The Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Rear Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retired), today handed over power to Governor Siminalayi Fubara, declaring that law and order had been restored in the state.

In his farewell address, Ibas, who was appointed by President Bola Tinubu six months ago to stabilise Rivers amid political turmoil, said his tenure delivered “milestones of progress” including the conduct of local government elections, reconstitution of statutory boards, and the passage of the state budget by the National Assembly.

He noted that governance is a living process that requires vigilance, sacrifice, and dialogue, warning that “the exercise of power without restraint can cripple institutions, while rivalry without dialogue endangers democracy.

Ibas expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for entrusting him with the assignment. He praised security operatives for maintaining peace, and commended the resilience of the people of Rivers State.

President Tinubu in March declared an end to the State of Emergency in Rivers State, following months of political turmoil that paralysed governance and threatened security in the oil-rich state.

The President had appointed Ibas as administrator after dissolving political structures to restore order.