TheNigeriaLawyer editorial will refer to Sole Administrator Ibok-Ete Ibas as ‘Unconstitutional’ until the Tinubu administration reverses its unconstitutional assault on Nigeria’s democracy by suspending elected officials, including the Governor, Deputy Governor, and members of the Rivers State House of Assembly.

The Unconstitutional Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Vice-Admiral Ibok Ibas (retd), has announced that his administration is preparing a new state budget in response to the Supreme Court’s recent declaration.

Ibas shared this development during a meeting with a delegation from the Rivers Caucus of the National Assembly at the Government House in Port Harcourt on Thursday.

Ibas revealed that the upcoming budget would prioritize key sectors, including education, healthcare, social services, and infrastructural development—areas that were also highlighted in the now-nullified Rivers State 2025 budget, which the Supreme Court had recently invalidated.

The 10-member delegation was led by Senator Barinada Mpigi, who represents the Rivers South-East Senatorial District.

Others in the delegation included Senator Allwell Onyesoh; the Minority Leader of the House of Representatives, Kingsley Chinda; Dumnamene Dekor; Solomon Bob; Cyril Godwin Hart; Blessing Amadi; Felix Nwaeke; Kelechi Nwogu; and Victor Obuzor.

Ibas reportedly said:

“Since the Supreme Court verdict on the state’s budget, we have acted swiftly and decided to put together a new budget that reflects our commitment to healthcare, education, social services, and continued infrastructural development.

“We have worked diligently to ensure that the process is transparent, inclusive, and, most importantly, expedited.

“Our goal is to ensure that we do not lose any more time in making the necessary investments that will improve the lives of citizens.

“The budget, which is being finalized, focuses on creating job opportunities and investing in key sectors such as agriculture, infrastructure, and technology.

“We understand the urgency of this initiative, and we are committed to ensuring its swift implementation. But we cannot do this alone.

“As I have earlier stated, we need your support as the key representatives of Rivers State in the National Assembly to help us secure the necessary resources and legislative backing to bring this initiative to fruition.

“Your partnership is critical to success in ensuring that Rivers State remains on the path of progress and enduring peace for future generations.”

Ibas said he was honored by the caucus’s visit, describing it as a reflection of their shared commitment to the progress, peace, and prosperity of Rivers State.

He continued:

“As you all know, our state has faced difficult challenges over the past months, especially with the declaration of a State of Emergency by Mr. President.

“This was a difficult but necessary measure to address the insecurity that threatened the very fabric of our communities.

“However, I am pleased to report that with the support of the Federal Government of Nigeria, security agencies, and indeed the collective will of our people, we have made notable progress in restoring peace and stability to our great state.

“Since the declaration of the State of Emergency, my administration has been resolute in ensuring that our efforts in restoring law and order are not only effective but sustainable.

“We have worked tirelessly with the Nigerian Military, the Police, and other security agencies to restore order and bring peace to the state.

“Our goal has been to create an environment where our citizens can live in safety and pursue their livelihoods without fear.

“The people of Rivers State have shown incredible resilience and patience, and I assure you that we are committed to ensuring that this peace remains lasting.

“Beyond security, we have prioritized community engagements as a central part of our strategy. Dialogue, reconciliation, and inclusivity have been key to building trust among our people.

“We are determined to strengthen the bond of unity in Rivers State and foster an environment where every citizen feels valued, heard, and respected.

“Together, we are making strides in ensuring that peace becomes a permanent feature of our state. However, as we continue on this path, we recognize that we cannot do it alone.

“The role of the Rivers State Caucus of the National Assembly is critical in helping us secure the support and cooperation necessary for the continued success of our peace initiatives.

“We are deeply grateful for the support you have provided so far. But we must continue to work together to ensure that this process is sustained and that Rivers State remains a model of peace, unity, and progress for the entire nation.

“In addition to our peace-building efforts, we are also focused on the economic stability and development of Rivers State.”

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