Gladness Gideon
The newly appointed Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd), has arrived in the state to formally assume office, declaring that the situation in Port Harcourt remains calm.
Ibas landed at the Port Harcourt International Airport, Omagwa, at approximately 11:25 a.m. on Thursday, where he was received by senior government officials and security operatives. In a brief but symbolic gesture, he was accorded a guard of honour upon his arrival.
Accompanied by the Rivers State Commissioner of Police, Olugbenga Adepoju, and the Assistant Inspector General of Police for Zone 16, Ibas proceeded directly to the Government House in Port Harcourt. Upon arrival, he was conducted on a brief tour of the facility before meeting with government officials and security service chiefs at the Executive Council Chamber.
First Address to Government Officials
Speaking at the Government House, Ibas expressed appreciation for the efforts of state officials and security agencies in maintaining stability.
“I want to thank you all for what you have been doing so far,” he said. “When I got in here, I decided to meet with the head of service and service commanders. I will have to meet them for a formal briefing. I assure you that later this evening, I will address you on some of the issues you want to know.”
Calm in Port Harcourt
When asked about his reception and first impressions upon arrival, the retired naval chief, dressed in all-white native attire, described Port Harcourt as a familiar and peaceful city.
“Port Harcourt is my city. Everything appears calm. We just want Port Harcourt to get to where it has always been,” he stated.
READ ALSO: Ibas Vows to Restore Stability in Rivers After Swearing-In as Administrator
Ibas’ appointment as Sole Administrator follows the recent declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State by President Bola Tinubu, which saw the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, and the state’s legislature for six months. His mandate includes restoring stability and overseeing governance during this period of transition.
As he settles into his new role, all eyes remain on how his administration will navigate the political and security landscape of the oil-rich state.