Rivers State Administrator, Ibok-Ete Ibas, Suspends All Political Office Holders and Appointees
Port Harcourt, Nigeria – March 26, 2025 – In a sweeping political shake-up, the Rivers State Administrator, Ibok-Ete Ibas, has announced the suspension of all political office holders and government appointees across the state. The decision, which was made public in an official statement on Tuesday, affects a wide range of top government officials, including the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), the Chief of Staff, Honourable Commissioners, Special Advisers, and key board members of agencies and commissions.
According to the statement issued from the Government House in Port Harcourt, the suspension takes immediate effect and impacts all key political appointees, including:
The Secretary to the State Government (SSG)
The Chief of Staff, Edison Ehie
All Honourable Commissioners heading various ministries
Chairmen and members of boards, councils of agencies, commissions, institutions, and parastatals
All Special Advisers, Special Assistants, and Senior Special Assistants
Reasons for the Suspension Still Unclear
While the government has not provided an official reason for the mass suspension, sources within the administration suggest that the decision is part of a broader effort to restructure the state’s governance framework and enhance administrative efficiency. Some political analysts have linked the move to recent tensions within the Rivers State government, hinting at possible internal power struggles or an impending major policy overhaul.
It is unclear whether new appointments will be made immediately to fill the vacancies, but sources say that a state-wide review of political appointments is currently underway.
Political Reactions and Public Response
The announcement has triggered widespread reactions among political stakeholders and the general public. Some political observers see it as a bold move by the Administrator to assert control over governance, while others fear that it could destabilize the state’s administrative processes.
Opposition parties and civil society organizations have called for clarity on the rationale behind the mass suspension, urging the state government to provide transparency and assurance on how governance will proceed in the coming weeks.
Meanwhile, affected officials have remained largely silent, with some reportedly seeking clarification on their status and the next steps in the unfolding political development.
What Next for Rivers State?
With the suspension of such a large number of political office holders, governance in Rivers State is set to experience a significant transition. Political analysts predict that this could pave the way for new appointments and potential policy shifts that could redefine the state’s political landscape.
As the situation develops, all eyes will be on Administrator Ibok-Ete Ibas for further directives on the state’s governance structure. More details are expected in the coming days as the administration sheds light on the next phase of leadership in Rivers State.
Stay with Niger Delta Herald for further updates on this developing story.
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