The Rivers State Judiciary has denied claims that it blocked the inauguration of newly appointed members of the Rivers State Civil Service Commission.
In a statement released Tuesday, the judiciary clarified that it only acted within its constitutional mandate by issuing an order preserving the status quo pending the outcome of a legal dispute brought before it.
The clarification follows reports suggesting that the court had directly interfered with executive actions. The case, filed by former commission members appointed under Governor Siminalayi Fubara, challenges their removal by the state’s Sole Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd).
Presiding Judge Frank Onyiri had directed that no new appointments be inaugurated until the matter is resolved. The court emphasized that its ruling was aimed at preventing a breach of legal process, not obstructing governance.
The matter has been adjourned to September 29, 2025, for judgment.
