“Stabilising Rivers Is Demanding – I Need More Time”Ibas Tells Reps Panel
The sole administrator of Rivers State, Ibok-Ete Ibas, has appealed for more time to prepare a detailed briefing for the House of Representatives ad hoc committee overseeing the emergency rule in the state, citing the “complex and urgent” nature of stabilising governance during a state of emergency.
Ibas made the plea on Friday during an appearance before the 21-member panel, after previously missing two scheduled briefings.
“Today is exactly 10 days after the first invitation, and in between, we’ve had four days off the calendar as public holidays plus the weekends,” Ibas told the lawmakers. “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.”
The retired naval chief was appointed by President Bola Tinubu on March 18 after a state of emergency was declared in Rivers, suspending the governor, his deputy, and the state assembly.
Ibas acknowledged the importance of the committee’s oversight and stressed his commitment to transparency. “I have always held the National Assembly in the highest regard,” he said. “Given the complexities and sensitivities surrounding the current transitional period in Rivers State, it is important that any engagement with this committee is done with the depth, accuracy and clarity it rightfully deserves.”
