The Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral (Rtd.) Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas, inaugurated the 23 elected Local Government Council Chairmen at the Government House in Port Harcourt on Monday.
He stated, “We all witnessed a pivotal moment in the history of our beloved state on March 18, 2025, when His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, declared a state of emergency in Rivers State due to the evident breakdown of law and order. This unrest was further exacerbated by the absence of a constitutionally guaranteed governance structure at the local government level, following a landmark decision of the Supreme Court of Nigeria.
“The peace, progress, stability, and successes we have since achieved are solely due to the firm support, guidance, and leadership of His Excellency, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR. At every stage, Mr. President has shown a deep commitment to peace-building and development in Rivers State. Mr. President, we are profoundly grateful.
“Today marks a day of renewal; a day when the will of the people has spoken, when the principles of democracy have prevailed, and when Rivers State takes a deliberate step out of uncertainty and back onto the firm path of constitutional order.
“During my inaugural speech as Administrator of Rivers State, I pledged to restore peace, security, order, and good governance to our state. I assured the people of Rivers State that democratic governance would be reinstated at the grassroots level, the tier of government closest to our citizens. Today, I have fulfilled that promise.
“In line with the mandate given by His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, to restore law, order, and democratic institutions in Rivers State, we held local government elections across the 23 local government areas on Saturday, August 30, 2025, to elect chairmen and councillors. The process was peaceful, credible, and widely embraced by our people.
“I commend the good people of Rivers State. You came out with dignity, discipline, and determination to exercise your right to vote. You have proven that democracy belongs to the people, that power must stem from the consent of the governed, and that no obstacle can weaken the resolve of a united citizenry.
“I extend heartfelt congratulations to the Chairman, Commissioners, and staff of the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission for carrying out their duties with integrity, transparency, and diligence. You have demonstrated that free, fair, and peaceful elections are not only possible in Rivers State but must become our standard.
“In every contest, winners must emerge. Today, you, our new Chairman, are entrusted with the solemn leadership responsibility. I congratulate you. However, let me be clear: this victory is not a prize to be savored; it is a burden to be borne. It is not an entitlement, but a duty. It is not a call for self-interest, but for selfless service.
“You stand today as custodians of the most immediate tier of government—the local government—where the state interacts with its citizens, where the promises of democracy are either fulfilled or betrayed. The honor your people have bestowed upon you must be repaid with accountability, humility, and a steadfast commitment to their welfare.
“Public service is not an avenue for personal gain. It is not a shortcut to wealth nor a stage for vanity. It is, and must always remain, a call to serve with integrity, transparency, and compassion.
“You are stewards of the public good. Your decisions will shape the lives of families, influence the direction of our communities, and impact the legacy of this generation.
“Do not take the enormity of the task before you lightly. Lead with humility. Be bold in your vision, steadfast in your duty, and resolute in your character.
“I urge you to familiarize yourselves diligently with the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and all relevant laws governing the administration of local government. These are not mere documents; they are the compass of your stewardship and the safeguard of the institutions you have sworn to uphold.
“As you take your oath today, lead with courage, not convenience. Govern with justice, not favoritism. Serve with humility, not arrogance. Protect the people’s trust with integrity, not corruption.
“As you assume office, uphold the principles of transparency, accountability, and service delivery. Prioritize the needs of your people. Consult and partner with them to create an inclusive and sustainable society. As custodians of public funds, use the resources at your disposal wisely.
“Without peace, there can be no progress. Engage traditional institutions, security agencies, youth, and community leaders to foster a secure and peaceful environment. Strengthen local economies by supporting small businesses, enhancing infrastructure, and investing in education, healthcare, and social welfare.
“You are the future of local governance, and your actions today will shape the road ahead for Rivers State.”
