In a bold statement, the Sole Administrator of Rivers State, retired Vice-Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, made it clear that his administration will not shield traditional rulers who fuel crisis in the state. This declaration was made during the 121st and 122nd Combined Quarterly General Meeting of the Rivers State Council of Traditional Rulers in Port Harcourt. Ibas reassured the traditional rulers of his desire to collaborate with them to make the state greater, emphasizing the importance of their role in maintaining peace and order.

The Sole Administrator highlighted the need for traditional institutions to take responsibility for safeguarding public infrastructure in their domains. He emphasized that traditional rulers play a crucial role in peace building, as they are the custodians of the land’s traditions. Ibas, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Ibibia Lucky Worika, urged traditional rulers to take deliberate steps to secure government facilities against theft and vandalism.

Ibas reflected on his assumption of office, recalling his engagement with traditional rulers at the Government House as part of his consultation with critical stakeholders. He reiterated his goal of maintaining peace, law, and order in the state. Drawing from African tradition, Ibas noted that when the roots of a tree begin to decay, it spreads death to the branches. This proverb, he explained, reminds us of the foundational role traditional institutions play in the life of communities. Traditional rulers, he said, are the roots – custodians of culture, guardians of heritage, and stabilizers of society.

As royal fathers, Ibas emphasized, traditional rulers play a major role in peace building and its sustenance in their communities and kingdoms. He urged them to take deliberate steps to secure government facilities and guard against theft and vandalism. In a call to action, Ibas reminded the traditional rulers that their communities face complex and interrelated challenges, including security, social, economic, and cultural issues. However, he emphasized that unity is the greatest strength, and that by rising together, supporting one another, and speaking with one voice, they can overcome these challenges for the good of their people. The meeting, he added, should serve as a reminder of the importance of unity in the face of adversity.