ENUGU, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)- The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Port Harcourt Branch, has issued a scathing condemnation of the Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (rtd).
They accused him of trampling on the constitution and undermining democratic governance.
The NBA expressed “deep concern” over recent political developments in the state following the declaration of a state of emergency and the imposition of sole administration.
This was contained in a forceful press statement released by the Body of Chairmen Rivers State and signed by eight Branch Chairmen.
The NBA decried what it described as unconstitutional actions most notably the suspension of duly elected officials and the unilateral appointments made by the sole administrator as “unlawful, provocative, and injurious to democratic institutions.”
“The Nigerian Bar Association, Port Harcourt Branch, unequivocally condemns the actions of the Sole Administrator, which, in our view, violate the spirit and letters of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended),” the statement read.
Emphasizing its role as a guardian of the rule of law, the NBA warned that it would not remain silent while democratic order was being “brazenly disregarded.”
According to Channels TV, the association argued that the situation unfolding in Rivers State poses a direct threat to Nigeria’s democracy and risks weakening public confidence in both governance and the justice system.
The statement also highlighted alleged instances of harassment and intimidation of citizens particularly those critical of the emergency rule or involved in peaceful protests labeling such acts as further violations of constitutional rights.
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In a bold appeal to President Bola Tinubu, the NBA called for an immediate review and reversal of the emergency rule in Rivers State.
The association also demanded the reinstatement of Governor Siminalayi Fubara and all other duly elected officials.
“We remind the Federal Government and all relevant institutions that the democratic will of the people is sacrosanct and must be respected,” the NBA said.
The NBA wrapped up its statement with a reaffirmation of its commitment to democracy, constitutionalism, and peaceful conflict resolution. It warned that normalizing unconstitutional governance could set a dangerous precedent for Nigeria’s political future.
“The rule of law must prevail,” the body emphasized, cautioning against legitimizing any administrative acts that override the constitutional order.