By Our Reporter
ABUJA (PRECISE POST) – The Rivers State Government has issued a formal query to Mrs. Cordelia Eke, Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Port Harcourt Branch, demanding an explanation for her role in a joint statement by NBA Rivers Chairmen that criticized the state’s Sole Administrator, retired Vice-Admiral Ibok Ete-Ibas.
The query, which hints at severe disciplinary measures including possible dismissal, has sparked concerns about the government’s response to dissent and the rights of civil servants to engage in professional association activities.
The controversy stems from a communique signed by the eight chairmen of NBA branches in Rivers State, which condemned the Sole Administrator for actions deemed contrary to his mandate and the rule of law.
The statement accused the administration of “severe and brazen acts of lawlessness and impunity” and the “unconstitutional dismantling of democratic institutions.” It also urged President Bola Tinubu and the National Assembly to intervene to prevent further crisis in the state.
Apparently angered by the communique, the Rivers State Government, singled out Eke, a respected jurist, text writer, and Director in the Rivers State Ministry of Justice, for her role in co-authoring the statement. Analysts note that Eke may have been targeted as she is likely the only civil servant among the group of NBA chairmen who signed the document.
The query, dated April 25, 2025, and signed by Ebiriemg Deresima, Director of Administration in the Rivers State Ministry of Justice, on behalf of the Solicitor-General & Permanent Secretary, cited information received by the Sole Administrator on April 23, 2025. It accused Eke of violating Public Service Rules by contributing to a communique that criticized the state administration without prior permission. The specific rule cited, No. 100421 sub (b), (c), and (d), prohibits civil servants from publicly expressing opinions on political or administrative matters affecting state policy.
The query described Eke’s actions as “quite unbecoming of a civil servant” and a “flagrant disregard” of regulations. It demanded a written explanation within 48 hours, warning that failure to provide a satisfactory response could lead to “full disciplinary actions, which include dismissal,” in line with Rules 100302 and 100306.
