Key Points
-
Ibas suspends political officials in Rivers State, effective immediately.
-
The suspension follows the state of emergency declared by President Tinubu.
-
Ibas promises to restore law and order, working with stakeholders for stability.
Rivers State Sole Administrator, Retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, has suspended political appointees and office holders in the state. The decision came after President Bola Tinubu granted Ibas the authority under the state of emergency.
The suspended officials include the Secretary to the State Government, Chief of Staff, commissioners, chairpersons, members of boards, agencies, commissions, parastatals, Special Advisers, Special Assistants, and Senior Special Assistants.
Suspension targets key state officials
The Chief of Staff to the Sole Administrator released a statement on Wednesday, March 26, 2025, confirming the suspensions.
Affected officials must now hand over their responsibilities to permanent secretaries in their Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs). Where there is no permanent secretary, the senior director or head of administration will take charge.
This sweeping action follows the state of emergency declared by President Tinubu. It aims to ensure better governance and stability in Rivers State.
Ibas appointed to restore order
Ibas became the Sole Administrator on March 19, 2025, after President Tinubu suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu, and all members of the Rivers State House of Assembly for six months.
The President’s decision followed concerns about governance and security issues in the state.
Ibas, after taking office, vowed to restore order. He said, “Maintaining law and order is my top priority. I will ensure the state operates properly.”
Ibas vows to collaborate for stability
Ibas, a former Chief of Naval Staff, pledged to collaborate with key stakeholders. His goal is to stabilize the state and restore effective governance as soon as possible.
This suspension signals a significant shift in how Rivers State will be governed. How this state of emergency will affect daily life and future political developments in the state remains to be seen.
