Former Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (rtd), has urged residents of the state to rally behind Governor Siminalayi Fubara as he resumes full leadership duties.

In his farewell state-wide broadcast, Ibas expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve, noting that his six-month stewardship was aimed at restoring order and stability in the state.

“Six months ago, President Bola Tinubu entrusted me with this solemn responsibility of steering Rivers State through an extraordinary moment in its history. Today, I can say with conviction that through the grace of God and our collective effort, the mandate has been accomplished,” he said.

The outgoing administrator listed the restoration of law and order, conduct of local government elections, reconstitution of statutory boards and commissions, and passage of the state budget by the National Assembly as some of the milestones achieved during his tenure.

He stressed the need for restraint in the exercise of power and dialogue in resolving political differences, warning that unchecked rivalry could undermine democracy.

“As I hand back the reins of leadership to Sim Fubara, I do so with confidence and respect, and I urge all Rivers people to support him wholeheartedly because leadership and followership is a shared responsibility,” Ibas stated.

He concluded his address by reflecting on his years of service in the military, diplomacy, and governance, describing his role in Rivers as “the closing of another chapter in life devoted to service.”