Again, Rivers Sole Administrator Ibas shuns Reps panel despite Abuja visit

The Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (rtd), has again failed to appear before the House of Representatives Ad-Hoc Committee on Rivers State Oversight, despite reportedly being in Abuja for official engagements.Thursday’s no-show marks the second consecutive time the retired naval officer has declined the committee’s invitation, prompting growing irritation and uncertainty among lawmakers seeking clarity on governance in the state.The committee, constituted by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas on 15 April 2025, was tasked with monitoring developments in Rivers State following the federal declaration of a state of emergency.

The initial meeting with Ibas was scheduled for 17 April but was deferred at his own request to 24 April. Yet, on the rescheduled date, Ibas was absent once more, even as he attended the National Economic Council (NEC) meeting at the Presidential Villa that same day.Reacting to Ibas’ absence, committee chairman Rep.



Julius Ihonvbere expressed disappointment, saying, “It is regrettable that once again, the Sole Administrator of Rivers State has failed to honour his invitation, despite being in Abuja.“This session was intended to shed light on several matters concerning the state’s administration, but his failure to attend has only further stalled our efforts.”His non-attendance left the committee in a state of perplexity.

A source familiar with the proceedings disclosed, “It’s unclear whether the invitation was acknowledged or officially received. We’ve had no word from his office.”When approached by journalists at the House of Representatives Complex, Rep.

Ihonvbere refused to elaborate, offering only a terse, “No comment,” before exiting alongside fellow committee members.The committee had initially granted Ibas the benefit of the doubt by accommodating his request for a postponement. However, his continued failure to appear has tested the patience of the panel.

“We had hoped today would mark a turning point,” said Ihonvbere. “But we appear to have reached another deadlock.”In response to the impasse, the committee announced that the session would be postponed indefinitely.

“The meeting is suspended until further notice,” said the committee’s spokesperson.“We cannot keep rescheduling without any cooperation from the appointed official.”Ibas’ repeated failure to engage with the legislative panel has sparked broader concerns about transparency in the management of Rivers State.

The state remains under emergency rule, with mounting questions surrounding its administration.“At a time when the people of Rivers State deserve openness and accountability, it is disappointing that their Sole Administrator continues to sidestep legislative scrutiny,” Ihonvbere said.“We will consider alternative measures to ensure there is adequate oversight and accountability in Rivers State.

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