PORT HARCOURT, Nigeria — Ibok-Ete Ibas, the Sole Administrator of Rivers State, has warned that his administration will not tolerate any actions that threaten the peace and stability of the state.
Speaking during a state-wide broadcast in Port Harcourt on Thursday, March 20, 2025, Ibas emphasised that there would be “no room for lawlessness” under his leadership.
Ibas, a retired Vice Admiral, was appointed by President Bola Tinubu following the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State.
His appointment came after the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, Ngozi Odu, and all members of the state House of Assembly due to the prolonged political crisis in the state.
In his address, Ibas outlined his mandate to restore law and order, stabilise the polity, and create the necessary conditions for the full restoration of democratic institutions and representation in Rivers State.
“Let me be clear, under my leadership, civil liberties and fundamental human rights will be respected and protected. The rule of law will remain sacrosanct,” Ibas said.
He added, “Those who seek to sabotage the social or economic stability of Rivers State and national infrastructure and institutions within the state, or who attempt to disrupt the peace for selfish and destructive ends, will find no tolerance for their actions. There will be no room for lawlessness, no space for violence, and no patience for actions that threaten our collective well-being.”
Ibas assured residents that he is not a partisan actor and is not involved in the political struggles that have destabilised the state.
He stated that security agencies have been instructed to remain neutral, respect the rights of citizens, and maintain law and order.
While thanking President Tinubu and the 10th National Assembly for their support, Ibas pledged to carry out his assignment in good faith.
“As a son of the Niger Delta, I am one of you, and I recognise the weight of this moment, the expectations of the people, and the challenges that lie ahead. I feel the weight of families, young and old,” Ibas said.
He added, “My mandate is clear — to restore law and order, stabilise the polity, and to create the necessary conditions for the full restoration of democratic institutions and representation. This is not a task for one man alone. Success will depend on the collective effort of all Rivers people, elders, political leaders, traditional rulers, faith leaders, youth, women, the media, and civil society.”
