The Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Rear Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (Rtd.), has formally handed over power to the democratically elected governor, Siminalayi Fubara, bringing an end to his six-month stewardship of the oil-rich state.
Ibas made the announcement on Thursday during his final statewide broadcast, marking the conclusion of the emergency administration imposed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in March.
In March 2025, Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State, suspending Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and members of the House of Assembly. The President subsequently appointed Ibas, a retired naval chief, to oversee governance during the crisis.
On Wednesday, September 17, Tinubu lifted the emergency rule, paving the way for Fubara’s reinstatement.
Ibas Bows Out
Reflecting on his tenure, Ibas said he was leaving office with a sense of fulfillment, stressing that his mandate to restore peace and stability in Rivers had been achieved.
“Law and order has been restored, local government elections have been conducted, statutory boards reconstituted, and the state budget passed. These are milestones of progress that belong to all of us,” he declared.
He further noted that his administration’s efforts had prevented Rivers from slipping into political paralysis.
Lessons Learned
The retired naval officer cautioned against abuse of power and called for dialogue as a tool to resolve political disputes:
“One of the enduring lessons of this season is that the exercise of power without restraint can cripple institutions, and rivalry without dialogue endangers democracy,” he said.
Call for Support
As he handed the reins back to Governor Fubara, Ibas urged Rivers people to rally behind their leader.
“Leadership and followership is a shared responsibility. No matter how competent a vision may be, it can only thrive with the active support of citizens,” he added.
Ibas, who described his assignment as another chapter in a career devoted to service, expressed gratitude to Rivers stakeholders and said he was leaving with deep respect for the resilience of the people.
Governor Fubara officially resumes his duties on Thursday, September 18, 2025.
