A Federal High Court in Port Harcourt has summoned the Rivers State Administrator over proposed sole administrator appointments across 23 LGAs.
Court Demands Justification for Sole Administrator Plan
Justice Adamu Turaki Mohammed issued the directive on Monday, April 7, 2025. He acted on an ex-parte motion filed by the Pilex Centre for Civic Education Initiative and its Coordinator, Courage Nsirimovu.
The applicants urged the court to stop the appointments, arguing they threaten democratic governance in Rivers State.
Judge Insists on Fairness and Due Process
Justice Mohammed ordered the administrator to appear and explain why the court should not issue an interim injunction. He emphasized the importance of fairness and transparency in public appointments.
The judge also issued a hearing notice and adjourned the matter to April 14, 2025, for further proceedings.
Applicants Cite Risk to Democracy
Legal counsel A. O. Imiete represented the applicants in court. He formally adopted a written address supporting the motion for injunctive relief.
The respondents, however, failed to appear during the hearing, leaving only the applicants’ arguments on record.
Rivers State Faces Legal Pushback
The case, marked FHC/PH/CS/46/2025, adds to mounting legal pressure against the Rivers State government’s LGA strategy.
Critics argue that appointing sole administrators violates democratic principles and circumvents the electoral process.
Case May Set Governance Precedent
Observers say this legal challenge could set an important precedent for local governance and constitutional adherence in Nigeria.
As political tensions rise in Rivers State, many await the court’s ruling on April 14.
What do you think? Should courts block unelected appointments in local governments? Share your views in the comments below.
