In yet another twist in the high-stakes political drama rocking Rivers State, the state’s High Court in Port Harcourt has issued an interim legal blockade, restraining the police and the Department of State Services (DSS) from arresting Edison Ehie, the embattled Chief of Staff to suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara.
The ruling, handed down by Justice IPC Igwe, grants temporary relief to Ehie — a central figure in the ongoing Rivers political showdown — and shields him from arrest or detention in connection with the alleged March 2023 arson at the Rivers State House of Assembly.
This isn’t just legal procedure—it’s a political grenade.
As tensions escalate between rival factions in Rivers, the court’s action signals a clear message: “Back off—for now.”
The Case at a Glance
The order stems from a motion filed by Ehie, naming the Inspector-General of Police, the Director-General of the DSS, the Rivers DSS Director, and the Police Service Commission as defendants.
Justice Igwe’s interim injunction specifically prohibits any invitations, arrests, or detentions of Ehie in relation to the alleged Assembly fire — until the substantive motion is decided.
-
All parties to maintain the status quo as of March 30, 2025
-
The claimant to enter into a ₦2 million indemnity bond in case the motion proves baseless
-
Service of writs to proceed outside Rivers, into Abuja
The case has been adjourned to April 30, 2025, for a hearing on the motion for interlocutory injunction.
Political Undercurrents & Fallout
Edison Ehie’s name has been tied tightly to the power struggles engulfing the Rivers State executive and legislative branches, with his suspension and this looming arrest warrant viewed by many analysts as strategic political targeting.
This court order, while temporary, delivers a small but potent legal win to the Fubara camp — effectively halting what many saw as an imminent takedown of one of its key figures.
Legal watchers say the situation could spiral into a full-blown federal vs. state power clash if not handled delicately.
What’s at Stake?
-
Will this court ruling hold up, or is it just buying time before a deeper political takedown?
-
Is this a case of due process — or a judicial shield for political allies?
-
Who really set fire to the Rivers Assembly — and who benefits from the chaos?
💬 Let the People Talk
👉 Is Edison Ehie a scapegoat or a suspect?
👉 Are courts protecting justice — or shielding corruption?
Drop your hot take. The comments are open, Nigeria.
