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The Paramount ruler of Asuk-okpong Community in Asarama District of Andoni LGA in Rivers State, His Highness Epelle D. Enoch Asuk-okpong VI, has strongly warned against the acts of using politicians to cause division among Council of Traditional Rulers.
The monarch gave the warning last Friday while addressing the people of Asarama Kingdom on how to conduct themselves in the just concluded Local government election in the Area.
According to the traditional ruler, most chieftaincy crisis in Andoni and even across Rivers State were caused by politicians, especially those elected to occupy the position of trust.
The monarch, who expressed optimism that those coming on board as local government chairmen and councillors will displayed their wealth of Wisdom to govern the grassroots democratically, appealed that they should not allowed greedy and selfish politicians to use them against the existing traditional institutions, especially at the local levels.
The traditional ruler, who is currently serving as Secretary of Asarama Town Council of Traditional Rulers said any attempts to lure traditional rulers council into politics or interfere into the traditional institutions would surely threaten the peace and progress of the society.
The traditional ruler assured that he would continue to join hands with the leadership of the Traditional Rulers Council to ensured that his community is not aligned with any political force capable of destabilizing their cultural heritage and unity.
He emphasized that the responsibility of a traditional leader goes beyond ceremonial duties.
According to him, it includes guiding the people to make political choices that safeguard their future and strengthen the society development.
“I just want to use this good opportunity to appeal to those that are coming onboard as Chairmen and Councillors to distance themselves from selfish politicians in order not be used to interfere into the activities of traditional institution in the state, especially in Andoni.
“Traditional institutions is operating on the basis to maintain peace, traditional norms and customs of the people.
“Political loyalty should never come at the expense of peace and unity the monarch maintained.
He expressed concern about the conduct of political actors in manipulating traditional stools to favour their political interests even when they know the consequences that will come later.
Enoch who noted that unhealthy rivalries and desperate tactics by politicians often leave communities divided, called on politicians to prioritize service and development rather than personal ambition.
He also called on political actors to see the prosperity and development of Rivers State in general and as well the welfare of its people as non-negotiable, regardless of the shifting political tides.
Commenting on the local government polls, he maintained that grassroots elections are critical because they determine how well communities are governed at the most immediate level.
“Local government is the closest government to the people. If it fails, the entire system suffers. That is why we must be careful with those we allow into leadership positions,” he added.
