Olushola Omogbehin
Finally, after holding sway at the Rivers State Government House for six months, the Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd), has officially handed power over to Governor Siminalayi Fubara six months after the emergency rule.
In his handing over address, the outgoing administrator who was appointed by President Tinubu on March 18 to restore peace amidst political tension, said his six month tenure secured “milestones of progress” such as the reconstitution of statutory board, conduct of local government elections and the passage of the state budget by the National Assembly.
He said governance at every level requires absolutely vigilance, sacrifice and dialogue because it is a living process. He noted that exercising power without restraint can cripple institutions as well as generate unnecessary rivalry that can serve as danger to democracy
“Today, I can say with conviction that by the grace of God and through our collective efforts, the mandate has been accomplished; law and order has been restored; local government elections have been conducted; statutory boards and commissions have been reconstituted; and the state budget has been passed by the National Assembly, providing a legitimate fiscal framework for governance and development.
“Governance is a living process that required vigilance, sacrifice and dialogue and the exercise of power without restraint can cripple institutions while rivalry without dialogue clearly endangers democracy.”
The former Sole Administrator used his speech to caution Rivers people to remain vigilant so as to prevent future crisis.
“May this state never again be brought to the brink of collapse. May we always choose unity over division; dialogue over discord; and progress over paralysis. The Garden City must never lose its fragrance,” he cautioned.
He did not forget to appreciate President Tinubu for entrusting him with the task of restoring order to the state again.
He also appreciated security agencies, civil servants and the entire people of Rivers State for their resilience as he charged them to support Governor Fubara because only the support of the people can make him succeed.
“As I hand back leadership to Governor Siminalayi Fubara, I do so with confidence and respect. I urge Rivers people to support him wholeheartedly because leadership and followership is a shared responsibility,” he said.
