President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has appointed retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas as the sole administrator of Rivers State following the declaration of a state of emergency. The decision, announced on Tuesday, March 18, also includes the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, and 27 State House of Assembly members for an initial six-month period.
In his nationwide address, Tinubu emphasized that the judiciary remains unaffected by the emergency declaration. Ibas, a retired Navy Vice Admiral and former Chief of Naval Staff (2015-2021), brings extensive military and leadership experience to the role.
Born in Cross River State, Ibas has a distinguished career spanning over four decades, with training in Nigeria, the U.S., India, and Pakistan. He holds a master’s degree in defense and strategic studies and has been honored with the Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic (CFR).
His appointment signals a new phase in the governance of Rivers State as the federal government seeks to restore stability in the region.