Rivers State Administrator Charges Newly Appointed LG Heads On Prudence, People-Centric Governance

Vice Admiral (rtd) Ibok Ete Ekwe Ibas, the sole administrator of Rivers State, has directed the newly appointed Administrators of the 23 Local Government Areas (LGAs) to be fiscally prudent and prioritise the well-being of the people.

The charge was made during a meeting at Government House in Port Harcourt on Friday.

Vice Admiral (Rtd) Ibas, who was appointed by the President to restore peace and stability in Rivers State, emphasised the importance of local government as the closest tier of government to the people, urging Administrators to make a tangible difference in citizens’ lives in their communities and daily.

“Your appointment to this important office is not by chance, but rather a recognition of your ability to lead, your commitment to service, and the trust placed in you to bring governance closer to the people,” he stated, emphasising the “sacred responsibility” placed on them to manage council affairs with care, respect, and dedication to the welfare of Rivers residents.

The Sole Administrator also identified specific areas of focus for the Administrators, such as sanitation and environmental management, primary healthcare, the welfare and discipline of local government civil servants, primary education, and youth engagement. He stated that performance in these areas will be closely monitored in the coming weeks.

“I expect you all to recognise this moment in history and rise to the occasion, as impartial leaders who will help me deliver on Mr. President’s mandate to restore peace and stability and work towards the restoration of all democratic institutions in the State,” he said.

Addressing the importance of integrity, Vice Admiral (Rtd) Ibas declared a zero-tolerance policy towards financial recklessness and abuse of office.

“This administration will not tolerate any form of recklessness, abuse of office, or misappropriation of public funds or trust,” he stated.

“Our local government’s resources should only be used for their intended purposes.” The people of Rivers State deserve to know how their money is being spent, and it is your responsibility to provide proper accountability and value.”

He promised to implement mechanisms for monitoring due process, transparency, and fiscal responsibility in all LGAs.

He also emphasised the importance of good behaviour, fairness, and collaboration in improving policing and protecting lives and property within their respective councils.

Vice Admiral (Rtd) Ibas, citing his over 40 years of unblemished service in the military and diplomatic corps, stated that his acceptance of the role as Sole Administrator stemmed from the belief that “the best must always be given to ensure progress and achievement of the great potentials so cherished.”

The appointments come after the recent dissolution of elected local government officials, which followed a period of instability in the state and local governments.

The Sole Administrator’s address demonstrates a clear commitment to responsible governance and a focus on providing tangible benefits to the people of Rivers State.