Tinubu Engages with Former Rivers Administrator Ibas in Abuja

President Bola Tinubu held a significant meeting on the evening of September 27, 2025, with former Rivers State Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (rtd), at the State House in Abuja. The meeting, which began around 17:50, also included key figures such as Wale Edun, the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, and Ola Olukayode, the Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

Ibas arrived at the State House dressed in traditional attire, highlighting the formality of the occasion. Edun had been previously seen entering the compound, only to return shortly with important documents, suggesting the meeting’s serious nature.

The gathering comes after Ibas concluded his role as the sole administrator of Rivers State on September 17, 2025, following the end of a six-month emergency rule that began in March 2025. President Tinubu had directed the reinstatement of Siminalayi Fubara, the suspended governor, along with his deputy and members of the Rivers State House of Assembly effective from September 21, 2025.

Investigations into State Fund Management

In the aftermath of the emergency rule, the Rivers State House of Assembly reconvened under the leadership of Speaker Martin Amaewhule. During this session, legislators agreed to initiate an investigation into the handling of state funds while Ibas served as administrator. Their resolution specifically aims to uncover details regarding expenditures from the consolidated revenue fund, particularly concerning contracts awarded and other financial activities during the emergency period.

Ibas has publicly contested the assembly’s decision to investigate state expenditures during his tenure. He expressed his disapproval, stating that a probe into his administration’s financial decisions was unwarranted.

Official records indicate that Rivers State received approximately ₦254.37 billion from the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) between March and August 2025, which coincides with the timeframe of Ibas’s administration. The scrutiny of these funds has now become a focal point for state legislators as they seek to ensure accountability in the management of public resources.

This meeting and the ongoing investigations reflect the complexities of governance in Rivers State and the challenges faced in maintaining transparency and trust in leadership. As President Tinubu continues to engage with key figures in the region, the outcomes of these discussions will likely influence the political landscape in the state in the coming months.