On Wednesday, December 4, 2024, Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo State called on Southeast Traditional Rulers to take the issue of insecurity in their regions seriously during their discussions. The Governor made this appeal while attending the South East Council of Traditional Rulers Expanded Executive Council Meeting at the Eze Imo Palace in Mbari Owerri, Imo State.
Represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Cosmas Iwu, Governor Uzodinma urged the monarchs to address the issue of absentee Royal Fathers—those who live outside their domains and create leadership gaps during times of internal conflict and insecurity.
As Chief Security Officers of their communities, the Governor reminded the monarchs that it is their responsibility, both by law and tradition, to tackle security issues in their areas. He acknowledged the state’s efforts in fighting insecurity but emphasized that without the active involvement of the Royal Fathers, progress would be limited.
The Governor also praised the monarchs’ involvement in the State Security Council and Local Government Security Committees, stressing that their cooperation with their President Generals would improve the overall security situation and bring about development. “No peace, no development,” he said.
In his welcome address, HRM Eze Dr. Emmanuel Okeke, Chairman of the Imo State Council of Traditional Rulers and the South East Council of Traditional Rulers, noted that the meeting gave them the opportunity to unite and speak with one voice for the betterment of the region. Eze Okeke also expressed gratitude to the Southeast Governor’s Forum and the National Legislature for their efforts in improving security and peace in the region, particularly in Imo State.
