By George Opara
South South Editor
The return of democratic governance under Governor Siminalayi Fubara has triggered mounting calls to probe Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd), who served as sole administrator during the six-month emergency rule in Rivers State.
In Port Harcourt and across the state, questions linger over whether the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) will investigate the management of state resources during the period.
Emergency rule was imposed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu following a political crisis involving Governor Fubara and his predecessor, now FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, alongside a hostile legislature. Under the arrangement, Ibas was granted sweeping powers to run the state without legislative checks.
During his tenure, the National Assembly passed a ₦1.485 trillion appropriation bill for Rivers State, later adjusted to about ₦1.846 trillion. Ibas defended the spending before federal lawmakers, citing allocations to infrastructure, pension arrears, job creation, and security. However, civil society groups and political actors are now demanding accountability.
Allegations include reckless withdrawals from local government accounts, with reports claiming ₦27.6 billion was deducted from the 23 councils between July and September. Critics also question the use of nearly ₦300 billion reportedly handed over by suspended Governor Fubara in March, as well as revenues from federal allocations, oil derivation funds, and internally generated revenue.
Human rights groups, including the Niger Delta Advocates for Good Governance (NDAGG), have petitioned the EFCC and ICPC, accusing Ibas of “dangerous financial mismanagement and brazen looting.” NDAGG also wrote to foreign governments urging travel bans on Ibas until he clears himself of the allegations.
Former Wike aide, Chief Opunabo Inko-Tariah, and activist Comrade Charles Jaja have separately called for an independent probe. They insist that accountability must follow the restoration of democratic rule in the state.
Observers say the outcome of any probe will determine whether the emergency rule was a necessary stabilizing measure or a conduit for diverting resources ahead of the 2027 elections.
