Rivers State Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (Rtd), has commenced formal transition activities ahead of the return to democratic governance, six months after President Bola Ahmed Tinubu imposed a state of emergency in the state.
The government announced on Saturday that part of the transition programme will include an interdenominational church thanksgiving service scheduled for Sunday.
A statement by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Prof. Ibibia Lucky Worika, invited all critical stakeholders to attend the service.
On Friday, while receiving the report of the August 30 Local Government election, the Administrator declared that the presidential mandate handed to him on March 18 had been fulfilled.
He recalled that his tenure was tasked with restoring calm, stabilising governance, and safeguarding key economic assets in Rivers following months of political turmoil.
“When Mr. President entrusted me with this difficult assignment, I pledged to serve with courage and impartiality. Six months after, we have restored calm, stabilized the state, and ensured that Rivers remains a strong economic ally of the nation. While challenges remain, I can confidently say the presidential mandate has been fulfilled,” Ibas said.
He expressed appreciation to security agencies, civil servants, community leaders, and the people of Rivers State for their cooperation during what he described as a “trying but purposeful” period.
Tinubu declared emergency rule in the oil-rich state on March 18 following a deepening political crisis.
The move saw the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and all members of the state assembly for six months, with Ibas, a retired naval chief, appointed as sole administrator.
The president’s decision sparked widespread criticism from opposition parties and sections of the public.
The emergency rule is set to expire on Thursday, September 18.
