The outgoing Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Ibok-Ete Ibas, has urged residents to put the state’s peace and unity above selfish interests. He stressed that no political win is worth the life of any citizen of Rivers.

Ibas made this statement on Sunday at an interdenominational thanksgiving service held at the Ecumenical Centre in Port Harcourt. The event marked Rivers State’s return to democratic rule after the recent local government elections.

It will be recalled that President Bola Tinubu appointed Ibas in March as the Sole Administrator of Rivers State for six months, following the declaration of emergency rule in the state.

Speaking on the past challenges, Ibas explained that Rivers was deeply divided, unstable, and struggling with broken trust before the emergency rule took effect.

He appealed to political leaders and stakeholders to let go of violence and rivalry. According to him, no political ambition or personal gain should cost the blood of any Rivers citizen.

Ibas concluded by urging everyone to prioritize the growth and success of Rivers State. He reminded politicians that the progress of the state must always come before personal or party interests. He added that politics should not be used as an excuse to destroy the very state they are meant to serve.