Ibok-Ete Ibas Finally Appears Before Reps Panel Probing Rivers Emergency Rule

The meeting between the House of Representatives ad hoc committee on Rivers State and the state’s Sole Administrator, Retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, has finally taken place after multiple delays.

The meeting is part of the House’s ongoing efforts to temporarily take over the legislative duties of the Rivers State House of Assembly, as allowed by the constitution.

At the session, Ibas apologized for missing earlier invitations and asked for more time to properly prepare his briefing.

The Rivers’ sole administrator explained that he’s still adjusting to his new role and requested the committee’s patience.

After his remarks, journalists were asked to leave as the meeting continued behind closed doors. It lasted for about an hour, after which Ibas left without speaking to the media.

The committee had previously postponed the meeting following a request from Ibas, who was attending the National Economic Council (NEC) meeting at the time.

KanyiDaily reported that Ibok-Ete Ibas yesterday made his first appearance at the NEC meeting, held at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, and chaired by Vice President Kashim Shettima.

His attendance followed his appointment as Sole Administrator of Rivers State by President Bola Tinubu in March 2025, after Governor Siminalayi Fubara was suspended.