Traditional Leadership Redefined in Rivers: Asari Dokubo Becomes Monarch

 

Gov. Fubara presents a certificate to Asari Dokubo as new monarch in Rivers State.

Rivers State is stirring with the recent appointment of Asari Dokubo, the former militant leader of the Niger Delta, as a traditional ruler. On December 31, Governor Sim Fubara made this announcement in Port Harcourt during the quarterly meeting of traditional rulers, where Dokubo was officially presented with his certificate of recognition as the Amayanabo of Torusarama-Piri Elem Kalabari. Now, this might seem like an unexpected turn of events, considering Dokubo’s controversial past. But sometimes you have to look at things from a broader perspective, right?


Asari Dokubo’s new title isn’t just a ceremonial one—it signals a broader shift in the way Rivers State is navigating its path forward. This appointment doesn’t exist in a vacuum. It’s part of a more significant effort to unite communities and forge stronger leadership ties. 

But it’s not just about one man or one title. In the same breath, Governor Fubara also presented recognition certificates to three other monarchs: Winston Odiye Alamina, now Oputibeya XII of the Koniju Kingdom; Eze Noble Friday Uwoh, the new Eze Igbu-Ehuda IV; and Ike Ehie, who will now carry the title of Eze Igbu Orlukwor.

When we talk about traditional leadership, it's easy to get stuck on what these titles represent historically or culturally. The truth is, traditional leadership has always had a complicated role in Nigerian society. The blend of modern political power and time-honored traditions isn’t always smooth, but it’s necessary. 

And this appointment of Asari Dokubo, while raising eyebrows for some, reflects the state’s willingness to find balance. It's a calculated move by Governor Fubara and his team to keep Rivers State moving forward—progressing while holding on to essential roots.

Governor Fubara’s words on X (formerly Twitter) highlight a commitment to peace, unity, and prosperity in Rivers State. He urged the newly appointed monarchs to use their positions not just as symbols of status but as platforms for fostering unity and strengthening peace across their domains. 

Now, that’s the kind of leadership we need. Leadership that transcends titles and addresses real issues. Leaders who don’t just sit on thrones but actively work to improve the lives of the people they serve.


As we sit back and watch this unfold, it's hard not to wonder: is appointing a former militant leader as a traditional ruler a savvy move? Some argue it's a step towards reconciliation and healing—a way to confront the past head-on. Others see it as an attempt to legitimize contentious figures, sparking questions about the state's willingness to balance old and new.

In any case, it’s a bold move. A move that signals to the people of Rivers that leadership can be redefined, reshaped, and revitalized. And it’s going to be interesting to see how these new monarchs, especially Asari Dokubo, navigate their new roles. Their actions over the coming months will speak louder than any title or certificate ever could.


Governor Fubara's plea for unity is pretty darn significant. River State got its own set of problems, just like the rest of Nigeria. But with leadership that's actually committed to the greater good, stuff can start looking up. It's all about what these leaders do with the trust they've been given. Let's hope they use their newfound clout to bring folks together—in the end, it's not about fancy titles; it's about the real impact leaders have on their people.


As we digest this development, what’s your take on these appointments? Is it the right step towards progress, or does it open up more questions than answers? Jump into the comments below and let’s get the conversation going.