As political tensions and fragile security continue in Rivers State, Sole Administrator Ibok-Ete Ibas has asked the National Assembly’s Ad-hoc Committee for more time to prepare a full report on the situation, emphasizing the need for accuracy during a state of emergency.
In a bid to ensure a comprehensive account of developments in Rivers State, Sole Administrator Ibok-Ete Ibas has appeared before the House of Representatives Ad-hoc Committee, requesting an extension to deliver his briefing.
Speaking at the National Assembly in Abuja on Friday, Ibas thanked the lawmakers for their oversight role, highlighting their importance in upholding Nigeria’s democracy.
“Mr. Chairman, please permit me to begin by respectfully acknowledging your leadership and the critical role of this committee in safeguarding the democratic and constitutional integrity of our great nation,” he began.
Ibas addressed his earlier absence from committee proceedings, clarifying that his delay was due to the pressing demands of managing a state under emergency rule—not out of disrespect. “Today is exactly 10 days since the first invitation. In between, we’ve had four public holidays and weekends,” he explained.
The administrator emphasized that the situation in Rivers, while calm on the surface, remains delicate and requires careful governance. “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,” he noted.
He stressed that any engagement with the committee should be thorough and well-prepared to meet the standards of the legislature. “It is important that any engagement with this committee is done with the depth, accuracy, and clarity it rightfully deserves,” he added.
Ibas reaffirmed his dedication to transparency and cooperation with the committee and praised the media for their efforts in informing the public. “I remain fully committed to cooperating with the committee and ensuring that all relevant information is made available in due course,” he said, thanking the press for supporting the federal government’s initiatives.
The committee is expected to deliberate on his appeal and announce its decision regarding the next steps for overseeing Rivers State’s transitional governance under emergency conditions.
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