The Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (rtd.), has appeared before the House of Representatives Ad-Hoc Committee investigating the State of Emergency declared in the state.
Ibas, who had previously failed to honour two invitations from the committee, appealed for a new date to enable him present a more detailed and well-prepared report on the situation in Rivers State.
Speaking briefly before the session went behind closed doors, Ibas appreciated the panel, led by House Leader Prof. Julius Ihonvbere, for its efforts in defending democratic principles and maintaining constitutional order.
He apologised for his earlier absence, explaining that it was due to urgent state matters and the timing of the committee’s invitation, which coincided with public holidays and weekends.
“The absence, of course, was not out of disregard, but rather due to the weighty and urgent demands of stabilising governance in a state under a declared emergency,” he said.
Ibas noted that the situation in Rivers State remains calm but fragile, stressing the need for more time to prepare a meaningful and comprehensive engagement with the lawmakers.
In a statement issued after the closed-door session, the committee chairman confirmed receipt of a letter of apology from Ibas the night before and commended him for honouring the invitation in person.
“The Committee has magnanimously accepted his apology,” the statement read.
The panel also disclosed that a new date for the rescheduled briefing would be announced soon.
It reaffirmed its dedication to fairness and transparency, in line with its mandate under Sections 11(4) and 88 of the 1999 Constitution, and urged all stakeholders to continue supporting the ongoing process in the interest of democracy and national stability.
