Traditional rulers in Nigeria have been called upon to lead their subjects with the fear of God.
They have also been told that as those that maintain traditions and customs of their people, they must also apply wisdom of God to unite their people in love.
Members of Cross River State Bishops’ Forum of Brotherhood of the Cross and Star, comprising of Archbishops and Bishops, made the call when they called on two traditional rulers in Boki LGA, weekend, to brief them about their 2-day retreat and evangelical activities in Okundi town.
The two clan heads are those of Osogom-Okundi and Etimetim-Okundi, HRH Otu Linus Tancha and Chief Andrew Owan respectively.
Addressing the traditional chieftains in their different palaces, the head of the Forum, Archbishop Barnabas Ngozi Ogbonna said they will be accountable to God for all their actions.
“As traditional rulers, there are many expectations of you. One of these, is to encourage your subjects to live in love and peace. They should extend this love to their neighbours,” he said.
He said traditional rulers were a critical factor in Nigeria’s developmental journey, adding that the country’s leadership expect much from them to maintain peace in their domains.
The clergyman advised the monarchs to believe in and depend on God, maintaining that they are only tools in the Hands of the Almighty God.
He stated further that the traditional fathers should counsel their subjects and judge cases without favoritism.
Speaking individually in their different palaces, the two clan heads expressed happiness for the honour the clergymen did them by visiting them in large numbers.
They solicited for continual prayers, expressing the belief that God can work for the continued peace and progress of their communities.
