Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has warned that any traditional ruler in the state found harboring criminals would be dealt with, irrespective of his position.

He gave the warning at the ministry of local government and chieftaincy affairs in Umuahia during the inauguration of the 9th Executive Council of the Abia State Council of Ndi Eze.

Otti described traditional rulers as valued personalities whose support is needed for the security and transformation of Abia, describing the new leadership of the traditional institution as worthy.

He maintained that his administration was meticulous in choosing Eze Linus Nto Mba and other royal fathers to lead their colleagues, advising them to avoid rancor among traditional rulers.

He expressed dismay that some traditional rulers are ignorant of events in their communities that hamper community development.

Otti charged the traditional rulers to collaborate with his government in securing the state, reminding them of the newly launched Operation Crush and why the combined security outfit should be given the necessary support.

The governor, who expressed his determination to capitalize on Abia’s agricultural potential and other mineral resources in developing the state, said such lofty plans cannot be achieved in a situation of insecurity and crisis.

In his inaugural address, the new Chairman of the Abia State Council of Ndi Eze, HRH Eze Linus Nto Mba, promised that rural communities in the state would experience uncommon development under his watch.

Eze Mba, who promised to rally his colleagues for the development of Abia, assured that his administration would also engender peace, unity, and love in their various communities.

He further thanked Governor Otti for entrusting him with the task of leading the royal fathers and for increasing the monthly stipends of traditional rulers in Abia, saying that the confidence reposed in him would not be disappointed.

Other members of the traditional rulers’ executive council are HRH, Eze Nelson Mmerengwa, the first Deputy Chairman; HRH, Eze Franklin Nwosu, the second Deputy Chairman; and HRH, Eze Uwakwe Ukaegbu, the third Deputy Chairman.