Port Harcourt, Rivers State – A significant financial dispute has erupted within Rivers State’s interim administrative structure, as Mr. Goodluck Iheanacho, the Sole Administrator (SOLAD) of Ahoada-East Local Government Area, has publicly accused the Rivers State Sole Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok Ette Ibas (Rtd), of an unauthorized deduction of ₦200 million from the LGA’s allocations.
The accusation, which highlights a burgeoning conflict between local and state-level interim authorities, comes amidst what has been described as a “Rivers State of Emergency” – a reference to the ongoing political tensions and the state government’s decision to appoint sole administrators to manage local government affairs.
Mr. Iheanacho’s allegations suggest a potential breach of financial protocol and raise concerns about the transparency and accountability of funds disbursed to local government areas under the current administrative arrangement. While details surrounding the alleged deduction remain sparse, the accusation implies a direct siphoning of funds intended for local development and services in Ahoada-East.
Vice Admiral Ibok Ette Ibas (Rtd), a former Chief of Naval Staff, was appointed as the Rivers State Sole Administrator as part of the state’s efforts to stabilize local governance following a period of political unrest. His role is to oversee the administration of all local government areas. The allegation from a subordinate SOLAD presents a considerable challenge to his authority and the integrity of the state’s interim financial management.
As of the time of this report, neither Vice Admiral Ibas nor the Rivers State Government has issued an official response to Mr. Iheanacho’s specific claims. The gravity of the accusation, involving a substantial sum of public funds, is expected to prompt a swift investigation and demand clarity from the relevant state authorities.
This development further complicates the already volatile political landscape in Rivers State, potentially fueling public distrust and intensifying calls for greater scrutiny of financial dealings within the state’s interim administration. Residents of Ahoada-East and indeed, across Rivers State, will be keenly watching for responses from both parties involved and potential interventions from higher authorities to resolve this pressing financial controversy.
