THE farewell thanksgiving service organised for Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (rtd), the Sole Administrator of Rivers State, was marked by the conspicuous absence of two key figures at the centre of the state’s prolonged political crisis, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, and suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara.
News Point Nigeria reports that the interdenominational service, held on Sunday in Port Harcourt, formed part of the transitional activities as Ibas prepares to leave office ahead of the expiration of the six-month emergency rule imposed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in March.
Delivering his farewell remarks, Ibas urged stakeholders to prioritise the state’s collective interest over political rivalry, warning that Rivers State could not afford to slip back into chaos.
“The seeds of reconciliation have been planted, but they need your deliberate nurture to take root. Rivers State cannot afford another season of division and acrimony. Politics must never be an excuse to destroy the very state we are called to serve,” he said.
Ibas, who was appointed by President Tinubu on March 18, 2025, following rising political tensions, violent protests, and attacks on oil infrastructure, said his administration had worked to stabilise the state, restore calm, and oversee the successful conduct of local government elections.
While some permanent secretaries, local government chairmen, security commanders, and heads of boards, agencies, and parastatals were present, the absence of Wike, Fubara, several traditional rulers, and other key political figures was noticeable and sparked conversations about lingering tensions.
The retired Naval Chief expressed gratitude to President Tinubu, the security agencies, and Rivers people for their cooperation during his tenure, describing his time as administrator as both challenging and rewarding.
“By God’s grace and with the support of Mr. President and all of you, we have worked through those difficult days together. Today, we thank God for peace, stability, and the successful conduct of local government elections across the state,” Ibas said.
In a passionate call for reconciliation, Ibas urged youths to shun violence and instead contribute to building a peaceful and prosperous state.
“Let us forgive, let us reconcile, and let us heal. For where there is peace, there is progress, and where there is love, there is prosperity,” he added.
He also appealed to elders, clergy, and traditional rulers to continue to counsel leaders, guide the people, and pray for sustainable peace in Rivers State.
President Tinubu had declared a state of emergency in Rivers State on March 18, 2025, suspending Governor Fubara, his deputy Prof. Ngozi Odu, and members of the State House of Assembly for six months following violent clashes between rival factions that threatened to destabilise the state.
The six-month suspension is set to expire on September 18, and stakeholders are watching closely to see how the transition will play out and whether the political gladiators will finally embrace peace.