Umutu: The people of Ukwuani have been tasked on the need to preserve and promote the traditional institutions of the area, by taking part in activities that are geared to their continuous existence.
This charge was given by the Delta State Commissioner on Water Resources, Chief Fidelis Tilije, on Sunday December 18, 2016, during the conferment of chieftaincy title on Mr Paul Emeshiri, by Umutu community, Ukwuani LGA.
The commissioner who was the chairman of the occasion said that for an unexplained reasons, the joy and prestige of been admitted into the council of chiefs in Ukwuani is fast diminishing, as many who are termed successful in business and politics, had not shown interests in being title chiefs in the area.
Chief Tilije warned that if this apathy continues, it will come to a time when the chieftaincy institution will be extinct, and he warned against allowing such to occur.
“We cannot allow such to happen to our tradition. It is the base of our traditional institutions. We cannot allow it to die.” He said.
He reminded the people of Ukwuani that the institution had been since creation, and successful and educated sons of Ukwuani had been promoters of the tradition, and wondered what then is the problem with those that are successful, and had failed to patronize the institution.
He further reminded the people, that there is nothing fetish or sacrificial in the process of being initiated, as it is open to Christians and non-Christians alike, as the primary duty of the members is governance.
“The main duty of a title chief is to be involved in decision making that will bring development to the community.”
Also speaking, the Onotu-Uku of Utagba-Unor, Rear Admiral Mike Onah (RTD), said that the people of Ukwuani and the entire Ndokwa must ensure the preservation and promotion of the Chieftaincy institution, because without the well organized governance of the people at the very low ebb of the society, the tradition will be lost. Saying,
“A vacuum cannot be created”.
The occasion was attended by sons and daughter of Ndokwa and friends, amongst whom were, Hon Ochor Chris Ochor, Executive Director, DEDSOPADEC, Hon Alphonsus Ojo, member representing the Ukwuani Constituency at the Delta State House of Assembly, and Mr. Solomon Ebinum, Senior Special Adviser to the state governor on Health Insurance Scheme.
