By Adeyemi Adekunle
Retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas as resumes as the Sole Administrator of Rivers State after been sworn in by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The ocassion came following President Bola Ahmed Tinubu declaration of a state of emergency, suspending Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and all state legislators for an initial period of six months.
This action aims to restore stability in the oil-rich region, which has been marred by political infighting and recent incidents of pipeline vandalism.
The President’s proclamation, delivered during a national broadcast, highlighted the urgency of the situation:
“With all these and many more, no good and responsible president will stand by and allow the grave situation to continue without taking remedial steps prescribed by the constitution to address the situation in the state.”
To steer the state during this critical period, President Tinubu has appointed retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas as the Sole Administrator of Rivers State. Vice Admiral Ibas, who served as Chief of Naval Staff from 2015 to 2021, brings a wealth of experience in security and administration. His mandate includes restoring order, safeguarding vital oil infrastructure, and ensuring the continuity of governance.
The declaration of emergency follows months of political turmoil, with factions within the opposition People’s Democratic Party (PDP) at odds, leading to threats of impeachment against Governor Fubara. Compounding the crisis, recent militant activities resulted in a fire on the Trans Niger Pipeline, a crucial artery for the nation’s oil exports. The President criticized the suspended governor for not taking action to curtail these acts of vandalism.
While the executive and legislative branches are suspended, the judiciary in Rivers State will continue to function, ensuring that legal processes remain intact during this period.
The Nigerian Bar Association, however, has raised concerns about the legality of suspending elected officials, emphasizing that an emergency declaration does not automatically dissolve or suspend elected state governments.
This development marks the first imposition of emergency rule in Nigeria in over a decade, reflecting the gravity of the situation in Rivers State. As Vice Admiral Ibas assumes leadership, the nation watches closely, hopeful that his tenure will bring stability and security back to the region.
