Emergency Rule: Ibas Seeks More Time To Brief Reps On ‘Situation’ In Rivers

Sole Administrator Ibok-Ete Ibas has requested more time from the House of Representatives Ad hoc Committee on Rivers State to properly brief the lawmakers on developments in the state.

Ibas made the request at a meeting with the committee in Abuja on Friday. He had earlier failed to appear before the committee on April 17 and 24.

He expressed regret over his failure to honour previous invitations by the committee.

Ibas held a closed-door meeting with members of the ad hoc committee on Rivers State on Friday.

The committee called the meeting as part of efforts to take over legislative duties in Rivers State.

The declaration of emergency rule in Rivers State had to the suspension of the legislature, Governor Sim Fubara and his deputy.

Speaking at the meeting with the committee, Ibas said: “I have always held the National Assembly in the highest regard. I recognise the importance of your oversight responsibilities and your interest in the progress being made in Rivers, which is presently relatively calm, but still fragile.

“I remain fully committed to cooperating with the committee and to ensuring that all relevant information is made available in due course to support your important work.

“I only request the understanding and the indulgence of this committee to grant me additional time to adequately prepare and present a comprehensive and constructive briefing, given the complexities and sensitivities surrounding the current transitional period in Rivers.

“It is important that any engagement with this committee is done with the depth, accuracy, and clarity it rightfully deserves.

“I remain fully committed to cooperating with the committee and to ensuring that all relevant information is made available in due course to support your important work.”