Retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, the newly appointed Sole Administrator of Rivers State, has assured residents of his commitment to restore peace and stability following the recent political crisis that has plagued the state. In a state broadcast from Government House, Port Harcourt, Ibas explained that he took on the responsibility not out of political ambition, but from a deep desire to bring peace to Rivers State and Nigeria at large.
“I answered this call out of the need for peace in Nigeria, and most importantly, in Rivers State,” said Ibas, whose career has spanned significant roles, including being Nigeria’s 20th indigenous Chief of Naval Staff and later, Nigeria’s High Commissioner to Ghana. His statement made it clear that his role as Sole Administrator was not driven by political competition, but rather a sense of duty to stabilize the state and restore governance in a turbulent time.
During his address, Ibas highlighted that his primary mission is to ensure the safety and security of all citizens in Rivers State. He reiterated that the people’s civil liberties would be protected and that his government would work tirelessly to restore order in a state marred by political turmoil and violence.
“I am not here as a partisan actor,” Ibas assured. “I am here as a stabilizing force. My commitment is to restore law and order and ensure that the people of Rivers State can live and work in peace.”
Ibas also took the opportunity to address the ongoing violence and sabotage in the region, particularly in the oil industry. He issued a stern warning against the destruction of oil infrastructure, reminding the people of the devastating impact that such actions have had in the past.
“The Niger Delta has moved beyond the destruction of oil facilities. We must resist the temptation to return to those ugly days,” he cautioned, referring to the period when oil sabotage and vandalism plagued the region, causing environmental degradation and significant economic loss.
The situation in Rivers State has been characterized by a prolonged political impasse, which Ibas described as a major setback to governance and democracy. Tensions have been high, with families and businesses feeling the brunt of the instability. Many have expressed frustration with the prolonged uncertainty, and there is widespread hope that the appointment of Ibas as Sole Administrator will bring about a resolution.
“As a son of the Niger Delta, I am one of you,” Ibas said, acknowledging the struggles of the people. “I feel the weight of this crisis on families, businesses, and the future of our people.”
Acknowledging the challenges, Ibas praised President Bola Tinubu for his decisive action in declaring a state of emergency in Rivers State, a move that he believes was necessary to restore stability. The declaration, which came after months of political gridlock, has been met with mixed reactions, but Ibas expressed his strong support for the President’s decision.
“My mandate is clear: restore law and order, ensure stability, and create an enabling environment for economic growth,” Ibas stated, adding that these goals could only be achieved with the cooperation of all stakeholders in the state.
The Sole Administrator highlighted that his administration’s top priority would be to restore the state’s economic activities, which have been disrupted by ongoing conflicts. He called on all political and ethnic groups in the state to come together in support of the mission to rebuild Rivers.
“To achieve lasting peace and development, we must come together,” Ibas said, stressing that the success of his mandate would depend on the collective efforts of all residents, regardless of their political or ethnic affiliations.
He also promised that his administration would create an environment conducive to business and economic growth, which is crucial for the state’s recovery.
One of the most important messages delivered by Ibas was his administration’s zero-tolerance policy for violence and lawlessness. While emphasizing the importance of upholding civil liberties and the rule of law, he made it clear that any form of lawlessness or violence would be dealt with decisively.
“We will not act arbitrarily, but we will not hesitate to deal decisively with anyone who threatens the peace and stability of Rivers State,” Ibas warned.
His warning is likely in response to the ongoing political violence and attacks on government and private property that have plagued the state in recent months. The Sole Administrator’s stern stance signals a new chapter in the state’s fight against lawlessness and instability.
In the aftermath of his appointment, Ibas has already begun taking strategic steps to address the underlying tensions in the state. He revealed that he had convened a State Security Council meeting, where critical measures were discussed to de-escalate tensions and prevent further conflicts.
While he did not go into specific details, the measures discussed are expected to focus on intelligence gathering, peace-building efforts, and coordination with various security agencies to maintain law and order.
“I am optimistic that with the support of the President, the National Assembly, and all stakeholders, we will bring peace back to Rivers State,” Ibas concluded, expressing confidence that the state would emerge stronger and more united.
As Ibas embarks on his mission to restore peace and stability in Rivers State, his success will largely depend on the cooperation of all residents, political leaders, and stakeholders. With the support of President Tinubu and the National Assembly, there is hope that the Sole Administrator will lead Rivers to a more peaceful and prosperous future.
For now, Ibas’ message remains clear: lawlessness will not be tolerated, and the state must move forward together to rebuild and create a brighter future for all.
