A fresh wave of controversy has rocked Rivers State following the resignation of Goodluck Ihemnacho, the appointed Administrator of Ahoada East Local Government Area, barely three months into office.
Ihemnacho, one of the 23 local government administrators appointed by the Sole Administrator of the state, Retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, tendered his resignation in a letter dated June 20, 2025. In the letter, he cited a desire to return to private life and expressed appreciation to the government and people of Ahoada East for the opportunity to serve.
“I humbly write to your noble office to convey to you my resignation as the Administrator, Ahoada East LGA… My sincere gratitude goes to the government of Rivers State and the good people of Ahoada East for finding me worthy to serve… from 11th day of April 2025 to 20th day of July 2025,” the letter reads.
However, the resignation has raised eyebrows and stirred speculation. Multiple sources familiar with the situation allege that Ihemnacho may have been forced to step down under duress. One anonymous source claimed that unidentified individuals stormed the council secretariat, assaulted Ihemnacho, and coerced him into signing the resignation letter.
The letter itself has added to suspicions, as it contains an inconsistency—mentioning service until July 20 despite being dated June 20. Following the incident, the secretariat has been shut down, and security operatives are reportedly in control of the premises.
There is also speculation that Ihemnacho’s exit could be linked to political ambitions, possibly paving the way for participation in the upcoming local government elections. Although unconfirmed, some believe the move was a strategic decision.
The resignation marks the first major shakeup in the Ibas-led interim administration, which was constituted in April. Analysts suggest the development could point to internal unrest or power struggles within the newly installed local government structure.
Neither Ihemnacho nor the Rivers State government has issued further clarification as of the time of this report.
