Tensions Rise in Rivers as Protests Test Sole Administrator’s Patience
Aides to the Sole Administrator of Rivers State have raised concerns over the escalating wave of protests rocking the state, warning that the civil unrest is beginning to wear thin the patience of the state’s top appointee.
Hector Igbikiowubo, Senior Special Assistant on Media to Ibok-Ete Ibas, said in a recent interview with The Punch that the frequent demonstrations are beginning to grate on Ibas’ nerves, despite the administrator’s consistent efforts to show restraint.
Since President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers and appointed Ibas as the sole administrator on March 18, Port Harcourt and its environs have become a hotbed of protests and counter-protests. The emergency rule followed a prolonged political crisis that included the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and the entire state assembly.
According to Igbikiowubo, the federal gazette that formalized the emergency rule conferred “sweeping powers” on Ibas — powers he claims have not been exercised in their full force, out of respect for civil liberties.
“The fact that people can protest speaks to the administrator’s level of tolerance,” Igbikiowubo noted. “But these constant demonstrations are testing that tolerance.”
While affirming the right to peaceful protest, Igbikiowubo called on residents to show restraint and focus on rebuilding the state’s political structures. “These protests, for whatever reason, are unnecessary. The restoration of democratic institutions cannot be achieved through intimidation and harassment,” he said.
He added that Ibas is actively engaging with key stakeholders across Rivers State to stabilise the political landscape and build lasting peace.
President Tinubu’s declaration of emergency rule in the oil-rich region marked a rare and dramatic intervention, aimed at halting political infighting that reportedly disrupted governance and led to attacks on vital oil infrastructure.
