The Nigerian Senate has constituted a special committee to monitor the work of Rivers State’s Sole Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (rtd.), as part of efforts to promote transparency and accountability in the state.
The 18-member committee will be led by Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele.
Senate President Senator Godswill Akpabio announced the formation of the committee on Tuesday during the Senate’s plenary session.
He explained the reason behind the move, saying the committee’s role is “critical in ensuring effective legislative oversight in Rivers State.”
Senator Akpabio also said that the membership of the committee might be adjusted after more consultations.
The committee includes Senators Adamu Aliero, Osita Izunaso, Osita Ngwu, Kaka Shehu, Aminu Abass, Tokunbo Abiru, Adeniyi Adebire, Sani Musa, Simon Lalong, Asuquo Ekpeyong, Adams Oshiomhole, Ireti Kingibe, Onyekachi, Idiat Adebule, Ide Dafinone, and Mohammed from Jigawa State. The Clerk of the Senate will also serve on the committee.
Akpabio urged the committee to begin its work immediately, saying the task is urgent and important to the Senate’s goal of supporting democratic governance in Rivers State.
It should be recalled that President Bola Tinubu, in March, suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara and appointed Ibas as the sole administrator of Rivers State for an initial term of six months.