The Rivers State Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok Ibas (Rtd), has declared that the mandate for emergency rule in the state has been “sufficiently achieved” with the successful restoration of democratic governance at the local government level.
Vice Admiral Ibas made the declaration at the Government House in Port Harcourt during the official presentation of the report on the recently concluded local government elections by the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC). He stated that the peaceful conduct of the polls and the subsequent swearing-in of elected chairmen and councillors in the state’s 23 local government areas directly fulfilled the directive given to him by President Bola Tinubu on March 18, 2025.
The Administrator commended RSIEC for organizing what he described as a “fair, credible, and transparent electoral process,” which has garnered widespread praise.
Presenting the report, RSIEC Chairman, Dr. Mike Odey, hailed the election as a “historic achievement” for both the state and the nation. He said the document provides a comprehensive account of the entire process, from the initial notice of election to stakeholder engagements, polling, and the final announcement of winners. Dr. Odey also praised the people of Rivers State for their peaceful participation and cooperation throughout the exercise.
Vice Admiral Ibas stated that the Rivers State Government would meticulously review the report and issue an official government white paper in due course.
