Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Ibok-Ete Ibas, has called upon traditional rulers in the state to abstain from partisan politics, emphasising their vital role in cultivating peace and stability within the region.
During a meeting with traditional rulers at the Government House in Port Harcourt, Ibas, a retired Vice Admiral and former Chief of Naval Staff, expressed his deep connection to the Niger Delta and his concern over the persistent unrest in Rivers State. “As a former naval chief, my duty was to protect lives, and I remain committed to restoring peace in Rivers State,” he stated.
Ibas assured the traditional rulers that his administration is dedicated to returning the state to a position of pride and stability, prioritising the collective welfare over individual interests. He stressed the importance of order for societal progress, highlighting the traditional rulers’ role as a bridge between the government and the people.
He urged the monarchs to actively de-escalate tensions within their communities and to avoid any form of political partisanship, whether through speech, action, or demeanor. Ibas also cautioned them against associating with cultism and vandalism.
Highlighting their role in community policing, Ibas encouraged the traditional rulers to maintain open communication with their subjects, emphasising that “security is the responsibility of all, not just the government.” He made it clear that his administration would not tolerate excuses for disorder.
Acknowledging the challenges ahead, Ibas expressed his administration’s openness to suggestions and collaboration.
In response, the Chairman of the Rivers State Council of Traditional Rulers, HRM Chike Worlu-Wodo, assured the administrator of their support, describing his appointment as a positive step for the state. He affirmed the traditional rulers’ commitment to maintaining peace within their domains.
“As traditional rulers, our primary duty is to ensure peace in our kingdoms, clans, and communities,” Worlu-Wodo stated, urging Ibas to view himself as a peacemaker and mediator. He expressed confidence in Ibas’s ability to restore peace to Rivers State, stressing the state’s urgent need for stability. “We are not in doubt of your ability, which is why you were appointed,” he concluded.
