Ibas Assures Rivers Residents of Stability, Reveals Plans for the State

Ibas Assures Rivers Residents of Stability, Reveals Plans for the State

Retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, the Sole Administrator of Rivers State, has reassured the people that his role is not motivated by partisan politics but to restore order and governance in the state. In a broadcast delivered on Thursday from Government House in Port Harcourt, Ibas affirmed his commitment to upholding civil liberties and ensuring the safety and well-being of all citizens………..READ MORE

Ibas, who has previously served as Nigeria’s 20th indigenous Chief of Naval Staff and as High Commissioner to Ghana, stressed that his primary mission is to bring peace to Rivers State. He described the ongoing political crisis as a major hindrance to effective governance and democracy, acknowledging the suffering of families and businesses amid the uncertainty.

“As a son of the Niger Delta, I feel the weight of this crisis on the people,” Ibas stated. He commended President Bola Tinubu for promptly declaring a state of emergency in the state, highlighting the necessity of this move to restore stability and rejuvenate the local economy.

“My mandate is clear: restore law and order, ensure stability, and foster an environment conducive to economic growth. This mission requires the collective support of all stakeholders, irrespective of political affiliation or ethnicity,” Ibas affirmed.

In his address, Ibas issued a stern warning against sabotaging crude oil facilities and engaging in violence, urging residents to avoid returning to destructive past behaviors. He emphasized the devastating environmental and economic impacts of such attacks, stating, “The Niger Delta has moved beyond the destruction of oil infrastructure. We must resist reverting to those harmful days.”

While emphasizing his dedication to upholding civil rights and the rule of law, Ibas made it clear that acts of lawlessness and violence would not be tolerated. “We will not act arbitrarily, but we will decisively address anyone threatening the peace and stability of Rivers State,” he declared.

Ibas revealed that a State Security Council meeting had been concluded, and strategic measures to de-escalate tensions and prevent further conflict were put in place. He expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for entrusting him with the responsibility and to the National Assembly for supporting the emergency declaration.

“I will work closely with the national leadership, under the guidance of the President. I am confident that Rivers State will emerge stronger and more prosperous,” Ibas concluded.