A Rivers State High Court sitting in Port Harcourt has issued a restraining order against Vice Admiral Ibok Ete Ibas (rtd), the Sole Administrator of Rivers State, barring him from inaugurating newly appointed members of the Rivers State Civil Service Commission.
Justice Frank Onyiri issued the order on Monday, directing all parties to maintain the status quo pending the court’s final decision on a suit challenging the removal of the commission’s former leadership.
The order follows the adoption of final written addresses by parties in a suit filed by Reverend Goodlife Iduoku Ben, Amadi Christian Echele, Chimenem Wisdom Jerome, and three others—former chairman and members of the Commission who were suspended by Ibas.
The claimants are contesting their alleged unlawful removal, arguing that the Sole Administrator lacked the constitutional authority to suspend or replace them. They insist they were duly appointed and confirmed by the Rivers State House of Assembly, and that their removal violated due process.
According to an affidavit deposed by Reverend Ben, the suspended officials argue that only a valid legal procedure or the Governor, acting within constitutional bounds can effect their removal.
The court has adjourned the matter to September 29, 2025, for judgment.The suit lists Vice Admiral Ibas, the Accountant-General of Rivers State, Access Bank, Zenith Bank, and 11 other entities as defendants.
This case marks yet another legal challenge surrounding the governance structure in Rivers State, following recent political tensions and the suspension of the state governor.
