A slew of protests and counter-protests have punctured the Port Harcourt landscape since Ibas was appointed administrator of Rivers by President Bola Tinubu — following the declaration of emergency rule.

Igbikiowubo added that the gazette of the emergency rule grants the sole administrator “sweeping powers”.

Speaking in an interview with Punch, the media aide said Ibas has been exercising restraint over the protests.

“The fact that people are able to protest speaks to the administrator’s level of tolerance,” Igbikiowubo said.

“If you check the gazette declaring emergency rule, you will see that it grants the administrator sweeping powers. Yes, sweeping powers.

“But fortunately for Rivers residents, the administrator has exercised restraint.

“These protests, for whatever reason, are testing the administrator’s will.

“We urge Rivers residents to be restrained. It is important that we allow a cool head to prevail at this time. All hands must be on deck to restore democratic institutions.”

He added that the protests are “unnecessary” and that restoration of democratic institutions in the state cannot be achieved through intimidation and harassment of the sole administrator.

Igbikiowubo said Ibas is already engaging stakeholders as part of peace-building efforts.

On March 18, Tinubu declared emergency rule in the oil-rich state citing a protracted political crisis and the torching of oil facilities.

He also suspended Siminalayi Fubara, governor of the state; his deputy, Ngozi Odu; and all members of the Rivers assembly for an initial period of six months.

[TheCable]