Retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, appointed as the Sole Administrator of Rivers State following the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara and state lawmakers amid political unrest and pipeline vandalism, addressed residents in a state broadcast on Thursday, March 20, 2025.
In his address, Ibas emphasized his non-partisan role, stating his mission is to act as a stabilizing force to restore governance and order in Rivers State. Drawing on his extensive service background, including his tenure as Nigeria’s 20th indigenous Chief of Naval Staff and as High Commissioner to Ghana, he expressed a deep commitment to safeguarding civil liberties and ensuring the safety of all citizens.
Acknowledging the hardships faced by families and businesses due to the ongoing political crisis, Ibas, a native of the Niger Delta, conveyed empathy for the challenges impacting the community’s future. He commended President Bola Tinubu for the decisive action of declaring a state of emergency, viewing it as a necessary step to restore stability and revitalize the state’s economy.
Ibas outlined his clear mandate to restore law and order, ensure stability, and create an environment conducive to economic growth. He called for collective support from all stakeholders, irrespective of political affiliation or ethnicity, to achieve these objectives.
Issuing a stern warning against crude oil sabotage and violence, Ibas urged residents to resist reverting to past hostilities, highlighting the devastating environmental and economic consequences of attacks on oil infrastructure. He stressed that the Niger Delta has moved beyond the destruction of oil facilities and must avoid returning to those detrimental practices.
While reaffirming his commitment to upholding civil liberties and the rule of law, Ibas made it clear that lawlessness and violence would not be tolerated. He concluded a State Security Council meeting where strategic measures were outlined to de-escalate tensions and prevent further conflict.
Expressing gratitude to President Tinubu and the National Assembly for their roles in addressing the crisis, Ibas expressed optimism that Rivers State will emerge stronger and greater through collective efforts.
Nigerian leader suspends the governor of an oil-rich state in rare emergency rule.