Prominent banker and civic leader, Atedo Peterside, has publicly criticized Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (rtd.), the newly appointed Sole Administrator of Rivers State, accusing him of deepening political unrest through questionable appointments.
Peterside, speaking during a live interview on Arise TV, challenged the legitimacy and transparency of Ibas’s decisions, particularly the selection of Local Government Sole Administrators and the restructuring of the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission.
He described the appointments as a “slap in the face” of Rivers indigenes, warning that the state’s people will not stand by while “outsiders impose riff raffs” on their local governance.
The comments come amid growing unease in the oil-rich state, where citizens and stakeholders are demanding accountability in leadership and calling for adherence to due process in all state affairs.
Peterside questioned whether any merit-based or consultative process was followed, pointing out the lack of advertisements, public calls for nominations, or evidence of competency vetting.
“This is not just about politics,” Peterside said. “It’s about respect for institutions and the people. If you’re appointed to heal a wounded state, you don’t show up with matches.”
As the controversy simmers, pressure is mounting on federal authorities to review Ibas’s mandate and restore local confidence in the governance of Rivers State. Analysts say the development could further polarize the region unless immediate steps are taken to foster inclusivity and transparency.