Abuja – April 25, 2025
The Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (rtd.), on Friday met with the House of Representatives Ad-Hoc Committee overseeing the state’s affairs, apologizing for his failure to honour two previous invitations and requesting additional time to present a detailed briefing.
At the committee’s inaugural interface with the retired naval officer, Ibas expressed deep regret over his absence and explained that it was necessitated by the urgent and complex task of stabilising governance in a state currently under emergency rule.
“I deeply regret my inability to attend earlier engagements with this esteemed committee. Today is exactly 10 days since the first invitation, and in between, we’ve had four public holidays and two weekends,” Ibas stated.
“The absence, of course, was not out of disregard, but rather due to the weighty and urgent demands of stabilising governance in a state under a declared emergency. I have always held the National Assembly in the highest regard and recognise the importance of your oversight responsibilities,” he added.
Emphasising the sensitivity and complexity of the transitional period in Rivers State, the administrator requested more time to ensure that any presentation to the lawmakers is “comprehensive, constructive, and delivered with the depth, accuracy, and clarity it rightfully deserves.”
“I remain fully committed to cooperating with the committee and ensuring that all relevant information is made available in due course to support your important work,” he assured.
In response, the committee, chaired by House Leader Hon. Julius Ihonvbere (APC, Edo), accepted the administrator’s apology and granted his request for a rescheduled briefing.
“In keeping with the House’s tradition of fairness, and in recognition of the Administrator’s demonstration of respect and responsibility, the committee has magnanimously accepted his apology,” Ihonvbere announced.
He added that the committee will announce a new date and time for the briefing in due course and reaffirmed the panel’s commitment to its constitutional responsibilities under Sections 11(4) and 88 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).
“The cooperation of all stakeholders in this process is crucial, and the committee remains open to constructive engagement in line with the principles of accountability and the rule of law,” Ihonvbere stated following the closed-door meeting.
