Ibas: I Restored Peace in Rivers Under Difficult Conditions

The Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas (rtd), has declared that he has successfully fulfilled his mandate of restoring peace and stability to the state despite facing what he called “extraordinary circumstances.” The former Chief of Naval Staff made the statement as his six-month tenure, instituted under emergency rule, comes to an end.

Speaking at a public lecture in Port Harcourt, Ibas stated that his administration, which began on March 18, 2025, was a necessity born out of a severe political impasse and a breakdown of law and order. “Emergency rule was never a choice; it was a necessity brought upon us by insecurity, political impasse, and a breakdown of trust,” he said.

He highlighted the peaceful conduct of the recent local government elections as a testament to the success of his administration’s efforts. According to Ibas, the stability his administration has restored is the foundation upon which democracy can now be rebuilt. He also expressed gratitude for the support and cooperation he received from security agencies, civil servants, and the people of Rivers State, which he described as a “trying but purposeful” period.

As the state transitions back to democratic governance, Ibas has urged political actors to build on the foundation of reconciliation. He appealed to them to “sheath their swords,” rise above rivalry, and place the state’s interests above personal ambition, stating that “no political victory is worth the blood of any Rivers citizen.