JUST IN: Ibok-Ete Ibas resumes as Rivers sole administrator, holds security meeting (Video)

 Introduction

The newly appointed Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (Rtd), has officially assumed office following his appointment by President Bola Tinubu. This move comes amid rising security concerns in the state and the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara.

Ibok-Ete Ibas' Arrival and Reception

On Thursday at noon, Vice Admiral Ibas arrived at the Government House, Port Harcourt, to a warm reception. The Head of Service of Rivers State, George Nwaeke, along with other dignitaries, led the welcoming team at the airport. His arrival was accompanied by several high-ranking security officials, ensuring a smooth transition of power.

Security Personnel Present

Ibas was accompanied by key security figures, including:

🔷General Officer Commanding, 6 Division of the Nigerian Army

🔷Commander, Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Pathfinder

🔷Commander, 115 Special Operations Group, Nigerian Air Force

🔷Commissioner of Police

🔷Director of the Department of State Services (DSS)

🔷Director of Energy Security, Office of the National Security Adviser

First Official Actions: A Closed-Door Security Meeting

Upon arrival, Ibas headed straight to the State Executive Council Chambers, where he was received by Permanent Secretaries. He wasted no time in initiating a closed-door meeting with security heads, discussing the ongoing security situation in the state. The attendees included the Commissioner of Police, the DSS Director, the Head of Service, and other key government officials.

Key Points from the Security Meeting

🔷The security discussions are ongoing.

🔷The state of Rivers appears calm, but the administration is committed to returning the state to normalcy.

🔷Further updates on the situation may be provided later in the day.

Appointment Background: Ibas Replaces Governor Fubara

Vice Admiral Ibas was appointed as the Sole Administrator of Rivers State by President Bola Tinubu. His appointment follows the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, and members of the Rivers State House of Assembly due to the escalating political and security crisis in the state. Ibas will oversee the state's affairs for the next six months.

Presidential Declaration of a State of Emergency

On Tuesday, President Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State, citing disturbing incidents of pipeline vandalism and militant activities in the region. The President noted that these incidents were not being addressed effectively by the state government, prompting his decision to appoint Ibas as Sole Administrator.

Reactions to the Appointment

While the Federal Government has defended President Tinubu's actions, there has been significant backlash from various political figures. Opposition leaders such as Peter Obi, Atiku Abubakar, Rotimi Amaechi, and Nasir El-Rufai have condemned the move, questioning its legality and implications for the state's political autonomy. Legal experts have also weighed in, debating the constitutionality of the federal intervention.

The Road Ahead for Rivers State

As Vice Admiral Ibas settles into his role as the Sole Administrator, all eyes will be on his actions to address the ongoing security challenges in the state. His leadership will be crucial in navigating the turbulent political waters and ensuring stability in Rivers State.

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Call to Action:
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For more insights on the political situation in Nigeria, read our latest article on political crisis in Rivers State.

To understand more about President Tinubu's response to security issues, visit this article on his recent decisions.

Sole Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas (retired), wraps up a closed-door meeting at the executive chambers of the Rivers State government house and promises to deliver on his mandate. pic.twitter.com/f8HGonXp0O

— Ayekooto (@DeeOneAyekooto) March 20, 2025