Tinubu Swears in Vice Admiral Ibas as Sole Administrator of Rivers State Amid Political Crisis

Abuja, Nigeria, In a historic move, President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State, suspending Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, Ngozi Odu, and all elected members of the Rivers State House of Assembly for an initial period of six months.  

As part of the emergency measures, Tinubu appointed retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Étè Ibas as the sole administrator of Rivers State. The President swore Ibas into office at 3:00 PM at the State House, Abuja, in the presence of Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila, Attorney General Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), and Principal Secretary Hakeem Muri-Okunola. 

Ibas, who arrived at the Presidential Villa at 12:48 PM, previously served as Chief of Naval Staff from 2015 to 2021 under former President Muhammadu Buhari.  

In a national broadcast on Tuesday night, President Tinubu explained that the prolonged political instability, constitutional breaches, and security threats in Rivers State necessitated urgent federal intervention.  

"Having soberly reflected on and evaluated the political situation in Rivers State, it has become inevitably compelling for me to invoke Section 305 of the Constitution to declare a state of emergency. This action ensures the stability and security of the good people of Rivers State,"_ Tinubu stated.

He clarified that the judiciary in Rivers State remains unaffected and will continue to function as mandated by the Constitution.  

With the elected executive and legislative arms suspended, Vice Admiral Ibas will oversee the state's administration until stability is restored. His leadership is expected to navigate Rivers State through this turbulent period, ensuring governance continues effectively.  

The declaration marks one of the most significant political interventions in Nigeria’s recent history, sparking debates on its legal, political, and security implications. All eyes are now on Rivers State, as the nation watches how this bold step unfolds.

Meanwhile, The Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has vacated the Government House in Port Harcourt along with his family and security details.

Fubara reportedly left the seat of power on Wednesday morning, according to report although security at the Government House remains sparse, the two Armoured Personnel Carriers seen on Tuesday night in front of the premises are still stationed there with a handful of security operatives.