Ijaw Youths Slam Rivers Administrator Over ‘Dictatorial’ Moves

The Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide has strongly criticized the Rivers State Administrator, Vice Admiral (Rtd) Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas, over his decision to suspend statutory commissions and boards in the state, calling for an immediate reversal of the action.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, IYC Secretary-General Maobuoye Nangi Obu accused the administrator of undermining democracy and imposing authoritarian rule.

Obu urged Rivers residents to resist what he described as a “blatant abuse of power.”

“The state belongs to the people, not a handful of political opportunists seeking to exploit it,” he said. “Democracy must be restored, and the people of Rivers must not be silenced.”

The IYC warned that the suspension of key government institutions could destabilize the state and pose significant security risks.

“This action has serious implications. By sidelining legitimate government officials, the administrator is fueling political instability and pushing Rivers State toward crisis,” Obu stated.

The group further alleged that the administrator was acting on behalf of former Governor Nyesom Wike, accusing him of attempting to maintain control over the state’s affairs.

It condemned the suspension of high-ranking government officials, including the Secretary to the State Government, the Chief of Staff, commissioners, board members, and special advisers.

“This reckless move, executed under the guise of presidential authority, is a desperate attempt to eliminate checks and balances and facilitate the looting of Rivers State’s resources,” the statement read.

The IYC reiterated its call for an immediate reversal of the suspensions and a return to democratic governance.

“Rivers State must not be turned into the personal estate of a single individual and his allies,” the council warned.