President Bola Tinubu has officially sworn in Vice Admiral Ibok-Étè Ibas (retd.) as the sole administrator of Rivers State. The swearing-in ceremony took place at approximately 3:00 p.m. on March 19, 2025, at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
The event was attended by key government officials, including the President’s Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, the Attorney General of the Federation, Mr. Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, and the Principal Secretary to the President, Mr. Hakeem Muri-Okunola.
Vice Admiral Ibas arrived at the State House at around 12:48 p.m. (local time) ahead of the ceremony. His appointment as sole administrator follows President Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, which led to the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu, and all members of the Rivers State House of Assembly.
The decision to impose emergency rule in the oil-rich state was influenced by growing political tensions and security concerns. Rivers State has been embroiled in a prolonged crisis, primarily involving a power struggle between Governor Fubara and state lawmakers, some of whom are loyal to his predecessor. The crisis worsened with the state assembly initiating impeachment proceedings against the governor over budget presentation disputes and governance issues.
Additionally, recent incidents of pipeline vandalism and security threats in the region contributed to the federal government’s intervention. President Tinubu’s administration stated that these measures were necessary to restore order, maintain security, and prevent further destabilization of the state.
Vice Admiral Ibas, who served as Nigeria’s Chief of Naval Staff from 2015 to 2021, is expected to bring his extensive experience in security and administration to stabilizing Rivers State. His role as sole administrator grants him full executive authority over the state’s affairs during the emergency period, which is initially set to last six months.
The decision to suspend elected officials has sparked debate. The Nigerian Bar Association has criticized it as unconstitutional, while supporters argue it is a necessary step to ensure governance continues in the state. The situation remains fluid as the country watches how the emergency rule will unfold in Rivers State.
