The Rivers State Sole Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (Retd.), has announced the immediate suspension of all political office holders and appointees across the state.
This decision was officially disclosed in a statement released on Wednesday, March 26, by the Chief of Staff to the Administrator. The statement emphasized that the action was taken in line with the powers vested in Ibas by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The statement read: “The Rivers State Government announces the suspension of political office holders and appointees in Rivers State. This is pursuant to the powers conferred on the Administrator of Rivers State, His Excellency, Vice Admiral (Rtd) Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas, CFR, by the President, His Excellency, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.”
Among those affected by the suspension are key government officials, including the Secretary to the State Government, the Chief of Staff, and all Honourable Commissioners. Additionally, chairpersons and members of boards, councils of agencies, commissions, institutions, and parastatals are also impacted.
Furthermore, all Special Advisers, Special Assistants, and Senior Special Assistants have been relieved of their duties with immediate effect.
The statement directed that all suspended officials must immediately hand over their responsibilities to the Permanent Secretaries of their respective ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs).
In cases where a Permanent Secretary is unavailable, the most senior Director or Head of Administration within the ministry or department is required to assume leadership and ensure the continuity of administrative functions.
The statement further reiterated that this directive takes full effect starting from Wednesday, March 26, 2025. Affected officials are urged to comply promptly with the handover process to facilitate a smooth transition in the state’s administration.