The outgoing Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (Rtd), has defended the emergency rule declared in the state earlier this year.
He described the measure as a necessity rather than a choice, emphasizing its importance in restoring stability and order.
Ibas made the remarks on Tuesday, during a Public Lecture titled “Good Governance and Democratic Dividends” delivered by Prof. Abiodun Amuda-Kanmike, SAN, as part of the transition activities held at Government House, Port Harcourt.
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Reflecting on the events that led to the emergency rule, Ibas noted that stability was restored under extraordinary circumstances, especially with the successful conduct of the August 30 local government elections.
He said, “Most significantly was the peacefully conducted local government council elections, which restored democratic governance to the grassroots, the level of government closest to the people.
“Emergency rule was never a choice; it was a necessity brought upon us by insecurity, political impasse, and breakdown of trust.”
He expressed gratitude to the people of Rivers State for their cooperation during his tenure.
“Standing before you, we feel with gratitude and humility; gratitude for the support you gave me as your administrator and humility that I was called to serve in such a defining moment in the history of this great state,” he added.
Ibas also emphasized lessons learned from the emergency rule, noting the importance of security and public trust.
“Yet in hindsight, it offered us enduring lessons that peace is priceless; without security, no other aspiration is possible,” he said.
He added, “When governance is weakened, opportunism fills the vacuum, endangering lives and livelihoods, and the indomitable spirit of Rivers people cannot be broken.”
He encouraged citizens to reflect on the significance of governance and democracy, stating that the experience of Rivers State could serve as an example for other states in the country.
