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Delta Governor Oborevwori Presents 65 SUVs to Traditional Rulers to Boost Governance
By Anne Azuka
Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State on Wednesday presented 65 brand-new Sports Utility Vehicles (SUVs) to traditional rulers across the state, emphasizing the critical role of monarchs in ensuring effective governance.The handover, held at Government House, Asaba, included 60 Toyota Prados and five Land Cruisers, intended to facilitate the movement of royal fathers across the state’s rural and often challenging terrains.
Describing traditional rulers as “tools of service” for peace and stability, Governor Oborevwori said the occasion marked “a very important and symbolic day” for his administration. He added that traditional rulers play a frontline role in mobilizing communities, promoting government programs, resolving disputes, and supporting security agencies, often without expectation of reward.“
They are not merely custodians of our customs, norms, and traditions; they are vital intermediaries between government and the people at the grassroots,” Oborevwori said. “Traditional rulers have made governance easier and more effective in Delta State. I commend their unwavering commitment to peace, progress, and prosperity.” The Governor linked the SUV presentation to his administration’s broader philosophy of inclusive governance under the MORE Agenda, particularly the Opportunities for All pillar. He highlighted other social interventions, including financial support for over 307,600 vulnerable persons under the D-CARES Program, grants to petty traders and artisans, women and youth empowerment initiatives, and monthly stipends for 10,000 widows across the state.
Deputy Governor Sir Monday Onyeme described the gesture as a practical demonstration of the Oborevwori administration’s respect for traditional institutions, while Secretary to the State Government Dr. Kingsley Emu noted that Delta State is being governed with empathy, foresight, and a commitment to the collective welfare of its people. During the ceremony, several monarchs, including the Obi of Owa, HRM Dr. Emmanuel Efeizomor, the Ovie of Uvwie, HRM Emmanuel Sideso Abel, and the Pere of Ogulagha, HRM Elder Capt. King Joseph I. Timiyan, expressed gratitude for the vehicles, noting that they would enhance the efficiency of their traditional duties.
Chairman of the Delta State Council of Traditional Rulers and Orodje of Okpe Kingdom, HRM Major General Felix Mujakperuo (Rtd.), described the gift as “timely and deeply symbolic,” reinforcing grassroots governance and peace-building. He emphasized that mobility is central to a traditional ruler’s responsibilities, adding that “a vehicle is not just a means of transportation to a traditional ruler; it is a symbol of authority and service.” The council chairman assured Governor Oborevwori of the unwavering support of traditional institutions, reaffirming the partnership between royal fathers and government in driving development and maintaining stability across Delta State.
January 14, 2026
Obi of Ogwashi-Uku Expresses Joy Over Peaceful Ineh (New Yam) Festival, Urges Continued Unity and Reconciliation
By Anne Azuka
The Obi of Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom in Delta State, His Royal Majesty, Obi (Dr.) Ifechukwude Aninshi Okonjo II, has expressed satisfaction over the peaceful celebration of this year’s Ineh (New Yam) Festival, which saw thousands of indigenes participate in unity.
Speaking through his Chief of Staff, Prince Onyema Okonjo, at the Ogwashi-Uku Palace, the monarch commended the people for their large turnout and peaceful conduct, noting that peace and development remain the foremost priorities for the kingdom.
“For the first time since 2007, the Ineh Festival was celebrated with great unity as sons and daughters of Ogwashi-Uku came out en masse. The celebration was peaceful and everything went well,” Prince Okonjo said.
He explained that the only disruption occurred on the final day when some aggrieved persons—currently in court over community land sales—allegedly hired protesters in Asaba.
Governor Sheriff Oborevwori had earlier appealed for calm among factions in Ogwashi-Uku, following land-related disputes. The appeal came after members of the Ogwashi-Uku Development Union (ODU)*, led by its President-General Mr. Patrick Osamor, protested at Government House, Asaba, seeking government intervention.
Prince Okonjo reaffirmed the Obi’s commitment to reconciliation and continued dialogue through the Obi-in-Council, emphasizing that the traditional ruler would keep fostering peace and inclusivity.
“The Obi will continue working with his advisers to ensure peace. There are ongoing discussions, and progress has been made. Change takes time, but we are moving forward,” he said.
He disclosed that the family which lost the Obiship dispute had sent a peace message and refrained from holding a parallel celebration this year, signaling progress toward reconciliation.
