Gov Wike Presents Staff Of Office To 33 Newly Elevated, Recognized Traditional Rulers
The Rivers State Governor, Chief Barr. Nyesom Ezenwo Wike on Tuesday May 2, presented staff of office and certificates of recognition to the 33 newly elevated/recognized traditional rulers in the State.
Out of the 33 traditional rulers, two were elevated to first class, 27 bagged 2nd class while 4 were conferred with 3rd class status.
Those who bagged 1st class are His Royal Majesty, Mene Dr. Suanu Baridam Gbenemene Kasimene VII of Bangha Ogoni and HRH, Eze Amaewhule Owabie Opara, Nyenwe Eli Rumuepirikom Kingdom in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area.
Speaking at the presentation ceremony which took place in Government House, Governor Wike said although appointment and installation of traditional rulers were governed by customs and tradition which fall outside government regulation, the Rivers State traditional laws which constituted the Rivers State Council of Traditional Rulers gives exclusive power to the governor to recognize new stools and elevate existing ones.
He also stated that the enabling laws specified some conditions traditional rulers should meet before being recognized, stressing that the 37 traditional rulers recognized met the conditions.
He charged the Royal fathers to work with their local government chairmen and security agencies to maintain peace and security in their communities, stressing that Government would not hesitate to dethrone any traditional ruler who allow cusltism and other criminal activities to reign his domain. He said peace is paramount to the development of any society and an attraction for investors.
Governor Wike also enjoined them to make sure that no child is out of school in their various communities, while warning them to stay out of politics.
