The Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide has strongly condemned the suspension of political appointees and statutory commission members in Rivers State, labeling the move as a “full-blown military dictatorship.”
The decision was made by the Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, who recently suspended key government officials, including the Secretary to the State Government, the Chief of Staff, Commissioners, Board Members, and Special Advisers.
Ijaw Youth Council Raises Alarm
In a statement released on Wednesday, the Secretary-General of the IYC, Maobuoye Nangi-Obu, accused the state administration of deliberately dismantling democratic structures to pave the way for unchecked looting of state resources.
“The latest announcement by the Rivers State Administrator, Vice Admiral (Rtd) Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas, suspending statutory commissions and boards with clear tenures is a direct attack on democracy and an abuse of power,” Nangi-Obu declared.
He further described the action as a premeditated strategy to eliminate oversight and concentrate power in the hands of a few political actors.
Political Crisis Looming?
The IYC warned that the removal of legitimate government officials could push the state into a political crisis, causing instability and public disaffection.
“The people of Rivers State will not be deceived—this is not about governance but an attempt to consolidate power and continue reckless looting of state resources,” Nangi-Obu stated.
He called on Rivers residents to resist the move and demand an immediate reversal of the suspension, stressing that the state must not become the personal estate of a select few.
Call for Immediate Reversal
The IYC has urged Rivers people to stand against what it terms an “abuse of power” and insisted on a return to democratic governance.
“We demand an immediate reversal of this illegal suspension. Rivers State belongs to the people, not a handful of political figures,” Nangi-Obu concluded.
The group has vowed to continue advocating for democratic governance and transparency in the state’s administration.
