President Bola Tinubu has declared a state of emergency in Rivers State, suspending Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, and members of the state assembly. The move, aimed at restoring stability in the oil-rich state, comes amid escalating political tensions and governance paralysis.
To steer the state through this turbulent period, Tinubu has appointed retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas as the new administrator of Rivers State for the next six months.
In a nationally televised address, President Tinubu emphasised the urgency of the situation. “This declaration has been published in the Federal Gazette and forwarded to the National Assembly, in accordance with the Constitution,” he stated. “It is my fervent hope that this intervention will help restore peace and order in Rivers State.”
The declaration of a state of emergency grants the federal government sweeping powers to intervene in the state’s affairs. While the executive and legislative arms of the state government have been suspended, the judiciary remains intact, ensuring that legal processes continue uninterrupted.
At the helm of this emergency administration is Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, a seasoned military officer and diplomat with a distinguished career spanning over four decades. Born on September 27, 1960, in Nko, Cross River State, Ibas brings a wealth of experience in leadership, governance, and strategic planning to his new role.
Ibas served as Nigeria’s Chief of Naval Staff from 2015 to 2021, during which he spearheaded efforts to enhance maritime security and combat piracy in the Gulf of Guinea. His tenure was marked by significant improvements in naval operations and the modernization of the Nigerian Navy. Following his retirement from the military, Ibas was appointed Nigeria’s ambassador to Ghana, where he served from 2021 to 2024, fostering diplomatic ties and promoting Nigeria’s interests in the West African subregion.
Educated at the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) and holding key command positions aboard several naval vessels, Ibas is widely respected for his discipline, integrity and strategic acumen. His appointment as Rivers State administrator underscores the federal government’s confidence in his ability to navigate the state through its current challenges.
As administrator, Ibas will oversee the day-to-day governance of Rivers State, with a mandate to restore stability and ensure the smooth functioning of government institutions. However, his powers will be limited in certain respects. While he will not have the authority to enact new laws, he will be empowered to issue regulations necessary for maintaining order, subject to approval by the Federal Executive Council and the president.
“The administrator will not make any new laws. However, he will be free to formulate regulations as necessary to do his job,” Tinubu clarified. “Such regulations must be considered and approved by the FEC and promulgated by the president.”
This measured approach is designed to prevent abuse of power while allowing Ibas the flexibility to address pressing issues. His administration will focus on resolving the political impasse, addressing security concerns, and stabilising the state’s economy, which has been adversely affected by the crisis.
The declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State marks one of President Tinubu’s most assertive actions since assuming office. It reflects his administration’s commitment to addressing political instability and safeguarding Nigeria’s economic and security interests.
Rivers State, as a major oil-producing region, plays a critical role in Nigeria’s economy. Prolonged instability in the state could have far-reaching implications, not only for the region but for the entire country. By appointing a figure of Ibas’s stature, Tinubu has signaled his determination to restore order and prevent further deterioration of the situation.
As Vice Admiral Ibas takes charge, all eyes will be on Rivers State to see how this bold intervention unfolds. Will it pave the way for lasting peace and stability, or will it deepen the existing divisions? Only time will tell, but for now, the hope is that this move will bring much-needed relief to a state on the brink.