Traditional rulers from Southern Nigeria, under the aegis of the Southern Nigeria Traditional Rulers Council, have appointed Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State as their Coordinator.
In a letter presented to him on Thursday at the Government House, Owerri, the appointment was conveyed by the Ooni of Ife, HRM Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, who serves as the Council’s Chairman, alongside HRM Eze Cletus Ilomuanya (Co-Chairman) and HRM Obi Benjamin Ikenchukwu Keagboruzi I, the Dein of Agbor (Secretary). They were accompanied by other southern monarchs who make up the Council’s Technical Committee.
The Ooni praised Governor Uzodimma for his efforts in promoting unity among traditional rulers and ensuring that the traditional institution retains its rightful place in Nigeria’s political, cultural, and traditional systems. He said the monarchs, after evaluating his contributions, unanimously agreed that Uzodimma was the most suitable to coordinate their affairs in the interest of Southern Nigeria and the nation at large.
He also announced that the Council’s next general meeting will be held in Ogun State, hosted by the Chairman of the Southern Nigeria Governors’ Forum, Governor Dapo Abiodun. Uzodimma had earlier hosted the maiden edition of the assembly in Owerri.
During the visit, the monarchs also handed over a letter seeking an audience with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, entrusting Governor Uzodimma to deliver it on their behalf, citing his close rapport with the President.
In his response, Governor Uzodimma expressed gratitude for the honour, pledging to justify the confidence reposed in him. He reaffirmed the importance of the traditional institution in national development and promised to liaise with Governor Abiodun regarding the upcoming meeting while ensuring their message to President Tinubu is duly delivered.
