Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has called on traditional rulers in the state to maintain neutrality and prioritize peace as the country approaches the 2027 general election cycle. The governor issued the charge on Wednesday while declaring open the 126th, 127th, and 128th combined quarterly meeting of the Rivers State Traditional Rulers Council in Port Harcourt. Governor Fubara emphasized that the primary responsibility of traditional leaders is to administer justice and ensure fairness within their domains. He cautioned that their conduct during the upcoming political season should not foster division or lead to crises that could destabilize the state. “As we are entering into this political season actively, everyone should ensure that your conduct promotes peace in your place,” Fubara stated. “Your actions should not be what would lead to the division and multiple crises that we cannot manage as a government.” The governor urged the royal fathers to adhere to their constitutional oaths and to prioritize the collective interest of Rivers State over personal sentiments. He noted that this principle of prioritizing the state’s stability has guided his own administration. Addressing concerns regarding the welfare of traditional rulers, Governor Fubara clarified that delays in fulfilling previous requests were due to internal administrative challenges within the council rather than government inaction. Regarding the payment of stipends through Local Government Councils, the governor explained that these are statutory benefits mandated by the constitution and cannot be altered by verbal pronouncements. He assured the council that he remains committed to fulfilling his promises to the traditional institution before the end of his tenure. In his opening remarks, the Chairman of the Rivers State Council of Traditional Rulers and Paramount Ruler of Apara Kingdom, HRM Chike Amadi Wodo, thanked the state government for maintaining a positive relationship with the traditional institution. Eze Wodo underscored the strategic role of traditional rulers in conflict resolution, noting their capacity to mediate in chieftaincy, family, and land disputes at the community level.