The Rivers State Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd.), has said political stability is gradually being restored in the state through inclusive dialogue and non-partisan consultations with key stakeholders.
Ibas stated this during a courtesy visit to him by the House of Representatives Ad-Hoc Committee on Emergency Rule Implementation, led by Prof. Julius Ihonvbere, at the Government House in Port Harcourt on Thursday.
This was contained in a statement issued by the Senior Special Adviser on Media to the Administrator, Hector Igbikiowubo.
Ibas emphasised that reconciliation efforts and the willingness of political actors to collaborate have laid the foundation for lasting peace.
He noted, “I am pleased that, God willing, we have put major differences behind us,” and acknowledged President Bola Tinubu’s pivotal role in facilitating the peace process.
The administrator highlighted some ongoing reforms, including leadership training and salary structure adjustments for civil servants, a historic biometric verification exercise for staff and pensioners to ensure transparency.
Others, Ibas said, are clearance of long-standing arrears owed to health workers, streamlined pension payments, now made directly to beneficiaries, free health insurance for all state pensioners under the revitalised RIVCHIPP scheme, with mandatory enrollment for civil servants.
Ibas commended the improved cooperation between communities and security agencies, which he said has helped curb cultism, kidnapping, and infrastructure vandalism in the state.
He said plans are underway to deploy a critical infrastructure surveillance system to bolster security and enable early threat detection across the state.
The administrator expressed dissatisfaction with the Port Harcourt Ring Road project, describing the contractor’s performance as “regrettable.”
“A team of professionals has completed a comprehensive review, and it is clear Rivers State has received the short end of the stick.
“Engagements with the contractor will begin in the coming days, and based on the outcome, we will determine the next steps.
“Our resources must be judiciously used. Contractors must honour lawful agreements and terms. There will be consequences,” Ibas declared.
Ihonvbere explained that their visit aimed to assess ongoing projects, understand governance challenges, and engage stakeholders.
Ihonvbere stated, “We will be here for the next two days to engage with relevant stakeholders. You, your administration, and those of us here share the same purpose—to ensure good governance, enduring peace, and value for every kobo spent in Rivers State.”
