Retired Admiral Ibas hands over power following Tinubu’s controversial intervention to restore stability
By Douglas Princemola
Governor Siminalayi Fubara has officially resumed office as the executive governor of Rivers State following the conclusion of a six-month emergency rule imposed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The interim administrator, retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, formally handed over power on Wednesday after overseeing the state during a period marked by political tension and security challenges.
The handover marks the end of a controversial federal intervention that temporarily replaced the elected government with an appointed administrator. The emergency rule was declared on March 18, 2025, after weeks of escalating political conflict between Governor Fubara and the Rivers State House of Assembly. The crisis, which included protests, legislative impasse, and reported attacks on state infrastructure, prompted the federal government to invoke constitutional emergency powers to restore stability.
During the emergency rule, Governor Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and all members of the State Assembly were suspended. In their place, the federal government appointed Ibas to serve as the sole administrator, tasked with ensuring governance continuity, restoring peace, and managing critical state affairs.
The formal handover took place at the Government House in Port Harcourt, where Ibas presented Governor Fubara with detailed transition documents, including financial records, reports on infrastructure projects, and a security assessment. Ibas noted that his administration focused on stabilizing the state and maintaining order while respecting the democratic process.
In his remarks, Governor Fubara expressed gratitude to the people of Rivers State for their patience during the emergency period. He pledged to lead with renewed commitment, emphasizing reconciliation, development, and the protection of democratic institutions. He also acknowledged the role played by the federal government in addressing the crisis, while urging unity among political actors moving forward.
The end of the emergency rule has generated mixed reactions across the state and beyond. Supporters of Governor Fubara welcomed his return, describing it as a victory for democracy. However, some stakeholders have called for transparency regarding the decisions made during the interim administration, especially concerning state finances and ongoing contracts.
Political observers believe Fubara’s return presents both an opportunity and a test. Rebuilding fractured relationships within the state government, particularly in the House of Assembly, will be crucial to ensuring stability. There is also public pressure on the governor to fast-track development projects that were delayed during the emergency rule.
As Rivers State reverts to democratic governance, attention will remain on how effectively the reinstated government can move past the crisis, restore public confidence, and deliver meaningful governance in the months ahead.
