Chief Magistrate K.E. George, a senior judicial officer in Rivers State, has stepped down from his position, citing strong opposition to the ongoing emergency governance structure imposed on the state.
In a formal letter directed to the Chief Judge of Rivers State, George submitted his voluntary resignation, expressing discontent with what he described as a “quasi-military administration.”
“This type of governance system is not only alien but also runs against the hallowed principles of the legal profession,” he wrote.
Having served in the judiciary for 16 years, George stated that remaining in office under the current leadership would suggest silent endorsement of the controversial political arrangement.
The backdrop of this development traces to March 18, 2025, when President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State due to alleged governance failure and rising political unrest. The declaration resulted in the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and all members of the State House of Assembly.
In their absence, retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas was appointed as the sole administrator for a six-month term to oversee the state’s administration.
