Vice Admiral Ibok-Ette Ibas, the newly appointed Sole Administrator for Rivers State, has declared a zero-tolerance policy for lawlessness and violence, vowing to protect critical national assets and restore stability to the state.
In a state-wide broadcast from Government House, Port Harcourt, Ibas emphasized that his acceptance of the role was driven by a commitment to peace and progress, not personal ambition. He pledged to serve as a non-partisan leader dedicated to restoring order and facilitating development.
“I have dedicated my life to the service of our great nation,” Ibas stated, highlighting his previous roles as Chief of Naval Staff and Nigerian Commissioner to Ghana. “After what I believe to be my retirement from public service, duty has called again. I have answered not for personal ambition but out of abiding commitment to bring peace, stability and prosperity to Nigeria as a whole and more specifically, Rivers State.”
Acknowledging the state’s prolonged political crisis, Ibas described it as a period of paralyzed governance, desecrated democratic institutions, and threatened security. He emphasized President Bola Tinubu’s decisive actions in declaring a state of emergency and appointing him, aimed at restoring normalcy and protecting the livelihoods of Rivers State residents.
“My mandate is clear: to restore law and order, stabilize the polity, and create the necessary conditions for the full restoration of democratic institutions and representation,” Ibas asserted. He called for collective effort from all Rivers State residents, including elders, political leaders, traditional rulers, youths, women, the media, and civil society.
Ibas assured that he would not act as a partisan figure, but rather as a servant tasked with restoring peace and order. He emphasized the importance of unity, cooperation, and dialogue, urging residents to set aside differences and work together for the state’s future.
He condemned the destruction of national infrastructure, stressing the environmental and economic consequences. He advocated for dialogue and engagement as effective conflict resolution tools.
Ibas pledged to uphold civil liberties, fundamental human rights, and the rule of law. He warned that those who seek to destabilize the state or sabotage national infrastructure would face strict enforcement of the law.
Following his inaugural State Security Council meeting, Ibas directed security agencies to remain neutral, respect citizens’ rights, and maintain law and order. He promised to develop a pragmatic roadmap for the next six months, ensuring government functions effectively and stakeholders are engaged.
