The Rivers State Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd.), has issued a strong warning to the newly appointed sole administrators of the state’s 23 local government areas, cautioning them against financial recklessness and abuse of office.
During a meeting held on Friday at the Government House in Port Harcourt, Ibas made it clear that accountability and transparency would be the guiding principles of his administration, despite growing controversy over the appointments.
“I will not tolerate any form of recklessness, abuse of office, or misuse of public funds,” he declared.
“You are here to serve the people, not yourselves. Every kobo spent must be accounted for, and the people must see value for their money.”
The administrator urged the new officials to focus on key sectors including sanitation, environmental management, primary healthcare, the welfare and discipline of local government staff, education, and youth development.
“These are the key areas by which your performance will be assessed in the coming weeks,” he said.
“This is not the time for excuses. It is the time for results.”
He stressed that local government administrators must embody transparency and integrity in all their dealings.
“The people deserve to know how their money is being used. You owe them not only accountability but also dedication to their well-being,” Ibas said.
To ensure effective oversight, Ibas announced plans to implement mechanisms that will track local government activities and ensure adherence to proper governance procedures.
“We will establish a robust monitoring system to ensure that public funds are used judiciously. There will be zero tolerance for financial recklessness or any form of corruption,” he added.
Meanwhile, the political tension surrounding the appointments continues to mount. Governors from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have condemned the move, calling it a violation of the Nigerian Constitution and a threat to democracy.
“The appointment of unelected individuals to administer local governments is a violation of the constitution and an affront to democracy,” a PDP governor said at a recent press conference.
“We urge President Tinubu to act before it is too late.”
Despite the criticisms, Vice Admiral Ibas reaffirmed his commitment to restoring peace, order, and democratic principles in Rivers State.
“Your mandate is clear: restore peace and stability in your respective councils, and help return our democratic institutions to full operation,” he told the administrators.
“This responsibility is sacred, and you must carry it out with discipline, care, and utmost respect for the people you serve.”
