Rivers State Under New Command: Can Ibas Steady the Ship?

Following the suspension of Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, Ngozi Odu, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has appointed Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas  (rtd.) as the Sole Administrator of Rivers State.

With decades of military leadership, strategic governance, and maritime security expertise, Ibas is stepping into a politically charged role to stabilize governance and restore order in the oil-rich state.

Who is Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas?

Born on September 27, 1960, in Cross River State, Ibas has built an impressive career in the Nigerian Navy, holding several key military and administrative positions before retiring as the 22nd Chief of the Naval Staff (2015–2021).

He joined the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) in 1979 as part of the 26 Regular Course, earning his commission as a Sub-Lieutenant in 1983. Over the years, he gained extensive military training and strategic expertise:

• Master’s in Defence & Strategic Studies – Quaid-i-Azam University, Pakistan
• Amphibious Warfare Training – United States Marine Corps, Virginia
• Underwater Warfare Specialist – NNS Quorra, Nigeria
• Primary Pilot Training – Nigerian Air Force Base, Kaduna
• Command & Staff College Graduate – Jaji, Nigeria

A Decorated Military Strategist

Throughout his naval career, Ibas served in various leadership roles, including:

• Commander, Naval Air Base, Ojo (2006–2009)
• Flag Officer Commanding, Western Naval Command (2013–2014)
• Chief of Logistics, Naval Headquarters (2014)
• General Managing Director/CEO, Nigerian Navy Holdings Ltd.
• Chief of the Naval Staff (2015–2021)

As Chief of the Naval Staff, he played a key role in enhancing Nigeria’s maritime security, combating oil theft, and modernizing the Navy’s fleet. His tenure was marked by strategic reforms aimed at curbing piracy and securing Nigeria’s vast coastal waters.

What His Appointment Means for Rivers State

With his deep-rooted experience in leadership and crisis management, Ibas’ appointment as Rivers State Sole Administrator signals a firm, security-conscious approach to governance. His role will focus on:

• Restoring political stability amid ongoing tensions
• Ensuring security and economic continuity in the state
• Maintaining order during the six-month suspension period

While his appointment has sparked mixed reactions, many view his military background as a strong asset in handling the volatile political climate in Rivers State.

As one of the most experienced security experts in Nigeria, Ibas now faces the challenging task of navigating Rivers State through a politically sensitive period.

Will he succeed in bringing stability, or will his appointment fuel further controversy? The coming months will reveal how the ex-Naval chief steers the ship in one of Nigeria’s most politically complex states.

“I Am One of the Greatest!” – Rema Shuts Down Critics, Declares Confidence Is Not Arrogance

Nigerian Afrobeats sensation Divine Ikubor, popularly known as Rema, is making it clear—his self-confidence is not up for debate! The “Calm Down” hitmaker has fired back at critics who took issue with his recent bold claim of being among Afrobeats’ greatest artists.

In an explosive interview with Rolling Stone, Rema doubled down on his stance, insisting that acknowledging his greatness is not arrogance but a reflection of years of grit, hard work, and undeniable success.

“Why Should I Dim My Light?” – Rema Questions Critics

The 24-year-old superstar was unapologetic in addressing the backlash, challenging the notion that self-assurance should be seen as a negative trait.

“What stops you from saying you’re the best? You can say it and stand your ground,” Rema stated defiantly. “It is even humble to say four.”

His words sent shockwaves through the Afrobeats community, with fans and critics alike debating his bold self-affirmation. But for Rema, there’s no room for doubt—he has earned his place at the top.

“I’m Not Dissing Anyone – I Vouch for Afrobeats Unity!”

Drawing comparisons to Kendrick Lamar’s recent diss track, Rema pointed out that, unlike the American rapper’s “It’s just big me” declaration, he wasn’t trying to tear anyone down. Instead, his mission is to uplift the Afrobeats industry while taking his well-deserved seat at the table of greatness.

“I didn’t pull down the two, I didn’t pull down the three. I just see myself as one of the greats, and it’s a problem,” he explained. “I’m not saying ‘Oh fk everybody.’ I really vouch for the unity of Afrobeats.”**

Rema’s Unstoppable Rise – A Legacy in the Making

With record-breaking hits, international recognition, and a rapidly growing global fanbase, Rema’s confidence is backed by his achievements. Whether the critics like it or not, the Afrobeats prodigy is here to stay—and he’s not afraid to claim his crown.

Afrobeats Star Timaya Raises Alarm Over Farmland Destruction in Bayelsa

Nigerian Afrobeats singer Timaya has voiced deep concern over the destruction of farmlands in his home state, Bayelsa, allegedly caused by herders. Taking to his X (formerly Twitter) page, the music star called on the government to urgently intervene in the escalating crisis that threatens local agriculture and livelihoods.

Timaya expressed his sorrow over the loss of valuable farmlands and urged herders to adopt more sustainable and modern cattle-rearing methods, such as ranching, rather than open grazing. In his post, he lamented the situation, writing:

“Pls the government should do something. They are destroying farms in Bayelsa. Aboki, take your cow inside and feed them. This is so sad.”

His statement has since sparked a wave of reactions on social media, with netizens expressing mixed opinions. While many supported his call for government intervention, others criticized his use of the term “Aboki,” arguing that it was an ethnic slur.

Twitter user @uchebakaadi remarked: “Using ethnic slur unfortunate. All ‘Aboki’ r not herdsmen, Fulani more apt. No ethic has monopoly of slurs. Fulani tagged today replaced Ndigbo in ethnic abuse stakes. Soon it will b urs. As a celeb u ought to do beta. PHD (Pull Him/Her Down) that we practice means none advance.”

Another user, @brainzcode, questioned Timaya’s stance, pointing out perceived hypocrisy: “But them call you for show you go dey sing 🎤 for them senior man, how e be now? When they come for others, you go keep quiet, but now e don come your doorstep. E no Dey sweet you again abi?”

Some users highlighted the broader plight of the Niger Delta region, which has long suffered from environmental degradation and economic hardship. @justtooblunt stated: “Niger-Delta has seen it all. They have been robbed of everything.” Meanwhile, @Ikopima09 expressed fears about the legal repercussions of self-defense, saying: “If you try to defend yourself or your farmland they’ll sentence you to life imprisonment.”

The issue of open grazing has been a long-standing debate in Nigeria, with many states, including Bayelsa, pushing for policies to regulate the movement of cattle to prevent clashes between farmers and herders. While some states have enacted anti-open grazing laws, enforcement remains a challenge.

Timaya’s outcry adds to growing calls for the government to take decisive action to protect farmlands and ensure sustainable agricultural practices. As discussions continue, it remains to be seen whether authorities will heed his call and implement measures to curb the destruction of farmlands in Bayelsa and beyond.