Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd), the Sole Administrator of Rivers State, has commended President Bola Tinubu for his timely and decisive intervention in the state’s political crisis earlier this year, describing it as both “firm” and “deeply reassuring.”
Speaking during the grand finale of the Niger Delta Development Commission’s (NDDC) 25th anniversary in Port Harcourt on Saturday, Ibas expressed gratitude on behalf of the state for the president’s efforts in restoring order during a volatile period.
“Let me express our sincere appreciation to His Excellency, Bola Tinubu, for his unwavering commitment to peace and stability in Rivers State and the broader Niger Delta,” Ibas said.
“His intervention in restoring order and governance in the state was timely, firm, and deeply reassuring. Mr President continues to demonstrate strong political will for regional development, economic equity, and national cohesion. We are indeed grateful.”
Background: Political Crisis in Rivers
Rivers State was plunged into chaos earlier this year following a high-profile fallout between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, who currently serves as the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory. The political tension escalated into a legislative standoff and widespread instability across the state.
In a dramatic move to curb the crisis, President Tinubu declared a six-month state of emergency in March 2025, suspending both Governor Fubara and his deputy Ngozi Odu, and appointing Ibas as Sole Administrator to oversee governance and restore normalcy.
While the decision drew a mix of praise and legal scrutiny, many, including stakeholders in the Niger Delta region, credited the intervention with averting further breakdown of law and order.
Peace Restored
In June, following a high-level peace meeting convened by President Tinubu, Fubara and Wike publicly reconciled, pledging to collaborate in the interest of state stability. Their post-meeting appearance at a public event symbolized the easing of tensions.
Looking Ahead
Ibas’ remarks at the NDDC anniversary highlight growing optimism that Rivers State is back on a path of stability and development, bolstered by federal leadership. The celebration also underscored the broader commitment to regional progress in the Niger Delta, with the NDDC’s milestone anniversary serving as a reminder of both past challenges and future potential.
