Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike has described the role Traditional Rulers play as critical in the development of the State.
Governor Wike said this during the installation Ceremony of Former Minister of Transport, Dr Abiye Sekibo, as Head of Achin War Canoe House, of Kiniju Town and admission as member of Okrika Divisional Council of Chiefs, at National Field, Okrika.
The Governor, who emphasized his deep respect for Traditional Rulers regretted that some unpopular politicians in the state have continued to play politics with the Traditional Institution.
He said, “I have great respect for Traditional Rulers because they are critical to the development of our State.
“It is regrettable that some politicians always want to play politics with the Traditional institution. I am the only Governor who has always declared open their quarterly meetings. It was not so in the past,” he said.
He also promised to always promote the tradition and culture of Rivers people, noting that in all his engagements with Traditional Rulers, he has always maintained that they promote their respective ethnic nationalities.
In his words, “When I urge the Traditional Rulers to promote Rivers culture it is not aimed at disrespecting them. We must promote our own culture. We must show we are Rivers people.
“Those playing politics with the Traditional Institution were the ones that balkanised the traditional institution in the State. What I said is, carry along your official Staff of office, which distinguishes you as Traditional Rulers. Our Traditional Rulers must prove at all times that they are not second class citizens.”
Governor Wike urged Chief Abiye Sekibo to use his experience and contacts to add value to the Okrika Divisional Council of Chiefs.
“Use your experience to attract development to the area. I want to commend the people for choosing Dr. Abiye Sekibo,” he stressed.
The Governor further noted that despite emerging as the head of Achin War Canoe House, Dr. Sekibo’s contributions are still required in the political landscape.
On his part, the Senator representing Rivers East Senatorial District, Senator George Sekibo said that with the induction, Chief Abiye Sekibo has become a leader in charge of a division, pointing out that he is like a general in the army.
He opined that being a war canoe chief, Dr. Abiye Sekibo should be ready at every point in time to defend his people, adding that today’s defence is not necessarily war, as it may be economic or whatever challenge that requires him to salvage the situation.
Chairman of Okrika Divisional Council of Chiefs, Chief Kala Wolo said Okrika people were happy with Governor Wike because he loved them and is committed to their development. He informed that Okrika people would soon celebrate the Governor’s re-election.
The induction of Chief Abiye Sekibo as Head of Achin War Canoe House and admission into Okrika Divisional Council of Chiefs witnessed Traditional Dances, which climaxed with Chief Sekibo displaying before the audience.
