In a decisive move to address the political crisis in Rivers State, President Bola Tinubu has declared a state of emergency in Rivers State, appointing retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas as the state’s administrator for an initial six-month period.
Born on 27 September 1960 in Nko, Cross River State, Vice Admiral Ibas embarked on his educational journey at Nko Primary School, completing it at Big Qua Primary School in Calabar in 1971. He attended Hope Waddell Training Institute from 1972 to 1976 and the School of Basic Studies in Ogoja between 1977 and 1979. His military career commenced at the Nigerian Defence Academy on 20 June 1979, where he was part of the 26th Regular Course, leading to his commission as a sub-lieutenant on 1 January 1983.
Throughout his extensive naval career, Vice Admiral Ibas held numerous key positions. As a midshipman, he served aboard NNS Ruwan Yaro, NNS Obuma, and NNS Aradu. Following his commission, he served as a watchkeeping officer on NNS Ayam and NNS Ekpe. Between 1993 and 1996, he was the executive officer of NNS Siri, NNS Ekun, and NNS Ambe. He also commanded the Nigerian Navy Underwater Warfare School and the Forward Operating Base Ibaka.
His leadership roles extended to serving as the naval provost marshal, principal staff officer to the Chief of Naval Staff, and flag officer commanding the Western Naval Command. In July 2015, he was appointed the 22nd Chief of Naval Staff, a position he held until his retirement in January 2021.
Following his retirement from active military service, Vice Admiral Ibas was appointed as Nigeria’s Ambassador to Ghana in 2021, reflecting the nation’s confidence in his diplomatic and leadership abilities.
The recent declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State comes in response to significant pipeline vandalism and political instability within the state. President Tinubu’s decision to appoint Vice Admiral Ibas underscores his administration’s commitment to leveraging experienced leadership to stabilize the region.