Stop Conferring Titles On Questionable Characters — Wike Tells Traditional Rulers
RIVERS State governor, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike has recommended that chieftaincy title should only be bestowed on individuals who have impacted positively on society.
The governor made the remarks at the conferment of chieftaincy title, ‘Eze-Enwa-Gbaganu-Oha of Obio,’ on former president of the Nigerian Bar Association, NBA, Onueze Chukwujinka Joe Okocha (SAN) in Rukpakwolusi town, Rumuokoro, Obio-Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers State on Saturday.
The governor observed that one of the major challenges confronting the chieftaincy institution is the conferment of chieftaincy titles on individuals whose background is shrouded in mystery.
“The problem we have in chieftaincy institution, sometimes you don’t even know where they go and bring chiefs and give them titles. You don’t even know the background. What are the contributions of the person to the community, the kingdom, and local government? You don’t know what he or she has contributed”, he enthused.
Wike, on behalf of the government and people of Rivers State, congratulated the legal luminary on the conferment of the chieftaincy title, ‘Eze-Enwa-Gbaganu-Oha of Obio on Chief Okocha describing it as well deserved.
“I was one of those OCJ consulted and I say look you don’t even have to take permission, it is an honour well deserved. You have contributed to the development of not only Obio, Obio/Akpor, Ikwerre ethnic nationality, Rivers State and Nigeria. And so, all of us will be there to celebrate with you and your family,” Wike emphasized.
The governor noted that based on Okocha’s status in society, the conferment of the honour on him will not generate unnecessary friction.
According to him, Okocha will rather be duty-bound to defend the interest of his community for the honour done to him.
Governor Wike lauded Okocha who as an elder statesman, has remained unwavering in his support to the Government and the people of Rivers State.
