By: Felix Ikpotor
Former Minister of Transportation, Dr Precious Abiye Sekibo, has stated that kingship in Okochiri Kingdom has a link with victories at various wars before one could be traditionally recognised as a King in the Kingdom.
Sekibo stated this during the Freedom/Independence Day celebration organised by King Ateke Tom , Amanyanabo of Okochiri Kingdom in Okrika Local Government Area.
The former minister declare that for one to become a King in the kingdom, such person must have won wars as a proof of his ability to defend his people.
The former Secretary to Rivers State Government, described Ateke Tom as the only traditionally recognised King in the area, adding that he deserved the title, given the victories he had recorded in several struggles.
“Without the struggle of King Ateke Tom, there would not have been Ijaw President, today, the God of Israel has made him Amanyanabo of Okochiri Kingdom”, he said.
Sekibo expressed regrets over statements credited to the current Transportation Minister, Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi against King Ateke Tom, and called on him to tender an unreserved apology to the Okochiri King.
On his part, King of Evo Kingdom in Obio Akpor LGA, King Leslie Eke, said those in power at various levels of government should learn how not to insult the traditional institutions.
The monarch noted that traditional rulers were there to complement the efforts of government and as such , should be accorded a high level of respect, stressing that people must be aware of the difference between struggle and crime in order to be properly guided in their utterances.
The Eze Oha III of Evo Kingdom recalled that the struggle of King Ateke birthed Niger Delta Affairs Ministry and other benefits currently enjoyed in the area.
