Abia State Governor, Alex Otti has presented the Staff of Office to two new traditional rulers in Uturu, Isuikwuato LGA.
The new monarchs are Eze Chijioke Nweke of Ohaukwu Amarie and Eze Kelechi Ogbuehi of Amaokwe Achara autonomous communities.
Presenting the staff of office in Umuahia, Governor Otti urged the monarchs to rule their people in justice and fairness, warning that suspected criminal elements must not be shielded by the traditional rulers.
Governor Otti who was represented by the Abia State Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Uzor Nwachukwu, urged the traditional rulers to exercise sound judgment and fairness in handling matters brought before them, stressing that personal relationships, sentiments or other considerations should not influence their decisions.
He particularly cautioned them against shielding offenders, especially those close to them, noting that traditional institutions must uphold justice and accountability and provide leadership worthy of emulation.
Governor Otti noted that traditional rulers occupy a strategic position in maintaining peace, resolving community disputes and fostering cooperation between the people and government, adding that their leadership remains critical to sustainable development at the grassroots.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening the traditional institution and improving the welfare and status of traditional rulers across the state.
The Governor urged traditional rulers to continue supporting government programmes and policies aimed at improving the lives of the people, while remaining accessible and responsive to the needs and concerns of their communities.
Also speaking, the Chairman of Isuikwuato LGA, Chinedu Ekeke, charged traditional rulers to bear the burdens of their people and promote the welfare and development of their communities.
Ekeke cautioned the new monarchs against using their positions to dispossess their subjects of their lands and properties, even as he warned that community members should not be subjected to intimidation.
In their speeches after receiving the mantles of leadership, Eze Paul Nweke of Ohaukwu Amarie and Eze Stan Ogbuehi of Amaokwe Achara, promised support for the administration of Governor Alex Otti, adding that they would serve their people with fairness and the fear of God.
Gov Otti cautions new monarchs against shielding suspected criminals