Group Accuses Sole Administrator of Escalating Rivers Crisis
– Accused with Wike-Aligned Appointments.
The Rivers Progressive Alliance (RPA) has voiced concerns that the recent appointments made by Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (rtd), the Sole Administrator of Rivers State, have undermined the peace they were intended to promote.
Jaja described the appointment of these Administrators as a potential “time bomb” rather than a stabilizing force, asserting that if common sense does not prevail, the situation could deteriorate further.
He remarked, “This move, which was initially seen as a transitional measure following President Bola Tinubu’s directive to restore peace in the state, has instead been manipulated into a political tool by pro-Wike elements, further inflaming tensions across the local councils.”
The RPA also raised concerns over what they perceive as a clear influence of interested parties on Ibas, alleging that the current Sole Administrator is acting not as a neutral figure but as a “stooge.” The group expressed serious concerns regarding the appointments, which they claim favor Wike’s loyalists while sidelining grassroots stakeholders and allies of the Simplified Movement.
“Several of the appointments have ignited a local backlash. For instance, in Obio/Akpor LGA, the choice of Dr. Clifford Ndu Walter, a close ally of the Wike-backed PDP faction, as LGA’s sole administrator has been deemed provocative.” Jaja stated that Walter, known for his vigorous defense of Wike’s interests, has alienated local leaders who support Governor Siminalayi Fubara.
“Similarly, in Ikwerre LGA, the selection of Isaiah Christian Nobuawu, a relative of Hon. Samuel Nwanosike—an outspoken pro-Wike loyalist—has rekindled tensions, with Nwanosike being described as one of the most divisive political figures in the state.
Other controversial appointments include:
Degema LGA: Dr. Francis Sokari Ibifuro, a known Wike supporter.
Eleme LGA: Dr. Gloria Obo-Dibiah, previously Wike’s campaign mobilizer.
Khana LGA: Dr. Barinedum Neibere, a Wike-appointed political figure.
Asari-Toru LGA: The appointment of Ibinabo Michael West’s family relative has stirred ethnic and political friction in Kalabari land.
Continuing, the RPA spokesperson maintained that multiple LGAs—including Andoni, Gokana, Oyigbo, and Ahoada East—stakeholders are mobilizing protests against what they describe as “Abuja-scripted” governance. Protests have erupted in Tai LGA and parts of Okrika, where locals allege exclusion and political persecution of Fubara loyalists. In Ahoada East, women demonstrated against the reinstatement of Governor Fubara, while various youth groups have issued ultimatums, warning of mass resistance if the LGA Sole Administrator appointments are not revisited.
“Political observers can attest to the fact that the actions of the SOLAD contradict President Tinubu’s call for political calm and reconciliation. Instead of fostering unity, the transitional arrangement has entrenched divisions by empowering conflict agents and excluding potential unity-builders.”
Jaja stressed the need for President Tinubu and relevant institutions to reassess the SOLAD’s actions and consider a more inclusive transitional committee model that involves traditional rulers, women’s groups, youth leaders, and neutral technocrats.
The RPA concluded that if the current trajectory continues, Rivers State risks entering a new phase of widespread crisis. “The cracks are widening, and if unchecked, the political rupture may escalate beyond control,” they warned, asserting that Rivers State deserves peace, not a masked extension of factional control.
