Ikwerre Traditional Rulers Demand Formal Role in National Security Framework

The Supreme Forum of Government-Recognized Ikwerre Traditional Rulers has called for a formal integration of traditional institutions into Nigeria’s national security and governance structures.

This demand was issued in a communiqué released at the end of a capacity-building workshop held on Saturday, June 14, 2025, at the Menage Limited Conference Hall in Port Harcourt.

The communiqué was made available exclusively to Kristina Reports.

Held under the theme “The Nexus of Traditional Rulers, Modern Governments, and Security Concerns,” the one-day workshop brought together custodians of Ikwerre heritage to reflect on their roles in a rapidly changing socio-political landscape.

In their communiqué, the traditional rulers emphasized that they remain deeply rooted in the history and wellbeing of their communities, serving not just as cultural guardians but as peacebuilders and frontline mediators in times of crisis.

The forum expressed concern that despite their influence and proximity to the grassroots, traditional rulers are yet to be fully incorporated into Nigeria’s security architecture.

According to them, this exclusion continues to limit their potential to contribute effectively to intelligence gathering, early warning systems, and local conflict resolution, areas where their intimate knowledge of community dynamics could make a real difference.

They acknowledged that modern governance systems, while grounded in constitutional authority, can no longer address security challenges in isolation.

The rising cases of youth restiveness, communal violence, and general insecurity demand a more collaborative approach, one that places traditional institutions as partners rather than bystanders in the nation-building process.

The rulers called for the establishment of structured frameworks that would allow seamless cooperation between traditional leaders, local government authorities, and security agencies.

They also advocated for the formal inclusion of traditional institutions in state and local security councils, where they would have advisory and participatory roles clearly defined by law or policy.

In a bid to increase their preparedness, the forum resolved to undertake periodic training and sensitization for its members on topics such as governance protocols, dispute resolution, and emerging security threats.

They also pledged to strengthen local vigilance systems by engaging youth groups, civil society organizations, and community-based watch networks in proactive peacebuilding.

While making these appeals, the traditional rulers reaffirmed their commitment to preserving Ikwerre customs and cultural values.

They stressed that culture is not in opposition to modern governance but can serve as a moral compass and foundation for sustainable peace, especially in times of social and political instability.

The forum expressed deep appreciation to all facilitators and supporting agencies that made the workshop possible.

Special recognition was given to the Administrator of Port Harcourt City Council, Dr. Sam Kalabor, for his support and encouragement of the initiative.

In closing, the traditional rulers declared their unwavering dedication to being bridges of trust, unity, and stability between the people and the government. The communiqué was signed by His Royal Majesty, King Leslie N. Eke, JP, PhD, Chairman of the Forum and Eze Gbakagbaka of Evo Kingdom, and HRH Eze Engr. Ben O. Ugo, Nye Nwe Ala Omerelu, who serves as Secretary.