The newly appointed sole administrator of Rivers State Ibok-Ete Ibas, has made it clear that his leadership will not tolerate any actions aimed at undermining the peace and stability of the state.
In a state-wide broadcast on Thursday in Port Harcourt, Ibas emphasized that under his administration, there would be “no room for lawlessness” and that any attempt to destabilize the state, whether socially, economically, or politically, would not be tolerated.
“I am here to restore law and order, and to create the conditions necessary for the restoration of democratic institutions and representation,” Ibas said. He assured the people of Rivers State that civil liberties and human rights would be respected, and the rule of law would be upheld at all times.
He further warned those seeking to disrupt the peace for selfish motives, stating that such actions would find no tolerance under his leadership. “There will be no space for violence, no patience for actions that threaten our collective well-being,” he declared.
Ibas also reassured residents that he is not a partisan figure and is not involved in the political struggles that have led to the current crisis in the state. He called on security agencies to remain neutral, respect citizens’ rights, and focus on maintaining law and order.
The sole administrator expressed his gratitude to President Bola Tinubu and the 10th National Assembly for their support, and emphasized that he would carry out his duties in good faith. “As a son of the Niger Delta, I understand the weight of this moment and the expectations of the people,” Ibas remarked.
He reiterated that the task ahead was not one that could be handled alone, calling for the collective effort of all Rivers people, including elders, political leaders, traditional rulers, faith leaders, youth, women, the media, and civil society.
Ibas’ appointment follows the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers by President Tinubu, and the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and all members of the state assembly due to a prolonged political crisis.
