GOVERNMENT SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT
The attention of the Abia State Government has been drawn to confirmed reports that a particular Traditional Ruler in the state, in whose domain a key road project has just been completed, is asking indigenes and residents of the community to contribute various sums of money, under the pretext that such funds will be used to go and “thank” Governor Okezie Ikpeazu.
This is not only scandalous and despicable but also bothers on outright criminality. This is a conduct unbecoming of the status of a Traditional Ruler and government views this issue with very serious and grave concern.
The State Government wishes to make it abundantly clear that at no time has such outlandish idea ever been contemplated. Construction of roads is the duty of government and the entitlement of citizens of the state.
Neither Governor Okezie Ikpeazu nor any official of the State Government gave any such directive to any Traditional Ruler anywhere in the state. No such plans are afoot both now and in the future.
Consequently, Government is using this medium to warn the said Traditional Ruler to immediately put a stop to this unholy and nefarious act, and return all monies collected to the people who made such payments at once, failing which deliberate and decisive steps will be taken against him in accordance with the provisions of relevant laws.
Governor Ikpeazu and his administration hold our traditional institutions and our Royal Fathers in the highest esteem, and expects them to continue to conduct themselves with decorum and integrity, while avoiding anything that will bring our traditional institution into disrepute.
Government further commends the leadership of the Community Council of that Community for taking proactive steps to dissociate themselves from this very shameful act and for notifying the State Government.
The good people of Abia State are by this notice advised strongly to ignore any such directives or requests from any person, and report any such incident to their Local Government Chairmen or the Honorable Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, for further action.
Chairmen of Local Government Areas, Councillors, Community leaders and all stakeholders are strongly advised to send this message in very clear terms to all Traditional Rulers in their areas.
Thank you.
Onyebuchi EMEMANKA, Esq.
Special Adviser to the Governor on Public Communication
