Abuja – April 6, 2025 — The House of Representatives has cautioned the Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral Ibok Ete Ibas (retd.), against assuming legislative powers, particularly in relation to the formulation of a new state budget.
This warning follows recent remarks by the administrator indicating plans to introduce a fresh budget for the state, following the federal declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers last month.
Deputy Spokesperson of the House, Philip Agbese, disclosed in an interview on Sunday that Speaker Tajudeen Abbas is currently in consultations with other House leaders to form a committee tasked with monitoring the administrator’s activities during this interim period.
“The administrator does not hold the constitutional authority to legislate or perform functions reserved for the National Assembly,” Agbese stated. “The proposed committee will help ensure that the interests of the people of Rivers State are protected, and that administrative actions remain within legal bounds.”
Agbese further noted that the House expects the executive branch to have been briefed on the legislature’s stance regarding Admiral Ibas’ mandate. He warned that any overreach could prompt parliamentary measures, including the option of a no-confidence resolution.
The development stems from ongoing political tensions in Rivers State, where a dispute between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the state House of Assembly prompted President Bola Tinubu to impose emergency rule in March. Under the emergency framework, both the governor and the legislature were suspended for a six-month period, and Vice Admiral Ibas was appointed as the interim administrator.
Speaking last week during a meeting with members of the Rivers State National Assembly caucus, Admiral Ibas revealed that a draft of a new state budget is near completion. He emphasized that the proposed spending plan prioritizes healthcare, education, infrastructure, and social services.
“We are committed to ensuring that essential investments continue during this period,” he said. “Our budgeting process has been transparent and inclusive, focusing on sectors such as agriculture, technology, and job creation.”
Admiral Ibas also stressed the urgency of implementing the budget, stating that the state could not afford further delays in addressing developmental needs.
As legislative scrutiny intensifies, the coming weeks may prove pivotal in shaping how governance unfolds in Rivers State under the emergency arrangement.
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