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… Urges traditional rulers to set up collaborative networks to protect facilities in their areas
Ibok-ete Ibas, Rivers State Sole Administrator, has made it clear that his administration will not shield traditional rulers linked to disruption of peace.
He has rather highlighted the need for the traditional institution in the state to step-up its collaborative efforts in safeguarding public infrastructure in their respective domains.
Ibok, a retired vice-admiral, made the assertion at the weekend while declaring open the 121st and 122nd combined quarterly general meeting of the Rivers State Council of Traditional Rulers in Port Harcourt, where he emphasized that traditional rulers were custodians of the traditions of the land and therefore, play crucial roles in peacebuilding.
The Sole Administrator spoke through Ibibia Worika, Secretary to the Rivers State Government (SSG). He observed that traditional rulers must take deliberate steps within their communities in securing government facilities against theft and vandalism.
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He recalled how he engaged with the monarchs when he first arrived the state as part of consultations with critical stakeholders saying it was solely to maintain peace, law and order in the state.
Quoting African parables about fish decaying from the head or trees dyeing from the roots, he reminded the monarchs about the foundational role traditional institutions play in the life of the communities. “As royal fathers, you play a major role in peacebuilding and its sustenance in your various communities and kingdoms. You must take deliberate steps in securing government facilities in your communities to guard against theft and vandalism.”
He regretted that Nigerians live in times where the communities face myriad complex and interrelated challenges: security, social, economic, cultural, etc. “But as our ancestors taught us, rain does not fall on one roof alone. We must rise together, support one another, and speak with one voice for the good of our people. Let this meeting be a reminder that unity is our greatest strength.”
He reassured the monarchs of his desire to work with meaningful ideas from the institution to make the state greater.
In his remarks, Chike Amadi Worlu-Wodo, Eze Oha Apara (IV) of Apara Kingdom, who is the Chairman of Rivers State Council of Traditional Rulers, commended the Administrator for working assiduously for the peace and development of Rivers State.
