Security agencies in Rivers State, including the Nigerian Police Force, Army, Navy, Air Force, and other law enforcement bodies, reported a successful operation in which they foiled an attempt to blow up a pipeline in the state on Tuesday. The operation is part of ongoing efforts to ensure the security of vital national assets amidst the state’s state of emergency.
The announcement comes as organized labour in Rivers State has threatened to strike if the Federal Government does not reverse the emergency rule imposed on the state. The emergency measures have drawn sharp criticism from local unions and lawmakers who argue that they undermine the rights of the state’s elected officials and worsen the economic situation.
State of Emergency Draws Criticism
In a separate development, a Federal High Court in Abuja was urged on Tuesday to remove Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas (retd.) as the Sole Administrator of Rivers State. The case, which was filed by legal practitioner Mr. Johnmary Jideobi, challenges the constitutionality of both the emergency rule and the appointment of Ibas as the state’s administrator. The suit calls for the reversal of the suspension of the state’s governor, deputy governor, and members of the House of Assembly, all of whom were elected by the people.
The crisis has also impacted local government workers, many of whom have not received their salaries, leading to growing discontent. Labour unions in the state, led by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC), have condemned the suspension of elected officials and threatened a strike if the emergency rule is not lifted.
Security Forces Intensify Operations
The Police, representing the broader coalition of security agencies, commended the success of their joint operations in maintaining peace in Rivers State. Rivers State Commissioner of Police, Olugbenga Adepoju, praised the efforts of the Police, Army, Navy, and Air Force in foiling the pipeline bombing attempt, adding that one suspect died during the attempt to detonate explosives at the Aluu-Rumuekpe pipeline in Ikwerre Local Government Area.
Adepoju also disclosed other recent successes, including the arrest of eight suspected kidnappers and the rescue of six victims along Omoku Road in Ahoada East Local Government Area on March 21, 2025. In addition, security forces dismantled 30 illegal oil refineries, seized thousands of litres of stolen crude oil and illegal products, and arrested individuals with explosives and firearms.
“The protection of critical national infrastructure is crucial, and we will continue to work diligently to ensure the safety of lives and properties in Rivers State,” Adepoju stated, urging the public to cooperate with law enforcement and provide vital intelligence.
Labour’s Call for Reversal of Emergency Rule
Organized labour expressed alarm over the state of emergency in Rivers State, emphasizing that the imposition has exacerbated economic hardships, particularly for local government workers. Labour leaders also pointed out the negative impact on the state’s economy, noting that several potential investors had pulled back from planned investments due to the unstable situation.
In a joint statement, NLC chairperson Alex Agwanwo and TUC counterpart Ikechukwu Onyefuru condemned the Federal Government’s actions and warned that failure to reverse the emergency rule would force the labour unions to take industrial action.
“The imposition of the state of emergency is damaging to the economy of Rivers State at a time when the nation is grappling with inflation, unemployment, and a devalued currency. The workers of Rivers State cannot continue to bear the brunt of these actions, and if necessary, we will take action to protect their rights,” the statement read.
Labour leaders also reiterated that while they support maintaining law and order, the suspension of elected officials is unconstitutional and undermines the democratic process. The unions are calling on President Tinubu, the National Assembly, and the Judiciary to urgently reverse the state of emergency and restore normalcy to Rivers State.
Court Seeks to Overturn Appointment of Sole Administrator
In a legal challenge, the Federal High Court was asked to rule on the constitutionality of the state of emergency and the appointment of Vice Admiral Ibok Ibas as the Sole Administrator. The plaintiff, Mr. Johnmary Jideobi, argues that the President does not have the constitutional authority to remove or suspend elected officials and appoint a Sole Administrator. The suit seeks a court order to invalidate the suspension of the governor and deputy governor, as well as the appointment of Ibas.
In his affidavit, Jideobi emphasized that the removal of elected officials and the appointment of an administrator contradicts sections of the Nigerian Constitution. He warned that such actions could set a dangerous precedent, potentially leading to political instability and constitutional crises across the country.
Sole Administrator Appoints New Secretary to the State Government
Meanwhile, Vice Admiral Ibas, the Sole Administrator of Rivers State, has appointed Prof. Ibibia Worika as the new Secretary to the State Government. Ibas expressed confidence in Worika’s legal expertise and academic credentials, noting that his vast experience in governance and public policy would support the administration’s goals.
Additionally, Ibas appointed Iyingi Brown as the acting Head of Service following the resignation of the substantive Head of Service, George Nwaeke. Brown, a senior civil servant, will oversee the administration’s public service activities in the interim.
The Sole Administrator reaffirmed his commitment to restoring stability and fostering peace in Rivers State during his tenure.
