPDC liabilities

    Rivers community demands Renaissance inherits SPDC liabilities

    Kula community in Akuku Toru Local Government Area, Rivers, says Renaissance Africa Energy Holdings should inherit all liabilities incurred by the Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC).

    The community disclosed its position at a press conference in Port Harcourt on Thursday following the recent takeover of SPDC of joint venture operations by Renaissance.

    Renaissance, a consortium of indigenous and international oil firms, acquired SPDC following recent divestment by Shell UK from onshore operations.

    Speaking on behalf of Kula people, Chief Anabs Sara-Igba, said that SPDC incurred liabilities while operating OML-25, an oil facility in the community.

    Sara-Igbe, further said that liabilities arising from decades of oil exploration by Shell halted resumption of operations on the facility.

    He said that OML-25, with a production capacity of 45,000, barrels of crude oil per day, had been shutdown for about 15 years.

    “This followed gross neglect and failure of the firm to employ, undertake social responsibility and environmental preservation projects for more than 67 years.

    “We insist that the new operator should inherit all liabilities of SPDC before they will be allowed to operate.

    ”We are requesting for a stakeholders’ engagement with them to enable us to understand the company’s obligations and models of implementation.

    “These moves will enable us to avoid the unfair treatment meted on the community by SPDC,” he said.

    Sara-Igbe urged the Federal Government to ensure prompt environmental remediation activities by the operators  to restore the ecosystem and livelihoods in the community.

    Also speaking, the President, National Youth Council of Nigeria, Mr Sukubo Sara-Igbe, expressed worries that the new company had already inherited SPDC staff.

    “Retaining SPDC staff who were complicit in the dispute with the host communities may undermine trust and sincere engagement,” he said.

  • Rivers Ijaw group demands resignation of INC leader, Okaba

    Rivers Ijaw group demands resignation of INC leader, Okaba

    …declares INC was not proactive to resolve Rivers crisis

    The Rivers Ijaw People’s Congress, Forum RIPCOF has advised the Ijaw National Congress, INC president, Professor Benjamin Okaba to honourably step aside.

    RIPCOF also declared that at the tutelage stage of the Rivers crisis, INC stood aloof as it escalated beyond repairs.

    This was contained in a statement issued on Thursday and jointly signed by leaders of RIPCOF Senator George Thompson Sekibo,
    Leader Rivers Ijaw Peoples’ Congress, Hon. Rowland Sekibo
    Director General , Hon Erastus Awortu, Secretary stating that:

    “The attention of the Rivers Ijaw People’s Congress (RIPCO) has been drawn to the statements and communiqué issued during the emergency meeting styled “All inclusive Critical Stakeholders Meeting on the State of the Ijaw Nation, particularly regarding the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State”, held on Wednesday, 26th March 2025, at the Ijaw House in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State.

    “It is generally commendable for the Ijaw community to convene and discuss issues that impact their collective existence.

    “However, it is disheartening to witness respected elders lamenting over spilt milk from a leaking bowl when they could mend the bowl before any spillage occurred.

    “While we do not wish to engage in disputes with the Ijaw National Congress or the “All-inclusive Critical Stakeholders,” it is concerning that the President of the Ijaw National Congress, Prof. Benjamin Ogele Okaba, seems to involve innocent elders in a narrative that could tarnish their hard-earned reputations.

    ” This situation raises questions about accountability and leadership as they attempt to address problems in which they are complicit in their escalation.

    “Moreover, this narrative highlights a broader issue within their leadership dynamics. As Prof. Okaba may recognise, attempting to “close the barn door after the horse has bolted” is an ineffective response to critical situations.

    “It is disheartening when elders, who are expected to lead with wisdom and foresight, fail to act decisively during crises. Instead of taking responsibility for their inaction, they shift blame onto others, neglecting their role in preventing such crises.

    “These reactions undermine their credibility and set a poor example for the Ijaw people, who look to them for guidance and stability in times of uncertainty.

    To this end RIPCO seeks to highlight the concerning motivations behind Prof. Benjamin Ogele Okaba and his associates, suggesting that they may be exploiting the ongoing crisis in Rivers State for personal gain.

    “If they were genuinely committed to resolving the issues affecting the state, they would have convened the all-inclusive critical stakeholders meeting earlier rather than waiting for the situation to escalate.

