By: Felix Ikpotor
The Sole Administrator of Rivers State, retired vice-admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas has highlighted the need for the traditional institution in the state to step-up its collaborative efforts in safeguarding public infrastructure in their respective domains.
Ibas stared this while declaring open the 121st and 122nd Combined Quarterly General Meeting of the Rivers State Council of Traditional Rulers in Port Harcourt.
He emphasized that traditional rulers are custodians of the traditions of the land and therefore, play crucial roles in peacebuilding.
The Sole Administrator, who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Ibibia Lucky Worika, said traditional rulers must take deliberate steps within their communities in securing government facilities against theft and vandalism.
“In our African tradition, we say when the roots of a tree begin to decay, it spreads death to the branches. This proverb reminds us of the foundational role traditional institutions play in the life of our communities. You, our revered traditional rulers, are the roots—custodians of culture, guardians of heritage, and stabilizers of society. As royal fathers, you play a major role in peace building 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 said.
Ibas added: “We live in times where our 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 maintained that his administration will not shield traditional rulers linked to disruption of peace and also reassured them of his desire to partner council in making the state greater.
In his remarks, the Chairman of Rivers State Council of Traditional Rulers, HRM, Eze Chike Amadi Worlu-Wodo, Eze Oha Apara (IV) of Apara Kingdom, thanked the administrator for attending the meeting and for working to maintain peace and development in the state.
