The House of Representatives has summoned the Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas, to appear before its Ad-Hoc Committee on Rivers State Oversight. The move is part of efforts to ensure comprehensive legislative scrutiny of the ongoing political developments in the state.
The Committee, constituted following the National Assembly’s approval of a Presidential Proclamation of a State of Emergency in Rivers, held its maiden meeting on Wednesday, at the National Assembly Complex in Abuja.
This follows the formal inauguration of the Committee by the Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, on Tuesday.
In a press statement issued by the House Spokesman, Rep. Akin Rotimi Jr., the Committee resolved to invite the Sole Administrator for “a comprehensive interactive session,” scheduled for Thursday, April 17, 2025, at 4:00 PM in Room 414, House of Representatives New Building, National Assembly Complex, Abuja.
Chairman of the Committee, Rt. Hon. Julius Ihonvbere, emphasized the significance of the engagement, stating:
“This engagement is necessary to ascertain the true state of affairs in Rivers State and ensure that the House remains properly guided in the discharge of its oversight responsibilities in the public interest.”
The Committee is acting under the authority granted by Section 11(4) of the 1999 Constitution, which empowers the legislature to exercise full oversight when a state of emergency is declared in any part of the country.
According to the statement, the Committee deliberated on preliminary reports and developments since the Administrator assumed office, and reiterated its commitment to carrying out its mandate with “diligence, transparency, and strict adherence to the Constitution.”
The invitation letter to the Sole Administrator has already been sent and acknowledged, the statement added.
The Committee has also promised that its proceedings will remain open and transparent to foster public trust and ensure accountability in its oversight functions.
