Tinubu Swears In Ibok-Ete Ibas as Sole Administrator of Rivers State


By Insight by Oppy

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has officially sworn in Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas as the sole administrator of Rivers State, following the declaration of a state of emergency in the state.

The swearing-in ceremony took place today, Wednesday, March 19, 2025, at the State House in Abuja, with key government officials, including the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, and Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, in attendance.

Why the State of Emergency?

President Tinubu declared a six-month state of emergency in Rivers State on Tuesday, March 18, 2025, citing the prolonged political crisis between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and members of the Rivers State House of Assembly. Despite a Supreme Court ruling on the matter, tensions in the state have persisted, raising security concerns.

According to the President, the decision was necessary to prevent a total breakdown of law and order and ensure stability in the oil-rich state. With the declaration, the governor and other political officeholders have effectively been sidelined, and all executive powers now rest with the newly appointed sole administrator.

Who is Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas?

Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, born September 27, 1960, is a seasoned military officer with vast experience in governance and security. He was commissioned as a Sub-Lieutenant in the Nigerian Navy in 1983 and steadily rose through the ranks to become Chief of Naval Staff in 2015, a position he held until 2021.

Following his retirement, former President Muhammadu Buhari appointed him as Nigeria’s High Commissioner to Ghana, where he served from 2021 to 2023. With his new role as sole administrator of Rivers State, he is expected to restore order, improve security, and stabilize governance in the state.

Reactions and What to Expect

The appointment of a sole administrator has sparked mixed reactions. While some believe it is a necessary step to address the lingering political instability, others argue that it sets a dangerous precedent for democracy.

Legal experts are debating the constitutional implications of the President’s decision, as critics question whether it aligns with democratic principles. On the other hand, supporters argue that the move is justified given the security threats and political deadlock in Rivers State.

Meanwhile, residents of Rivers State remain uncertain about what lies ahead. Some are hopeful that the intervention will bring much-needed peace, while others fear it could deepen political tensions.

With full executive powers, Vice Admiral Ibas will oversee the governance of Rivers State for the next six months. His leadership during this period will be crucial in determining the state’s political future and restoring public confidence in governance.

As developments unfold, all eyes will be on Rivers State and how this historic intervention shapes its political landscape.

Stay connected with Insight by Oppy for more updates on this developing story.


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