President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has appointed Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas as the Sole Administrator of Rivers State, following a declaration of a state of emergency in the area. This move suspends Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, and state assembly members for six months.

Vice Admiral Ibas, a former Chief of Naval Staff, will oversee the state’s affairs, ensuring stability and security during this period. He won’t have the authority to enact new laws but can formulate necessary regulations, subject to federal approval.

This decision marks a significant intervention by the federal government to address the prolonged political crisis in Rivers State, which has raised concerns over governance, economy, and security.

The appointment of Vice Admiral Ibas, a seasoned military officer with extensive experience in leadership and administration, is seen as a strategic move to restore order and stability in the state

Born on September 27, 1960, in Nko, Cross River State, Ibas boasts an impressive military career spanning over four decades. Ibas served as the 22nd Chief of Naval Staff from 2015 to 2021 and was a member of the Nigerian Defence Academy’s 26 Regular Course. He has held various command and staff appointments, including Flag Officer Commanding, Western Naval Command, and Chief of Logistics.

With his extensive experience in leadership and administration, Ibas is expected to restore peace, order, and effective governance in Rivers State during his initial six-month tenure.

Prior to his appointment, Ibas served as the Nigerian High Commissioner to Ghana.

He served also as the 22nd Chief of Naval Staff from 2015 to 2021 and was a member of the Nigerian Defence Academy’s 26 Regular Course. He has held various command and staff appointments, including Flag Officer Commanding, Western Naval Command, and Chief of Logistics.

With his extensive experience in leadership and administration, Ibas is expected to restore peace, order, and effective governance in Rivers State during his initial six-month tenure. Prior to his appointment, Ibas served as the Nigerian High Commissioner to Ghana.

As the Sole Administrator, he will be responsible for managing the state’s resources, ensuring the delivery of essential services, and maintaining law and order within six months

The six-month tenure of the Sole Administrator is expected to provide a window of opportunity for the state to stabilize and recover from the current crisis, paving the way for a return to democratic governance.

The statement announcing the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, and members of the Rivers State House of Assembly, as well as the appointment of Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas as Sole Administrator, was signed by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF).