Rivers’ Lawmakers Mum As Ibas Shuns Probe

Members of the Rivers State House of Assembly seemed to be quiet over the refusal of the former sole administrator of the state, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (rtd), to be probed by the House.

Ibas had, in a statement made available to newsmen, said he was an appointee of President Bola Tinubu and cannot be probed by the State House of Assembly.

However, attempts by journalists to speak with the Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Martins Amaewhule, during the opening ceremony of the Economic Community of West Africa (ECOWAS) Parliamentary Summit in Port Harcourt, proved abortive as he said he was not ready for any conversation.

Meanwhile, the Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Martins Amaewhule, has expressed delight that Rivers State was chosen as host for the significant regional parliamentary engagement.

The high-level parliamentary gathering with the theme: “Harnessing Artificial Intelligence (AI) for Parliamentary Efficiency, Ethical Governance, and Development in the ECOWAS Region” brought together lawmakers and stakeholders across the West African sub-region.

Amaewhule said: “When we received your letter that you would be having your programme here, we were very happy,” Amaewhule stated. “We believe that the legislature remains the foundation of our democracy. The legislature is key to any democracy anywhere in the world. For us in this country, we cannot overemphasise its importance.”

He further extended warm hospitality to delegates and participants, assuring them of the unwavering support of the people of Rivers State.

“Honourable Speaker and distinguished participants, you are welcome to Rivers State. We pray that you have a fruitful deliberation. May God keep you and ensure that all your activities here will be successful,” the Speaker said.

He noted that the choice of Artificial Intelligence as the central theme for the session was both timely and strategic, as AI continues to transform governance and service delivery globally.

Amaewhule emphasised that the legislature must be at the forefront of adopting emerging technologies to improve legislative efficiency, promote ethical governance, and drive sustainable development in the ECOWAS region.