Governor Nyesom Ezenwo Wike of Rivers State has issued a warning to traditional rulers in the state, stating that any monarch who allows criminal activities or cultism to take hold in their domain will face dethronement. During the presentation of instruments of office to 33 traditional rulers in Port Harcourt, Wike emphasized the importance of peace and security in creating an environment that attracts investors and tourists. He urged the traditional rulers to work with local government chairmen and security agencies to maintain peace and security in their communities.
The governor charged the traditional rulers with the responsibility of ensuring that no child in their respective communities is out of school. He advised them to work with government health officers to ensure functional health centers in their communities. Wike also urged them to use their influence to attract development and improve living conditions in their communities.
The governor emphasized the importance of honesty, fairness, and accountability in leadership, urging traditional rulers to uphold these values in their communities. He cautioned them against partisan politics and its tendency to bring them into disrepute.
Governor Wike confirmed that the 33 traditional rulers met the conditions precedent to be recognized or elevated by the Rivers State Government as traditional rulers. He exercised his power and duty under the law to perform the event and let the world know of their new status as recognized traditional rulers of the Rivers State Government. He commended the Rivers State Council for Traditional Rulers for their cooperation and support throughout his administration and enjoined them to work with the incoming government to take the state to the next level of development.