Rivers State Administrator urges traditional rulers to boost efforts in protecting public infrastructure and upholding peace within their communities
The Rivers State Sole Administrator, Vice-Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, has issued a direct call to traditional rulers across the state, urging them to significantly enhance their collaborative efforts in safeguarding public infrastructure within their respective domains.
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Ibas delivered this imperative during his opening address at the 121st and 122nd Combined Quarterly General Meeting of the Rivers State Council of Traditional Rulers, held in Port Harcourt on Friday.
He underscored the crucial role played by traditional rulers as custodians of the land’s traditions and vital agents in peacebuilding.
Represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Ibibia Worika, the Sole Administrator stressed that traditional rulers must take “deliberate steps” within their communities to secure government facilities against theft and vandalism.
“Recall that on my assumption of office as the Administrator of Rivers State, I engaged with you at the Government House as part of my consultation with critical stakeholders with the sole aim of maintaining peace, law and order in our dear state,” Ibas stated.
He drew on an African proverb, “when the roots of a tree begin to decay, it spreads death to the branches,” to illustrate the foundational role of traditional institutions.
He continued, “You, our revered traditional rulers, are the roots—custodians of culture, guardians of heritage, and stabilisers of society.
As royal fathers, you play a major role in peace building and its sustenance in your various communities and kingdoms.”
Emphasising the contemporary challenges, Ibas noted, “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.”
The Administrator further maintained that his administration would not shield any traditional rulers found to be linked to the disruption of peace.
He also reassured them of his eagerness to partner with meaningful ideas from the institution to foster greater development in the state.
In his remarks, the Chairman of the Rivers State Council of Traditional Rulers, HRM Chike Amadi Worlu-Wodo, Eze Oha Apara (IV) of Apara Kingdom, expressed gratitude to the Administrator for his attendance and for his assiduous work towards the peace and development of Rivers State.
