In a bold move, President Bola Tinubu has appointed retired Admiral Ibokette Ibas, former Chief of Naval Staff, as the new administrator for Rivers State. This follows a dramatic state of emergency declaration in the region and the suspension of key state officials.
On Tuesday, Tinubu announced the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy Mrs. Ngozi Odu, and the entire Rivers State House of Assembly for an initial six-month period. The President’s decision came during a national broadcast, where he confirmed that the suspension would remain in place until further notice.
Tinubu also named Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas (retd.) as the new administrator, tasked with overseeing the state’s affairs during this critical period. He emphasized that the move was in the best interest of the people of Rivers State, ensuring stability and leadership during the suspension of elected officials.
However, the declaration explicitly stated that the judicial arm of Rivers State remains unaffected and will continue to operate as per its constitutional duties.
The president’s actions have sent shockwaves through the political landscape, raising questions about the future of governance in the oil-rich state.