On the contentious issue of land ownership, Prince Okonjo clarified that the Obi is the custodian of all communal lands in the kingdom, managed by chiefs on his behalf. He stressed that no land can be sold without the monarch’s consent and that recent land recoveries were made for the collective benefit of the kingdom, not for personal gain.
“The Obi recovered the lands for the people. Farmers have returned to their farms, and communities have been advised to establish committees to allocate land for farming, development, and future projects,” he stated.
He condemned the indiscriminate sale of communal lands for private estates without long-term planning, urging for designated areas for industries, schools, hospitals, and markets to support sustainable development.
Prince Okonjo emphasized that the majority of Ogwashi-Uku indigenes have rejected divisive actions, opting instead for peace and progress.
“There is a time for peace and reconciliation, and that time is now. Continued opposition only hurts the community. Development is for everyone, not for the Obi alone,” he added.
Reflecting on the long legal battles over the kingship, Okonjo recounted that the matter had been resolved in favor of the current royal family at all judicial levels, including multiple rulings by the Supreme Court, and urged all parties to accept the final verdict.
“After 25 years of litigation, the Supreme Court repeatedly affirmed our position. It is time to embrace peace and move Ogwashi-Uku forward,” he concluded.
October 27, 2025
Details Of Tinubu’s Meeting With Traditional Rulers Unveiled
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has revealed the details of his meeting with traditional leaders on Friday.
According to Abiodun Oladunjoye, Director of Information to the President, Tinubu, speaking at an interactive session with the royal fathers under the aegis of the National Council of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria (NCTRN), informed them of the decision of his government to remove fuel subsidy, improve security, create jobs, and sustain the environment, as well as the forthcoming election of principal officers of the 10th National Assembly.
“We are all ears. We are ready to listen at any given time. I promise you an open-door policy; that is how I will go. That open-door policy is for you to call me and send me any concerns you might have at any time.
“We may not have it right 100 per cent of the time, but we must get it right 90 per cent of the time for this country,” he said.
Responding to issues raised by the traditional rulers on challenges facing the country, the President assured them, saying, “worry not because the country is in good hands.”
He added that his administration is very conscious of the expectations of Nigerians.
On the decision to remove fuel subsidy, for which various speakers at the meeting expressed support, President Tinubu appealed to the traditional leaders to persuade Nigerians to have faith that fuel pump prices will eventually come down.
“I am grateful you are paying attention to what I have been doing. You have paid attention to the subsidy removal. Why should we, in good heart and sense, feed smugglers and be Father Christmas to neighbouring countries, even though they say not every day is Christmas?
“The elephant that was going to bring Nigeria to its knees is the subsidy. A country that cannot pay salaries, and we say we have the potential to encourage ourselves. I think we did the right thing,” he said.
While acknowledging concerns about the need for critical infrastructure in different parts of the country, President Tinubu pledged that any roadblock in the way of the progress of the Nigerian people would be removed by his government.
“The lamentations about the capital projects—where will the money come from if we don’t protect our resources and boundaries? You cannot have development without capital projects,” he added.
On the leadership of the National Assembly, the President urged the royal fathers to counsel their subjects interested in elective positions on the need to manage their ambitions and create harmony within the legislative house.
President Tinubu declared that he is ready to work with any elected representative from the National Assembly, stressing that the Nigeria project is paramount to him.
“Nigeria must survive. Nigeria must develop. Nigeria must make progress,” he said.
On security, the President reiterated his pledge to Nigerians to prioritise the sector until every Nigerian “goes to sleep with their two eyes closed.”
He emphasised that the unity and togetherness of the country cannot be compromised, saying that every region of the country would get what it is due.
“We are going to tackle youth unemployment. Only when we have prosperity for the country can we create jobs to employ our youths,” he said.
Condemning crude oil theft in the Niger Delta region by a ‘tiny percentage’ of the population, President Tinubu said it was counterproductive to the economy’s growth.
“We need to tame those involved in this sabotage, and we will work as hard as possible to ensure that the diversity of this country is used for its prosperity, growth and stability.”
“That’s devolution of power, and that should be our contribution to the developmental projects you are looking for, and we will continue in ways that will help our people,” he said.
In separate remarks, the Chairman and Co-Chairman of NCTRN, the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Saad Abubakar, and Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, pledged the support and loyalty of traditional rulers from the six geo-political zones to President Tinubu.
They assured the President of their continued prayers for his resolve to move the country forward under his Renewed Hope agenda.
