Rivers State Administrator Swears In 23 Newly Elected LG Chairmen, Urges Selfless Leadership
Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (Rtd), the Administrator of Rivers State, has officially sworn in the 23 newly elected Local Government Chairmen, just hours after they received their certificates of return from the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC).
During the swearing-in ceremony, Ibas emphasized that holding public office is a solemn responsibility—not a means for personal gain. He reminded the new chairmen that their election marks the beginning of service, not celebration.
“This victory is not a prize to be enjoyed—it is a burden to be carried,” he said. “It is not an entitlement, but a duty. It is not a call to self-interest, but to selfless service.”
He urged them to reject the politics of patronage and instead focus on transparent, accountable, and people-centered governance that delivers real results at the grassroots level.
Reflecting on President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency on March 18, 2025, Ibas described the peaceful conduct of the August 30 elections as a major milestone in restoring democratic order in the state.
“You demonstrated that democracy is rooted in the will of the people—that true power flows from the consent of the governed,” he said, applauding voters for their discipline and participation.
He also commended RSIEC for organizing what he called a credible and peaceful election process, free from rancor and irregularities.
Laying out his expectations for the new council chairmen, the Administrator advised them to familiarize themselves thoroughly with the Nigerian Constitution and local government laws, which he described as their “compass for stewardship.”
He also encouraged collaboration with traditional institutions, security agencies, and community leaders to maintain peace, stressing, “Without peace, there can be no progress.”
On development priorities, Ibas called for stronger support for small businesses, infrastructure development, and educational investment. He also urged full cooperation with the ongoing biometric enrollment of local government staff to enhance planning and streamline payroll management.
In conclusion, Ibas expressed appreciation for the outgoing Council Administrators, acknowledging their contributions during a challenging phase in the state’s governance journey.
