Leave Government Alone, Protect Your Communities, Eze Okafor Tells Traditional Rulers
By Kelechi Ugo
Traditional rulers have been advised to focus more on securing their communities rather than relying too heavily on government intervention. The counsel came from HRM Eze Amb. Frankline Kajetan Okafor (Igwe Eji Amatu—Otachara—Oha II of Osemoto Enigbo Autonomous Community, Oguta LGA, Imo State) during an interview with journalists shortly after a security meeting involving Imo monarchs at the Secretariat of the Imo State Council of Traditional Rulers, Mbari, Owerri, on Tuesday.
Eze Okafor noted that as custodians of culture and chief security officers of their domains, traditional rulers must work closely and harmoniously with their subjects to ensure effective community policing. According to him, a monarch’s strength and wisdom are reflected in his relationship with his people and his commitment to safeguarding their welfare.
Highlighting the peace and stability in Osemoto Enigbo—an oil-producing community—Eze Okafor attributed these achievements to proactive leadership, unity, patriotism, teamwork, and a strong communal spirit. He reaffirmed his pride in the community and his unwavering resolve to defend and promote its progress.
The monarch also commended Governor Hope Uzodimma for prioritizing security in the state, describing him as a leader with deep respect for God and humanity.
“I thank God for giving us Governor Hope Uzodimma, a good man with a genuine passion for the well-being of Imo people. I fully support his directive for every community to produce 15 youths as vigilante operatives. These young people know the nooks and crannies of their communities and will police them proactively. This initiative is a major milestone. Traditional rulers should therefore return home and take charge of their communities while maintaining effective collaboration with the government,” he said.
Eze Okafor assured the people of Osemoto of his continued dedication to selfless service, integrity, unity, development, and sustained peace, adding that he remains committed to driving the community toward social and economic advancement.