The House of Representatives has issued a stern reminder to Vice Admiral Ibok Ete Ibas (retd.), the Sole Administrator of Rivers State, that he does not possess the constitutional authority to make laws for the state.
This warning follows Admiral Ibas’ announcement that he intends to prepare a new budget for the state, following the imposition of a state of emergency in March.
In an interview with The PUNCH on Sunday, Deputy Spokesman for the House, Philip Agbese, revealed that Speaker Tajudeen Abbas is consulting with House leaders to establish a monitoring committee.
This committee will oversee the activities of Admiral Ibas and ensure the interests of Rivers State are safeguarded.
Agbese stressed that the Sole Administrator is not empowered to assume the legislative role of the National Assembly, particularly in the current situation.
He also pointed out that the House would take appropriate actions, including possibly a vote of no confidence, if Ibas oversteps his mandate.
The political tension in Rivers State reached a peak in March, prompting President Bola Tinubu to declare a state of emergency. This led to the suspension of both Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the state legislature for an initial six months.
Admiral Ibas was appointed to take charge of the state in their absence.
Last week, Admiral Ibas stated that he was finalizing plans to introduce a new state budget, which he believes will address critical sectors such as healthcare, education, social services, and infrastructure.
He explained that the Supreme Court’s ruling on the state budget prompted urgent action to ensure timely and transparent governance.
Ibas emphasized that the revised budget would focus on boosting employment, enhancing key areas like agriculture, infrastructure, and technology, and ensuring these initiatives are executed without delay.