The newly appointed Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ette Ibas (retd.), officially assumed office on Thursday, pledging to restore peace, law, and order in the state.
In his maiden state-wide address, Ibas warned against lawlessness and acts of violence, emphasizing that further attacks on oil installations and national assets would not be tolerated. He assured that his leadership would be non-partisan and focused on stabilizing the state.
“I have answered this call, not for personal ambition, but out of a commitment to bring peace, stability, and progress to Rivers State and Nigeria as a whole,” Ibas stated.
Acknowledging the political crisis that has paralyzed governance in the state, he described his appointment as a necessary step to restore normalcy. “The political impasse over the past two years has desecrated democratic institutions, threatened security, and deepened divisions among the people. These are realities we cannot ignore,” he noted.
As a son of the Niger Delta, Ibas said he understands the concerns of the people and assured that President Bola Tinubu’s decision to declare a state of emergency was aimed at ensuring stability, reviving economic activities, and protecting citizens’ livelihoods.
“My mandate is clear: to restore law and order, stabilize the polity, and create the necessary conditions for the full restoration of democratic institutions and representation,” he said, calling for collective efforts from political leaders, traditional rulers, youths, and civil society.
While affirming that civil liberties and fundamental human rights would be upheld, he warned that anyone attempting to disrupt the state’s peace or sabotage national infrastructure would face the full force of the law.
“There will be no room for lawlessness, no tolerance for violence, and no patience for actions that threaten our collective well-being,” Ibas declared.
He pledged to move swiftly in articulating a six-month roadmap to ensure government agencies function effectively and essential services are provided to citizens.
