Abuja, Nigeria – April 17, 2025 — The House of Representatives Ad-Hoc Committee on Rivers State Oversight has officially summoned the state’s Sole Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (rtd.), for an urgent interactive session as part of ongoing legislative oversight efforts.
This move follows the recent declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, prompting the House to intensify scrutiny over governance and security developments in the region.
Committee Formed to Address Rivers Crisis
The Ad-Hoc Committee, chaired by House Leader Hon. (Prof.) Julius Ihonvbere, was inaugurated on Tuesday, April 15, 2025, by the Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen. During its first sitting at the National Assembly Complex, the committee reviewed early reports and discussed the rapidly shifting political and security landscape in Rivers State.
Invoking its constitutional oversight powers under Section 11(4) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), the committee resolved to summon Vice Admiral Ibas to provide a detailed briefing on the current state of governance and public safety under his administration.
A Call for Transparency and Accountability
In a statement, Prof. Ihonvbere stressed the importance of the interactive session, stating:
“This engagement will enable us to carry out our constitutional responsibilities with the seriousness and objectivity the situation demands. The national interest must come first.”
The session, scheduled for 4:00 p.m. today (Thursday), will be held at Room 414 in the House of Representatives New Building within the National Assembly Complex, Abuja.
House Leadership Emphasizes Due Process
Hon. Akin Rotimi, Jr., House Spokesman, also commented on the importance of the meeting, describing it as:
“A vital step toward ensuring transparency and accountability in the administration of Rivers State during this period of emergency rule.”
He added that a formal letter of invitation was issued to the Sole Administrator and has been officially acknowledged, reinforcing the House’s commitment to due process and open governance.
Focus on Integrity and National Interest
The committee has pledged to maintain integrity and adherence to legal standards throughout the investigative process. It reiterated that the well-being of Rivers State citizens and the stability of Nigeria are at the core of its mandate.
As the political and security situation in Rivers State remains fluid, today’s engagement with the Sole Administrator is expected to offer crucial insights into the state’s administration during this emergency period.
Stay tuned for updates as the House continues to monitor developments and take decisive steps to ensure effective governance and public accountability in Rivers State.
