Reps to Rivers Sole Administrator: Lawmaking Not in Your Jurisdiction

The House of Representatives has issued a stern warning to the Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral Ibok Ete Ibas (retd.), cautioning him against making laws or preparing a new state budget, as he lacks the constitutional authority to do so.

This comes in response to Admiral Ibas’ recent announcement of plans to prepare a fresh budget to run the affairs of the state for the next six months, following the declaration of a state of emergency in March. His move has sparked widespread criticism, with many insisting that he is overstepping his bounds.

Deputy Spokesman of the House, Philip Agbese, in an interview with *Punch*, said Speaker Tajudeen Abbas is in talks with House leadership to establish a committee that will monitor the administrator’s actions and ensure that the interests of Rivers people are protected.

Agbese stressed that the Sole Administrator has no legal basis to perform the legislative duties of the National Assembly. He added that the House assumes the President has been briefed on its position regarding Ibas’ appointment and scope of responsibility.

He further warned that if the administrator continues to operate beyond his mandate, the House would not hesitate to take appropriate measures, including a vote of no confidence, to uphold the rule of law.