As political tensions in Rivers State continue to escalate, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has appointed Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas (Rtd) as the state’s sole administrator following the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, Ngozi Odu, for an initial six-month period. This move has further intensified the already charged political landscape in the region
Born on September 27, 1960, in Nko, Cross River State, Vice Admiral Ibas began his educational journey at Nko Primary School before completing his primary studies at Big Qua Primary School in 1971. He later attended Hope Waddell Training Institute from 1972 to 1976 and pursued further studies at the School of Basic Studies in Ogoja between 1977 and 1979. His military aspirations took shape in 1979 when he joined the Nigerian Defence Academy as part of the 26th Regular Course, leading to his commissioning as a sub-lieutenant on January 1, 1983.
Ibas is well-versed in military strategy and security operations, having undergone training at esteemed institutions such as INS Venduruthy in India, the 301 Primary Flying Training School in Kaduna, the Armed Forces Command and Staff College in Jaji, the Marine Corps University in Quantico, Virginia, and the National Defence College in Islamabad, Pakistan. He also holds a master’s degree in Defence and Strategic Studies from Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad.
With an extensive career spanning decades, Vice Admiral Ibas has played a crucial role in Nigeria’s naval operations. His leadership saw him command several naval vessels and assume key roles in maritime security. From 1993 to 1996, he served as the executive officer of NNS Siri, NNS Ekun, and NNS Ambe. Over the years, he led the Nigerian Navy Underwater Warfare School and the Forward Operating Base Ibaka, in addition to holding senior positions such as naval provost marshal, principal staff officer to the Chief of Naval Staff, and flag officer commanding the Western Naval Command.
In 2015, then-President Muhammadu Buhari appointed him as the 22nd Chief of Naval Staff, a role he held until his retirement in January 2021. Following his naval service, he was appointed Nigeria’s Ambassador to Ghana in 2021, highlighting his diplomatic and governance experience.
Despite his esteemed career, Vice Admiral Ibas has faced allegations of corruption and abuse of power. In 2022, Captain Emmanuel Ekpe, a former assistant director of procurement at the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA), accused Ibas of orchestrating his forced retirement after exposing corruption within the Nigerian Navy.
In a letter addressed to former President Muhammadu Buhari, Ekpe claimed that Ibas had personally victimized him for over two decades, culminating in his forced removal from service. He alleged that his troubles with Ibas escalated in 2015 when he reported fraudulent activities involving the former Chief of Naval Staff during a 1996 mission in Liberia.
According to Fiji.ng, Ekpe stated that after a high-level meeting in December 2019, he was suddenly placed in a pre-retirement course alongside other officers, many of whom were not yet due for retirement. He believes this was a strategic move to eliminate perceived threats. Additionally, he asserted that he was placed on a National Security Watchlist and had his international passport data collected.
Despite the gravity of these claims, the Buhari administration never addressed them, and Ibas has remained silent on the allegations.
Despite the gravity of these claims, the Buhari administration never addressed them, and Ibas has remained silent on the allegations.
Vice Admiral Ibas has been recognized for his service with numerous military and national honors, including the Silver Jubilee Medal, ECOMOG Medal, Forces Service Star, Meritorious Service Star, Distinguished Service Star, and the General Service Star. In October 2022, former President Buhari awarded him the national honour of Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic (CFR).
A respected figure in security and governance, Ibas is affiliated with the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs and the Nigerian Institute of Management. He is married to Barrister Theresa Ibas, with whom he has children. In his personal time, he enjoys reading, watching documentaries, and playing golf.
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As Vice Admiral Ibas steps into his new role, all eyes are on how he will navigate the state’s political crisis and restore stability. His experience in security and governance will be tested as he attempts to unify warring factions and bring order to Rivers State. Whether he succeeds or faces resistance remains to be seen, but his leadership will undoubtedly shape the state’s future in the coming months.
Stay tuned for further updates on his administration and developments in Rivers State.
