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A Federal High Court located in Port Harcourt has scheduled November 14, 2025, to announce its ruling on a case brought by a civil society organization, Initiative for Freedom, Conflict Prevention and Social Integration (FREECON), which is contesting the legality of President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State.
The other defendants in this case include the Attorney General of the Federation, the former Sole Administrator of Rivers State, the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC), its Chairman, and the People's Democratic Party (PDP), which was subsequently added to the proceedings.
Members of FREECON are requesting the court to clarify whether, based on the combined interpretation of Sections 197 and 198 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), the President can, under any pretext or situation, establish or appoint a Sole Administrator or any other entity to assume or exercise the powers of the Governor concerning the appointment of the Chairman and members of RSIEC.
The organization is also arguing that, according to the relevant sections of the Constitution, the appointment of Retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas as Sole Administrator—an office they assert is not acknowledged by the Constitution—does not grant him the legal authority to appoint the RSIEC Chairman and members for organizing or conducting elections in the 23 Local Government Areas of Rivers State.
The presiding judge, Justice Turaki Mohammed, set the date for the judgment on Monday after the attorneys representing the parties presented and accepted their final written submissions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the court's decision on November 14, 2025?
The court's decision will determine the legality of President Bola Tinubu's emergency rule declaration in Rivers State, which could have significant implications for governance and electoral processes in the region.
Who are the parties involved in the lawsuit?
The parties involved in the lawsuit include the Initiative for Freedom, Conflict Prevention and Social Integration (FREECON), the Attorney General of the Federation, the former Sole Administrator of Rivers State, the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC), its Chairman, and the People's Democratic Party (PDP).
What legal argument is FREECON making?
FREECON argues that the President lacks the constitutional authority to appoint a Sole Administrator and that the appointment of Retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas does not grant him the power to oversee RSIEC's operations.
