Retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas has stepped down as the Administrator of Rivers State, following President Bola Tinubu’s decision to lift the six-month state of emergency and reinstate Governor Siminalayi Fubara. The emergency rule was declared on March 18 due to the state’s unhealthy political atmosphere.
In a statewide broadcast, Ibas expressed gratitude to the people of Rivers State and President Tinubu for entrusting him with the responsibility to serve during the extraordinary period. He noted that law and order had been restored, local government council elections conducted, and statutory boards and commissions reconstituted. The state budget had also been passed by the National Assembly, providing a legitimate fiscal framework for governance and development.
Ibas cautioned political actors against exercising power without restraint, emphasizing the importance of dialogue and unity in governance. He urged citizens to support Governor Fubara and advised political leaders to prioritize stability and the greater good above personal ambition. The retired naval chief commended civil servants, security agencies, community leaders, and residents for maintaining stability during the emergency period.
The lifting of the emergency rule marks the end of six months of uncertainty in Rivers State, but the political landscape remains fragile. Observers note that while President Tinubu’s intervention averted a deeper crisis, questions remain over whether the underlying tensions that led to the suspension of democratic institutions have been fully resolved. The situation highlights the ongoing challenges in restoring democratic governance and stability in the state.
The reinstatement of Governor Fubara is seen as a significant step towards restoring normalcy in the state. However, the road to recovery is expected to be long and challenging, requiring the cooperation and support of all stakeholders. As the state moves forward, it is essential to address the underlying issues that led to the crisis and work towards building a more stable and inclusive political environment.
