Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has strongly condemned the appointment of a sole administrator in Rivers State and the plan to conduct local government elections under his supervision, describing both as unconstitutional and dangerous for Nigeria’s democracy.
Atiku’s remarks, delivered via a post on X (formerly Twitter) on Saturday, followed similar concerns raised by elder statesman and business leader Atedo Peterside, who earlier cautioned the federal government against undermining democratic processes in Rivers State.
The Rivers State Government recently appointed Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (Rtd) as sole administrator to oversee the affairs of local government councils, following the expiration of the tenure of elected chairpersons.
The appointment has sparked widespread criticism, with many insisting it violates Nigeria’s constitutional provisions that guarantee democratically elected local government councils.
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Reacting to the controversy, Atiku likened the situation to a fire spreading across neighbouring homes, urging political actors to resist moves that threaten the foundation of democratic governance.
“It is in one’s interest to help put out the fire in your neighbour’s house to safeguard against your house being torched,” he wrote.
The former Vice President, who contested the 2023 presidential election under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), warned that allowing a sole administrator, a role not recognised by the Constitution — to conduct council elections sets a dangerous precedent that could ripple across the country.
“I agree that what is playing out in Rivers State, with an illegal sole administrator, unknown to our Constitution, conducting council elections, has implications for the rest of the country. I join other men and women of goodwill to condemn this absurdity unequivocally,” he added.
Atiku’s comments underscore a growing national concern about the rule of law and democratic accountability, especially at the grassroots level. Critics argue that circumventing proper electoral processes in favour of handpicked administrators erodes public trust and undermines constitutional governance.
The Rivers State Government has yet to respond formally to the wave of condemnation.
