The Rivers State High Court in Port Harbor has struck out a lawsuit filed by members of the Local Government Service Commission who were challenging their removal from office. The commission’s chairman, Goodlife Ben, and five other claimants—appointed by Governor Siminalayi Fubara—sought a declaration that their removal was unlawful and asked the court to order their reinstatement. Their removal had been carried out by former Sole Administrator Ibok‑Ete Ibas, prompting the legal action.
During a recent court sitting, the claimants’ counsel, Kelechi Ubani, announced that the plaintiffs were withdrawing the case, citing a desire to promote peace and progress in Rivers State. Ubani described the decision as “painful but necessary” and emphasized that it was made in the interest of the state. The defense team had urged the presiding judge, Justice Frank Onyiri, to dismiss the matter outright rather than strike it out, but Justice Onyiri cited a relevant provision in the court rules that permits the withdrawal of civil suits. Accordingly, he struck out the case without awarding costs to either party and commended the claimants for their “noble” step toward reconciliation.
The development comes amid ongoing discussions about governance and administration in Rivers State, which has seen several changes in leadership positions, including the recent relief of commissioners who were not screened by the state’s assembly. The claimants’ decision to withdraw their lawsuit may be seen as an effort to reduce tension and promote stability. The court’s ruling brings the lawsuit to an end, and it remains to be seen how this will affect the administration of local government services in Rivers State. The decision to strike out the case without awarding costs suggests that the court is seeking a resolution that minimizes conflict and serves the state’s interests.
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