King Onyekachi Amaonwo, the Eze Eberi Ugo, Eze ka Eze of Omuma Kingdom, has said that the traditional institution, regardless of modern systems of governance, cannot be looked down upon as it remained a vital organ in the development of the society and preservation of culture.
Making the statement during the installation of HRH Eze Sir Nnodi Michael on Saturday as the Nye Udu Akpana Upata I of Upata Kingdom in Ahoada East Local Government Area of the Rivers State, King Amaonwo who was the Chairman of the occasion, said the leaders of the traditional institution in the state would continue to work with government to further develop Rivers State.
While charging the Nye Udu Akpana Upata to use his position to further unite his people and drive development in the area, the Eze Eberi Ugo urged the people to support and cooperate with their new monarch.
“We believe that regardless of modernity, the traditional institution is a vital organ in societal development, therefore it cannot be looked down upon. This is why I want the Nye Udu Akpana Upata to be a custodian of the culture and tradition of his people, and also a rallying point for the maintenance of communal peace and social development,” he said.
In his remarks, the Eze Igbu Upata III of Upata Kingdom, HRM Eze Felix Enene Otuwarikpo said peace is a panacea, necessary requirement for the development of any society because, according to him, no society or nation can experience meaningful development in an atmosphere of rancour, violence and confusion.
He reiterated the need for strong collaboration between all sections of Ekpeye, political and religious and other groups to ensure permanent peaceful co-existence for speedy development to be achieved.
He also appealed to other traditional rulers in Ekpeye to give premium to the unity of the people, saying that a disunited people cannot make progress.
The traditional ruler also appealed to the title holders in his domain and others to be good ambassadors of the Upata Kingdom, advising the Nye Udu Akpana Upata to use his wealth of experience for the good of his people.
Insisting that the stool of Nye Udu is historical and relevant to the Upata people, Eze Otuwarikpo explained that its existence does not foreclose the adoption of any name by the other clans in Ekpeye land.
He also called on youths to acquire skills to be self-reliant and advised them against engaging in acts capable of tarnishing the image of Upata, Ekpeye and Rivers State at large.
Speaking also, the Ahoada East Local Government Chairman, Hon. Barr. Ben Eke expressed confidence that Eze Michael has all it takes to serve the people, describing him as a man who has “a lot to offer from his cup of wisdom.”
In his acceptance speech, Sir Michael who retired from the public service as a permanent secretary promised to work in concert with his people, stressing the need for synergy amongst the traditional class.
The event which attracted top politicians, businessmen and women and clergymen, witnessed cultural displays.
