Former Niger Delta freedom fighter, Asari Dokubo has become the Amanyanabo of Torusarama Piri in the Degema local government area of Rivers State.
Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, presented staff of office and certificates of recognition to Dokubo of the Kalabari extraction, along with three other newly recognized monarchs in the state.
The other recipients include: HRM Winston Odize Alamina Oputibeya XII, the Amanyanabo of Koniju in the Okrika Local Government Area; HRM Eze Noble Friday Uwoh (CSP, Rtd), the Eze Igbu-Ehuda (Ahoada) IV in the Ahoada-East Local Government Area, and HRH Prince Ike Ehie, the Eze Igbu Orilukwoe, also in Ahoada-East.
The recognition ceremony took place on Tuesday at the Rivers State Government House in Port Harcourt, marking an official acknowledgment of the monarchs as custodians of culture and leaders within their respective communities.
Governor Fubara, in his address, emphasized the pivotal role of traditional rulers in promoting unity, peace, and development in their domains.
He charged the newly installed monarchs to use their elevated positions responsibly by partnering with the government to safeguard lives and property.
“Your appointment is not for personal aggrandizement but a call for service and responsibility. I urge you to support the government in its mission to protect lives, deliver development, and enhance governance,” Fubara said.
He further cautioned the rulers against using their positions to instigate conflicts in their communities, reminding them of the government’s authority to revoke recognition if necessary.
“It is not my intention to withdraw recognition from any ruler, but the government will not tolerate misuse of these positions. I trust you will act in the best interest of your people and uphold the integrity expected of you,” the governor added.
The ceremony underscores the state government’s commitment to strengthening traditional institutions as partners in governance and community development.