    “The turmoil unfolding in Rivers State appears to align with Prof. Benjamin Okaba and his co-travellers interests, raising concerns about his dedication to preventing conflict and fostering peace. Rather than taking significant steps toward resolution, their actions seem more reactive than proactive.

    “To illuminate this troubling pattern, the Rivers Ijaw People’s Congress wishes to share excerpts from Prof. Okaba’s opening speech and the Resolutions at the Critical Stakeholders’ meeting he organised, which he asserts aims to find a lasting solution to the crisis.

    1. Paragraph 5 of his speech states: “The recent imposition of emergency rule and the suspension of our dear son, His Excellency Governor Siminalayi Fubara, under whatever guise, constitute a grave assault on the principles of justice, democratic governance, and the sanctity of the people’s mandate.

    ” This audacious infraction on our people in Rivers State (who have been out of governance for 24 years) is not a partisan issue; it is a fundamental challenge to the constitutional framework that safeguards the rights and autonomy of every Nigerian citizen.

    ” It is a clarion call for the Ijaw Nation, and all advocates of justice at the national and international levels, to stand unequivocally in defence of constitutional order and the inherent right of every ethnic nationality to prosper without coercion or suppression”.

    “The Rivers Ijaw People’s Congress (RIPCO) considers the statement as crying over spilt milk in the light of recent events in Rivers State.

    “On June 04, 2024, a delegation of over two hundred members of RIPCO met with Prof. Benjamin Okaba in Ijaw House, Yenagoa. The primary purpose of this meeting was to appeal for his assistance in assembling a coalition of Ijaw leaders to pursue a peaceful resolution to the ongoing crisis in Rivers State.

    ” Recognising the urgency of the situation, RIPCO also held discussions with the leadership of the Ijaw Youth Council, resulting in a mutual agreement that both organisations would collaborate constructively to intervene in the crisis.

    “Just a week later, Prof. Okaba visited Rivers State and met with the leadership of RIPCO to discuss and agree on the way forward. However, the anticipated path toward a peaceful resolution took an unexpected turn. Rather than championing the previously agreed upon collaborative efforts, Prof. Okaba aligned himself with Governor Sim Fubara and became engrossed in the crisis.

    “This shift in allegiance, particularly his public criticisms of His Excellency Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, further escalated the delicate situation.

    “The ramifications of this decision have been significant, undermining the collective pursuit of peace and stability in Rivers State and raising concerns about the future of Ijaw unity and leadership in addressing the pressing challenges facing them.

    ” It may not be out of context to assume that Prof. Okaba lacks the qualities necessary to lead the people. He does not appear to be an effective manager of those he presides over.

    2. Paragraph 6 of his speech reads thus: “The recent unguided, disgustive, inflammatory and provocative utterances and actions taken against us by that Ikwerre-born inconsequential drunk and cheap drug addict, with the support of a few of our own Rivers Ijaw brothers, and in connivance with the powers-that-be in the three arms of our government are condemnable.

    “These actions and inactions, emanating from these highly placed and sensitive quarters, have only exacerbated our fury. These also constitute the denigration, oppression, and mockery of our collective reputation”.

    The Rivers Ijaw People’s Congress strongly condemns Prof. Benjamin Okaba’s recent provocative statements given above. It is particularly troubling that the Ijaw elders who were convened to seek a resolution to the ongoing crisis did not reprimand Prof. Okaba for his comments. Instead, they applauded him, indicating a troubling disconnect in leadership.

    ” If the Ijaw National Congress (INC) is genuinely committed to facilitating dialogue and resolving the issues in Rivers State, it must first refrain from using derisive language towards those it considers part of the problem.

    “Such arrogance undermines the potential for constructive dialogue and alienates potential allies in the quest for peace. It is essential to remind Prof. Okaba and his team that the ability to engage in respectful and meaningful conversation is a crucial component of the negotiation process.

    “The use of inflammatory rhetoric and emotions rarely produces productive outcomes—just as a person seeking peace should communicate with humility and respect rather than resorting to provocation based on emotion.

    ” If the INC truly wishes to address the crisis and pave the way for a sustainable and peaceful resolution, it must adopt a more diplomatic approach that encourages collaboration rather than conflict.

