Wike’s Ex-Deputy and 3 Other Lawmakers Absent as Rivers NASS Caucus Meets Sole Administrator Ibas

The former deputy governor of Rivers State and current Senator representing Rivers West Senatorial District in the National Assembly, Senator Ipalibo Harry-Banigo, was notably absent, along with three other federal lawmakers, during a visit by the Rivers State caucus in the National Assembly to the State’s Sole Administrator, Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, at the Government House in Port Harcourt on Thursday.

The absent lawmakers included Hon. Awaji Inombek Abiante, representing the Opobo/Nkoro/Andoni federal constituency; Hon. Allison Anderson, representing the Okrika/Ogu-Bolo federal constituency; and Hon. Boma Goodhead, representing the Akuku-Toru federal constituency.

During the visit, Vice Admiral Ibas (rtd), the Sole Administrator, addressed the Rivers State Caucus and discussed the state’s Appropriation Bill for 2025. He highlighted that the bill was being crafted to address key development concerns, including healthcare, education, agriculture, and infrastructure. Additionally, the proposed budget aims to generate more employment opportunities for Rivers residents and boost the adoption of technology in critical sectors of public life.

Ibas emphasized that since assuming office, he had been focused on restoring law and order in the state with the support of security agencies, creating a safe and conducive environment where residents feel valued and secure. He further outlined the administration’s commitment to making Rivers a model of peace, with a stable economy and citizens able to pursue their livelihoods without fear.

“In addition to our peace-building efforts, we are also focused on economic stability and development,” Ibas said. “Since the Supreme Court ruling on the state’s budget, we have worked swiftly to put together a new budget that prioritizes healthcare, education, social services, and continued infrastructure development. We are committed to ensuring that the process is transparent, inclusive, and expedited, so we can make the necessary investments that will improve the lives of citizens.”

Ibas noted that the budget, which is in its final stages, emphasizes job creation and investments in agriculture, infrastructure, and technology. He acknowledged the urgency of the initiative and assured that it would be implemented without delay. He also expressed the need for the support of lawmakers as key representatives of Rivers State in the National Assembly, urging them to help secure the necessary resources and legislative backing to bring his administration’s initiatives to fruition.

“The partnership of the legislators is critical to ensuring that Rivers State remains on a path of progress and enduring peace for future generations,” Ibas stated.

In light of the challenges facing the state, including the State of Emergency declared by President Bola Tinubu, Ibas emphasized the importance of dialogue, community engagement, and reconciliation to foster trust among the people of Rivers. He commended the resilience and patience of the state’s citizens in the ongoing efforts to restore peace and respect for the law.

Senator Barinada Mpigi, representing Rivers South-East District, delivered a speech on behalf of the federal lawmakers, expressing their commitment to supporting initiatives that would bring development to the state. He praised the Sole Administrator for his achievements so far and pledged the cooperation of the National Assembly members to ensure Rivers State returns to a path of law and order.