- Rear Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas returns leadership to Governor Fubara.
- Lifting of emergency rule restores democratic governance.
- Ibas urges citizens to support Fubara’s administration.
Rear Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas has officially handed over leadership of Rivers State to Governor Sim Fubara following the end of emergency rule.
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EKO HOT BLOG reports that the transition came after President Bola Tinubu lifted the six-month state of emergency declared earlier in the year. In his final statewide broadcast, Ibas described the moment as historic and urged Rivers people to give Fubara maximum support as he resumes duties.
Reflecting on his tenure, Ibas expressed gratitude for the cooperation of citizens, public servants, and political stakeholders who supported him. He said the state achieved significant progress during the emergency period, pointing to restored law and order, the conduct of local government elections, reconstitution of statutory boards, and the passage of the state budget by the National Assembly.
Ibas maintained that these successes were not his personal triumphs but collective achievements of Rivers people who remained resilient during a politically tense period. He also stressed that good leadership thrives on responsible followership, reminding citizens that governance cannot rest solely on the shoulders of one person.
The retired naval officer acknowledged that the past months had been challenging but insisted the state had weathered the storm. He described the resilience of Rivers people as a key factor in preventing a total breakdown of governance. “Rivers has shown once again that when its people unite, no crisis can permanently hold it down,” he said.
With Fubara now reinstated, expectations are high on how he will consolidate the restored institutions and use the approved budget to deliver results. Observers believe he faces the task of rebuilding confidence in government, strengthening peace across the state, and ensuring that resources are effectively managed for the benefit of the people.
As Ibas bowed out, he charged every citizen to take ownership of the leadership transition, stressing that only unity and cooperation can secure the state’s long-term stability. The handover signals the end of emergency administration and the return of democratic governance in Rivers State.
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