In a dramatic shake-up of Rivers State’s political landscape, the Sole Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (rtd.), has ordered the immediate suspension of all political office holders and government appointees. The sweeping directive, announced on Wednesday, affects top government officials across ministries, agencies, and commissions.
A statement from the Chief of Staff to the Administrator confirmed that the decision was made in accordance with the powers vested in Vice Admiral Ibas by President Bola Tinubu. The order applies to key figures in the state’s governance structure, including:
- The Secretary to the State Government (SSG)
- The Chief of Staff
- All Honourable Commissioners
- Chairmen and members of boards, councils of agencies, commissions, institutions, and parastatals
- All Special Advisers, Special Assistants, and Senior Special Assistants
With immediate effect, the affected officials have been directed to hand over their responsibilities to the Permanent Secretaries of their respective ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs). In cases where no Permanent Secretary is in place, the highest-ranking Director or Head of Administration will assume leadership to ensure continuity of governance.
The decision has sparked intense reactions within political circles and the wider public. While the official reason for the mass suspension has not been explicitly stated, political analysts believe it is part of a broader restructuring effort aimed at restoring accountability and streamlining governance in the oil-rich state. Some insiders speculate that the move may be a precursor to a comprehensive audit of state affairs or a prelude to new appointments that align with the administrator’s vision.
Reactions from stakeholders have been mixed. Supporters of the decision argue that it will enhance transparency, efficiency, and discipline in governance. Others, however, warn that the sudden suspension of key officials could create administrative bottlenecks and disrupt critical government operations, particularly in sectors such as health, education, and infrastructure development.
As Rivers State navigates this period of political uncertainty, all eyes remain on Vice Admiral Ibas for further clarifications on the next steps. The administrator, a retired naval officer appointed to oversee the affairs of the state, has so far maintained a tight-lipped approach regarding the long-term implications of his decision.
With governance now in the hands of bureaucrats and career civil servants, residents and political actors alike are keenly watching for indications of the administrator’s broader agenda. Will this mark the beginning of a new era of governance in Rivers State, or will it trigger deeper political tensions?
More updates from Parrot Reporters to follow as the situation unfolds.
