The Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike has upgraded the traditional stool of the Amayanabo of Abonnema to a first class stool, declaring that the present occupant of the stool, King Gbobo Disrael Bob-Manuel has brought respect and honour to the Abonnema Kingdom through his conduct.
Speaking in Abonnema on Sunday after commissioning the newly constructed palace of the Amayanabo of Abonnema, Governor Wike announced that every Local Government Area will get a first class traditional ruler.
He said the upgrading of traditional stools will not affect the culture and traditions of the people.
He said: “I am convinced that the Amayanabo of Abonnema is one traditional ruler that is highly respected.
“God’s time is the best. If I had done this earlier, they would have said that I did it for political reasons. But today, there is no election in this area. Therefore, this is a gesture of respect”.
He said that the State Government does not appoint Traditional Rulers , but it has the prerogative to recognise traditional rulers and upgrade stools where necessary.
The governor urged the new first class traditional ruler to use his throne to unite all the people of the area for greater development.
He said: “The Abonnema people have always supported me . I owe them a lot. One good turn deserves another”.
Earlier, the Amayanabo of Abonnema, King Gbobo Disrael Bob-Manuel lauded Governor Wike for his developmental projects in the area.
He cited the completed Abonnema-Obonnema bridge, the ongoing construction of the Abonnema Ring Road, the rehabilitation of the General Hospital in Abonnema and the Nyemoni Grammar School.
