Redefining the balance of power between Nigeria’s executive and judiciary,is one thing the nigeria government should look into.
The Federal High Court sitting in Port Harcourt has nullified the appointment of a Sole Administrator for Rivers State.
And the court has ordered the immediate reinstatement of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, affirming his constitutional mandate.
The judgment, delivered on the morning of Tuesday, April 16, 2025, was presided over by Justice Boma Diepriye
Who, with the power of the Court, Sacks Ibas as Rivers’ Sole Administrator, Orders Tinubu to reinstate Governor Fubara
The court declared that the appointment of Tony Ibas as the Sole Administrator of Rivers State.
And allegedly backed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, was “illegal, null, and void.”
48 Hours to Vacate Government House
wooo,
Now I believe that the justice system in Nigeria can be fair, or is it because our citizens are pressing? I am really happy that the justice department really took a bold step on this
Justice Diepriye ordered Ibas to vacate the Government House in Port Harcourt within 48 hours,because citing a gross violation of the Nigerian Constitution.
The ruling reaffirmed that no part of the Constitution supports the imposition of a Sole Administrator in a federating unit where a sitting governor has not been impeached, suspended, or declared incapacitated.
“The Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria does not provide for a Sole Administrator to govern a state where a democratically elected governor is still in office,” Justice Diepriye emphasized.
Governor Fubara’s Mandate Reaffirmed
This ruling is a major victory for Governor Siminalayi Fubara, whose leadership has faced several political hurdles since taking office. Legal experts and civil society groups have hailed the court’s decision as a win for democracy and the rule of law in Nigeria.
Governor Fubara, elected by the people of Rivers State in 2023, now has the legal backing to continue leading the state without further interference from federal authorities or rival political factions.
National Implications of the Ruling
This ruling could set a significant precedent in Nigeria’s democratic governance, particularly regarding executive overreach and the autonomy of state governments.
it now in suggest that it sends a clear message that state sovereignty and democratic processes must be respected, even at the highest levels of government.
The development has sparked widespread discussion across political, legal, and civic spaces. Calls are growing for the federal government to respect judicial independence and refrain from undermining elected officials.
What’s Next for Rivers State?
With the court’s directive, attention now turns to the implementation of the ruling. Will the federal government comply swiftly with the court’s decision? Will there be further legal or political pushback?
Observers also await Governor Fubara’s next steps—whether he will reorganize his administration, reconcile with political adversaries, or initiate legal actions of his own.
Conclusion
The decision by the Federal High Court in Port Harcourt marks a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s democratic journey. It reaffirms that the rule of law remains supreme, and any attempt to bypass constitutional procedures—no matter how powerful the backer will not stand.
Rivers State has spoken through its votes, and now the judiciary has echoed that voice.
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