Rivers State Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (Rtd), says the six-month presidential assignment to restore calm and stability to the oil-rich state has been achieved, as he begins handing back to democratic governance.
Receiving the August 30 local government election report on Friday, Ibas declared, “We have restored peace, stabilized governance, and protected vital economic assets in Rivers. The presidential mandate has been fulfilled.”
To mark the start of formal transition activities, an inter-denominational thanksgiving service was held Sunday at the Ecumenical Centre on Abonnima Wharf Road, Port Harcourt.
According to Secretary to the State Government, Professor Lucky Worika, the service drew security chiefs, local government chairmen, traditional rulers, business leaders, and senior civil servants.
Ibas, appointed in March after President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency amid political unrest, expressed gratitude to security agencies, community leaders, and residents.
He described the period as “trying but purposeful” and pledged a smooth, inclusive transition back to civilian rule.