The Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide has spoken out against the recent suspension of political appointees and statutory commissions in Rivers State. Maobuoye Nangi-Obu, the council’s Secretary-General, described the move as an attempt to destroy democracy in the state.
The decision, made by Retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, led to the removal of key government officials such as the Secretary to the State Government, the Chief of Staff, Commissioners, Board Members, and Special Advisers.
Nangi-Obu believes that this suspension was planned in advance to take full control of the state’s political system. He warned that removing these officials would eliminate important checks and balances, allowing corruption to thrive.
“The latest announcement by the Rivers State Administrator, Vice Admiral (Rtd) Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas, suspending statutory commissions and boards with clear tenures in Rivers State is an affront on the rights of Rivers people and nothing short of a full-blown military dictatorship in action,” Nangi-Obu stated.
He also cautioned that this action could lead to political instability, making the state vulnerable to crisis. Nangi-Obu urged the people of Rivers State to stand up against what he called an abuse of power.
“This reckless move, executed under the guise of presidential authority, is a desperate attempt to remove all possible checks and balances to facilitate the looting of Rivers State’s resources,” Nangi-Obu said, highlighting concerns over the future of governance in the state.
He called for an immediate reversal of the suspension, stating that it does not serve the interest of the people but instead benefits a few powerful individuals.
“The people of Rivers State will not be deceived—this is not about governance; it is about consolidating power to continue the reckless looting of the state’s treasury,” he asserted.
In his closing remarks, he emphasized the need to restore democratic governance and prevent Rivers State from being controlled by a small group for their personal gain.
“We demand an immediate reversal of this illegal suspension and a return to democratic governance. Rivers State must not be turned into the personal estate of a single individual and his cronies,” Nangi-Obu concluded.
