A traditional ruler in Rivers State, Eze Ohna Sergeant Chidi Awuse, has expressed deep disappointment with Governor Siminalayi Fubara for removing him as Chairman of the Traditional Rulers’ Council during a critical period of illness.
According to Naija News, Governor Fubara removed Awuse from his position on June 21, citing inactivity and ineffective leadership. The governor appointed the Paramount Ruler of Apara Kingdom, Eze Chike Worlu Wodo, as his replacement.
Eze Awuse, who was appointed by the former governor, Nyesom Wike, spoke out against the allegations made by Fubara, highlighting that he had been in a critical condition for six months. He expressed his shock and hurt over the decision, especially given his unwavering support for Fubara’s candidacy during the governor’s campaign across all 23 local government areas of the state.
The traditional ruler recalled his active involvement in the campaign, stating, “I was the only first-class traditional ruler who followed the campaign to every local government area, speaking on his behalf because I trusted him.”
Awuse also shared the painful experience of being dismissed while he was in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), in a coma for 10 hours, and facing severe health challenges. He revealed that Governor Fubara had labeled him as a man of “questionable character” during his hospitalization, a description he strongly refuted.
Speaking during a visit from former governor Wike and his political family, Awuse expressed his gratitude for surviving his ailment but lamented the treatment he received from the government he served faithfully.
Despite the ordeal, Awuse remains determined to recover and move forward, though he feels deeply betrayed by the actions of the governor he once supported wholeheartedly.
