Ibas Swears In 23 Rivers LG Chairmen, Calls for Selfless and Transparent Leadership
The Rivers State Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd.), has charged the newly elected Local Government Chairmen to embrace selfless service and prioritize grassroots development.
Ibas gave the charge on Monday evening while swearing in the chairmen-elect of the 23 Local Government Councils at Government House, Port Harcourt.
This was contained in a statement issued by the Administrator’s Senior Special Adviser on Media, Hector Igbikiowubo, and made available to newsmen.
In his address, Ibas urged the new council leaders to usher in an era of transparent, accountable, and reform-oriented governance in their respective localities. He emphasized that public office is a sacred trust, not an avenue for personal enrichment.
“This victory is not a prize to be enjoyed; it is a burden to be carried. It is not an entitlement, but a duty. It is not a call to self-interest, but to selfless service,” Ibas declared.
He stressed the need for leadership to move beyond politics of patronage and focus instead on delivering tangible, measurable improvements in the lives of citizens at the grassroots level.
Reflecting on recent developments in the state, the Administrator recalled President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency on March 18, 2025, following the tense political climate arising from disagreements among political stakeholders.
He, however, hailed the peaceful and successful conduct of the Local Government elections on August 30, 2025, describing the exercise as a significant step toward restoring constitutional governance in the oil-rich state.
Addressing the people of Rivers, Ibas said, “You proved that democracy belongs to the people — that power must flow from the consent of the governed, and that no obstacle can weaken the resolve of a united citizenry.”
The Administrator commended the electorate for their discipline and active participation in the polls. He also praised the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission for delivering a transparent, credible, and peaceful electoral process.
He further advised the incoming chairmen to familiarize themselves with the Nigerian Constitution and all relevant statutes guiding the local government system, describing them as the essential “compass of stewardship.”
Ibas also urged the new council heads to prioritize peace and security by working closely with traditional rulers, security agencies, and community leaders to foster local stability.
“Without peace, there can be no progress,” he emphasized, encouraging them to strengthen local economies through support for small businesses, infrastructure development, and investment in education.
In conclusion, the Administrator thanked the outgoing Council Administrators for their steadfast service during a challenging period in the state’s history and wished them well in their future endeavors.