Reps warns Rivers Sole Administrator against making laws, plans oversight committee

The House of Representatives has cautioned Vice Admiral Ibok Ete Ibas (retd.), the Sole Administrator of Rivers State, against assuming legislative responsibilities, stressing that he lacks constitutional powers to make laws for the state.

This warning comes in response to Admiral Ibas’ recent move to draft a new budget following the declaration of a state of emergency in the oil-rich state in March.

Speaking with The PUNCH on Sunday, Deputy House Spokesman Philip Agbese disclosed that Speaker Tajudeen Abbas is currently in talks with House leadership to establish a special committee that will monitor the administrator’s actions and ensure proper oversight.

Agbese emphasized that Admiral Ibas cannot perform the legislative functions of the National Assembly or the state assembly, even under the current political arrangement.

He noted that if the administrator exceeds his mandate, the House would be compelled to take necessary steps—including the option of passing a vote of no confidence—to safeguard democratic norms and ensure due process is followed.

The political crisis in Rivers escalated in March, prompting President Bola Tinubu to impose emergency rule in the state.

As part of this action, both Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the state legislature were suspended for six months, with Admiral Ibas appointed to oversee state affairs during the interim period.

Last week, while receiving members of the Rivers National Assembly caucus, Admiral Ibas announced plans to present a new budget aimed at addressing pressing developmental needs.

He noted that the Supreme Court ruling on the state’s budget spurred immediate action.

He explained that the proposed budget would prioritize sectors such as healthcare, education, social welfare, and infrastructure, adding that the planning process had been carried out in a transparent and inclusive manner to avoid delays.

According to Ibas, the budget would also emphasize job creation and investments in key areas like agriculture, technology, and public infrastructure.

He assured that his administration is committed to ensuring swift implementation to meet the urgent needs of the people.