The Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Vice-Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (Rtd), has officially inaugurated the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RISIEC), along with the Civil Service Commission, Local Government Service Commission, and the Primary Health Care Management Board.
The ceremony, held at the Government House in Port Harcourt, signals a renewed effort by the Ibas administration to restore proper governance and revive democratic institutions in the state.
Speaking during the event, Ibas charged the newly appointed officials to embrace integrity, professionalism, and discipline in their work. He said these values are necessary to rebuild public trust and ensure effective service delivery.
Addressing the RISIEC members, Ibas stressed the importance of conducting free, fair, and credible local government elections that reflect the will of the people.
“Your duty is clear and critical. You must resist bias, external pressure, and act fairly to restore faith in the electoral system,” he said.
Dr. Michael Ekpai Odey was sworn in as RISIEC Chairman. Other members include Prof. Arthur Nwafor and Prof. Joyce Akaninwor.
The Civil Service Commission, led by Dr. Livinus Bariki, was also inaugurated. Ibas told the commission to lead a shift from favouritism to merit-based recruitment and promotion, calling for a digital and performance-driven public service.
At the Local Government Service Commission, chaired by Mr. Isreal Amadi, the administrator emphasized professionalism and discipline, urging reforms to improve service delivery at the grassroots.
Rear Adm. Emmanuel Ofik (Rtd) and Dr. Tonye Pepple are among the members of this commission.
For the Primary Health Care Board, Ibas said their work is vital to improving healthcare in all 23 LGAs of the state. He called for better staffing, equipment, and focus on maternal health, immunisation, and disease prevention.
Dr. Dawari George was sworn in as Chairman of the health board, alongside Dr. Chituru Adiele, Prof. Kaladada Korubo, and representatives from various ministries.
While assuring all the boards of government support and funding, Ibas also warned that performance will be strictly monitored.
This move comes as part of broader efforts to restore stability and good governance in Rivers State following recent political and administrative disruptions.