“We are 100 per cent in support of your government, and we believe in the will of the Almighty Allah that you will move this country forward,” the Sultan said while congratulating him and Vice President Kashim Shettima on their election victory, peaceful transition, and assumption of office.
“We will contribute our quota to the country’s development once you reach out to us,” the Sultan added.
The Ooni of Ife expressed delight that the country has remained united and focused despite the challenges.
June 9, 2023
Osun: Adeleke Reverses Oyetola’s Appointments, Dethrones Traditional Rulers
Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun, on Monday, issued six executive orders reversing appointments made by former governor Gboyega Oyetola, including the appointment of workers and installation of traditional rulers.
This is contained in a statement by his Spokesperson, Malam Olawale Rasheed.
The governor signed the executive orders on Monday, including an order freezing all the State Government accounts in all banks and other financial institutions.
“The six executive orders take immediate effect. “The orders cover chieftaincy matters, appointments issues, setting up of a review panel, staff audit and employment matters,” he said.
Others he said are for the immediate freezing of all the state government accounts in all banks and other financial institutions, order on Staff Audit – All Heads of Ministries, Departments, Agencies, Commissions, Boards and Parastatals of Osun State Government are directed to carry out immediate staff audit of the actual number of workers in their establishments as at July 17, 2022.
The governor said all heads of agencies and parastatals are to file a report to the Office of the Chief of Staff to the Governor stating the full details and position/designation of each of the staff on the forwarded list, within seven working days from the date of the Executive order, using the Oath of Fidelity Template.
Also nullified is all employment in the service of the Osun State Government made in any capacity into any capacity in all the Ministries, Departments, Agencies, Commissions, Boards and Parastatals after July 17.
The governor also said all appointments in the service of the Osun State Government made in any capacity into any capacity in all the Ministries, Departments, Agencies, Commissions, Boards and Parastatals after July 17, 2022, will be reversed.
He further said all appointments of traditional rulers made by the Osun State Government after July 17, 2022, is to be reviewed to ensure there was strict compliance with due process of chieftaincy declarations and native law, custom and tradition relating to such chieftaincies.
The governor said in line with executive orders two, three, four and five, the state government has ordered the setting up of review committees on Staff audit/appointments/promotions, State assets inventory and recovery, contractors/MoUs/agreements and d. Chieftaincy matters/appointments of traditional rulers
November 29, 2022
Aliyu calls for legislation to involve traditional rulers in nation building
By Joyce Remi-Babayeju
FCT Minister of State, Dr. Ramatu Tijjani Aliyu has called on governments at all levels to pass legislation to involve traditional rulers participation in nation building.
Aliyu made this call today when she was presenting a staff of office to the Sarkin Bwari, Alhj. Awwal Musa Ijakoro 11 , crowned by the community kingmakers.
She revealed that the crowned Sarkin Bwari is the 5th Sarki who emerged following the demise of his father on the 25th of August 2017, after a successful 41-year reign.
She noted that for the roles and relevance of traditional rulers to be constitutionally acknowledge the three tiers of government need to pass legislations that recognise the country’s traditional rulers as stakeholders and instruments of conflict management and peace building
The minister used the occasion to advocate specific involvement of the traditional institutions in nation-building efforts in ways that would create conditions for more effective and efficient peace building, and conflict prevention initiatives in Nigeria.
According to the minister, in the collective resolve and respect for traditional institution, the FCT Administration conveyed a letter of appointment to Alhaji Awwal Musa Ijakoro II as a 2nd Class traditional ruler and the 5th Sarkin Bwari, in October 2017.
She said, “Today’s ceremony is to formally present the staff of office to him in continuation of the legacies of his forebears, in the hope that he will provide good leadership, respect constituted authorities and promote harmonious relationships and respect for all tribes and inhabitants of Bwari community and its environs. “
Furthermore she used the occasion to remind graded chiefs and district heads that traditional rulers in both pre-colonial and post-colonial eras contributed immensely to the formation, extension, greatness, and promotion of good relationships among different kingdoms and empires across Nigeria.
Aliyu said; “The traditional institutions did make possible, great cohesion and sustained the development of political institutions that governed hitherto diverse peoples.
“I want to state unequivocally that with respect to social control, peace and conflict management, there is a strong body of evidence that traditional rulers, though of varied cultures and backgrounds, remain strikingly relevant in our society.”
