The Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) has strongly condemned the recent suspension of political appointees in Rivers State by the state’s military-appointed administrator, Retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas. The group described the decision as a direct attack on democracy, calling it a sign of "full-blown military dictatorship" in the region.
Maobuoye Nangi-Obu, Secretary-General of the IYC, expressed deep concern over what he called a growing pattern of authoritarian rule in Rivers State. He accused the administrator of sidelining democratic institutions and acting unilaterally in ways that undermine the will of the people.
"This is nothing short of an attempt to strip Rivers people of their right to governance by elected representatives," Nangi-Obu said in a statement. "The military cannot continue to rule by force and expect us to remain silent while our democratic structures are dismantled one by one."
Since assuming control of the state following a controversial decision by the federal government, Vice Admiral Ibas has made several sweeping changes, including the dissolution of boards of statutory commissions and the suspension of multiple government officials. These actions, according to the Ijaw group, create room for unchecked control over state resources without due oversight.
The IYC further warned that such moves could provoke widespread resistance, as Rivers residents have historically shown resilience against political oppression.
“This is a dangerous precedent. If the federal government succeeds in turning Rivers into a military-controlled zone, no other state is safe,” Nangi-Obu added.
The IYC called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to immediately reverse the decision, restore civilian rule in the state, and allow Governor Siminalayi Fubara to govern without interference. The group also urged international organizations, including the United Nations and ECOWAS, to take note of the developments in Rivers State and intervene before tensions escalate.