Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (rtd), the sole administrator of Rivers State, met with the House of Representatives ad-hoc committee on the state’s oversight after failing to attend previous invitations. During the meeting, Ibas apologized for his absence, citing the urgent demands of stabilizing governance in a state under a declared emergency as the primary reason. He assured the committee of his commitment to cooperating and providing all relevant information to support their work.

Ibas explained that his absence was not due to any disregard for the National Assembly, which he holds in high regard. He emphasized the importance of the committee's oversight responsibilities and acknowledged their interest in the progress of Rivers State, which he described as currently calm but still fragile. He requested additional time to prepare and present a comprehensive briefing, given the complexities and sensitivities surrounding the transitional period in the state.

"I deeply regret my inability to attend earlier engagements with this esteemed committee, like you rightly said. Today is exactly 10 days after the first invitation and in between we have had four days that were off the calendar as public holidays and weekends. 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.

He added, "I have always held the National Assembly in the highest regard. I recognise the importance of your oversight responsibilities and your interest in the progress being made in Rivers State, which is presently relatively calm, but still fragile. That said, I only request your understanding and the indulgence of this committee to grant me additional time to adequately prepare and present a comprehensive and constructive briefing. Given the complexities and sensitivities surrounding the current transitional period in Rivers State, it is important that any engagement with this committee is done with the depth, accuracy and clarity it rightfully deserves."

Ibas reiterated his commitment, saying, "I remain fully committed to cooperating with the committee and to ensuring that all relevant information is made available in due course to support your important work. I want to specially thank Mr. Chairman and the distinguished honorable members of this committee for your understanding and continued service to the Federal Republic of Nigeria."

The committee, led by Hon. Julius Ihonvbere, accepted the apology and granted Ibas's request to reschedule the meeting, allowing him adequate time for preparation. Ihonvbere stated that this decision aligned with the House’s tradition of fairness and recognized Ibas’s demonstration of respect and responsibility.