Rivers State Sole Administrator Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas has called on the suspended Governor of the state, Siminalayi Fubara, and his deputy, Dr. Ngozi Ordu, to appear before him in person at the Government House in Port Harcourt.
The summons, made public on Tuesday, is part of a formal investigation into various appointments made by the Fubara administration over the last two years.
This was confirmed in an official announcement signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Professor Ibibia Lucky Worika. According to the statement, both Fubara and his deputy are expected to face questions about the reasons and methods behind the appointments carried out during their time in office.
Professor Worika notes that the suspended governor has been specifically instructed to bring forward all relevant documents connected to these appointments. This includes paperwork that explains the selection processes, the qualifications of those appointed, and the rules that were followed.
The inquiry session is scheduled to take place on Friday, April 18, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. in the Conference Room of the Rivers State Government House. Attendance, according to the statement, is compulsory.
The official notice also makes it clear that this meeting will give Fubara a chance to defend his actions in office. It adds that the governor will be expected to explain why he believes he should be reinstated to his former position. This follows months of political unrest and leadership struggles within the state.
Part of the announcement reads:
RIVERS GOVERNMENT SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT
“The Sole Administrator, Vice Admiral (Rtd.) Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas, CFR, has formally summoned the suspended Governor of Rivers State, Sir Siminialayi Fubara, and his Deputy, Dr. Ngozi Ordu, to appear before him for an inquiry into the appointments made under their administration over the past two years.
“Sir Fubara is directed to present all relevant documents and records pertaining to appointments, including justifications and procedures followed during his tenure. The session will also serve as an opportunity for the suspended Governor to provide a clear and detailed explanation as to why he believes he should be reinstated to office.
“Both parties are expected to appear in person as follows:
- Date: Friday, 18th April, 2025
- Time: 10:00am Prompt
- Venue: Conference Room, Rivers State Government House, Port Harcourt
Attendance is mandatory. This process forms part of the Sole Administrator’s ongoing efforts to restore transparency and accountability and lasting peace in the governance of Rivers State.
Signed:
Prof. Ibibia Lucky Worika
Secretary to the State Government”