The six-month emergency administration in Rivers State formally came to an end at midnight on Wednesday, September 17, with the exit of retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas from Government House, Port Harcourt.
In his last official duty before handing over, Ibas on Wednesday evening supervised the swearing-in of Mrs. Inyingi Brown as the substantive Head of Service of Rivers State. Brown had been serving in an acting capacity since the resignation of George Nwaeke.
Charging her to remain loyal to Governor Siminalayi Fubara as she was to his interim administration, Ibas urged continuity and dedication to public service. His farewell address was broadcast across local radio and television stations at 7am on Thursday, officially marking the end of his tenure.
The outgoing administrator highlighted his stewardship, noting that peace, stability, and the restoration of public confidence were the hallmarks of his administration. “The cornerstone of our efforts was the return of calm to Rivers State. I urge the incoming leadership to consolidate on this foundation,” Ibas stated.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had on Wednesday announced the cessation of the state of emergency, which was declared on March 18, 2025, to resolve the deepening political crisis in the state. With the decision, Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Nma Odu, and the State House of Assembly are expected to resume full constitutional duties from September 18, 2025.
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