The House of Representatives has invited retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, Sole Administrator of Rivers State, to appear before its 21-member committee today following the declaration of a state of emergency in the crisis-ridden state.
House spokesman Akin Rotimi confirmed the summons in a statement Wednesday, revealing the committee chaired by House Leader Prof. Julius Ihonvbere resolved to grill Ibas during its inaugural meeting after being constituted under Section 11(4) of the 1999 Constitution.
“The interactive session aims to ascertain the true state of affairs in Rivers State and guide the House’s oversight responsibilities,” Rotimi quoted Ihonvbere as saying. The retired naval chief is expected to appear by 4pm in Room 414 of the National Assembly complex.
The development comes weeks after federal lawmakers approved President Bola Tinubu’s emergency declaration in Rivers, where political violence between factions loyal to Governor Sim Fubara and FCT Minister Nyesom Wike has paralyzed governance.
The committee emphasized its commitment to “diligence and transparency” as it begins constitutional oversight of the emergency administration. Today’s hearing may determine whether the National Assembly will recommend extending or terminating the extraordinary measures in the oil-rich state.
A formal invitation has been delivered to the Sole Administrator’s office, with the House promising regular updates on its findings regarding Rivers’ security and political crisis.
