● Tonye Okurumo
•… As Obong of Calabar Commissions Eze Oha Apara Palace
Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has reiterated his commitment to equitable governance, stating that his administration is focused on delivering the dividends of democracy to all parts of the state, regardless of political differences.
Governor Fubara made this assertion during the inauguration of the Eze Oha Apara Palace for His Royal Majesty, Eze Chike Amadi Worlu-Wodo, the Paramount Ruler of Ekinigbo and Eze Oha Apara IV, in Rumuigbo, Obio/Akpor Local Government Area. The event, held on Thursday, was disclosed in a statement by Nelson Chukwudi, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor.
During the occasion, Eze Wodo, who also serves as Chairman of the Rivers State Council of Traditional Rulers, conferred the traditional title of Enwa Gbaga Nu Ohna (The Moon that Shines in Ikwerre Land) on Governor Fubara, alongside other prominent Ikwerre traditional rulers.
A section of the Eze Oha Apara Palace built and furnished by the State Government in Rumuigbo, Obio/Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers State during the official commissioning of the facility, Thursday.
Addressing concerns about his administration’s commitment to the Obio/Akpor area despite political differences, Governor Fubara said, “No, no, no. I don’t play politics that way. He’s our chairman, he’s from Rivers State, and whatever we are doing, it is not my personal fund; it is the resources of the State. We should apply it for the betterment of our State.”
The Governor urged communities to support his administration and maintain peace, stating, “No matter the level of provocation, try to control your temper. We don’t use fight to resolve fight. You use peace, apply it well using the Artificial Intelligence (AI) method to defeat troublemakers.”
A Testament to Tradition and Progress
Governor Fubara highlighted the significance of the new palace, calling it a testament to the respect and recognition accorded to traditional institutions in the state. “What we are doing today is adding another feather to the Eze Oha Apara by having a befitting palace,” he said, emphasizing the importance of showcasing the dignity and pride of traditional rulers.
He also announced ongoing developmental projects in the area, including an ultra-modern General Hospital, the upgrading of the Neuro-Psychiatric Hospital, and a new palace for the Akpor King, set to be inaugurated by February 2025.
Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara (right); and the Obong of Calabar, Edidem Ekpo Okon Abasi-Otu V (left); during the official commissioning of the Eze Oha Apara Palace in Rumuigbo, Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, Thursday.
Royal Commendation
Performing the inauguration, His Eminence, Edidem Ekpo Okon Abasi-Otu V, the Obong of Calabar, praised Governor Fubara for his support for traditional institutions. “This palace is a physical manifestation of your goodwill, respect, and good intention for the traditional institutions,” he remarked.
The Obong also urged other leaders to emulate Governor Fubara, saying, “Shut out the noise, and focus on delivering the dividends of democracy to the generality of the good people of Rivers State.”
Palace Features
Senator John Azuta Mbata, Chairman of the Building Committee, detailed the palace’s features, which include an 8-bedroom main palace, a 500-capacity people’s hall, VIP halls, meeting rooms, and guest accommodations for visiting dignitaries.
In his welcome address, Amb. Chijioke Ihunwo, Chairman of Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, expressed gratitude to Governor Fubara for his unprecedented gesture, noting that such an initiative had not been accomplished by their son who once held the governorship position.
The inauguration of the Eze Oha Apara Palace underscores Governor Fubara’s approach to using peace and innovation to advance unity and development across Rivers State. GMTNewsng
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