Governor Fubara Appoints Eze Chike Wodo as Chairman of Rivers Traditional Rulers Council

 

Eze Chike Worlu Wodo, the King of Apara Kingdom

Eze Chike Wodo Succeeds Awuse as Chairman

Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has appointed Eze Chike Worlu Wodo, the King of Apara Kingdom in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, as the new Chairman of the Rivers State Council of Traditional Rulers. Eze Wodo, who recently pledged his support for Governor Fubara's administration, will replace King Sergeant Awuse, an ally of former Governor Nyesom Wike.

Leadership Change in Rivers State Council of Traditional Rulers

Eze Wodo's appointment comes from the same local government area as former Governor Wike, emphasizing the strategic significance of the change. King Sergeant Awuse, previously appointed by Wike, had become a traditional ruler in his Emohua Kingdom two years ago and served as the Chairman of the State Council of Traditional Rulers. Despite his recent tenure, Governor Fubara has expressed dissatisfaction with Awuse’s leadership.

Governor Fubara’s Reasons for the Change

GovernorFubara cited the "inactivity and the absence of effective leadership" under Awuse as the primary reasons for the change. He accused Awuse of failing to promote cordial relationships within the council and with the state government. One specific grievance was the exclusion of the Governor's and Deputy Governor's photographs from the council’s 2024 calendar, which Fubara considered an insult to his administration.

The Need for Active Leadership

Governor Fubara stressed the importance of active and responsible leadership within the council. He emphasized the need for the council to fulfill its responsibilities, especially in maintaining peace and harmony within their communities. "I want the council to live up to its responsibility. From my observation, the council is moribund. So, I can feel that the council, for a while now, has been very inactive," Fubara stated.

Eze Chike Wodo’s Vision and Responsibilities

Eze Chike Wodo, known for his integrity and leadership qualities, is expected to bring a new direction to the council. Governor Fubara expressed confidence in Wodo’s ability to unite the council and work closely with the state government. "The new chairman from this particular moment will be Eze Chike Worlu Wodo, Eze Ohna Apara, Paramount Ruler of Apara Kingdom. He will be the chairman of Rivers State Council of Traditional Rulers, and I believe strongly that he is going to do better and accommodate everyone," Fubara announced.

Call for Cooperation and Support

Governor Fubara appealed to all traditional rulers to support the new chairman and ensure cooperation with the state government. He emphasized that political affiliations should not interfere with the council's responsibilities and their relationship with the government. "I will appeal to you to please give us all the necessary support and cooperation so that we can have a united State that every one of us will be proud of," Fubara urged.

Commitment to Address Traditional Rulers’ Needs

Governor Fubara assured the traditional rulers that their needs, including official vehicles and allowances, would be addressed promptly. He also tasked the new chairman with updating the records of all First Class, Second Class, and Third Class traditional rulers in the state.

Acceptance and Commitment by Eze Chike Wodo

In his acceptance speech, Eze Chike Wodo expressed his gratitude and commitment to serving the state. He pledged to foster unity, work diligently with the council members, and collaborate with the state government to maintain peace and harmony within their communities. "I will devote my time and energy to the assignment given to me and work in synergy with every member of the council to ensure that there is peace within our various domains," Wodo affirmed.