“I, therefore, recommend continued involvement of our traditional institutions in nation-building efforts in ways that would create conditions for more effective and efficient peace building, peace-making and conflict prevention initiatives in Nigeria. “
She reiterated that the staff of office was not just a symbol of authority, but also as an instrument to promote peace building and conflict management especially in the face of increasing insecurity in various parts of the country.
The minister warned that the FCT Administration will not spare any traditional ruler that fails to live up to this expectation, and aids and abets criminality in his domain.
“It is not in our character, no matter the level of enticement, to betray the trust bestowed on us. As traditional rulers and the custodians of our traditions, this obligation is even more fundamental. “
“Indeed, any betrayal of public trust shall stand condemned and will
not be acceptable in the seat of Government where President Muhammadu Buhari is the Governor General,” she further warned.
Mandate Secretary FCT Area Council Services Secretariat, Hon. Ibrahim Abubakar Dantsoho, described the event as significant in the history of Bwari chiefdom, while charging the new Sarkin Bwari on safety and security of his domain.
He also charged him to work with other traditional rulers in the territory.
He commended the kingmakers of Bwari chiefdom and the chairman of Bwari area council for the peaceful selection process leading to today’s event.
The occasion was graced by the Sultan of Sokoto, HRM. Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar, who was represented by the Etsu Nupe, Alhj. Yahaya Abubakar, Chairman FCT Council of Chiefs and Ona of Abaji, HRM. Adamu Baba Yunusa, and other first class traditional rulers from within and neighbouring states.
Wives of governor of Kebbi, Yobe, and Zamfarai State were also present
August 27, 2022
Matawalle Distributes 260 ‘Brand New Cars’ To Traditional Rulers In Zamfara
Zamfara State Governor, Bello Matawalle has distributed 260 assorted cars to all the traditional rulers in the state.
The distribution was performed by the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar at the Government House in Gusau.
Governor Matawalle said the gesture was done in recognition of the status of the traditional institutions as the custodians of our religion and culture and vehicle of cohesion and peace in our societies.
“It is in view of the high esteem with which my administration regards our traditional leaders and institutions that we decided to procure brand new cars, Cadillac 2019 Model, for 17 Emirs, 13 Senior District Heads and 230 District Heads across the State”, the Governor said.
Governor Matawalle assured that his administration will continue to work with traditional and religious leaders to ensure lasting peace and harmony in the state.
“I would like to assure you that my administration will continue to work in line with the mission of uplifting the dignity and sanctity of our traditional institutions through all possible means,” he said.
“We are currently rehabilitating and reconstructing some of the palaces of our emirs across the State. Some of these projects would soon be completed.”
April 7, 2022
FCTA to pay attention to PHCs, Traditional rulers’ welfare
By Joyce Remi-Babayeju
The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) said it would pay special attention to Primary Health Centres development and welfare of traditional rulers across the territory.
The Mandate Secretary FCT Area Council Services Secretariat, Acts, Abubakar Dantsoho disclosed this today at an interaction with staff of the Secretariat to mark his 100 days in office.
He reiterated the secretariat’s commitment to the health of the rural dwellers, adding that focusing on PHCs and traditional rulers would help in giving life to the rural people.
Dantsoho said that traditional rulers are key stakeholders in FCT and must be given serious attention.
He also promised that all the ongoing projects in the Area Councils would be given priority and completed while new ones will be initiated.
“There are projects ongoing, there ones that are yet to be awarded I am doing my best to see that the projects are awarded so that it will better the life of the people.”
I am going to see that our royal fathers get the best in their respective areas especially in areas of infrastructure, our rural roads will be given attention, ongoing projects will be completed with new ones will be awarded Dantsoho assured.
March 11, 2022
Gov. Ishaku threaten to Sack traditional rulers who accommodate criminals
By Danzumi Ishaku, Jalingo.
The Taraba state Governor Darius Dickson Ishaku has warned strongly about any traditional ruler who accommodate criminals in any community of the state.
Ishaku gave the warning shortly after signing the 2022 budget, he tacked “budget of consolidation and hope” into law at the Government House escow chamber in Jalingo on Thursday.
The Governor said his administration would not seat watching any person or group of people destroying the relative peace been enjoyed by it citizens.
“Security is my priority, I’ve talked to the traditional chiefs not to allow strangers in their settlement. But the refusal of traditional rulers in disobeying my command, will further make me never to hesitate to remove any traditional rulers in the state.
