The Rivers State Sole Administrator, Vice-Admiral Ibok-Ette Ekwe Ibas (rtd) has emphasized the need for traditional institutions in the state to step-up its collaborative efforts in safeguarding public infrastructure in their respective domains.
Ibas stated this on Friday, June 6, 2025, while declaring open the 121st and 122nd Combined Quarterly General Meeting of the Rivers State Council of Traditional Rulers in Port Harcourt.
The sole administrator noted that traditional rulers are custodians of the traditions of the land and therefore, play crucial roles in peacebuilding.
Ibas who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Ibibia Lucky Worika, stated that traditional rulers must take deliberate steps within their communities in securing 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.
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“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 stabilisers of society. 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.
“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.”
Further, he maintained that his administration will not shield traditional rulers linked to the disruption of peace and also reassured them of his desire to partner with meaningful ideas from the institution to make 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 what he Dec as working assiduously for the peace and development of the state.
