The Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has officially presented Certificates of Recognition and Staff of Office to four newly recognized traditional rulers, including former Niger Delta militant leader, Alhaji Mujahid Dokubo-Asari. The ceremony took place at Government House, Port Harcourt, on Tuesday.
Dokubo-Asari was installed as the Amanyanabo of Torusarama Piri in Degema Local Government Area. Also honored were HRM Winston Odize Alamina Oputibeya XII as the Amanyanabo of Koniju in Okrika Local Government Area, HRM Eze Noble Friday Uwo as the Eze Igbu-Ehuda (Ahoada) IV in Ahoada-East Local Government Area, and HRH Prince Ike Ehie as the Eze Igbu Orilukwoe in Ahoada-East Local Government Area.
Governor Fubara congratulated the newly appointed traditional rulers, emphasizing that their roles should not be seen as avenues for personal gain but as calls to service and responsibility. He urged them to work closely with the government to protect lives and property in their respective domains.
“Your appointment in terms of this recognition is not for personal aggrandizement but a call for service. It is a responsibility to help us protect lives and property in your domains,” the governor stated.
Fubara warned against misuse of their positions, affirming that the government holds the authority to withdraw recognition if necessary, though he expressed hope that such action would not be required. He called on the traditional rulers to partner with the administration in delivering the dividends of democracy to the people.
“I want you to be partners with the government to ensure that we continue to succeed. Support the course of governance so that we can all succeed together,” he added.
The State Commissioner for Chieftaincy and Community Affairs, Engr. Charles Amadi, highlighted the significance of the occasion, noting that the appointments further strengthen the Rivers State Council of Traditional Rulers.
The governor’s gesture underscores his administration’s commitment to fostering unity and development through traditional leadership, while promoting collaboration between the government and local communities.
