Vice-Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, the Sole Administrator of Rivers State, has officially inaugurated the Rivers Independent Electoral Commission (RISIEC), reinforcing his administration’s commitment to reviving democratic institutions in the state, News360 Nigeria reports.
In addition to RISIEC, Ibas also administered the oath of office to members of the Rivers State Civil Service Commission, the Local Government Service Commission, and the Primary Health Care Management Board during a ceremony held at the Government House in Port Harcourt.
According to a statement by Hector Igbikiowubo, Senior Special Adviser on Media to the Rivers State Government, the administrator urged the newly appointed officials to uphold discipline, professionalism, and integrity in their roles.
He stressed that such values were essential to stabilizing governance and promoting the core principles of democracy and accountability in the state.
Addressing the Chairman and members of RSIEC, Ibas underscored their pivotal role in ensuring credible local government elections that would reflect the will of the people.
He said, “Your task is clear but demanding: to conduct free, fair, transparent, and credible elections at the grassroots level. You must resist bias, favouritism, and external interference while restoring public confidence in the electoral process,” he stated.
“The independence of your actions is crucial to sustaining peace, stability, and grassroots governance. I urge you to act with fairness, impartiality, and professionalism—even in the face of difficult choices.”
To the Rivers State Civil Service Commission, Ibas stressed the need to eliminate mediocrity and foster a culture of excellence through merit-based recruitment, training, and promotions.
He said, “The civil service must transition from favouritism to competence, integrity, and accountability. Your commission will lead reforms, including digital transformation and standardised practices across ministries, departments, and agencies”.
Ibas asked the Rivers State Local Government Service Commission to ensure professionalism and discipline in local government administration.
“As the closest tier of government to the people, you must drive reforms that insulate the system from politics and mediocrity. Your mandate includes merit-based recruitment, training, and enforcing standards for effective service delivery,” he said.
Ibas urged the Rivers State Primary Health Care Management Board to revitalise healthcare delivery across the state’s 23 local government areas.
He said, “Primary healthcare is the foundation of a sustainable health system. Your board must ensure facilities are adequately staffed, equipped, and operational, focusing on maternal health, immunisation, malaria control, and community health services”.
He assured the Board of sustained government support, including funding, for the effective discharge of their mandates, but warned that the boards would be held accountable for their performance. Composition of the Boards
The newly inaugurated members of RISIEC are Dr. Michael Ekpai Odey (Chairman) with Prof. Arthur Nwafor, Prof. Joyce Akaninwor, and others as members.
Members of the Civil Service Commission are Dr. Livinus Bariki (Chairman), Amb. Lot Egopija, Mrs. Maeve Bestman, and others.
Mr. Isreal Amadi was inaugurated as the Chairman of the Local Government Commission with Rear Adm. Emmanuel Ofik (Rtd), Dr. Tonye Pepple and others as members.
Members of the Primary Health Care Board are Dr. Dawari George (Chairman), Dr. Chituru Adiele (Executive Director), Prof. Kaladada Korubo, and representatives from key ministries.
