The Federal High Court in Port Harcourt has summoned the Rivers State Administrator to appear before it and justify why an interim order should not be issued to halt the proposed appointment of Sole Administrators across the state’s 23 Local Government Areas.
Justice Adamu Turaki Mohammed issued the directive on Monday, April 7, 2025, in response to an ex-parte motion filed by the Pilex Centre for Civic Education Initiative and its Coordinator, Courage Nsirimovu. The applicants are seeking to stop the state government from moving forward with the appointments, citing concerns over potential threats to democratic governance in the state.
In his ruling, Justice Mohammed stressed the importance of due process and fairness in administrative actions. He directed that the respondent be served with a hearing notice and ordered to “show cause” why the interim injunction should not be granted. The matter has been adjourned to April 14, 2025, for further hearing.
During the session, the applicants’ legal representative, A. O. Imiete, adopted a written address in support of the motion, urging the court to grant the reliefs sought. The respondent was absent from the proceedings.
The case, filed under suit number FHC/PH/CS/46/2025, has gained public attention amid mounting tension over the plan to replace elected local government officials with sole administrators. The outcome could have significant implications for local governance and the interpretation of constitutional provisions in the state.
Court Summons Rivers Administrator Over LGA Appointments
