Human rights activist Annkio Briggs has called for immediate accountability from Ibok-Ete Ibas, the former sole administrator of Rivers State.
She insisted that Ibas, who led the state for six months, cannot walk away without explaining how public funds were spent.
During an interview on Channels Television, Briggs stressed that Rivers people deserve answers regarding the use of their resources during his short administration.
According to her, transparency is not just necessary but also a matter of fairness and integrity.
“He (Ibok-Ete Ibas) spent our money. He has to account to the people of Rivers State, even to Nigerians, for the sake of integrity and for the sake of justice and fairness,” Briggs stated.
Briggs argued that it is unacceptable for any public official to control state funds without scrutiny.
She highlighted that Rivers residents have the right to demand explanations for how their resources were managed.
“Because you can’t come into a state and get hold of all their resources and funds, stay there for six months, and just walk away as if you were never there,” she added.
Her comments come amid growing public interest in the administration of Ibas, who was appointed after the suspension of Governor Sim Fubara.
Many residents had questioned the transparency of decisions made during his tenure, particularly regarding the state’s oil-derived revenues.
Ibas served as sole administrator for six months, a period Briggs described as critical due to the sensitive financial management of the oil-rich state.
She emphasized that during this time, large sums were reportedly disbursed without clear communication to the people.
“He was here for six months, and within that six months, he spent our money; that’s the truth. I see no reason why people wonder why we call it our money. It’s our money,” Briggs said firmly.
Calls for accountability in Rivers State are not new, but Briggs’ statement has added fresh urgency to the matter.
The activist insisted that Ibas should give a detailed account of his stewardship, noting that transparency is essential for good governance.
Although no formal investigation has been announced, pressure continues to mount from civic groups and stakeholders in Rivers State.
