By: Chioma Madonna Ndukwu
The House of Representatives has issued a firm warning to Rivers State’s Sole Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok Ete Ibas (retd.), stressing that he lacks the constitutional authority to create laws for the state.
This warning comes after Ibas revealed plans to draft a new state budget following the declaration of a state of emergency in March.
In a statement to The PUNCH on Sunday, Deputy Spokesperson for the House, Philip Agbese, clarified, “The Sole Administrator does not possess the constitutional mandate to perform the legislative duties of the National Assembly under the current circumstances.”
Agbese further confirmed that Speaker Tajudeen Abbas is engaging with House leadership to establish a dedicated committee to monitor the Administrator’s actions.
“The Speaker is in discussions with the leadership to set up a committee that will oversee the Administrator’s activities, ensuring that the interests of Rivers State are safeguarded,” Agbese added.
This development follows the political crisis in Rivers State, triggered by a standoff between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the state legislature.
As a result, President Bola Tinubu imposed a state of emergency, suspending both the governor and the legislature. Ibas was subsequently appointed as the Sole Administrator.
Ibas, who has signaled intentions to propose a new budget, stated that the focus would be on key areas such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure, while stressing transparency and inclusiveness in the budgetary process.
“Following the Supreme Court’s ruling on the state’s budget, we’ve acted quickly to formulate a new budget that underscores our commitment to healthcare, education, social services, and sustained infrastructural growth,” Ibas remarked.
He emphasized the urgency of finalizing the budget, which aims to stimulate job creation and bolster sectors like agriculture, infrastructure, and technology.
“We are fully aware of the urgency of these initiatives, and we are determined to implement them promptly,” he said.
Despite these assurances, the House of Representatives has made it clear that it will remain vigilant.
Agbese warned that if the Administrator exceeds his constitutional boundaries, the House will not hesitate to take firm action, including the possibility of a vote of no confidence.
“We trust that the President is aware of our stance regarding the Administrator’s mandate. Should the Administrator overstep his authority, the House will take the necessary steps, which could include a vote of no confidence, to ensure that the rule of law is upheld,” Agbese concluded.
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