The Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (rtd) on Monday swore in the 23 newly elected local government chairmen, urging them to eschew self-interest and embrace a new era of transparent, accountable, and reform-driven leadership for the people.
The swearing-in ceremony, held at the Government House in Port Harcourt, marks a pivotal milestone in the state’s journey to restore full democratic governance following the period of political turbulence that necessitated federal intervention.
Ibas stated that public office is a sacred trust, not an avenue for personal gain.
“This victory is not a prize to be enjoyed. It is a burden to be carried. It is not an entitlement, but a duty. It is not a call to self-interest, but to selfless service,” Ibas declared.
He cautioned that leadership must move beyond the politics of patronage and focus squarely on delivering measurable services that tangibly improve the lives of citizens at the grassroots.
The administrator placed the historic event within the broader context of the state’s recent challenges, recalling President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency on March 18, 2025, following a catastrophic breakdown of law and order and the collapse of governance at the local level.
He hailed the peaceful and successful conduct of the local government elections on August 30, 2025, as a decisive step towards reinstating constitutional order and a testament to the resilience of the people of Rivers State.
“You proved that democracy belongs to the people, that power must flow from the consent of the governed, and that no obstacle can weaken the resolve of a united citizenry,” he said, commending the electorate for their discipline and active participation.
He also praised the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) for delivering a transparent, credible, and rancor-free electoral process.
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Outlining a clear roadmap for the incoming chairmen, Ibas urged them to acquaint themselves with the constitution and all statutes guiding the local government system, which he described as the essential “compass of stewardship.”
He further charged them to make peace and security their foremost priority, working closely with traditional rulers, security agencies, and community leaders to foster stability.
The administrator mandated the local government chairmen to strengthen local economies by supporting small businesses, carrying out critical infrastructure upgrades, and investing in education.
He informed them of the ongoing biometric enrollment of all local government staff and demanded their full support to ensure its completion for effective planning and payroll management.
The administrator also commended the outgoing council administrators for their steadfast service and contributions during a critical period in the state’s history.
