Gov. Peter Mbah says his administration will continue to rely on traditional rulers’ experience, wisdom, and counsel to maintain peace and progress in Enugu State.
“The experience and wisdom of traditional rulers are critical to sustaining Enugu State’s much-desired economic growth and progress,” Mbah said on Sunday evening in Enugu at the launch of a book titled “In The Line Of Duty.”
The governor, who was represented by the Commissioner for Local Government, Rural Development, and Chieftaincy Affairs, Chief Okey Ogbodo, stated that the government is always inspired by the intellectual work of revered traditional rulers who have accomplished much in their lives.
“It’s a fantastic book that I strongly recommend to our children in order for them to learn the act of leadership and diplomacy that brings people together and inspire people to move forward.
“As a government, we will continue to accord the traditional institution respect and a pride of place even as they contribute in no small measure to the attainment of Enugu State of our dreams,” said the minister.
Mbah praised Igwe Lawrence Agubuzu, Chairman of the South-East Council of Traditional Rulers and author of the book “In The Line Of Duty,” for his wisdom and courage in writing something down for posterity.
Earlier, Gen Chris Garuba (retired), former General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the Nigerian Army’s 82 Division, urged Nigerians to keep the peace and relationships that keep the country together.
“We must teach and instill in our children and subjects the importance of unity and peace built on good relationships.”
“We must create a progressive nation that works for everyone,” Garuba added.
Former Minister of Power, Prof Chinedu Nebo, who reviewed the book, called it a 13-chapter thought-provoking and knowledge-enriching masterpiece.
According to Nebo, the book is a collection of Igwe Agubuzu’s thought-provoking and solution-driven speeches and addresses delivered in various fora of national, regional, and state discourse on challenging and emerging nationhood and societal issues.
He also suggested that the book be read by people of all ages and that it is a must-read for those in leadership positions and those aspiring to be one because it is rich in practical experiences, wisdom, and a positive mindset for action to solve difficult leadership issues.
Igwe Agubuzu, when asked what inspired him to write the book, said,
, Chairman of the Enugu State Council of Traditional Rulers, stated that he wanted to preserve records for posterity and share invaluable experiences and thoughts.
“I’ve been working as a traditional ruler in various capacities since I retired from the Foreign Service, and as part of that work, I’ve given some speeches and addressed some audiences.”
“And I thought some of them contained some of my views, recommendations that I think will be useful to the government of the day and the next generation,” Agubuzu, the Eze Ogbunechendo and traditional ruler of Enugu State’s Ezema Olo Kingdom, said.
