The House of Representatives has issued a stern warning to the Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas (rtd.), cautioning him against overstepping his constitutional boundaries, particularly as he prepares to present the 2025 budget of the state to the National Assembly.
Deputy Spokesman of the House, Hon. Philip Agbese, who addressed journalists on Sunday, said the lower legislative chamber was monitoring developments in the state closely and would not hesitate to pass a vote of no confidence on the retired naval chief if he attempts to usurp the legislative functions of a democratically elected government.
Agbese stated that the Speaker of the House, Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, was in consultation with key leaders of the Green Chamber with a view to setting up a committee that will track the actions of the Rivers Administrator and ensure that governance in the state adheres strictly to the tenets of the rule of law.
“The Sole Administrator does not have the constitutional authority to perform legislative duties, including the submission or passage of a state budget
“What we are seeing is an attempt to stretch administrative authority beyond its limit, and the House will not allow that to happen,” Agbese stated.
He added that the House remains committed to protecting the democratic rights and interests of the people of Rivers State and would hold any appointee accountable for actions perceived to undermine the constitutional order.
“We believe the President is already aware of the position of the House regarding the administrator’s appointment and mandate. Should the administrator continue to act beyond the scope of his authority, the House will invoke all necessary legislative tools to ensure checks and balances, including a possible vote of no confidence,” he warned.
Vice Admiral Ibas, who was appointed following a political crisis in the state, had reportedly finalised plans to present a 2025 budget to the National Assembly, a move that has sparked fresh controversy over the limits of his interim mandate.
The House said it would continue to act in the best interest of the people, warning that no individual or institution would be allowed to breach constitutional provisions under any guise.
