Port Harcourt, Nigeria – The newly appointed Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral Ibok-Étè Ibas (retd), has pledged to restore law and order, stabilize governance, and create an enabling environment for democracy to thrive. His commitment came in a statewide broadcast on Wednesday night, shortly after assuming office at the Government House in Port Harcourt.
Ibas’ appointment follows the National Assembly’s approval of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s proclamation of a state of emergency in Rivers, citing political instability and security concerns. The President lauded lawmakers for their “patriotic decision,” describing it as a necessary step toward restoring stability in the oil-rich state.
In his address, Ibas sent a strong message to individuals attempting to destabilize the state, warning that there would be no tolerance for acts of sabotage or violence.
“There will be no room for lawlessness, no space for violence, and no patience for actions that threaten our collective well-being,” he declared. “We will uphold justice and fairness while ensuring civil order prevails.”
The former Chief of Naval Staff arrived at Port Harcourt International Airport at approximately 11:30 am aboard a Naval Bombardier aircraft, where he was received by top military officials. Upon arrival, he held meetings with senior civil servants, security agencies, and key government functionaries to discuss strategies for stabilizing the state.
Meanwhile, embattled Governor Siminalayi Fubara, who was suspended as part of the emergency proclamation, has denied any involvement in recent attacks on oil pipelines. His rebuttal follows allegations by Attorney General of the Federation Lateef Fagbemi, who linked the attacks to political unrest in the state.
The Senate and House of Representatives ratified the emergency rule in separate closed-door sessions, with lawmakers endorsing the move through a unanimous voice vote. Speaker Tajudeen Abbas confirmed that 246 House members backed the decision, well within the 48-hour constitutional deadline for ratification.
Mixed Reactions: Opposition Leaders, South-South Governors Reject Emergency Rule
The emergency declaration has sparked heated debate among political leaders. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar labeled it “self-serving and unnecessary,” while former Anambra Governor Peter Obi criticized the National Assembly for using a voice vote instead of a roll-call process to determine the required two-thirds majority.
In a further twist, the South-South Governors’ Forum expressed divisions over the proclamation. While Chairman and Bayelsa Governor Douye Diri condemned the decision, Edo Governor Monday Okpebholo dissociated himself from the forum’s stance.
Defending the emergency proclamation, President Tinubu emphasized that the situation in Rivers had reached a critical tipping point, threatening national security and vital oil infrastructure.
“The crisis in Rivers State was at a perilous point, undermining the national economy and progress we have made through key reforms,” Tinubu stated. “This emergency measure is a lifeline to safeguard livelihoods, secure critical infrastructure, and restore democratic accountability.”
The President also praised lawmakers for their cooperation, adding that the emergency rule would not exceed six months unless reviewed earlier.
In response to recent sabotage of crude oil pipelines, the Defence Headquarters reaffirmed its commitment to protecting Nigeria’s economic interests.
“We will not allow any individual or group to destroy the country’s critical infrastructure,” said Major General Markus Kangye, Director of Defence Media Operations. He warned those responsible for attacks on oil installations to desist or face military action.
Prominent businessman and politician Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim urged a peaceful resolution to the crisis, emphasizing that political conflicts should not be driven by personal rivalries.
Similarly, former House of Representatives Deputy Speaker Chibudom Nwuche described Tinubu’s intervention as necessary to prevent Rivers from descending into “anarchy and bloodshed.”
As Rivers State enters this unprecedented phase, stakeholders and residents alike await the unfolding political landscape, with hopes that stability and governance will soon be restored.
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