Governor Fubara Elevates Ex Militant Leader, King Ateke Tom to First Class Traditional Ruler

In a recent ceremony held at the Okrika National School field, Governor Sir Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State announced the elevation of the Okochiri stool, held by ex-militant leader, Ateke Tom, to First Class status and pledged to complete abandoned projects in Okrika.

Governor Fubara attributed the success of his administration to his commitment to peace and emphasized the importance of unity in fostering development.

He highlighted the spontaneous expressions of gratitude from citizens across the 23 Local Government Areas, who have been organizing weekly thanksgiving services in celebration of his legal victory.

During the event, Governor Fubara reiterated his administration’s dedication to peace-building efforts, stating, “If you love your State, you will not be any part of anything that will bring destruction to it.”

He emphasized the need to sustain previous achievements and underscored the role of peace in garnering organic support from the populace.

Addressing the crowd, the Governor promised to prioritize infrastructure projects, including the reconstruction of Isaka Community Landing Jetty and the activation of the sandfilling project.

Governor Fubara also announced the upgrade of King Ateke Tom’s traditional stool to First Class status.

Former Federal Minister of Transport, Chief Abiye Sekibo, commended Governor Fubara’s commitment to peace and congratulated him on his electoral victory. He assured continued support from the Wakirike community.

The ceremony culminated in the conferment of the title “Be Se Poku” upon King Ateke Tom by traditional rulers and the people of Okrika, marking a significant recognition of his contributions to peace and development in the region.

This was contained in a statement released on Sunday evening by Boniface Onyedi, the Senior Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the Governor of Rivers State.

Ateke Tom’s Years as Militant

King Ateke Tom was one of the militant leaders in the oil-rich Niger Delta region of Nigeria who fought against government oppression and under development of the region.

Along with other militant leaders, Ateke was granted amnesty by the administration of former President Shehu Musa Yaradua in 2009.

Ateke Tom as King of Okochiri Kingdom

In 2017, Ateke Tom, now 59, was crowned the first Amanyanabo of Okochiri Kingdom.

The coronation was marked by traditional dances, traditional rites and musical displays. The event was attended by many prominent Nigerians.