President Bola Ahmed Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State, suspending Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu, and all members of the State House of Assembly for an initial period of six months.
To oversee governance during this period, the President has appointed retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas as the Sole Administrator of the state.
Who is Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas?
Born on September 27, 1960, in Nko, Cross River State, Vice Admiral Ibas is a seasoned military officer with decades of experience in Nigeria’s naval operations.
His military career began in 1979 at the Nigerian Defence Academy as part of the 26th Regular Course, and he was commissioned as a Sub-Lieutenant in 1983.
Over the years, Ibas held several strategic positions in the Nigerian Navy, including serving as the Flag Officer Commanding Western Naval Command.
His most prominent role came in July 2015 when he was appointed the 22nd Chief of Naval Staff, a position he held until January 2021.
Following his retirement, he was appointed as Nigeria’s Ambassador to Ghana.
9News Nigeria reports that the decision to impose emergency rule in Rivers State follows months of escalating political tensions and recent security threats, including attacks on vital oil infrastructure.
The federal government cited the need to stabilize governance and protect national assets, particularly after a fire outbreak on the Trans Niger Pipeline, as key reasons for the intervention.
With his extensive military and diplomatic experience, Vice Admiral Ibas is expected to restore stability in Rivers State, tackle security concerns, and oversee governance until democratic rule is reinstated.
