Controversy has trailed the reported resignation of Goodluck Ihemnacho, the Administrator of the Ahoada East Local Government Area in Rivers State, following the circulation of a disturbing video that raised questions about his resignation.
In the resignation letter, addressed to the Sole Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd.), Ihemnacho was quoted as expressing gratitude 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 read in part.
This raised questions considering that July 20th is still about a month away.
However, on Saturday evening, a video surfaced online showing a man identified as Ihemnacho being violently beaten by a group of unidentified individuals.
In the video, he was seen sitting on the floor, visibly distressed, as he was repeatedly struck with canes while voices off-camera yelled at him to “sign that thing” and “put your signature”.
Two documents, believed to be resignation letters, were seen on a chair in front of him, and he appeared to be holding a pen.
A second man, later identified as the council secretary, Mr Alabi Umegbewe, was also dragged into the room and assaulted.
The authenticity of the video has not been officially disputed, and while the motive behind the attack remains unclear, sources said it might not be unconnected to the forthcoming local government elections.
Concerns have also been raised about the absence of the two mobile police officers attached to the council administrator.
A source claimed both officers were away “eating” at the time of the incident, raising further questions about possible complicity or dereliction of duty.
As of the time of filing this report, no official statement has been issued by the police or the Rivers State Government regarding the incident.