The Administrator of Rivers State, Retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, speaking when members of the Senate Committee on Works paid him a visit on Friday, April 4, 2025.
The Administrator of Rivers State, Retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, has expressed optimism that the ongoing political crisis in the state is not beyond resolution.
Speaking during the event marking the 58th anniversary of the creation of Rivers State at the Government House in Port Harcourt, the administrator described the crisis as a political disagreement — not a war.
He said that the situation could be resolved at the negotiation table.
The former chief of naval staff noted that nearly all conflicts, regardless of how protracted or bloody, ultimately end through negotiation.
He cited instances in countries across the world where long-standing political crises and wars had been resolved when courageous leaders chose dialogue over discord.
He added that the resolutions were not always because the differences disappeared, but because leaders agreed to shift ground for the greater good.
The administrator called for a sober reflection on the current state of affairs in Rivers, lamenting that the situation does not reflect the dreams of the founding fathers.
He said the current situation was not what the forebears laboured for, cautioning that the people are watching, and deserve leadership that genuinely works for their interest.
Ibas defended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s decision to declare a state of emergency in the state, describing it as a timely intervention that prevented an imminent anarchy.
He decried the conduct of some elders and religious leaders who, instead of intervening constructively, took sides.
He also decried some of the comments trailing the declaration of emergency rule, asking “Where were all these commentators when politicians took advantage of the differences to line their pockets?
He, therefore, urged citizens to reflect on the actions and inactions that led to the current impasse and challenged leaders to put the interest of Rivers people above personal ambitions.
Highlighting Rivers State’s strategic importance in Nigeria, he noted that it ranks next to Lagos in economic output and contributes up to 40 per cent of the country’s onshore oil production.
Reflecting on his time in office, Ibas said serving as the administrator of the state remains one of the greatest honours of his life and expressed deep appreciation to the people for their support.
The administrator also used the occasion to advocate for the rights of every child to quality education, healthcare, and a safe environment.
In his opening remarks, the Secretary to the State Government, Professor Ibibia Worika, emphasised the significance of unity and resilience in building a stronger state.
The event featured a keynote lecture titled ‘Rivers State Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow: Search for Sustainable Peace and Opportunities for Sustainable Development’ delivered by Professor Godwin Okon, a development communication expert.
The lecture highlighted the successes, challenges, and prospects of the state, urging citizens to embrace a shared vision for peace and progress.
