In a decisive move to address the political and governance crisis in Rivers State, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has appointed Vice Admiral Ibok Ete Ibas (Rtd) as the Sole Administrator of the state. This appointment follows the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, which was announced by the President in a nationwide broadcast on Tuesday, March 18, 2025.
The appointment of Vice Admiral Ibas, a retired military officer with a distinguished career, underscores the federal government’s commitment to restoring peace, order, and effective governance in Rivers State. The state has been embroiled in a prolonged political crisis, which has led to the collapse of its legislative arm, a breakdown of democratic processes, and a deteriorating security situation.
President Tinubu, in his broadcast, emphasized that the crisis in Rivers State had reached a critical point, with Governor Siminalayi Fubara and other state officials failing to uphold their constitutional responsibilities. The Supreme Court’s recent judgment, which condemned the governor’s unconstitutional actions and the absence of a functional legislature, further highlighted the urgent need for federal intervention.
As Sole Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibas will oversee the affairs of Rivers State for an initial period of six months. His primary mandate will be to restore stability, ensure the security of lives and property, and facilitate the return of constitutional democracy in the state. While he will not have the authority to enact new laws, he will be empowered to formulate necessary regulations, subject to approval by the Federal Executive Council and promulgation by the President.
President Tinubu assured Nigerians that the declaration of a state of emergency and the appointment of a Sole Administrator were necessary steps to address the extraordinary challenges facing Rivers State. He reiterated that the intervention was not intended to undermine the democratic process but to restore the foundations of good governance and ensure the well-being of the people of Rivers State.
The appointment of Vice Admiral Ibok Ete Ibas marks a new chapter in the efforts to resolve the crisis in Rivers State. It reflects the federal government’s determination to take bold and decisive actions in the interest of the people and the nation as a whole.
