By Charles Pemu 
PORT HARCOURT,– A fresh legal challenge has momentarily frozen the administrative maneuvers in Rivers State, as a High Court in Port Harcourt issued an injunction preventing the Sole Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok Ete Ibas (retd), from inaugurating newly appointed members to the Rivers State Services Commission. This judicial intervention underscores the deep-seated political tensions simmering within the state.
The court’s decision stems from a suit initiated by members of the Commission originally appointed by the suspended Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara. These aggrieved individuals are contesting their summary removal by Administrator Ibas, arguing that their dismissal lacked due process and exceeded the bounds of his legal authority. They assert their appointments were legitimately confirmed by the Rivers State House of Assembly.
Justice Frank Onyiri, presiding over the matter, directed all involved parties to strictly adhere to the “status quo” pending the final judgment. The court has set September 29 as the date for its conclusive ruling on the dispute.
Named as defendants in the suit are Sole Administrator Ibas, the State Accountant General, along with financial institutions Access Bank and Zenith Bank, among eleven others.
This injunction highlights the intricate legal and political battles continuing to unfold in Rivers State, as various factions vie for control and legitimacy amidst the ongoing leadership flux. The court’s ruling on this matter will significantly influence the state’s administrative direction and political stability.