By Deborah Nnamdi
Ibas has requested an extension from the National Assembly’s Ad-hoc Committee to allow more time for the preparation of a comprehensive briefing on the current situation in the state, pointing to the delicate security and political climate amid the ongoing state of emergency.
While addressing the committee at the National Assembly on Friday, Ibas opened by commending the committee’s leadership and underscoring its vital role in safeguarding democratic values.
“Mr. Chairman, please permit me to begin by respectfully acknowledging your leadership and the critical role of this committee in safeguarding the democratic and constitutional integrity of our great nation,” he said.
“I deeply regret my inability to attend earlier engagements with this esteemed committee… Today is exactly 10 days after the first invitation, and in between we’ve had four days that were off calendar as public holidays plus the weekends inclusive,” he noted.
“The absence, of course, was not out of disregard, but rather due to the weighty and urgent demands of stabilising governance in a state under a declared emergency,” Ibas added.
While Rivers State is “relatively calm,” Ibas cautioned that the situation remains “fragile” and requires delicate handling. He requested the committee’s understanding and indulgence to allow more time for a comprehensive report.
“It is important that any engagement with this committee is done with the depth, accuracy and clarity it rightfully deserves,” he stressed.
“I remain fully committed to cooperating with the committee and to ensuring that all relevant information is made available in due course. I want to specially thank Mr. Chairman and the distinguished honourable members of this committee. I also want to thank members of the press for the role they’ve played in supporting the efforts of the federal government,” he said.
The committee is expected to deliberate on the administrator’s request and announce its next steps regarding oversight of Rivers State’s transitional governance.
