A prominent civic group, Nigeria Peace and Governance Initiative, has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his bold and timely intervention in Rivers State’s political crisis, particularly through the appointment of Rear Admiral Ibok-Eket Ibas (rtd) as Sole Administrator of the state.
The group said the decision has not only restored calm but has also revived public confidence in governance and democratic institutions.
In a statement issued in Port Harcourt on Friday, Charles Obeli PhD, president of the group, said the declaration of a state of emergency, followed by the installation of a neutral and experienced figure like Ibas, signalled a decisive break from “the grip of non-state actors who were on the verge of legitimising anarchy in the state”.
“Before the federal government stepped in, Rivers State was on the edge. What we witnessed was the gradual hijack of democratic space by individuals who saw state power as personal property. The appointment of Rear Admiral Ibas sent a strong message that the era of lawlessness is over and that responsible governance is back,” he said.
Dr Obeli praised Ibas for maintaining neutrality and for taking swift, stabilising steps that have helped restore civil order and trust in the system.
“Since his appointment, there’s been a visible return to normalcy. Public offices are functioning without intimidation, and the state’s political temperature has dropped significantly. It shows the power of impartial leadership,” he said.
The group also hailed President Tinubu for forwarding a list of nominees to the Senate for confirmation into key state institutions in Rivers, saying the move reflects a shift toward competence over political favouritism.
Dr Obeli noted that the nominations, described as comprising non-partisan technocrats, underscore the president’s resolve to rebuild trust in government operations within the state.
“These nominees are not career politicians or recycled loyalists. They are proven professionals with track records of service and discipline. This is a clear signal to Rivers people that our state is turning a new page — one focused on merit, integrity, and national interest above narrow agendas.”
According to the group, the president’s decision to avoid political interference in the selection process shows a deeper understanding of Rivers’ fragile political terrain.
Dr Obeli said the people of the state have long yearned for “a breath of fresh air” in governance and that this is what the federal government’s recent actions are providing.
“We’re seeing, for the first time in a long while, a leadership approach that prioritises the welfare of the people over party affiliations,” Dr Obeli said.
“The president’s posture and the Sole Administrator’s performance are helping to restore confidence that Rivers can move beyond chaos and embrace constructive governance.”
He urged the National Assembly to expedite the confirmation of the nominees to allow institutional rebuilding to continue uninterrupted.
Dr Obeli also called on stakeholders, from traditional rulers to civil society, to support the current effort to stabilise the state.
“Peace is not automatic; it is cultivated. What we have now is a window of opportunity to build institutions that serve the people, not individuals. We urge all Rivers stakeholders to close ranks and support this national rescue effort,” he said.
The Rivers Peace and Governance Initiative pledged to continue engaging with the public to promote transparency, peace, and civic participation in the state’s ongoing recovery process.
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