Transparency Advocates Push Admiral Ibas to Declare Assets in Rivers State
In a bold move underscoring the importance of transparency in governance, a coalition of civil society organizations has issued a seven-day ultimatum to Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas (rtd), the recently appointed Administrator of Rivers State, demanding that he publicly declare his assets and liabilities.
The coalition, known as the Coalition of Conscientious Citizens (3Cs), is invoking constitutional requirements to support its call, warning of legal action should the demand be ignored.
A Constitutional Obligation
According to the 3Cs, Admiral Ibas—though not elected—assumed the powers of a sitting governor following the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State.
They argue that Section 185(1) of the Nigerian Constitution requires any individual assuming the office of governor to declare their assets and liabilities before taking on such responsibilities.
“Transparency is not a suggestion—it is a requirement,” said one spokesperson for the coalition. “The people of Rivers State deserve to know the financial standing of those managing their affairs, especially under such unusual circumstances.”
Context: A State Under Emergency
The demand comes in the wake of a political upheaval that culminated in President Bola Ahmed Tinubu declaring a state of emergency in Rivers State on March 18, 2025.
The move followed months of political tension and allegations of financial mismanagement and executive-legislative conflict in the state.
As a result of the emergency, Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, and the Rivers State House of Assembly were suspended, and Admiral Ibas was installed as the sole administrator with sweeping executive powers.
This extraordinary handover of democratic governance to a single individual has drawn national attention and increased the call for accountability.
Rising Concerns Over State Finances
The 3Cs say their demand is not just procedural—it’s also a response to early signs of alleged financial irregularities. Reports suggest that state coffers have seen significant withdrawals in the weeks since Admiral Ibas assumed office, sparking fears of unchecked spending.
“There are worrying signs that public funds are being depleted at an alarming rate. Without the usual legislative oversight, we need other mechanisms—like asset declarations—to safeguard the public interest,” the coalition stated.
A Deadline with Legal Consequences
The coalition has given Admiral Ibas a seven-day ultimatum to comply with the constitutional requirement. If he fails to do so, the 3Cs have promised to file a suit in court to compel him.
They argue that the absence of elected officials and functioning democratic institutions in the state means citizens must be more vigilant than ever.
“The suspension of democratic structures doesn’t mean we suspend accountability. If anything, it heightens the need for it,” said another representative of the group.
The Bigger Picture
This development in Rivers State is more than just a local issue—it speaks to broader concerns about governance during emergencies in Nigeria.
When normal checks and balances are bypassed, civil society becomes one of the last lines of defense for democratic values and public accountability.
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