The Rivers State Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (Rtd), has formally kicked off the transition process ahead of the return to democratic governance in the state. This follows six months of direct federal administration after President Bola Ahmed Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers in March.
According to a statement signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Professor Lucky Worika, the process begins on Sunday, September 14, 2025, with an inter-denominational thanksgiving service at the Ecumenical Centre, Abonnima Wharf Road, Port Harcourt.
The service, expected to be attended by permanent secretaries, local government chairmen, security chiefs, traditional rulers, captains of industry, and other dignitaries, will mark the symbolic start of Rivers State’s return to democratic structures.
On Friday, September 12, Vice Admiral Ibas, while receiving the official report of the August 30 local government elections, declared that the presidential mandate entrusted to him on March 18 had been successfully fulfilled.
“When Mr. President entrusted me with this difficult assignment, I pledged to serve with courage and impartiality. Six months after, we have restored calm, stabilized the state, and ensured that Rivers remains a strong economic ally of the nation. While challenges remain, I can confidently say the presidential mandate has been fulfilled,” Ibas stated.
The retired naval chief recalled that his administration was tasked with restoring peace, stabilizing governance, and safeguarding vital economic assets in the state following months of violent political unrest that had crippled activities earlier in the year.
He further expressed gratitude to security agencies, civil servants, community leaders, and the people of Rivers State for their resilience and cooperation during what he described as a “trying but purposeful” period.
The Rivers crisis, which escalated into violent clashes between rival political camps, prompted President Tinubu to impose a state of emergency in March, suspending democratic institutions in order to stabilize governance. With the successful conduct of local government elections and the commencement of transition activities, stakeholders believe Rivers is now on course to return to full democratic rule.