No Court Order Preventing Sole Administrator's Resumption — Rivers Government

 

The Rivers State Government has firmly denied reports suggesting that a High Court issued an order barring the newly appointed Sole Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd.), from assuming office.

The Chief of Staff to the suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Dr. Edison Ehie, dismissed the claims as entirely false and malicious, attributing them to individuals seeking to heighten political tensions within the state.

In a statement issued on Thursday, Dr. Ehie categorically refuted allegations that he filed any suit challenging the appointment of the Sole Administrator. He described the report as the handiwork of “low minds” who, according to him, even failed to correctly spell his name.

“My attention has been drawn to an obvious piece of fake news being circulated on social media by delusional elements intent on escalating the already tense political atmosphere in the state," the statement read. "The claim suggests that I secured an order from the Rivers State High Court preventing Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd.) from resuming duties at Government House, Port Harcourt."

Dr. Ehie further clarified that the purported lawsuit referenced in the report — which allegedly challenges a so-called "Presidential Pronouncement of State of Emergency in Rivers State" — is entirely fictitious and unfounded.

He stressed, "Ordinarily, I would not have dignified such baseless social media fabrications, authored by mischief-makers who thrive on causing disaffection and unrest. However, to protect the unsuspecting public from being misled by this cheap blackmail and misinformation, it is necessary to set the record straight."

Dr. Ehie highlighted several inaccuracies in the report, including errors in spelling his name and inconsistencies regarding the suit number and filing details — further evidence, he said, of the report’s lack of credibility.

He urged the public, especially the people of Rivers State, to disregard the false claims, reaffirming his commitment to peace, the rule of law, and responsible conduct.

"I remain committed to being law-abiding, conducting my affairs peacefully, and holding steadfast to my faith and principles. I have no intention of engaging in actions that could be perceived as disruptive to governance or public order," he stated.

Dr. Ehie concluded by advising citizens to see the report as an intentional attempt to spread misinformation and sow discord.