Ibas has launched the RSIEC and the Civil Service Commission.
Ibas has launched the RSIEC and the Rivers Civil Service Commission.
The members were appointed by the administrator and vetted by the National Assembly after the state was placed under emergency rule.
Retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas has officially launched the reconstituted boards of significant commissions in Rivers State, including the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC).
During a visit from the Senate Committee on Works on Friday, April 4, 2025, Ibas spoke on the importance of these appointments.
At the inauguration ceremony, which took place on Monday at Government House in Port Harcourt, Ibas urged the newly appointed board members to embody discipline, proficiency, integrity, and dedication to service.
In addition to RSIEC, other commissions inaugurated included the Rivers State Civil Service Commission, the Rivers State Local Government Service Commission, and the Rivers State Primary Health Care Management Board.
He emphasized that the effective functioning of these commissions is essential for stabilizing governance, reinforcing democratic institutions, and promoting good governance in the state.
While addressing the newly sworn-in chair and members of RSIEC, Ibas highlighted the importance of conducting local government elections that accurately reflect the wishes of the people.
“You have a demanding yet clear responsibility: to hold free, fair, transparent, and credible grassroots elections. It is vital that you avoid bias, favoritism, and outside influence while rebuilding public trust in the electoral process,” he asserted.
“The autonomy of your actions is fundamental for maintaining peace, stability, and effective grassroots governance. I encourage you to perform your duties with fairness, impartiality, and professionalism—even under challenging circumstances,” he stated.
He reminded them that RSIEC’s independence is essential for maintaining peace, grassroots governance, and stability, urging them to demonstrate fairness, professionalism, and impartiality, even when faced with pressure.
To the civil service commission, Ibas called for an end to mediocrity in public service and supported merit-based hiring, development, and advancement practices.
“The civil service needs to shift from favoritism towards competence, integrity, and accountability. Your commission is responsible for leading reforms, including digital transformation and standardized procedures across different ministries, departments, and agencies,” he mentioned.
He indicated that extensive training and systemic reforms are already underway.
The state local government service commission was assigned the task of professionalizing the local government system.
“As the tier of government closest to the people, you are responsible for implementing reforms that protect the system from political influence and mediocrity. Your mission involves merit-based recruitment, training, and enforcing standards for effective service delivery,” he continued.
Regarding the Rivers State Primary Health Care Management Board, Ibas pointed out the necessity of revitalizing primary healthcare services across all 23 local government areas.
“Primary healthcare is the bedrock of a sustainable health system. Your board must guarantee that facilities are sufficiently staffed, equipped, and operational—prioritizing maternal health, immunization, malaria control, and community health services,” he explained.
He emphasized the importance of data-driven management, incentives for rural health workers, and re-establishing a functional referral system.
The administrator committed to providing ongoing government support, including financial resources, to assist these commissions in achieving their goals while warning that they would be held strictly accountable for their performance.
source: TVC News
