President Bola Tinubu has appointed and sworn in Vice Admiral Ibok-ete Ibas (rtd.) as the Sole Administrator of Rivers State.
The swearing-in ceremony took place following a brief meeting at the Presidential Villa on Wednesday afternoon.
The appointment comes a day after Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State, citing escalating political tensions. In a nationwide broadcast on Tuesday, the president announced the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu, and members of the Rivers State House of Assembly.
He justified the move under Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution, stating that intervention was necessary to prevent further deterioration of the state’s political climate.
“The decision to declare a state of emergency in Rivers State was not taken lightly. It is a necessary step to restore peace, order, and stability in the state,” Tinubu said during the broadcast.
The president emphasized that the suspension of elected officials and the appointment of a Sole Administrator were temporary measures aimed at addressing the political crisis.
“This administration is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all Nigerians. We cannot allow political tensions to threaten the peace and development of any state,” he added.
Vice Admiral Ibas, a retired Chief of Naval Staff, brings decades of experience in leadership and crisis management to the role. His appointment is expected to provide a stabilizing force in Rivers State during this period of uncertainty.
In his remarks after being sworn in, Ibas pledged to prioritize peace and reconciliation.
“I am deeply honored by this appointment and will work diligently to restore calm and foster unity in Rivers State. My focus will be on ensuring the safety of all residents and creating an environment conducive to progress,” he stated.
The declaration of a state of emergency and the subsequent appointment of a Sole Administrator have sparked mixed reactions across the country. While some have praised the federal government’s decisive action, others have expressed concerns about the implications for democratic governance.
Political analysts have noted that the move underscores the severity of the crisis in Rivers State, which has been marked by prolonged political disputes and allegations of governance challenges.