Bayelsa government suspends traditional ruler for misinformation
By Orji Onyekwere
The Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, has approved the immediate suspension of His Royal Majesty, King Boutua Collins Aranka, Ibedaowei of Opokuma Clan in Kolokuma/Opokuma Local Government Area of the State.
His suspension was due to a reported case of falsehood and a misrepresentation of the Chieftaincy laws of the State.
Consequently, a Seven-Man Committee has been constituted to investigate the allegations brought against him, with the Commissioner for Chieftaincy Affairs, Local Government Administration and Community Development, Chief Thompson Amule, as Chairman.
The Honourable Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Biriyai Dambo, SAN, his counterpart of Information and Orientation, Hon. Ayibaina Crowther Duba, and the Chairman of the Traditional Rulers Council in the State, His Royal Majesty, King Bubaraye Dakolo are to serve as members.
Other members include, one first class traditional ruler from each of the three senatorial districts of the State, to be nominated by the Chairman of the traditional rulers’ council.
The Committee has two weeks within which to conclude its assignment and present a report to the government.
His Royal Majesty, King Boutua Aranka is hereby directed to refrain from carrying out any duties, as the Ibedaowei of Opokuma Clan or as a traditional ruler, within the period, pending the outcome of the committee’s assignment and subsequent lifting of the suspension order by the government.
