Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (rtd.), the Sole Administrator appointed to oversee Rivers State under the emergency declaration, on Thursday appeared before the House of Representatives Ad-Hoc Committee investigating the constitutional crisis in the state, formally apologising for missing two prior invitations.
Ibas, who met with the lawmakers at the National Assembly in Abuja, cited urgent state matters and the impact of public holidays as reasons for his earlier absence. He appealed to the committee for a new date to enable him deliver a thorough and well-prepared briefing.
“The failure to attend was not out of disregard, but a result of the immediate challenges of stabilising governance in a state placed under emergency rule,” Ibas told the committee, which is chaired by the House Leader, Professor Julius Ihonvbere.
He noted that while Rivers State is “relatively calm,” the situation remains “fragile,” and warranted careful and deliberate responses.
Following the brief public remarks, the committee held a closed-door session with the administrator. In a statement issued afterward, the committee confirmed Ibas’ apology had been received and accepted.
Chairman Ihonvbere commended Ibas for demonstrating “respect and responsibility” by appearing before the panel and noted that the committee had received a formal letter of regret from him the previous evening.
“The Committee has magnanimously accepted his apology and will announce a new date for the rescheduled engagement soon,” the statement read.
The House committee reiterated its commitment to a fair and objective process in line with Sections 11(4) and 88 of the 1999 Constitution, urging all stakeholders to support its efforts to ensure democratic accountability and national cohesion.
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