WATCH THE VIDEO HERE The Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Mr Ibok-Ete Ibas, has assured that necessary steps would be taken to ensure the prompt utilisation of the withheld local government funds, which have now been released by the federal government. Recall that President Bola Tinubu on Tuesday declared a state of emergency in Rivers State and suspended Governor Similaniyi Fubara and the Deputy Governor, Mrs Ngozi Odu, as well as all members of the Rivers State House of Assembly, over a political crisis. He then replaced them with Mr Ibas, who will act for the next six months as a sole administrator. Speaking during a meeting with Heads of Local Government Administrators in Port Harcourt on Friday, Mr Ibas described the gathering as a pivotal moment in the collective effort to restore stability and progress in the state. The Sole Administrator lamented the economic hardship in the Niger Delta, noting that despite the region’s wealth of natural resources, its people continue to suffer. “This is unacceptable,” he stated, emphasizing the need for transformation and accountability. He expressed concerns over the delay in salary payments across local government areas, acknowledging the struggles of affected workers. “I feel the pain of the workers,” he said, assuring them that the withheld allocations had been released and that his administration would ensure that salaries are paid without delay. However, he warned that financial accountability would be strictly enforced. Mr Ibas, a retired vice admiral and former Chief of Naval Staff, directed all local government areas to submit their wage bills, supported by relevant documentation, through the office of the Head of Service. He said his administration would not tolerate financial recklessness, vowing to scrutinize the handling of public funds and take action against any mismanagement. Mr Ibas said good governance is not just a slogan, but a commitment to changing the negative narrative within the next six months. He further stressed the importance of collaboration with traditional rulers and security agencies to enhance security at the grassroots level. “You must take the lead in ensuring security within your domains,” he urged local government administrators.
Rivers Sole Administrator Promises Swift Utilisation of Funds
