All Political Appointees Suspended With Immediate Effect – Rivers Sole Administrator

The Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, has enacted an immediate suspension of political appointees and office holders within the state.

In a statement released on Wednesday, the Chief of Staff to the Administrator indicated that this decision was made under the authority conferred upon Ibas by President Bola Tinubu.

Those impacted by this suspension include the Secretary to the State Government, the Chief of Staff, all commissioners, as well as chairpersons and members of various boards, agencies, commissions, and parastatals. Additionally, all Special Advisers, Special Assistants, and Senior Special Assistants are included in this directive.

“This suspension is effective as of Wednesday, March 26, 2025. The individuals affected are required to transfer their responsibilities to the permanent secretaries in their respective Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs).

“In cases where a permanent secretary is not present, they should hand over to the most senior director or head of administration,” the statement specified.

Ibas was appointed as Sole Administrator on Wednesday, March 19, by President Bola Tinubu, following the President’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State.

Furthermore, the President has suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, Ngozi Odu, and all elected members of the Rivers State House of Assembly for an initial duration of six months.

Ibas, a former Chief of Naval Staff, has committed to upholding law and order in the state.

“If the primary concern is maintaining law and order in the state, I believe that for any significant activities to occur in Rivers State, this is my foremost responsibility,” he stated to State House reporters following his swearing-in.

He also expressed his intention to collaborate with other stakeholders to ensure the restoration of order in the state.