On tuesday, 18th of March 2025, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu announced the appointment of Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas (Rtd) as the new Administrator to oversee the affairs of Rivers State. The decision comes amid ongoing political unrest in the state. The announcement was made during a nationwide broadcast, which was closely monitored by news outlets.
“I hereby nominate Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas (Rtd) as Administrator to take charge of the affairs of the state in the interest of the good people of Rivers State,” President Tinubu stated. He emphasized that the appointment was made to ensure stability and governance in the region. Tinubu further clarified that this appointment would not interfere with the judicial branch of Rivers State, which would continue to operate within its constitutional duties.
In addition to the appointment of Admiral Ibas, President Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State, highlighting the severity of the ongoing political crisis. The state has been grappling with a range of issues, including disputes over governance and power struggles within the political establishment.
“As part of this declaration, I am announcing the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy Mrs. Ngozi Odu, and all 27 elected members of the State House of Assembly,” Tinubu said. He specified that the suspensions would be in effect for an initial period of six months. This unprecedented move underscores the gravity of the situation in Rivers State.
The suspension of the state’s political leadership is expected to have significant implications for governance in the region. While the state government has yet to issue an official response, the move has sparked reactions from political observers and citizens alike.
Tinubu’s decision to remove the state’s elected officials and appoint a military leader as administrator signals a direct intervention in the region’s political landscape.
