The Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, addressed the people of Rivers in a broadcast on Thursday, assuring them that his role in the state is to restore order, not to engage in politics. Ibas, who recently took over at Government House in Port Harcourt, promised to protect citizens’ rights and ensure their safety.
Ibas, a former Chief of Naval Staff and Nigeria’s past High Commissioner to Ghana, explained that his mission is to bring peace to the troubled state. He expressed concern over the ongoing political crisis, which he described as a setback for governance and democracy. According to him, the unrest has caused hardship for residents and businesses.
Speaking as someone from the Niger Delta region, Ibas said he understands the difficulties people are facing due to the instability. He praised President Bola Tinubu for declaring a state of emergency in Rivers State, saying it was necessary to restore peace and revive the economy.
Ibas outlined his mandate, which includes restoring law and order, stabilizing the state, and creating a peaceful environment for development. He called on all residents, regardless of political background or ethnicity, to support this mission.
He also warned against acts of violence and the sabotage of oil facilities, reminding people of the environmental and economic damage such actions have caused in the past. Ibas urged the people to avoid repeating those mistakes.
Although he promised to uphold citizens’ rights, Ibas made it clear that his administration would deal firmly with anyone who disrupts the peace. He emphasized that lawlessness would not be tolerated.
Ibas revealed that after a meeting with the State Security Council, several strategies had been put in place to calm tensions and prevent further violence. He expressed gratitude to President Tinubu and the National Assembly for their support and pledged to work closely with national leaders to ensure that Rivers State emerges stronger from the crisis.
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