Photo: Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas
Mathew Amaechi
In a decisive move to address escalating political unrest and security challenges, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has declared a state of emergency in Rivers State, appointing retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas as the state’s sole administrator. This action follows the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and all members of the state House of Assembly for six months.
The political crisis in Rivers State has been brewing for months, marked by tensions between Governor Fubara and state lawmakers, many of whom are aligned with his predecessor. The lawmakers initiated impeachment proceedings against the governor, accusing him of various illegalities concerning budget presentations and the composition of the legislative chamber. Compounding the political unrest, recent incidents of pipeline vandalism, including a fire on the Trans Niger Pipeline, have threatened the state’s security and economic stability.
Born on September 27, 1960, in Nko, Cross River State, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas has had a distinguished military career. He enlisted in the Nigerian Defence Academy in 1979 and was commissioned as a sub-lieutenant in 1983. Throughout his service, Ibas held various key positions, including Chief of Naval Staff from July 2015 until his retirement in January 2021. His tenure was marked by significant contributions to maritime security and military operations.
Following his retirement, Ibas was appointed as Nigeria’s High Commissioner to Ghana, reflecting the nation’s confidence in his diplomatic and leadership abilities.
The declaration of a state of emergency and the appointment of a sole administrator have elicited mixed reactions. The Nigerian Bar Association criticized the suspension of elected officials as illegal, stating that an emergency declaration does not automatically dissolve or suspend elected state governments.
As Vice Admiral Ibas assumes his role as the administrator of Rivers State, he faces the formidable tasks of restoring political stability, addressing security challenges, and ensuring the welfare of the state’s residents. His extensive military and diplomatic experience will be crucial in navigating the complexities of the current crisis and steering the state toward a path of peace and development
