By Stanley Onyekwere
In the wake of the seemingly unrelenting daunting security challenges, traditional rulers and district heads in Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have been cautioned against harbouring complete strangers in their communities.
The FCT Minister of State, Dr. Ramatu Aliyu, who made this point, stressed that the FCT Administration would not spare any traditional ruler aiding and abetting criminality in his domain.
Aliyu spoke through the FCTA Permanent Secretary, Mr. Olusade Adesola, who represented her at the presentation of staff of office to the Etsu of Wako in Kwali Area Council of the Territory, recently.
According to the Minister, “It is not in our character, no matter the level of poverty to betray the trust bestowed on you as a traditional ruler and the custodian of our traditions.
“This will not be acceptable in the seat of government where Mr. President is the Governor General.”
She noted that traditional rulers in both pre-colonial and post-colonial era have contributed immensely to the formation, extension, greatness and promotion of good relationship among different kingdoms and empires across Nigeria.
She therefore called for continued involvement of traditional institutions in nation-building efforts in ways that would create condition for more effective and efficient peace-building, peace-making and conflict prevention initiatives in Nigeria.
She however opined that the staff of office of the traditional rulers was not just a symbol of authority, but also an instrument to promote peace building and conflict management especially in the face of increasing insecurity in various parts of the country.
Earlier in her remarks, the Ag. Secretary Area Council Services Secretariat, Mrs. Olanipekun Omolola, commended the kingmakers and other stakeholders for overcoming the obstacles associated with the smooth process of selecting a new traditional ruler.
She however, reminded the new chief that leadership demands sacrifice, patience and vision for the people, while tasking him to work closely with the security agencies within his domain and members of traditional councils to anticipate, detect and nip in the bud any attempt to cause a breach of peace.
Also, the Senator representing the FCT in the National Assembly, Sen. Philip Aduda, Chairman of Kwali Area Council, Hon. Danladi Chiya, traditional rulers and other stakeholders gave goodwill messages.
