The House of Representatives has issued a stern warning to Rivers State Sole Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok Ete Ibas (retd.), not to make laws or prepare a new state budget, as he lacks the constitutional mandate to do so.
This comes in response to Admiral Ibas’ recent announcement of plans to draft a new six-month budget, following the state of emergency declared in March.
While speaking with the PUNCH, the House Deputy Spokesman, Philip Agbese, stated that Speaker Tajudeen Abbas is in talks with House leadership to form a committee that will monitor the administrator’s actions and safeguard the interests of Rivers people.
Agbese stressed that legislative powers rest solely with the National Assembly, and warned that any overreach by the administrator could lead to disciplinary actions, including a possible vote of no confidence.
He added that the House believes the President is aware of its position on the administrator’s role and expectations.