Ohakim tells Imo monarchs to shun partisan politics

Chief Ikedi Ohakim

Traditional rulers in Imo State have been advised to focus on their role of providing good leadership and avoid engaging in partisan politics.


Governor Ikedi Ohakim gave the advice on Thursday in Owerri at a Christmas party organised for traditional rulers in the state, the News Agency of Nigeria reports. He said strict adherence to the advice would ensure the rapid socio-economic development of their domains.

Ohakim, who was represented by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Mr. Kezie Ogaziechi, told the traditional rulers that some of them were being investigated for dabbling into partisan politics.

The warning was sequel to the recent killing in the state capital, Owerri, of the traditional ruler of Ibeamaukwu-Ama in Ehime Mbano Local Government Area, Eze Emeka Njoku,

“The intractable intra-autonomous community crisis in most council areas is worrisome and government will soon come up with its position on this.

“Let me warn all communities situated along the highways within Imo against causing obstruction on the roads with masquerades or any other materials during this festive period,” the governor was also quoted as saying.

He assured the people that adequate arrangements had been made to ensure the security of lives and property during the Yuletide. He also promised the royal fathers that his administration would continue to give priority to their welfare as the custodians of the people’s cultural heritage, saying, “I enjoyed the wonderful support you gave me this year.”

He announced that new autonomous communities would be created in the state and added that the government would be guided by the rules in according recognition to those requiring autonomy.

The governor, however, noted that 13 traditional rulers in the state died during the year.

The climax of the occasion was the presentation of peace and tranquility awards to 18 royal fathers, including the Chairman, South-East Traditional Rulers Council, Eze Cletus Ilomuanya.
Source:http://www.punchng.com