Vice-Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas Speaks Out On Rivers State's Procurement Cancellations

Clearing the Slate: Rivers State Cancels Pending Procurements

In a bold move aimed at restructuring the financial operations within Rivers State, Vice-Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas (retd), the newly appointed Sole Administrator, has officially canceled all ongoing procurement and tender processes. This decision comes as a direct response to the recent ruling by the Appeal Court in suit number CA/ABJ/CV/133/2024. The court's decision set the stage for this sweeping change, ensuring transparency and accountability in the state's financial dealings.

On Thursday, a formal statement was released to the public, signed by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Ibibia Worika. In this statement, Vice-Admiral Ibas announced that all procurements and tender services conducted by Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) during this transitional period have been nullified. This move is not just about canceling contracts but about reevaluating the state's spending priorities and ensuring that every financial decision aligns with the best interests of the people of Rivers State.

The statement explicitly outlines the directive, saying, “All Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) that have initiated or completed tender processes for various projects are hereby mandated to immediately refund all tender fees to the respective contractors. This action is being taken while the state government awaits the approval of a new spending plan, which will be communicated as soon as possible.” This directive leaves no room for ambiguity, making it clear that transparency and fairness are at the forefront of this administrative decision.

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For contractors who have participated in these tender processes, the news is both reassuring and challenging. While they will receive refunds for their tender fees, they must now prepare for a new round of procurement processes once the state's spending plan is finalized. The state government has assured all parties involved that these refunds will be processed promptly, reflecting their commitment to maintaining trust and integrity in these financial transactions.

Rivers Emergency Rule: Oye Fasua Urges Governor Fubara Against Legal Action

Why Taking President Tinubu to Court May Backfire

In related news, Oye Fasua, a former governorship candidate for the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in Ondo State, has stepped forward with a cautionary message for Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State. Fasua strongly advises against pursuing legal action against President Bola Tinubu over the imposition of a six-month emergency rule in Rivers State. According to Fasua, such a move could prove counterproductive, potentially worsening Governor Fubara's political standing rather than achieving any meaningful resolution.

Fasua's stance is rooted in a broader critique of political strategies that prioritize confrontation over constructive dialogue. In a statement issued from Lagos, Fasua expressed his concerns about certain political figures encouraging Governor Fubara to challenge the emergency rule in court. He argued that this advice is not only misguided but also detrimental to Fubara's long-term political prospects. Fasua believes that engaging in such legal battles could alienate key stakeholders and further complicate the already delicate political landscape in Rivers State.

As the situation unfolds, Fasua's counsel serves as a reminder of the importance of strategic thinking in high-stakes political environments. Rather than escalating tensions, Fasua advocates for a more measured approach that prioritizes collaboration and consensus-building. This perspective emphasizes the need for Governor Fubara to focus on constructive solutions that address the root causes of the current challenges facing Rivers State, rather than engaging in potentially damaging legal confrontations.