The Rivers State Government has come under heavy fire from human rights attorney and former National Human Rights Commission Chairman Professor Chidi Odinkalu for calling in suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, Dr. Ngozi Ordu.
According to a report by Daily Post, the state’s Sole Administrator, Vice Admiral (retd.) Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas, issued a formal summons directing Fubara and Ordu to appear at the Government House in Port Harcourt. The directive, signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Professor Ibibia Lucky Worika, is part of an inquiry into appointments made during Fubara’s administration over the past two years.
The suspended governor has been instructed to present all records and justifications related to political appointments made during his tenure. The meeting is scheduled for Friday, April 18, 2025, and attendance has been marked as mandatory.
Reacting to the development, Odinkalu did not mince words. He described the move as a dangerous abuse of power, stating, “It is quite evident that these bandits are on a lawless mission to impunity.”
His comment reflects growing concern over governance and legality in Rivers State following the suspension of Fubara, his deputy, and all members of the House of Assembly by President Bola Tinubu in March. The president also declared a state of emergency in the state and appointed Ibas as Sole Administrator. Odinkalu’s remarks have added to fears that recent political actions in the state could undermine constitutional governance and deepen the existing crisis.
While the Rivers State Government maintains that the inquiry is meant to promote transparency and accountability, critics argue that it may be a veiled attempt to intimidate the suspended administration.As the Friday deadline approaches, all eyes are on Port Harcourt to see how Fubara and his deputy will respond, and whether this deepening political rift will push the state further into uncertainty.
