No More Chaos! Ibas Offers Game-Changing Resolution for Rivers State”

Rivers State Administrator, Retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, has expressed optimism that the ongoing political crisis in the state can be peacefully resolved through dialogue, describing it as a manageable political disagreement rather than an intractable conflict.

Speaking during the 58th anniversary celebration of Rivers State’s creation at the Government House in Port Harcourt, Ibas maintained that the crisis was fundamentally political and best approached through negotiation rather than confrontation.

“I don’t believe this crisis is beyond resolution,” Ibas said. “It’s a political dispute, not a war. And like most conflicts—no matter how prolonged or violent—peace is often achieved when parties choose to talk.”

He drew comparisons with global conflicts, noting that many enduring political standoffs had ended when courageous leaders prioritized dialogue over division.

“Resolution doesn’t always mean total agreement,” he added, “but it does require leaders to shift ground for the greater good.”

Calling for deep reflection, Ibas lamented that the current state of affairs in Rivers falls short of the vision and values laid down by the founding fathers.

“This isn’t the Rivers State our forebears envisioned. The people are watching—and they deserve leadership that champions their interests,” he said.

Ibas urged political leaders to set aside personal ambitions and assume responsibility for resolving the crisis in the interest of the state’s future.

Defending President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers, Ibas described the move as a necessary intervention that helped avert looming chaos.

He also criticized certain elders and religious leaders for fanning the flames of division rather than offering constructive mediation.

“I wonder where some of these voices were when political actors were exploiting the situation for selfish gain,” he noted, encouraging citizens to assess both actions and inactions that contributed to the crisis.

Highlighting the strategic importance of Rivers State, Ibas reminded the audience that it is second only to Lagos in economic productivity and contributes nearly 40 percent of Nigeria’s onshore oil production. He emphasized the need for unity to maintain its critical role in the nation’s economy.

Reflecting on his role, Ibas described serving as Rivers State Administrator as one of the greatest honors of his life, and thanked the people for their continued support.