Ibok-Ete Ibas, the sole administrator of Rivers State, has asked for more time from House of Representatives’ ad hoc committee overseeing the emergency rule in the state.
Gatekeepers News reports that Ibas made the request on Friday, 25 April during his appearance before the committee.
Recall that on April 16, the 21-member committee appointed by Tajudeen Abbas, speaker of the lower House of Assembly, invited Ibas to appear before them the next day, to present a briefing on the state affairs.
The sole administrator requested the meeting be rescheduled, and it was moved to April 24. Ibas however didn’t attend the session on the new date.
Addressing the committee on Friday, Ibas apologised to the lawmakers for not honouring previous invitations and explained the need for more time to prepare a thorough and detailed briefing.
The sole administrator cited the complexities surrounding the current situation in Rivers State as a primary reason for his request.
He said, “Today is exactly 10 days after the first invitation, and in between, we’ve had four days off the calendar as public holidays plus the weekends inclusive.”
“The absence, of course, was not out of disregard but rather due to the weighty and urgent demands of stabilising governance in a state under a declared emergency.”
“I have always held the national assembly in the highest regard. I recognise the importance of your oversight responsibilities and your interest in the progress being made in Rivers state, which is presently relatively calm, but still fragile.”
“That said, I only request your understanding and the indulgence of this committee to grant me additional time to adequately prepare and present a comprehensive and constructive briefing.”
“Given the complexities and sensitivities surrounding the current transitional period in Rivers state, it is important that any engagement with this committee is done with the depth, accuracy and clarity it rightfully deserves.”
Ibas added that he will cooperate with the committee to ensure that all relevant information is available in due course.
Following the session, Ihonvbere in a statement, said the committee had accepted Ibas’ apology and would reschedule the briefing.
The statement reads, “The Committee notes that the Administrator, in a correspondence received last night, expressed his regrets for not honouring earlier invitations and appeared in person today to offer a formal apology.”
“He also requested an opportunity to return for a more robust and comprehensive engagement with the Committee.”
“In keeping with the House’s tradition of fairness, and in recognition of the
Administrator’s demonstration of respect and responsibility, the Committee has magnanimously accepted his apology.”
“Accordingly, the Committee has resolved to proceed with the rescheduled engagement on a date and time to be announced in due course.”
Ihonvbere stressed that the committee seeks the cooperation of all stakeholders and remains committed to transparency, accountability, and the rule of law.