    3. Their Resolution 2 states thus: “The INC appreciates the overwhelming support from Rivers people of different ethnic backgrounds, including Ikwerre, Ogoni, Ekpeye, Ogba, Etche, Ndoni, and Egbema, who have stood by Governor Fubara throughout this crisis.

    This solidarity reinforces the fact that the political turmoil is not an ethnic conflict and that the Ijaw Nation has not declared hostilities against any individual or ethnic group. The INC remains committed to peace, unity, and the overall stability of Rivers State and Nigeria”.

    “The general public is invited to reflect on whether their Resolution 2 aligns with their actions, particularly regarding the potential for conflict against individuals or ethnic groups.

    “It is crucial to recognise that the fight against an individual or ethnic group is not only expressed through rhetoric but through actions.

    “The recent burial procession staged against a living “Nyesom Wike” in Bomadi, Delta State, serves as a striking example of how such actions can incite discord.

    “One must consider whether the Ijaw elders would be satisfied if their leaders were subjected to such condemnable indignity. This incident highlights the need for accountability among public figures like Prof. Benjamin Okaba, who should not mislead the public regarding his awareness of these provocative events.

    “Prof. Benjamin Okaba and his associates must recognise that their actions contribute to a narrative of animosity towards specific individuals and ethnicities, thereby jeopardising the socio-political fabric of the Ijaw community in Rivers State.

    “The Ijaws in Rivers State, who rely on harmonious relationships with various ethnic groups for their daily existence and political stability, deserve leaders who promote unity rather than division.

    ” The implications of such actions extend far beyond immediate grievances, as they threaten to unravel the delicate balance of coexistence essential for all parties involved.

    “The Ijaw people must remain vigilant and discerning, ensuring that their leaders act in ways that foster peace and understanding within their ethnicity and beyond.

    4. Their Observation 5 before the Resolutions states thus: “While acknowledging Barr. Nyesom Wike’s role in the election of Gov. Siminilayi (Ijaw), the INC, urged Wike to reciprocate the goodwill by supporting Fubara’s administration, just as Ijaws had backed him during his tenure”.

    If their fifth observation was indeed known before the formulation of the six-point resolution, one must question the efforts made by the Ijaw leadership from November 2023, when the crisis began, to March 26, 2025, when the critical stakeholders’ meeting convened. It is crucial to investigate whether the Ijaw leaders or the leadership of the Ijaw National Council (INC) attempted to engage His Excellency Nyesom Wike in any dialogue to determine the underlying causes of the discord between him and his political son.

    Given Wike’s significant influence in the rise of Governor Siminilayi Fubara, it is puzzling that no concerted effort for engagement has taken place.

    The Rivers Ijaw People’s Congress (RIPCO) firmly asserts that the actions of the INC leadership contradict their stated fifth observation, thereby rendering any attacks on Nyesom Wike unjustified, especially considering his support for a fellow Ijaw son to become a governor of Rivers State after 24 years.

    Furthermore, Prof. Okaba and his dedicated team must recognise that when we respond to goodwill with hostility, we reduce the chances of receiving further goodwill in return.

    The principle of reciprocity is essential for fostering harmonious relationships. The INC should be mindful of the peaceful coexistence of the Ijaws with other ethnic groups in Rivers State.

    The next issue that draws RIPCO’s attention in the Ijaw Critical Stakeholders meeting is the call for dialogue by the Governor of Bayelsa State, His Excellency Senator Douye Diri, who, in his speech, states:

    “The declaration of the state of emergency in Rivers State, alongside the suspension of the governor, the deputy governor and the state house of assembly, has generated concerns.

    “As chairman of the south-south governor’s forum, I asked the president at that time to reconsider his stance and allow for dialogue amongst the feuding parties. And in conclusion, in that publication, I stated that the time for dialogue is now. …. seeing what has happened, again, I re-instate that this is the time for dialogue because it is all a lose-lose situation for the people of Rivers State, and I call on the National Assembly and Mr President to waste no time in inaugurating the committee of eminent personalities, that will immediately intervene and bring peace and bring the constituted government of Rivers State back to office”.

