Rear Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd.), Rivers State’s sole administrator, turned over authority to Governor Siminalayi Fubara on Thursday, announcing the restoration of law and order in the state.
Ibas, who was appointed by President Bola Tinubu six months ago to stabilize Rivers amid political unrest, said in his farewell speech that his tenure brought about “milestones of progress,” such as the holding of local government elections, the reorganization of statutory boards, and the National Assembly’s approval of the state budget.
He warned that “the exercise of power without restraint can cripple institutions, and rivalry without dialogue clearly endangers democracy,” pointing out that government was “a living process” that required attention, sacrifice, and communication.
One of the most lasting lessons of this season is that competitiveness without communication obviously threatens democracy, and the unbridled use of power may destroy institutions.
Therefore, he stated, “Let this chapter serve as a constant reminder that the strength of the institutions we uphold and the unity we foster are what determine the health of our polity, not who wins or loses, but how political actors manage their differences.”
Ibas thanked Tinubu for giving him the task, commended the tenacity of the Rivers State people, and congratulated security personnel for keeping the calm.
“I now confidently and respectfully return the reins of leadership to his excellency Governor Siminalayi Fubara,” Ibas said. Since leadership and followership are shared responsibilities, I urge everyone in Rivers to fully support him.
“Your vision can only be realized and flourish with the active support of residents, regardless of how capable and clear you are. This marks the end of another phase of my life that has been dedicated to serving at sea, in diplomacy, and now in government.
“May this state never again be on the verge of disintegrating, my beloved people. May we always choose development over paralysis, communication over strife, and unity over division. The scent of the green city must never fade. God bless everyone. May the Federal Republic of Nigeria and River State both be blessed by God.
After months of political unrest that crippled governance and jeopardized security in the oil-rich state, Tinubu announced in March that the State of Emergency in Rivers State would end.
In order to restore order, the President disbanded political formations and nominated Ibas as administrator.
However, Rivers State’s State of Emergency was formally lifted by Tinubu on Wednesday, paving the way for the restoration of full democratic governance.
