Rivers State Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (Rtd), has officially launched transition activities in preparation for the return to democratic governance, six months after President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency in the state.
The transition process is set to begin on Sunday, September 14, 2025, with an inter-denominational thanksgiving service at the Ecumenical Centre, Abonnima Wharf Road, Port Harcourt.
In a statement, the Secretary to the State Government, Professor Lucky Worika, said the service would bring together permanent secretaries, local government chairmen, security chiefs, traditional rulers, business leaders, and other invited guests.
On Friday, while receiving the report of the August 30 local government election, the Administrator noted that the presidential mandate assigned to him on March 18 had been accomplished.
He explained that his administration’s responsibility was to restore peace, stabilize governance, and safeguard critical economic assets in the state after months of political turmoil.
“When Mr. President entrusted me with this difficult assignment, I pledged to serve with courage and impartiality. Six months after, we have restored calm, stabilized the state, and ensured that Rivers remains a strong economic ally of the nation. While challenges remain, I can confidently say the presidential mandate has been fulfilled,” Ibas stated.
He went on to thank security agencies, civil servants, community leaders, and residents of Rivers State for their support during what he described as a “trying but purposeful” period.