Rivers Cannot Afford Bloodshed Again – Ibas Calls For Peace Ahead Of Fubara’s Return- Ekohotblog

Ibas Calls For Peace Ahead Of Fubara’s Return
He warns no political ambition is worth the blood of citizens.
Residents hope for reconciliation, but fear old rivalries may resurface.

The outgoing Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral (Rtd) Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas, has urged political actors and residents to embrace peace as Governor Siminalayi Fubara prepares to return to office.

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EKO HOT BLOG reports that speaking during a Thanksgiving service on Sunday at the Ecumenical Centre in Port Harcourt, Ibas reflected on his six-month stewardship and warned against plunging the state back into crisis. He noted that Rivers was on the brink of collapse before President Bola Tinubu intervened and appointed him to oversee the state’s affairs.

“By God’s grace, and with the support of Mr President and all of you, we have walked through those difficult days together. The survival and relative stability we enjoy today is a testimony of God’s faithfulness,” Ibas said.

He stressed that no political ambition should override the safety of citizens. “Political actors must sheath their swords, because no political victory or personal gain is worth the blood of any Rivers citizen. The progress and prosperity of Rivers State must be placed above personal or partisan interest,” he declared.

Ibas also appealed to youths not to allow themselves to be used as instruments of violence but instead focus their energy on building a peaceful and prosperous future. He further called on elders, community leaders and clerics to continue offering guidance and prayers for stability in the state.

Ibas was appointed sole administrator in March 2025 after months of political turmoil that pitched Governor Fubara against his predecessor and current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike. The crisis had split the House of Assembly, triggered defections between the PDP and APC, and led to violent clashes in Port Harcourt.

To avert further breakdown of law and order, President Tinubu suspended Governor Fubara and handed over the state’s leadership to Ibas, a former Chief of Naval Staff, as caretaker administrator for six months.

With Ibas’ tenure set to end on September 18, attention has now shifted to the anticipated reinstatement of Fubara. Sources say arrangements are underway, with assurances that the governor would prioritise reconciliation and stability. While many residents welcome his return as a chance for lasting calm, others remain concerned that old rivalries could resurface if political leaders fail to act responsibly.

Delivering the sermon at the service, Pastor Barasin Ogan of the Chapel of Everlasting Grace, Government House, urged Rivers people to forgive past wrongs and work together for the state’s progress. “Let us work together as one family to heal the wounds of yesterday and secure a brighter future for Rivers State,” he said.