The case was brought before the court by concerned parties who challenged the administrator’s attempt to install new leadership across the 23 LGAs in Rivers State. The plaintiffs argued that such powers are not vested in the office of a Sole Administrator and should instead be exercised through a democratically guided process.
In its judgment, the court emphasized the importance of following constitutional procedures in the administration of local governments. It stated that any attempt to bypass the legal framework established for the appointment or election of LGA officials is invalid and unenforceable.
Legal experts have hailed the verdict as a victory for democracy and the rule of law, warning against the concentration of too much power in a single office. They noted that the decision reinforces the autonomy of local governments and ensures that their leadership must come through proper legal channels.
This ruling is expected to have a significant impact on the political landscape in Rivers State, especially as debates continue over the legality and scope of interim governance structures in Nigerian sta
tes.
