Rear Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, the Sole Administrator appointed to oversee Rivers State during its six-month emergency rule, has formally handed power back to Governor Sim Fubara.
In a farewell state-wide broadcast on Thursday morning, Ibas expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve and urged residents to give Fubara their full support as he resumes his constitutional duties.
President Bola Tinubu had declared a state of emergency in Rivers six months ago, suspending Fubara and appointing Ibas to restore order. On Wednesday, the president lifted the emergency rule and reinstated the governor.
Reflecting on his tenure, Ibas said the state had achieved key milestones: law and order restored, local government elections held with elected chairmen now in office, statutory boards and commissions reconstituted, and the state budget passed by the National Assembly to provide a legal framework for governance.
“These are milestones of progress that belong to all of us and reflect the resilience of our people, determined never to let the state slip into paralysis,” he said.
He cautioned that “the exercise of power without restraint can cripple institutions and rivalry without dialogue clearly endangers democracy,” noting that his experience had deepened his appreciation for dedicated public servants and wise counsel from statesmen.
“As I hand back the reins of leadership to Sim Fubara, I do so with confidence and respect,” Ibas stated. “I urge all Rivers people to support him wholeheartedly because leadership and followership is a shared responsibility. No matter how competent and clear a vision may be, it can only thrive with the active support of citizens.”
Ibas described the handover as the close of another chapter in his career, spanning service at sea, diplomacy, and now governance.