The Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Vice-Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd), has urged traditional rulers across the state to take proactive measures in protecting public infrastructure within their respective domains. He emphasized that traditional institutions must play a key role in securing government assets from vandalism and theft.
Vice-Admiral Ibas made this call on Friday while declaring open the 121st and 122nd Combined Quarterly General Meeting of the Rivers State Council of Traditional Rulers held in Port Harcourt.
Represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Professor Ibibia Lucky Worika, the Administrator highlighted the vital role traditional rulers play in fostering peace and stability in their communities.
In his address, Ibas referred to a previous engagement he held with the council upon assuming office, noting that it formed part of his consultations with critical stakeholders aimed at promoting peace, law, and order across Rivers State. He stressed that the involvement of traditional rulers in governance and community management remains indispensable.
He drew from African proverbs to illustrate the importance of traditional institutions, stating, “In our African tradition, we say when the roots of a tree begin to decay, it spreads death to the branches.” He likened the traditional rulers to the roots of the societal tree—custodians of culture, guardians of heritage, and stabilizers of the community.
“As royal fathers,” he continued, “you are instrumental in peacebuilding and its sustenance within your kingdoms. It is therefore imperative that you take deliberate actions to safeguard public infrastructure within your domains.”
Ibas acknowledged the wide array of interconnected challenges confronting communities today, including security, social cohesion, economic hardship, and cultural preservation.
However, he called for collective effort, unity, and mutual support in addressing these issues, saying, “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 serve as a reminder that unity is our greatest strength.”
The Administrator also issued a firm warning that his administration would not hesitate to hold accountable any traditional ruler found to be complicit in acts that threaten the peace of the state. At the same time, he reassured the council of his willingness to work collaboratively with traditional institutions to ensure sustainable peace and development throughout Rivers State.
In response, the Chairman of the Rivers State Council of Traditional Rulers, His Royal Majesty Eze Chike Amadi Worlu-Wodo, Eze Oha Apara (IV) of the Apara Kingdom, expressed his gratitude to the Administrator for attending the meeting. He commended Ibas for his dedication to peace and development and affirmed the council’s continued support in the state’s progress.
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