Rivers state Administrator Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas( rtd.) has urged major political players in Rivers state to ensure that peace in the state, saying he has done his part by reconciling all warring factions together.
The Administrator made the remark during an Interdenominational Thanksgiving Service to wind down his rule as an unelected administrator of the oil bearing state.
Ibas was appointed on March 18 2025 by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to oversee the state, after declaring a state of Emergency, following the protracted political crisis, forced on the state due to the clash between Simi Fubara, the governor of the state, and Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the FCT and immediate past governor of the state, which led to the suspension of the former and the state House of Assembly.
The Emergency Rule is expected to end on September 18, with the return of Fubara to office as the chief executive.
Recall that Wike had recently hinted that President Tinubu will restore democratic rule to the state by reinstating Governor Fubara.
Speaking during the service, Ibas said he has achieved the mandate given to him by President Tinubu of stabilising the state state, urging the leaders to ensure that the “seed of reconciliation” he planted is watered.
Ibas: “The seeds of reconciliation have been planted. These seeds need your deliberate nurture to take root.
“Our collective sacrifices and commitment to peace are what we must all strive to guide at this time.
“My brothers and sisters, this Ecumenical Centre (venue of the event) is itself a symbol of unity, different denominations under one roof, lifting one voice to one God. In the same spirit, Rivers people must rise above bitterness, rivalry, and self-interest to pursue the greater good of our state.
“The progress and prosperity of the River State must be placed above personal and / or partisan interest.
“I make a special appeal to our political actors, sheathe your sword. Politics must never be an excuse to destroy the very state we are called to serve.
“The progress and prosperity of the River State must be placed above personal or partisan interest. River State cannot afford another season of division and acrimony.
“We must forgive one another, reconcile with sincerity, and embrace tolerance. Let us remember that no political victory or personal gain is worth the blood of our brothers and sisters.”
Meanwhile, it remains unclear whether President Tinubu will not extend the Emergency Rule.
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