The Rivers State Sole Administrator, Ibok-Ete Ibas, has pleaded for more time to brief the National Assembly’s Ad-hoc Committee after shunning an invitation on Thursday.
Ibas, who addressed the committee at the National Assembly on Friday, cited the fragile security and political environment under the current state of emergency.
While acknowledging the leadership of the committee and the importance of its role in upholding democratic integrity, he expressed regret over his previous absence.
According to Ibas, the delay was due to urgent government demands and not out of disrespect.
“Mr. Chairman, please permit me to begin by respectfully acknowledging your leadership and the critical role of this committee in safeguarding the democratic and constitutional integrity of our great nation.
“I deeply regret my inability to attend earlier engagements with this esteemed committee… Today is exactly 10 days after the first invitation, and in between we’ve had four days that were off calendar as public holidays, plus the weekends inclusive.
“The absence, of course, was not out of disregard, but rather due to the weighty and urgent demands of stabilising governance in a state under a declared emergency,” Ibas stated.
Speaking further, he said that while Rivers is “relatively calm,” the situation in the state is “fragile” and requires delicate handling.
Ibas sought the committee’s understanding and indulgence to allow him more time to come up with a comprehensive report.
“It is important that any engagement with this committee is done with the depth, accuracy and clarity it rightfully deserves,” he noted.