The Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Rear Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd.), on Thursday officially handed over power to Governor Siminalayi Fubara, marking the end of six months of federal intervention in the state’s governance.
At his farewell ceremony, observed by PUNCH Online, Ibas declared that law and order had been restored in Rivers State, noting that his tenure delivered “milestones of progress” including the conduct of local government elections, the reconstitution of statutory boards, and the passage of the state budget by the National Assembly.
Ibas, who was appointed by President Bola Tinubu in March to stabilise Rivers during a period of intense political turmoil, stressed that governance was “a living process” that required vigilance, sacrifice, and dialogue.
“One of the enduring lessons of this season is that the exercise of power without restraint can cripple institutions, and rivalry without dialogue clearly endangers democracy,” he warned.
He further urged political actors to prioritise unity over division and institutional strength over rivalry, stating that the state’s health depends on how differences are managed.
Expressing gratitude to President Tinubu for entrusting him with the assignment, Ibas commended security agencies for maintaining peace and lauded the resilience of the people of Rivers State.
“Now, as I hand back the reigns of leadership to His Excellency Governor Siminalayi Fubara, I do so with confidence and respect. I call all Rivers people to support him wholeheartedly because leadership and followership is a shared responsibility,” he said.
The former administrator prayed that Rivers State would never again face such instability, urging citizens to always choose unity, dialogue, and progress.
Tinubu had earlier declared an end to the State of Emergency in Rivers State, clearing the way for the full return of democratic governance after months of suspended political structures.
