Rivers State governance returns as Vice-Admiral Ibas bows out and Governor Fubara takes charge after emergency rule, with renewed calls for unity and peace.
Rivers State governance has officially returned to democratic control following the end of six months of emergency rule.
Vice-Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd), who served as the state’s Administrator during the crisis, formally handed over leadership to Governor Siminialayi Fubara in a statewide broadcast.
The transition came after President Bola Ahmed Tinubu announced on Wednesday that emergency administration, imposed on March 18, 2025, had achieved its purpose and was no longer required.
He praised the resilience of Rivers people and commended the orderly return to constitutional governance.
President Tinubu had declared emergency rule in Rivers State earlier this year to stabilize governance after political tension threatened peace and institutional order.
The appointment of Vice-Admiral Ibas, a seasoned naval officer, was meant to restore calm, protect citizens, and reestablish functional structures of government.
Announcing its conclusion, the President described the decision as both necessary and successful.
He noted that Rivers State governance must now thrive under elected leadership and urged citizens to embrace peace, dialogue, and inclusiveness.
In his farewell message, Vice-Admiral Ibas reflected on the turbulent journey and the progress achieved under his stewardship.
“Six months ago, President Tinubu entrusted me with the solemn responsibility of steering Rivers State through an extraordinary period in its history,” he said.
“Today, by the grace of God and through our collective efforts, the mandate has been accomplished.”
The retired naval officer highlighted specific achievements:
Restoration of security and law and order across the state.
Successful conduct of local government elections, giving communities new leadership.
Reconstitution of statutory boards and commissions, ensuring critical agencies resumed work.
Passage of a state budget by the National Assembly, creating a financial framework for governance and development.
“These are milestones of progress that belong to all of us because they reflect the resilience of the people determined never to allow their state slip into paralysis,” he added.
Ibas stressed that Rivers State governance must be treated as a continuous journey rather than a destination.
He argued that governance requires constant renewal, vigilance, and leadership anchored on protecting people’s welfare.
“One enduring lesson of this season is that the exercise of power without restraint can cripple institutions, while rivalry without dialogue endangers democracy,” he warned.
“The health of our polity depends not on who wins or loses but on how political actors manage their differences.”
He also underlined the importance of building strong institutions that outlast political disputes and emphasized that the unity of Rivers people would be the foundation for lasting peace.
The outgoing Administrator used the occasion to thank those who supported him during his assignment. He acknowledged:
The wisdom of elders and statesmen who guided him at critical moments.
The sacrifices of security operatives who safeguarded peace.
The resilience of the people of Rivers, whom he described as patient, hopeful, and determined.
His aides and family, who stood by him throughout the period.
“I salute the courage of our men and women in uniform whose sacrifices formed the bedrock of our peace. Rivers State owes them a debt of gratitude,” he said.
He also expressed appreciation to President Tinubu for trusting him with the mandate and backing him through the difficult months of administration.
With humility, Ibas handed over to Governor Siminialayi Fubara, describing him as the rightful leader chosen by the people.
He urged citizens to rally behind their governor, reminding them that governance thrives when both leaders and followers work together.
“No matter how competent or clear a vision may be, it can only succeed with the active support of citizens,” he declared.
Describing the moment as the closing of another chapter in a lifetime of service, Ibas said: “I leave with gratitude to God, proud of what we accomplished together and hopeful of what lies ahead. May history remember not the titles we bore but the fidelity with which we served.”
In his closing remarks, Ibas prayed for lasting stability in the state: “May this state never again be brought to the brink of collapse.
“May we always choose unity over division, dialogue over discord, and progress over paralysis. The Garden City must never lose its fragrance.”
Now that Rivers State governance has returned to the hands of elected officials, attention turns to Governor Siminialayi Fubara. He inherits a state that has endured a storm but emerged with renewed hope.
His administration faces the challenge of consolidating the peace restored under emergency rule and delivering development that meets people’s expectations.
Analysts say Governor Fubara’s ability to foster reconciliation, strengthen democratic institutions, and drive inclusive growth will be crucial in ensuring stability.
Many residents believe the lessons of the past six months should guide the future—particularly the dangers of unchecked rivalry and the need for dialogue-driven leadership.
With Rivers State governance restored, residents now look to Governor Siminialayi Fubara for peace, stability, and inclusive development.
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