General Bola Tinubu has appointed Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas (Rtd) as the new Administrator of Rivers State, following the declaration of a state of emergency and the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara.
Tinubu has declared a military takeover in Rivers State, removing the democratically elected Governor Fubara following a broadcast declaration. This move suspends civilian governance and places the state under military control.
He said Vice Admiral Ibas will oversee the administration of the state for an indefinite period, ensuring the state’s affairs are managed in line with federal directives. Tinubu’s decision also involves the suspension of Governor Fubara, his deputy Mrs. Ngozi Odu, and all elected members of the Rivers State House of Assembly for an initial six months.
During his nationwide broadcast, Tinubu emphasized that the judicial arm of the state will remain unaffected and will continue to function as mandated by the constitution. However, the appointed Administrator will be allowed to formulate necessary regulations for effective governance, which will need approval from the Federal Executive Council and formal promulgation by the Tinubu.
“This declaration, which has been published in the Federal Gazette and forwarded to the National Assembly, aims to restore peace and order in Rivers State and to remind all political players in the state of their constitutional responsibilities,” President Tinubu said.
The announcement signals a significant shift in governance within Rivers State, with military control now in place to address ongoing instability and enforce federal policies.
