Rivers State Sole Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd.), has pledged to restore stability while warning against crude oil sabotage and violence.
In a state broadcast on Thursday, March 20, from Government House, Port Harcourt, Ibas assured residents of his commitment to protecting civil liberties and ensuring public safety.
“For decades, I have dedicated my life to the service of our great nation—first as the 20th indigenous Chief of Naval Staff and later as Nigeria’s High Commissioner to Ghana. I answered this call out of the need for peace in Nigeria, and most importantly, in Rivers State,” he said.
Acknowledging the impact of the ongoing political crisis, he described it as a setback to governance and democracy, adding, “As a son of the Niger Delta, I am one of you. I feel the weight of this crisis on families, businesses, and the future of our people.”
Ibas commended President Bola Tinubu’s decision to impose a state of emergency, stating that it was necessary to restore order and revive economic activities.
“My mandate is clear: restore law and order, ensure stability, and create an enabling environment for economic growth. But this mission requires collective support from all stakeholders, regardless of political affiliation or ethnicity,” he said.
He cautioned against attacks on oil infrastructure, stressing the environmental and economic damage such actions could cause.
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“The Niger Delta has moved beyond the destruction of oil facilities. We must resist the temptation to return to those ugly days,” he warned.
While promising to uphold the rule of law, Ibas made it clear that disorder would not be tolerated.
“We will not act arbitrarily, but we will not hesitate to deal decisively with anyone who threatens the peace and stability of Rivers State,” he stated.
He disclosed that a State Security Council meeting had been held to outline strategies for easing tensions and preventing further conflict.
Expressing gratitude to President Tinubu and the National Assembly for their support, he assured that he would work closely with the federal government.
“I will work closely with the national leadership under the guidance of the President. I am optimistic that Rivers State will emerge stronger and greater,” he concluded.