April 25, (THEWILL) – Rivers Administrator, Retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas, has finally appeared before the Julius Ihonvbere-led House of Representatives ad hoc committee.
THEWILL reported earlier that Ibas (rtd) had failed to honour an invitation by the Committee twice.
Reps Speaker Abbas Tajudeen, had on April 15, inaugurated the 21-member Ad-Hoc Committee to oversee the emergency rule under Vice Admiral Ibas (Rtd) as administrator in Rivers State.
Speaking when he appeared before the Committee on Friday, Ibas acknowledged the critical role the committee plays in preserving the democratic and constitutional integrity, and assured members of his willingness to fully cooperate in their ongoing assignment.
Emphasising that he is still settling down in his new role, Ibas apologised for not attending the previous meeting and requested for additional time to prepare to brief the committee
“Today is exactly ten days after the first invitation, and in between we’ve had four days that were off calendar as public holidays, plus the weekends inclusive”, he said.
Ibas said his absence was not intended as a slight on the committee but due to the pressing and urgent demands of stabilising governance in a deeply troubled environment.
“The absence, of course, was not out of disregard, but rather due to the weighty and urgent demands of stabilising governance in a state under a declared emergency. I have always held the National Assembly in the highest regard. I recognise the importance of your oversight responsibilities and your interest in the progress being made in Rivers State”, he said.
While he assured the committee of his cooperation, Ibas appealed for more time to properly gather and prepare a comprehensive report on the state’s affairs.
“I only request your understanding and the indulgence of this committee to grant me additional time to adequately prepare and present a comprehensive and constructive briefing.
“Given the complexities and sensitivities surrounding the current transitional period in Rivers State, it is important that any engagement with this committee is done with the depth, accuracy and clarity it rightfully deserves.
“I remain fully committed to cooperating with the committee and to ensuring that all relevant information is made available in due course to support your important work”, he said.
Ibas also emphasised that despite the return of a degree of order in Rivers, the state remains in a fragile condition, pointing to the need for careful and measured interventions.
“Rivers State is presently relatively calm, but still fragile”, he added.
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