The Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, has assured residents that his mission is to stabilize governance and restore order, not to engage in political competition.
In a statewide broadcast on Thursday, Ibas, who assumed office at Government House, Port Harcourt, reaffirmed his commitment to upholding civil liberties and ensuring the safety of all citizens. However, he issued a firm warning against crude oil sabotage, violence, and any acts of lawlessness.
“For decades, I have dedicated my life to serving our nation—first as the 20th indigenous Chief of Naval Staff and later as Nigeria’s High Commissioner to Ghana. My decision to take on this role is driven by the need for peace in Rivers State and Nigeria at large,” Ibas stated.
Acknowledging the political crisis that led to a state of emergency in the state, he sympathized with families and businesses affected by the instability. He commended President Bola Tinubu’s decisive intervention, emphasizing that it was necessary to restore stability and revitalize the state’s economy.
“My mandate is clear: restore law and order, ensure stability, and create an enabling environment for economic growth. But achieving this goal requires collective support from all stakeholders, regardless of political or ethnic affiliations,” he stressed.
Ibas condemned attacks on oil infrastructure, warning against returning to past destructive actions that harmed both the environment and the economy.
“The Niger Delta has moved past the era of sabotaging oil facilities. We must not return to those dark days,” he cautioned.
While pledging to uphold the rule of law, he warned that any threats to the state’s peace and stability would be met with firm action.
“We will not act arbitrarily, but we will not hesitate to deal decisively with anyone who disrupts the peace of Rivers State,” he declared.
Ibas disclosed that a State Security Council meeting had been held to outline strategic measures for de-escalating tensions and preventing further conflict.
His appointment follows President Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State on Tuesday, which led to the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu, and all members of the House of Assembly for an initial six-month period.
Expressing gratitude to the President for entrusting him with this responsibility, Ibas also acknowledged the National Assembly for approving the emergency measures.
“I will work closely with the national leadership under the guidance of the President. I am optimistic that Rivers State will emerge stronger and more united,” he concluded.