Intelligent gathers that, terrorist are trying to set up a camp in Taraba, and this is the work of the traditional rulers to report any suspicious movement”
Gov. Ishaku assured of his administration readiness to sark any traditional ruler who is fund wanting on the cause of carrying out his startuary responsibility.
Earlier the executive governor of Taraba Arc Darius Dickson Ishaku accent the 2022 budget for effective use after a successful scrutinization and the successful passage of the 2022 budget by the Taraba State House of Assembly.
It could be recalled that on Friday, the hallow chamber of the Taraba state lawmakers passes the appropriation bill of the 2022 budget into law with the total sum of N149,784,896,396.82, which saw and additional increase of N3 Billion against the initial propose budget of. N146,0781,653,671.82 by the Governor.
December 16, 2021
Gov. Ishaku urges traditional rulers not to accommodate miscreants in Taraba
By Danzumi Ishaku, Jalingo.
Gov. Darius Ishaku of Taraba state has advised traditional rulers not to accommodate miscreants trooping in from other states to their communities.
Ishaku gave the advice at the First Sensitisation Workshop organised for 2nd and 3rd Class Chiefs in Jalingo on Monday.
He decries movement of those miscreants who had ran away as a result of serious security onslaught against them.
According to him, you will keep them at your perril.
Gov. Ishaku said that his administration decided to create more chiefdoms to bring government closer to people.
The Governor recalled that a special taskforce which was mandated that the government implemented it’s recommendation on the creation and upgrading of chiefdoms.
He reiterated his faith in the Nigerian armed forces, the police and other security agencies.
He assured that his administration would continue to support the security with modern equipment to enhance their operations.
“The recent movement of miscreants into our state who had been dislodged from other states is quite worrisome.
“I advise you not to accommodate them within your communities as you will accommodates them at your peril, Ishaku said.
Earlier the Permanent Secretary, Beaeau for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs Alhaji Bello Yero said Governor Darius Ishaku’s administration has upgraded 11 Third class chiefs to second class status.
Yero further said that the administration also appointed 39 new third class chiefs making their number to 49 third class and 12 second class chiefs.
The beureaucrat called on the participants to reciprocate government’s gesture by deploying what they would learn in the workshop.
He said that the skills were designed to foster peace, harmonious coexistence, unify and cohesion among the inhabitants of their domains.
August 3, 2021
Governor Lalong Installs 2 Traditional Rulers In Wase, Urges Them To Work For Enhanced Security
Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong says traditional rulers need to play a greater role in enhancing the security of their domains and the entire nation.
Governor Lalong stated this on Tuesday, 30th March 2021 while installing two second class Chiefs in Wase Local Government Area of Plateau State. The Chiefs are Chief Lot Nden, Ponzhi Kadarko Chiefdom and Alh. Muhammad Asi, Aku-Jukun of Mavo Chiefdom.
While presenting the staffs of office to the two traditional rulers after they took the oath of allegiance, Governor Lalong said the restoration of the two Chiefdoms was in fulfilment of his campaign promise and the desire to meet the yearnings of the people in the spirit of equity and justice.
He charged them to bear in mind the fact that this honour is a huge burden which must be discharged with diligence, honesty, justice and the fear of God.
He said “With the Staffs of Office in your hands, you cease to be champions of one particular clan, tribe, denomination or religion. You are fathers to all that reside in your domains irrespective of where they come from. Always remember that the traditional institution has played and will continue to play a significant role in the peace, unity, progress and security of Plateau State. These are the virtues we expect you to promote and uphold as we consolidate on the peaceful ambience we have worked hard to restore which is bringing back Plateau to its place as the Home of Peace and Tourism”.
He said any community leader or traditional ruler who is unable to assist security agencies towards arresting criminals within his domain will be held to account.
“let me warn that any traditional ruler who is found to be promoting ethno-religious hatred, injustice, disharmony or shielding criminals will not only be dethroned, but will be made to face the laws of the land” he warned.
The two traditional rulers described Governor Lalong as a rescue leader who has fulfilled the dreams of the people that have lingered for many years. They promised to cooperate with the Government and support all the programs that are targeted to improving the quality of lives of the people.
Emir of Wase Alhaji Muhammadu Sambo Haruna commended Governor Lalong for keeping to his words and making the dreams of the people in the two Chiefdoms come true.
He assured the Governor that the traditional Council will work together to support the Government in all its programmes.
March 30, 2021