Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas (rtd), Rivers State Sole Administrator, has commended President Bola Tinubu’s intervention in restoring order, describing it as timely during a press briefing on July 12, 2025, in Port Harcourt.
The intervention, involving federal security forces, addressed escalating political tensions following the 2024 leadership crisis between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and Minister Nyesom Wike. Ibas, appointed in June 2025, credited Tinubu’s mediation for stabilizing 12 local government areas.
The crisis, marked by violence and administrative paralysis, saw 15 deaths and property damage worth N5 billion, per state records. Ibas, a former Chief of Naval Staff, praised Tinubu’s eight-point peace accord, though critics argue it favors Wike’s allies.
The administrator outlined plans to restore council functions, with a N2 billion budget, but opposition figures demand transparency. The intervention has reduced clashes, with 80% of wards reporting calm.