Rear Admiral (Rtd) Ibok-Ete Ibas, the Sole Administrator of Rivers State during the state of emergency, has formally handed over to Governor Siminalayi Fubara, declaring that law and order has been restored in the state.

In his final state-wide broadcast, delivered on Thursday, Ibas urged Rivers residents to offer unwavering support to Fubara upon his return to office. He described his six-month tenure as a time of stabilisation and significant administrative milestones.

He listed achievements under his administration to include the conduct of local government elections and the swearing-in of elected chairmen, reconstitution of statutory boards and commissions, and the passage of the Rivers State budget by the National Assembly.

Ibas also reflected on lessons learnt during the emergency rule, emphasising that “exercise of power without restraint can cripple institutions, and rivalry without dialogue clearly endangers democracy.”

Also Read: Peter Obi: Rivers State Emergency Rule Was a Needless Constitutional Breach

He thanked President Bola Tinubu for entrusting him with the emergency mandate, praised security operatives for maintaining peace and the people of Rivers State for their resilience.

Governor Fubara, suspended six months ago during the emergency rule, is expected to resume full duties starting September 18, 2025.