Senate Sets Up Committee to Supervise Rivers State Sole Administrator

The Nigerian Senate has formed an 18-member committee to oversee the activities of Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd.), the Sole Administrator of Rivers State.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio announced this during Tuesday’s plenary session, stating the committee was established to promote transparency and accountability in the state’s governance.

Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele was named chairman of the committee. Akpabio highlighted the importance of the committee’s role in ensuring effective legislative oversight and noted that its membership might be reviewed after further consultations. He called on the committee to start its work immediately, stressing the urgency of their task and reaffirming the Senate’s commitment to democratic governance.

The committee comprises Senators Adamu Aliero, Osita Izunaso, Osita Ngwu, Kaka Shehu, Aminu Abass, Tokunbo Abiru, Adeniyi Adebire, and others, along with the Senate Clerk.

Vice Admiral Ibas, since taking office, has prioritized restoring law and order in Rivers State with security agencies’ support. He reiterated his administration’s goal to make Rivers a model of peace and economic stability, where citizens can pursue livelihoods without fear. Ibas called on lawmakers to support his administration by securing the necessary resources and legislative backing.

He also announced that a 2025 budget is being prepared to enhance healthcare, education, agriculture, infrastructure, job creation, and technological advancement. This was disclosed during a meeting with the Rivers State caucus at the National Assembly, led by Senator Barinada Mpigi.

This development follows the declaration of emergency rule in Rivers State by President Bola Tinubu and the appointment of Ibas as sole administrator amid political tensions in the state.