Olabode George

Former Deputy National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Olabode George, has issued a stern warning to the Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd.), over what he described as unconstitutional appointments and restructuring of boards across the state.

In a statement released, George criticised Ibas for appointing officials to oversee the 23 local government areas and for reconstituting boards of agencies and commissions, despite a standing court order prohibiting such actions.

Justice Adamu Turaki Muhammed of the Federal High Court, Port Harcourt, had earlier barred Ibas from appointing sole administrators for the councils. However, the administrator allegedly defied the order, proceeding with the appointments and restructuring efforts.

“I want to warn Admiral Ibas: if you act against the spirit of the Constitution, you will be held responsible,” George stated. “Your appointment is for just six months. Even if the president extends it, you will still leave one day because nobody elected you.”

The PDP stalwart reaffirmed that Siminalayi Fubara remains the constitutionally elected governor of Rivers State and questioned the legitimacy of Ibas’ recent actions.

“What happens to those appointments when you leave office on September 18? Did you get approval from the National Assembly? Do you now wield both executive and legislative powers?” George queried.

He further warned that those supporting Ibas now may eventually abandon him when his tenure ends. “This is not a military regime. The Constitution is still in force. Those using you now will throw you under the bus once you leave office,” he said.

Speaking as a fellow military veteran, George urged Ibas to act with restraint and uphold democratic principles. “You behaved honourably as a naval officer. Don’t let unconstitutional actions stain your record. You did not drown in the Navy—don’t let politics drown you legally and politically. Now is the time to apply the brakes.”