In a recent turn of events, Eze Ohna Sergeant Chidi Awuse, a prominent traditional ruler in Rivers State, has voiced his displeasure following his removal as Chairman of the Traditional Rulers' Council by Governor Siminialayi Fubara. The monarch, who hails from Emohua Local Government Area, expressed his frustration, particularly at the governor's harsh criticism, which came at a time when he was battling for his life in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of a hospital.
Eze Awuse revealed that he had been in critical condition for six months, a period during which he was unable to fulfill his duties. He lamented that despite his health challenges, Governor Fubara described him as "unsteady" and criticized his leadership. This development has sparked a wave of sympathy and support for Eze Awuse, particularly from his political allies.
The situation came to a head when the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, visited Eze Awuse’s palace over the weekend. Wike, who led a delegation of his political associates, came to celebrate the traditional ruler's recovery from a debilitating ailment. The visit underscored the strong ties between Eze Awuse and Wike, who had initially appointed him as the Chairman of the Rivers Traditional Rulers' Council during his tenure as governor.
Governor Fubara removed Eze Awuse from his position on June 21, citing inactivity and a lack of effective leadership within the council under his watch. He was subsequently replaced by Eze Chike Worlu Wodo, the Paramount Ruler of Apara Kingdom.
In his remarks, Governor Fubara explained his decision, stating, "I want the council to live up to its responsibility. From my observation, the council is moribund. So, I can feel that the council, for a while now, has been very inactive. Inactive because, maybe, the chairman has decided not to be responsible as a chairman. I think that is the best way to describe it."
The governor’s comments suggested a deep dissatisfaction with the council’s performance, specifically pointing to the absence of the leadership that was expected from Eze Awuse. While Fubara refrained from delving into other underlying issues, his words made it clear that the decision was driven by a perceived need for more dynamic leadership.
This situation highlights the tensions within the traditional leadership in Rivers State, with Eze Awuse’s removal sparking a broader conversation about leadership, health, and responsibility within the traditional council. As the dust settles, it remains to be seen how this will impact the relationship between the traditional rulers and the state government moving forward.