Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas (retd.) was appointed Sole Administrator of Rivers State on March 18, 2025, by President Bola Tinubu following the declaration of a state of emergency in the state.

The move followed escalating political turmoil, including a six-month suspension of the state’s government. The elected Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, and members of the Rivers State House of Assembly were implicated in the suspension that aimed to restore order.

Ibas, a retired Chief of Naval Staff with extensive military and diplomatic experience, was tasked with stabilizing Rivers State. He was to oversee governance and conduct local government elections to restore democratic processes.

His appointment was pursuant to Section 305 (5) of the 1999 Constitution and was aimed at addressing persistent unrest. More so, to address attacks on oil installations in the oil-rich state.

Ibas on “Sufficiently Achieved” and Achieving “Tinubu’s Mandate in Rivers State”

Ibas’s stewardship saw the organization of local government elections and the subsequent swearing-in of elected officials. He cited this as “fulfilling his mandate” from President Tinubu. The elections marked a political shift with the All Progressives Congress (APC) winning 20 out of 23 local government areas.

This was the first time since 1999 that such a reorganisation was seen, although voter turnout was notably low amid widespread boycott. The election outcomes were significant as they paved the way for lifting the emergency rule and the reinstatement of the suspended government and assembly.

However, the administration was marred by controversy and accusations. Critics challenged the legitimacy of his appointment, arguing it undermined democratic governance.

Former gubernatorial aspirants and civil society groups condemned his appointment of local government administrators as unconstitutional. They stated that only democratically elected chairmen have constitutional recognition at the local level.

His defiance of court orders and poor engagement with legislative oversight committees further fueled skepticism. This further led to questions about his commitment to transparency and rule of law.

Various critics labeled his leadership as authoritarian, accusing him of partisanship and favoring political groups. This is believed to undermine public confidence.

Financial misconduct allegations have also surfaced against Ibas amid his tenure, with groups in the state raising alarms over large-scale financial irregularities.

Despite these challenges, supporters argued that Ibas brought calm and initiated critical projects. Some have credited him for helping stabilize Rivers during his tenure under emergency rule. Others commended his efforts to strengthen institutions amid a difficult political crisis.

Financial misconduct allegations is fueling debate about his performance. and the broader implications of the state of emergency in Rivers State.