The House of Representatives ad hoc committee tasked with overseeing the state of emergency in Rivers State has formally accepted the apology tendered by the state’s sole administrator, Ibok-Ete Ibas.
Naturenex reports that the Speaker of the House, Tajudeen Abbas, had on April 15 inaugurated a 21-member panel to monitor governance and the rule of law in Rivers State amidst ongoing political tensions. As part of its duties, the committee had summoned Ibas to brief lawmakers on developments within the state.
Initially, the administrator was expected to appear before the committee on April 17. However, a request for postponement was made, and the meeting was shifted to April 24. Yet on Thursday, when committee members assembled for the session, Ibas was again absent.
On Friday, Ibas addressed the situation, apologising for not honouring the earlier invitations. He explained the reasons for his absence and sought extra time to prepare a more detailed and accurate report on the affairs of Rivers State.
In his words, “Today is exactly 10 days after the first invitation, and in between, we’ve had four days off the calendar as public holidays plus the weekends inclusive.”
He continued, “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.”
Reaffirming his regard for the legislature, Ibas stated, “I have always held the national assembly in the highest regard. I recognise the importance of your oversight responsibilities and your interest in the progress being made in Rivers state, which is presently relatively calm, but still fragile.”
He then appealed for the lawmakers’ understanding, adding, “That said, I only request your understanding and the indulgence of this committee to grant me additional time to adequately prepare and present a comprehensive and constructive briefing.”
“Given the complexities and sensitivities surrounding the current transitional period in Rivers state, it is important that any engagement with this committee is done with the depth, accuracy and clarity it rightfully deserves.”
Following his remarks, Ibas promised full cooperation with the committee to ensure that all necessary information would be provided in due time.
In response, the committee’s chairman and House Leader, Julius Ihonvbere, confirmed that the apology had been accepted. He stated, “The Committee notes that the Administrator, in a correspondence received last night, expressed his regrets for not honouring earlier invitations and appeared in person today to offer a formal apology.”
“He also requested an opportunity to return for a more robust and comprehensive engagement with the Committee.”
Ihonvbere further remarked, “In keeping with the House’s tradition of fairness, and in recognition of the Administrator’s demonstration of respect and responsibility, the Committee has magnanimously accepted his apology.”
He concluded by revealing the committee’s next step, saying, “Accordingly, the Committee has resolved to proceed with the rescheduled engagement on a date and time to be announced in due course.”
