Rivers State Administrator, Ibas Appeals for Extended Briefing Period to National Assembly Committee Amid Security Concerns
Rivers State’s sole Administrator, Ibok-Ete Ibas, has formally requested an extension from the National Assembly’s Ad-hoc Committee to prepare a comprehensive briefing regarding the current situation in the state. The plea comes in light of the prevailing fragile security and political landscape under the ongoing state of emergency.
During his address to the committee at the National Assembly on Friday, Ibas acknowledged the leadership of the committee, emphasizing the vital role it plays in upholding the nation’s democratic principles.
“Mr. Chairman, allow me to begin by sincerely recognizing your leadership and the essential part this committee plays in maintaining the democratic and constitutional integrity of our great nation,” he remarked.
Ibas expressed his regrets for not attending earlier sessions with the committee, clarifying that his absence was due to pressing governance responsibilities rather than a lack of respect for the committee’s work. “I sincerely apologize for my inability to participate in previous engagements with this esteemed committee… It has been exactly 10 days since the first invitation, during which we encountered four days of public holidays and weekends,” he explained.
Highlighting the challenges of administering the state under emergency conditions, Ibas reiterated his admiration for the National Assembly’s pivotal oversight functions. “My absence was not a sign of disregard but rather a reflection of the pressing and urgent need to stabilize governance in a state under a declared emergency,” Ibas stated.
While noting that Rivers State is currently “relatively calm,” he warned that the situation continues to be “fragile” and requires careful management. Ibas urged the committee to grant an extension to ensure the upcoming report is thorough and precise. “It is crucial that our engagement with this committee is conducted with the depth, accuracy, and clarity that is rightly expected,” he asserted.
The administrator reaffirmed his dedication to collaborating with the committee and expressed gratitude to both the lawmakers and the media for their support. “I remain fully committed to working alongside the committee and ensuring that all pertinent information is provided in a timely manner. I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to Mr. Chairman and the esteemed members of this committee, as well as to the press for their invaluable role in supporting the federal government’s initiatives,” he concluded.
The committee is now expected to deliberate on Ibas’s request and will announce its next steps regarding oversight of the transitional governance in Rivers State.
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