    This call for dialogue is commendable and reflects a necessary approach to addressing the ongoing crisis confronting the State. His Excellency’s acknowledgement of the importance of dialogue is a positive step toward finding a resolution. However, it raises pertinent questions about his engagement during the critical period since the crisis first emerged. As the foremost Ijaw leader, one would expect a more proactive stance during these turbulent times rather than wait till now. However, it is better late than never.

    It is also worth noting that the Rivers Ijaw People’s Congress made several attempts to meet with him, particularly while discussing with leaders of the Ijaw National Congress (INC) and the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC). Unfortunately, those efforts were met with silence, which may have further compounded the distress of the people he represents. While it is encouraging that he has finally acknowledged the need for dialogue, he urgently needs to take immediate and decisive actions to convene this dialogue and promote meaningful engagement with the involved stakeholders to bring a lasting solution to the crisis.

    Having assessed the situation in Rivers State, the Rivers Ijaw People’s Congress (RIPCO) wishes to state as follows:

    1. The Rivers Ijaw People‘s Congress condemnns the provocative statements made during the all-inclusive critical stakeholders meeting, emphasising that insulting and casting aspersions on perceived enemies is not the solution to the problems and cannot bring about the lasting resolution desired.

    2. RIPCO further condemns the ineptitude and lackadaisical approach of the Ijaw National Congress leadership in managing the crisis in Rivers State, viewing them as incompetent in finding a lasting solution to the issue.

    3. The Rivers Ijaw People’s Congress states unequivocally that the current poor leadership of the INC has not only succeeded in factionalising the once-united Ijaw nation but has also damaged the harmonious collaboration between the Ijaws and other ethnic nationalities. Therefore, RIPCO calls on Professor Okaba to step aside as President of INC before he drives the Ijaw nation into further conflicts both internally and with other ethnic nationalities.

    4. The Rivers Ijaw People’s Congress advises all feuding parties to take advantage of the window provided by the state of emergency and commence a roundtable discussion to find a lasting solution to this impasse.

    5. The Rivers Ijaw People’s Congress fully supports the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in declaring a state of emergency in Rivers State. His action has averted unimaginable consequences, such as destroying oil and gas infrastructure and a major physical clash between the warring political groups that could have set Rivers State and Nigeria backwards.

    6. The Rivers Ijaw People’s Congress congratulates His Excellency Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas on his appointment as the Sole Administrator of Rivers State and hereby pledges to give him every support in his efforts to unite the state for the common good of all.

  • HoR issues stern warning to Rivers Administrator Ibas over constitutional mandates

    HoR issues stern warning to Rivers Administrator Ibas over constitutional mandates

    The House of Representatives has issued a fresh reminder to the Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas (retd.), emphasized that he lacked the constitutional authority to make laws or draft a budget for the state.

    This warning comes after Ibas announced his plans to prepare a new budget for the oil-rich state following the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State in March. The state of emergency, declared by President Bola Tinubu, suspended the Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, and the state legislature for an initial period of six months. Ibas was appointed to manage the state’s affairs during this period.

    In a statement, the Deputy Spokesman for the House, Philip Agbese, clarified that the Sole Administrator does not have the mandate to carry out the National Assembly’s function of making laws. He further explained that Speaker Tajudeen Abbas is consulting with the leadership of the House to establish a committee to monitor Ibas’s activities and ensure that the interests of Rivers State are represented.

    The House of Representatives had already communicated its stance on Ibas’s appointment and mandate to President Tinubu. Agbese warned that should the Sole Administrator overstep his constitutional boundaries, the House would take necessary actions, including a potential vote of no confidence, to uphold the rule of law.

    In response, Ibas reiterated his commitment to the people of Rivers State and outlined his plans for the new budget. According to Ibas, the new budget would focus on essential sectors like healthcare, education, social services, and infrastructure development. It is expected to create job opportunities and invest in key sectors such as agriculture, technology, and infrastructure.

    Ibas assured that the budget would be transparent, inclusive, and expedited to benefit the citizens of the state, emphasizing the urgency of this initiative to address the state’s developmental needs during the state of emergency.

  • Ex-HoS allegations against Fubara: 30 CSOs demand in-depth probe

    Ex-HoS allegations against Fubara: 30 CSOs demand in-depth probe

    …ask security and anti-graft agencies to summon suspended governor, CoS

    The Coalition of Civil Rights Organizations, otherwise known as Centre for Credible Leadership and Citizens Awareness (CCLCA), on Wednesday demanded the immediate probe of suspended Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara following the weighty allegations levelled against him by Dr. George Nwaeke, the former Head of Service of the State.

