President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State on March 18, 2025, due to the prolonged political crisis in the state.
Gatekeepers News reports that during a nationwide broadcast, Tinubu suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu, and all members of the House of Assembly for six months.
To oversee the state’s affairs, Tinubu appointed Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas (rtd) as administrator for the initial six months.
Ibas, a seasoned naval officer, served as Chief of Naval Staff from 2015 to 2021. Born in Cross River, he began his naval career after graduating from the Nigerian Defence Academy in 1979.
Ibas’s impressive credentials include being a member of the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs and the Nigerian Institute of Management.
He was also conferred with the National Honour of Commander of the Federal Republic (CFR) by President Muhammadu Buhari in 2022.
Here are some key facts about Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas:
– *Early Life and Education*: Born in Cross River, Nigeria, with early education in the state.
– *Naval Career*: Graduated from the Nigerian Defence Academy in 1979, rising through the ranks to become Chief of Naval Staff.
– *Awards and Honours*: Conferred with the National Honour of Commander of the Federal Republic (CFR) in 2022.
– *Personal Life*: Married with three children.
As the new administrator of Rivers State, Ibas will oversee the state’s affairs, ensuring stability and security during the six-month emergency period.
