The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has sounded the alarm over what it terms the creeping dictatorship being orchestrated by the Sole Administrator in Rivers State, Vice Admiral Ibok Ete Ibas (retd.). The association described the ongoing political actions in the state as a constitutional aberration and a mockery of Nigeria’s democracy.
In a statement released in Abuja on Monday, HURIWA expressed deep concern over the administrator’s sweeping executive actions, warning that they contradict the stated objective of the emergency proclamation—to restore peace and reconciliation in Rivers State.
HURIWA questioned the very legitimacy of the emergency declaration by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, arguing that the state has not witnessed any breakdown of law and order to justify such an extraordinary measure. The association emphasized that Governor Siminalayi Fubara remains the legitimate and duly elected governor of Rivers State, and has not been impeached or legally removed.
“The President does not have the constitutional power to sack or suspend a sitting governor,” HURIWA stated, adding that the appointment of a Sole Administrator is alien to Nigeria’s constitutional order. The group condemned the administrator’s dismissal of political appointees, describing the move as a gross abuse of power and a usurpation of the governor’s constitutional authority.
HURIWA likened the situation to a civilian coup and accused the administrator of running roughshod over the democratic rights of the people of Rivers State. The group warned that if unchecked, these actions could set a dangerous precedent capable of undermining constitutional governance across the country.
The association also rebuked the National Assembly for what it called its “rubber-stamp” endorsement of the state of emergency. HURIWA recalled that lawmakers had promised to set up a committee of national statesmen and women to mediate and ensure political stability, but said that promise has not been fulfilled. Instead, the administrator has continued to operate with impunity, the group lamented.
“It is disturbing that the National Assembly has abdicated its duty to protect the Constitution and the people, and instead allowed this constitutional violation to persist,” HURIWA said.
The rights group further declared its solidarity with youths and civil groups who have embarked on peaceful protests nationwide, rejecting the political impasse in Rivers State. HURIWA praised the protesters for their nonviolent approach and reiterated its support for their call for a return to constitutional order.
“The ongoing protests show that Nigerians are not willing to tolerate the erosion of democracy,” the statement read. “The President must listen to the voice of reason, end this constitutional crisis, and restore the lawful government of Rivers State.”
HURIWA urged the Sole Administrator to act with caution, warning that his continued exercise of unconstitutional authority only deepens national suspicion around his appointment. The group stated unequivocally that his current role lacks legal backing and is widely regarded as illegitimate.
“What is happening in Rivers is not governance—it is a travesty of justice and a betrayal of the Nigerian Constitution,” HURIWA declared.
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In conclusion, the association called on the international community, civil society, and all patriotic Nigerians to resist any attempt to roll back democratic gains. It reaffirmed its commitment to upholding democratic values, rule of law, and the sovereign will of the Nigerian people.
Signed:
Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko
National Coordinator, HURIWA
April 7, 2025