    Highlighting some of allegations during a press briefing in Abuja, the Director General of CCLCA, Dr Gabriel Nwambu called on the Nigerian Police Force (NPF), Department of State Services (DSS) and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to carry out an in-depth investigation of the allegations against the Governor.

    Dr. Nwambu emphasized that these allegations, if substantiated, highlight a serious crisis in governance and pose significant threats to the stability and integrity of our democratic institutions.

    According to him, Dr. Nwaeke had made several alarming claims that the CSOs believe warrant immediate investigation by the appropriate law enforcement agencies.

    He noted the CSOs, numbering 30 are standing in solidarity with Dr. Nwaeke who has offered to share evidence of corruption and other constitutional infractions perpetrated by Governor Fubara and Mr. Edison.

    “We collectively urge the relevant authorities to act swiftly and transparently. It is imperative that these allegations are addressed to restore public confidence in the institutions of governance in Rivers State and Nigeria as a whole”, he added.

    The DG commended President Ahmed Bola Tinubu for his decisive intervention in declaring a state of emergency in Rivers State, which he said has helped to stabilize the region during this tumultuous period.

    Dr. Nwambu explained that the President’s action, confirmed by the National Assembly, was a critical step toward upholding democracy and ensuring the welfare of the people of Rivers State.

    He recalled the former Head of Service allegations against Governor Fubara as follows,

    “Directives for Arson: Dr. Nwaeke alleged that suspended Governor Sim Fubara instructed his Chief of Staff to burn down the Rivers State House of Assembly to derail his suspected impeachment. This act, if proven, represents a direct violation of Section 14(2)(b) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999, as amended, which mandates that the security and welfare of the people shall be the primary purpose of government.

    “Corruption and Financial Improprieties: It was stated that a bag of money was handed over for the purpose of executing this alleged arson. He also alleged the disbursement of large sums of money for personal interest of the suspended Governor Fubara implicating high-level corruption under Section 15(5) of the same Constitution, which emphasizes the duty of the state to combat corruption in all its forms.

    “Threats to Public Safety and Security: Dr. Nwaeke expressed concern regarding planned sabotage of state infrastructure, which aims to incite public disorder. This falls under the purview of Section 1 of the Terrorism Prevention Act (2011), reinforcing the need for immediate intervention to safeguard the lives and property of citizens.

    “Collusion with Militant Groups: Allegations of meetings between the governor, his Chief of Staff, and militant leaders pose a serious threat to national security and violate the provisions under Section 43 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 as amended concerning the right to property, as these actions endanger public and private assets, including critical infrastructure.

    “Subversion of Labour Rights: Dr. Nwaeke also revealed attempts to compromise Labour leaders in the state to quell dissent. This breaches Section 40 of the Constitution, which guarantees the right to peaceful assembly and association, fundamental pillars of democracy.

    “In light of these allegations, we strongly urge immediate action by the relevant agencies of Government”.

  • Angry customer beats security guard to death in Rivers

    Angry customer beats security guard to death in Rivers

     A security guard, Ifeanyi Ani, a father of three from Enugu State, was allegedly beaten to death by a customer at a popular eatery in Rumukrushi, Obio/Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers State.

    TheNewsGuru reports that the horrific incident occurred on Thursday, March 27, 2025 when the security guard approached the customer’s car to request that he turn off his headlights.

    The yet to be named customer, allegedly pounced on  the security guard, and started punching him, repeatedly, leading to his collapse and eventual death.

    The management of the eatery immediately arrested the customer and handed him over to the Mini-Okoro Police Division.

    The Rivers State Police Command has confirmed the incident, and an investigation is currently underway.

  • Rivers APC Chairman defends Tinubu’s emergency rule

    Rivers APC Chairman defends Tinubu’s emergency rule

    Mr Tony Okocha, Chairman Rivers All Progressives Congress (APC), says the declaration of emergency rule in Rivers by President Bola Tinubu saved the state from situations of anarchy.

    Okocha said that the situation in Rivers was moving towards a state of lawlessness with non-state actors brandishing sophisticated weapons before the declaration.

