In a recent development in Rivers State, Governor Siminalayi Fubara removed Eze Awuse from his position as Chairman of the Rivers Traditional Rulers Council on June 21. The decision was reportedly based on accusations of inactivity and ineffective leadership under Awuse’s tenure. The Governor appointed the Paramount Ruler of Apara Kingdom, Eze Chike Worlu Wodo, as his replacement.
Eze Awuse, who was appointed by former Governor Nyesom Wike, has responded to the removal with significant emotional and political commentary. Speaking over the weekend during a visit from Wike, who came to celebrate Awuse’s recovery from a serious ailment, the traditional ruler expressed his discontent with the accusations and the timing of his removal.
Awuse revealed that he had spent six months in critical condition, including a period in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) where he was in a coma for ten hours. He criticized Governor Fubara’s remarks about his character and leadership during his illness. Awuse emphasized his commitment to supporting Fubara’s candidacy during the election campaign, noting that he had personally campaigned across the 23 local government areas of the state.
Recalling his support for Fubara, Awuse said, “I was the only traditional ruler, first class, that followed that campaign from local government to local government and I went to every local government. In most of the local government areas, I mounted the rostrums to speak for him because I trusted him.”
He also mentioned that he had informed the then-governor Wike of his health condition and felt abandoned by those who had previously supported him. “I was sacked from my seat the day I was in ICU,” Awuse stated, adding that despite his critical condition, he felt unfairly targeted and criticized.
Awuse defended his record, rejecting claims of being a “man of questionable character” and asserting his steadiness and commitment to his role. His remarks reflect a deeper conflict between traditional leadership and political dynamics in the state.
The removal of Eze Awuse and his subsequent comments underscore the ongoing tensions and challenges within Rivers State’s political and traditional institutions.
