Records first casualty as His Royal Majesty, Eze Gift Eziwho Johnson of Apara Kingdom, Obio/Akpor LGA is dethroned
By Oby Ndukwe
In what appears to be a vendetta against his predecessor and former boss, Rotimi Amaechi, the Governor of Rivers ordered his Commissioner for Chieftaincy matters, John Bazia to withdraw the Government’s letter of recognition to the traditional ruler, who was recognized and installed by Gov Amaechi, while in office as Governor.
The letter was said to have been dispatched yesterday to the traditional ruler though it seemed to have been backdated to March 15, 2016. The reason for this is not clear.
Though the government stated that it’s decision for action was due to the “protest and disagreement” by the Apara people over his recognition, there is no legal matter in any Court anywhere by anyone or group of persons against him.
Rather than give peace a chance and foster more cooperation amongst the people of the Kingdom, the Wike led Government has decided to inflame already calmed nerves, if there was any opposition at all, which is not unusual.
Is there really any such appointment or recognition without opposition?
Even Wike’s ambition, nomination and election was more contentious and is still unacceptable to vast majority of Rivers people and residents of the State.
There are several other Traditional Rulers who may be affected by the same moves of the government especially those who were recognised by Amaechi.
The Eze Apara Rebisi, HRM Victor Woluchem, a First Class King of Port Harcourt and the Traditional Ruler of Rumuepirikom, HRM, Eze Owabie as well as the traditional Ruler of Emohua may be the next in line.
There is tension, anger and resentment amongst the affected people of the State. The government’s meddlesomeness in the traditional institutions is definitely going to spark off another dimension of communal clashes and violence, which is already on the increase!