    While speaking on Thursday in Abuja, he said FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, contrary to speculations, was also involved in brokering peace in the state.

    He said that the President had made efforts to resolve the political crisis before the declaration of the emergency, but to no avail.

    Recall Tinubu had declared a six months state of emergency on Rivers, citing political instability and troubling security reports.

    Tinubu said that security reports revealed pipeline vandalism by militants, with no intervention from the state government.

    The President subsequently appointed retired Vice-Adm. Ibok-Ete Ibas as Sole Administrator to oversee Rivers’ affairs during the emergency.

    Okocha, citing the supreme court judgment ahead of the declaration, said that Rivers as the court ruled, had no government prior to it.

    “The governor jettisoned 27 lawmakers and was dealing with only three lawmakers and withheld the finances of the State Assembly which was abnormal.

    “Pulling down the State Assembly under the guise of renovating it following structural defect without a prior notice was an afront on democracy.

    “Before the declaration of the emergency, Rivers was heading towards anarchy as non-state actors were seen brandishing sophisticated weapons,” Okocha said.

    He said that it was a good thing that the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) had gone to the supreme Court to challenge the declaration, adding that it would enrich the country’ jurisprudence.

    The Rivers APC chairman said that the emergency declared on the state was a necessary evil to restore normalcy to it.

    “Security intelligence has been beefed up in Rivers since the state of emergency was declared in the state.

    “With the emergency declared, people like us who are in the opposition in the state could now move around,” Okocha said.

  • Just in: Rivers Sole Administrator makes first appointments as Head of Service resigns

    Just in: Rivers Sole Administrator makes first appointments as Head of Service resigns

    The Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (rtd), has made his first appointments, top among them being Prof. Ibibia Worika, a legal expert and administrator, who is the new Secretary to the State Government (SSG).

    In a statement, the Sole Administrator said the appointment, which takes immediate effect, followed a rigorous selection process in which Worika’s extensive experience, academic credentials, and policy expertise stood out.

    In a related development, the ex-naval chief appointed Iyingi Brown as the Permanent Secretary for Welfare in the Office of the Head of Service to act as the Head of Service pending a substantive appointment.

    The appointment followed the resignation of the substantive Head of Service, George Nwaeke.

    In a statement, the government expressed gratitude for Nwaeke’s contributions during his tenure and wished him success in his future endeavors.

    While congratulating Brown on her new role, the administrator reaffirmed his commitment to maintaining peace and stability in Rivers State.

    The statement further said Worika’s distinguished career spanned academia, international legal practice, and high-level policy advisory roles, making him well-suited to support the administrator in achieving the mandate set by President Bola Tinubu for the state.

    “Professor Worika’s wealth of experience in legal scholarship, public policy, and governance will be instrumental in driving the administration’s agenda. His appointment underscores our dedication to excellence in public service,” the statement read.

    The Sole Administrator emphasized his commitment to utiliing the rich human capital of Rivers State to foster peace, stability, and security.

    Profile of Prof Worika

    Hailing from Okrika in Rivers State, Professor Worika is a globally recognized scholar, legal expert, and administrator with a strong background in environmental and petroleum law.

    He holds a Ph.D. in International Environmental and Comparative Petroleum Law & Policy from the University of Dundee, United Kingdom.

    Currently serving as the Director of the Centre for Advanced Law Research at Rivers State University, he previously held the position of Dean of the Faculty of Law at the University of Port Harcourt.

    His tenure in academia has been marked by significant contributions to legal education, curriculum development, and institutional collaborations.

    Beyond academia, Professor Worika has played key roles in shaping global and national policy frameworks.

    As a Senior Legal Adviser at the Commonwealth Secretariat in London, he provided strategic counsel on energy policy, regulatory frameworks, and governance.

    His tenure as General Legal Counsel for the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) in Vienna further cemented his reputation as a leading authority in international law, energy diplomacy, and resource management.

    He has also served as a consultant for various governments, including Namibia, Malawi, and Guyana, helping to draft legislation and design legal frameworks for sustainable development.

    His contributions to public administration have earned him several recognitions, including the OPEC Secretariat Award for Distinguished Service and an honorary title from the Ogu Council of Chiefs in Rivers State.