Rivers State Emergency Rule: Ibas Winds Down as Sole Administrator

By Diafa Doubra,

The sole administration of Rivers State under retired General Alani Ibas is gradually winding down, following the emergency rule imposed earlier this year to restore order in the troubled state.

General Ibas was appointed by the Federal Government after a prolonged political crisis and escalating insecurity threatened governance in the oil-rich region. His mandate included stabilizing security, reconciling political factions, and ensuring smooth delivery of essential services.

Reports indicate that while his tenure has brought relative calm and curbed violent clashes, critics argue that the absence of democratic structures has limited citizen participation in governance. Others, however, believe the intervention prevented a total breakdown of law and order.

As the emergency rule nears its end, attention is shifting to how and when elected leadership will return, with many stakeholders urging a clear transition plan to avoid fresh political instability.