Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has called on traditional rulers in the state to remain politically neutral, ensure fairness, and maintain peace in their domains as Nigeria prepares for the 2027 general elections. Fubara made this appeal while declaring open the 126th, 127th, and 128th Combined Quarterly Meeting of the Rivers State Traditional Rulers Council, held in Port Harcourt. The governor emphasized the importance of their neutrality.
The governor highlighted that the primary function of traditional rulers is to administer justice and ensure fairness, adding that their conduct must not lead to division and unmanageable crises. He requested that traditional rulers ensure their actions promote peace in their communities and do not lead to division and multiple crises that the government cannot manage. Fubara's charge is aimed at ensuring the state's stability and progress.
Fubara urged the royal fathers to abide by the oath and constitution they swore to before ascending their respective stools, in the interest of stability and progress of the State. He also enjoined them to set aside individual sentiments and place the interest of Rivers State above personal considerations. The governor noted that this principle has guided his own day-to-day governance of the State. He encouraged traditional rulers to prioritize the state's interest.
On the appeal for improved welfare for traditional rulers, the governor clarified that the delay in actualizing some of the requests they made in the past was not from the government but from the inability of the Council to put its house in order. Fubara explained that the issue of stipends paid to the traditional rulers by the local government councils is a statutory benefit provided for in the constitution. The governor's clarification aimed to address the traditional rulers' concerns.
The Chairman of the Rivers State Council of Traditional Rulers and Paramount Ruler of Apara Kingdom, His Royal Majesty, Eze Chike Amadi Worlu Wodo, expressed profound gratitude to the State Government for its efforts in maintaining a cordial relationship with the traditional institution. Wodo highlighted the importance of traditional rulers in conflict resolution, noting that their closeness to the people places them in a strategic position to mediate in disputes. The royal father appreciated the government's efforts.
Wodo drew the attention of the State Government to some challenges affecting the performance of the traditional institution, particularly the lack of official utility vehicles and logistical support needed to discharge its responsibilities effectively. He also appealed for improved monthly stipends and better welfare provisions to reflect prevailing economic realities. The traditional ruler's appeals aimed to enhance the institution's effectiveness.
Fubara assured that he remains a man of his word and will fulfill his promises to the traditional rulers before leaving office, next year. He reaffirmed his respect for the traditional institution as custodians of culture and the closest link to the people, thanking them for their prayers and support. The governor's assurance was a commitment to his promises.
Key points
- Fubara tasks traditional rulers to maintain neutrality ahead of the 2027 general elections.
- The governor emphasizes the importance of traditional rulers in conflict resolution and peace-building.
- Fubara assures traditional rulers that he will fulfill his promises to them before leaving office.
