Sole Administrator Requests More Time, Cites Fragile State of Rivers

Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd.), the Sole Administrator of Rivers State, has appealed for additional time to present a comprehensive report to the House of Representatives Ad-Hoc Committee on Rivers State Oversight, describing the current situation in the state as “relatively calm but still fragile.” The request was made during a recent session with the committee, chaired by Rep. Julius Ihonvbere, in Abuja.

Ibas, appointed as Sole Administrator following the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State by President Bola Tinubu on March 18, 2025, apologized for his absence at earlier committee meetings. He attributed his non-attendance to the pressing demands of stabilizing governance in a state grappling with political and security challenges. “I sincerely apologize for not being able to attend previous meetings,” Ibas stated. “The situation in Rivers State has required my full attention, as we are working to maintain calm in a fragile environment.”

The Sole Administrator explained that the complexities of managing Rivers State under the current emergency framework necessitated more time to compile a detailed and accurate report for the committee. He assured lawmakers that his administration was committed to transparency and accountability, emphasizing that the requested extension would enable a thorough presentation of the state’s progress and challenges.

Rep. Ihonvbere, leading the Ad-Hoc Committee, acknowledged Ibas’ apology and the unique circumstances in Rivers State. “We understand the delicate nature of your assignment,” Ihonvbere remarked. “The committee is not here to witch-hunt but to ensure proper oversight and support the restoration of stability in Rivers State.” The committee unanimously agreed to grant Ibas the additional time, with a new date for the briefing to be confirmed.

The declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State followed months of political turmoil, marked by disputes between factions loyal to former Governor Nyesom Wike and his successor, Siminalayi Fubara. The crisis, which saw violent clashes and disruptions in governance, prompted President Tinubu to suspend the state’s elected government and appoint Ibas to oversee a transitional administration. The move has been met with mixed reactions, with some residents welcoming the intervention as a step toward peace, while others view it as an overreach of federal authority.

Ibas’ administration has focused on restoring public confidence, rebuilding infrastructure damaged during the unrest, and addressing security concerns. However, the Sole Administrator admitted that challenges such as youth unrest, economic disruptions, and lingering political tensions continue to pose significant hurdles. “We are making progress, but the situation remains fragile,” he reiterated.

The House Ad-Hoc Committee was established to monitor the implementation of the state of emergency and ensure that federal resources allocated to Rivers State are utilized effectively. The committee’s oversight role includes evaluating the performance of the Sole Administrator and providing recommendations to the National Assembly.

As Rivers State navigates this critical juncture, all eyes are on Ibas’ administration and the federal government’s broader strategy to restore lasting peace and stability. The forthcoming briefing to the Ad-Hoc Committee is expected to shed light on the administration’s achievements, ongoing challenges, and plans for the future.

For now, the granted extension reflects the committee’s willingness to accommodate the complexities of governing a state in transition, while underscoring the urgency of maintaining transparency and accountability in the process.