Rivers State Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (Rtd.), on Monday sworn in 23 newly elected Local Government Chairmen, hours after they received their certificates of return from the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC).
The swearing-in ceremony marked a significant milestone in the state’s journey to restore full democratic governance.
Vuce Admiral Ibas (Rtd.) reminded the new chairmen that public office is not an opportunity for personal enrichment but a sacred trust that requires selfless service.
Ibas also charged them to shun self-interest and embrace transparent, accountable, and reform-driven leadership, focusing on delivering tangible services that improve citizens’ lives.
“This victory is not a prize to be enjoyed. It is a burden to be carried. It is not an entitlement, but a duty. It is not a call to self-interest, but to selfless service,” he said.
Recalling President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency on March 18, 2025, Ibas said the peaceful conduct of the August 30 local government elections was a decisive step in restoring constitutional order.
“You proved that democracy belongs to the people, that power must flow from the consent of the governed, and that no obstacle can weaken the resolve of a united citizenry,” he said.
Ibas commended the electorate for their discipline and participation.
He also praised the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) for conducting what he described as a transparent and rancor-free election.
Ibas emphasised the importance of peace and security, urging the chairmen to work with traditional rulers, security agencies, and community leaders to ensure stability, noting that “without peace, there can be no progress”.
He tasked the chairmen to strengthen local economies by supporting small businesses, infrastructure upgrades, and investments in education.
Ibas urged them to familiarise themselves with the Nigerian Constitution and statutes guiding local government, which he described as the “compass of stewardship”.
He also charged them to support the ongoing biometric enrollment of all local government staff for effective planning and payroll management.
The local government elections, which held on August 30, 2025, across over 6,000 polling units, saw the All Progressives Congress (APC) sweep 20 out of 23 councils, while the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) won three.
