Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodinma, has renewed the call for the constitutional recognition of traditional rulers in Nigeria, emphasizing the importance of their roles in ensuring community harmony, security, and national unity. According to the governor, giving legal backing to traditional institutions will not only strengthen the authority of these rulers but also enhance their capacity to perform their duties effectively in various communities across the country. Governor Uzodinma highlighted that the call for constitutional inclusion is not a matter of privilege but an essential necessity. He explained that traditional leaders have long been instrumental in maintaining peace, promoting cultural values, resolving disputes, and complementing government efforts at the grassroots level. Their contribution, he noted, has been crucial to the stability and unity of many local communities, which makes their formal recognition imperative. Speaking further, Uzodinma noted that traditional rulers play a pivotal role in bridging the gap between the government and the people, especially in rural areas where their influence remains deeply rooted. He expressed confidence that their inclusion in the Nigerian Constitution would empower them with clearer responsibilities and legal authority to participate in governance and security matters within their jurisdictions. The governor also appealed to the National Assembly and relevant constitutional review committees to consider the long-standing request for this recognition. According to him, many of the challenges facing local communities — such as insecurity, social unrest, and communal conflicts — could be better managed if traditional rulers are officially assigned constitutional responsibilities and supported by law. Uzodinma reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to upholding traditional institutions in Imo State, describing them as the custodians of culture and agents of unity. He stressed that empowering traditional rulers constitutionally would promote cooperation between local authorities and the state government, leading to a more stable and inclusive governance system.
Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, has issued a firm warning to local government chairmen who neglect the state’s monthly security council meetings, stating that disciplinary action, including suspension, awaits those who fail to comply. During a high-level gathering of security stakeholders in Asaba, the governor expressed deep concern over escalating security issues in some areas of the state. He reiterated the critical role of council chairmen in grassroots security coordination and stressed that regular presence and active involvement in these meetings are mandatory and not optional. Governor Oborevwori highlighted that the state government intends to incorporate modern security technologies to combat crime more effectively. He voiced dissatisfaction upon learning that several local government leaders have been shirking their responsibilities, particularly in engaging with local security frameworks. Despite the challenges, the governor praised traditional leaders and security partners for their persistent support in fighting armed robbery, kidnapping, and other violent crimes within Delta State. He emphasized that the monthly meetings serve a vital purpose—evaluating security threats, exchanging intelligence, and enhancing coordinated responses to rising criminal activities. Citing the resurgence of kidnappings, cult-related violence, and drug misuse, the governor called on all stakeholders to intensify their efforts and reinforce the security architecture across the state. He also announced plans to deploy advanced surveillance systems, crime-mapping technologies, and data-driven intelligence tools to improve the efficiency of law enforcement and help deter crime. “Despite our best efforts, reports of insecurity, especially kidnappings, are still troubling. I urge the youth to refrain from spreading incendiary remarks on social media. Instead, they should collaborate with security operatives and local vigilante groups to confront criminal elements operating within their neighborhoods,” Oborevwori advised. While commending the efforts so far, he stressed that more work remains to be done to achieve lasting peace and safety. His Royal Majesty Maj. Gen. Felix Mujakperuo (retd.), Orhue I, the Orodje of Okpe Kingdom and Chairman of the Delta State Traditional Rulers Council, thanked the governor for organizing the security meeting. He also refuted widespread claims suggesting that traditional rulers distribute land to herders in exchange for money. Also addressing the meeting, Brigadier General Folu Shonibare, Commander of the 63 Brigade, Nigerian Army, Asaba, noted that the enlarged security council meeting successfully fostered agreement on strategies to tackle kidnapping, cultism, farmer-herder clashes, and drug-related issues across the state. In addition, Honourable Possible Ajede, Chairman of Ukwuani Local Government Area, who spoke on behalf of all council chairmen, said the meeting issued a direct instruction for all council leaders to return to their jurisdictions and intensify local security efforts. He stated emphatically that all criminal actors are now under an order to vacate Delta State.
