Traditional rulers in Rivers State have been urged to intensify efforts in protecting public infrastructure within their domains as part of their role in fostering peace and development.
According to The PUNCH, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (rtd), the Sole Administrator of the state, made the appeal during the combined 121st and 122nd Quarterly General Meeting of the Rivers State Council of Traditional Rulers held in Port Harcourt on Friday.
Speaking through the Secretary to the State Government, Professor Ibibia Worika, Ibas emphasized that royal fathers are central to community stability and should actively collaborate with the government to safeguard vital assets from vandalism and theft.
“As custodians of tradition and stabilizers of society, traditional rulers must take deliberate steps in securing government facilities in their communities,” he said. “You are the roots—guardians of our heritage. If those roots decay, it spreads rot to the entire tree.”
Highlighting the rising complexity of social and security challenges across the state, Ibas noted that collective responsibility remains essential. “Rain does not fall on one roof alone. These challenges affect us all. That’s why we must rise together, support each other, and speak with one voice,” he said.
The retired naval officer also reaffirmed his administration’s zero tolerance for traditional leaders who engage in activities that threaten public peace. “Any royal father found to be encouraging unrest will not be shielded,” he warned.
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In his response, the Chairman of the Rivers State Council of Traditional Rulers, His Royal Majesty Chike Amadi Worlu-Wodo, Eze Oha Apara (IV) of Apara Kingdom, commended the state administrator for his commitment to peace and for engaging traditional institutions in meaningful dialogue.
“We appreciate the administrator’s consistent efforts to carry traditional rulers along in promoting unity and sustainable development across Rivers State,” Eze Worlu-Wodo said.
