“We Are Tired” — Ibas’ Aides And Security Personnel Stage Protest Over Unsettled Allowances In Rivers State

Chaos erupted at the Rivers State Government House on Wednesday, September 17, 2025, as aides and security personnel attached to outgoing Sole Administrator Vice Admiral Ibok Ete Ibas (Rtd.) staged a protest over unpaid allowances and entitlements ahead of Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s scheduled return to office on Thursday.

Eyewitnesses told reporters that the scene inside the Government House premises was tense, with aides and security operatives openly confronting the administrator. In a video circulating on social media, the personnel could be heard shouting, “We are not doing again, we are tired. Hard labour, suffering. For what?” The protesters accused Ibas of attempting to “sneak away” with the state’s wealth while leaving them unpaid.

A source privy to the development said the protest began as protocol personnel were preparing the administrator’s convoy for urgent travel to Abuja. The security operatives reportedly believed Ibas was relocating permanently and blocked his movement, chanting and demanding immediate settlement of outstanding entitlements.

@thenigerialawyer Rivers Sole Admin. Vice Admira Ibok-Ette Ibas (Rtd). Faces Aides’ Anger Over Unpaid Allowances.#river #unconstitutionalgovernment #paid ♬ original sound – TheNigeriaLawyer

The demonstration attracted the intervention of senior Government House officials, who assured the protesters that Ibas’ trip to Abuja was temporary. Following repeated appeals, the aides and security personnel eventually dispersed, restoring a semblance of order.

At press time, the administrator’s convoy was stationed at Port Harcourt International Airport, Omagwa, awaiting his return from an undisclosed emergency meeting in Abuja.

Vice Admiral Ibas was appointed earlier this year amid political tensions between Governor Fubara and former Rivers State Governor, now FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike. While a reconciliation brokered by President Bola Tinubu has eased the crisis and paved the way for Fubara’s return, Wednesday’s protest highlights lingering discontent among government aides and security personnel, casting a shadow over what was expected to be a smooth transition of power.

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