Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has conferred the staff of office and certificates on four newly recognized monarchs in the state.
Among the honorees is Mujahid Asari Dokubo, a former Niger Delta freedom fighter from the Kalahari region, who was named His Royal Majesty, the Amanyanabo of Torusarama Piri in the Degema Local Government Area.
The other monarchs recognized include HRM Winston Odize Alamina Oputibeya XII, who was appointed Amanyanabo of Koniju in Okrika Local Government Area; HRM Eze Noble Friday Uwoh (CSP, retired), who was named Eze Igbu-Ehuda (Ahoada) IV in Ahoada-East Local Government Area; and HRH Prince Ike Ehie, recognized as the Eze Igbu Orilukwoe, also in Ahoada-East Local Government Area.
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The ceremony, held at the Rivers State Government House in Port Harcourt on Tuesday, formally recognized the monarchs as custodians of culture and leaders in their respective communities.
In his address, Governor Fubara highlighted the crucial role of traditional rulers in promoting unity, peace, and development across the state.
He urged the newly recognized monarchs to collaborate with the government in safeguarding lives and property within their domains.
Fubara further reminded them that their new positions should not be viewed as opportunities for personal gain but as a call to service.
He stressed that their leadership should focus on helping the government ensure the safety and well-being of their communities.
He said, “Let me first of all, on behalf of the government, congratulate the four of you. It has not been an easy journey to get to this point. I know a lot of you have been working very hard to ensure the success of this day. Your appointment in terms of this recognition is not for personal aggrandizement, but a call for service, a responsibility to help us protect lives and property in your domains.”
The governor emphasized that while the government holds the authority to withdraw recognition from any traditional ruler who falls short, it is not his intention to exercise such power.
He also urged the rulers not to misuse their influential positions to cause unrest in their communities, but rather to collaborate with the government in supporting its efforts to deliver the promised benefits of democracy to the people.
He said, “I don’t want you to see this elevation as another platform to create problems in your locality. We have the power to still withdraw the recognition, but I don’t intend to do that. So, I want you to be partners with the government to ensure that we continue to succeed,” he pointed out.
He added, “I know that you are all men of integrity. Support the course of governance so that we can all succeed together. It is a privileged position, and I am very sure that you are going to use it in the best interest of your people.”
In his opening remarks, the State Commissioner for Chieftaincy and Community Affairs, Engr. Charles Amadi, announced that the newly recognized traditional rulers include two Royal Majesties and two Royal Highnesses. He also praised Governor Fubara for expanding the Rivers State Council of Traditional Rulers.
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