Hector Igbikiowubo, media aide to Rivers State Sole Administrator Ibok-Ete Ibas, says the wave of protests in the state is wearing down his principal’s patience.
Igbikiowubo, in an interview with Punch, described the demonstrations as a test of the administrator’s tolerance, noting that Ibas has so far chosen restraint despite the powers granted to him.
“The fact that people are able to protest speaks to the administrator’s level of tolerance,” he said.
“If you check the gazette declaring emergency rule, you will see that it grants the administrator sweeping powers. Yes, sweeping powers.
“But fortunately for Rivers residents, the administrator has exercised restraint.”
He warned that the continued demonstrations, which have dotted Port Harcourt since President Bola Tinubu appointed Ibas following the March 18 emergency declaration, could frustrate peace efforts.
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“These protests, for whatever reason, are testing the administrator’s will,” Igbikiowubo said.
“We urge Rivers residents to be restrained. It is important that we allow a cool head to prevail at this time. All hands must be on deck to restore democratic institutions.”
He further described the protests as “unnecessary,” saying the restoration of democratic rule cannot be achieved through intimidation or harassment of the sole administrator.
According to him, Ibas is already engaging stakeholders across the state as part of a peace-building initiative.
Tinubu had declared emergency rule in Rivers citing a drawn-out political crisis and attacks on oil infrastructure.
He also suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu, and all members of the state assembly for an initial six-month period.