The Vice Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in Benue North, Abraham Waroh, has cautioned traditional rulers in the state against engaging in partisan politics.
Waroh gave the warning on Tuesday while addressing journalists at the PDP State Secretariat in Makurdi.
He stressed that the traditional institution was designed to remain autonomous, sacred, and respected, and should not be dragged into political disputes.
According to him, any traditional ruler who desires to participate in politics or influence political appointments in favour of family members should resign from the throne and openly join partisan politics, rather than hiding under the cover of traditional authority to make reckless political statements.
Waroh maintained that once a traditional or religious leader makes political comments, such a person ceases to be a neutral custodian of the people and should henceforth be regarded and treated as a politician.
He also dismissed attempts to blackmail him into silence, insisting that he would not hesitate to respond firmly to any traditional ruler who abandons the unifying role of the throne for divisive utterances.
“As a good student of history, I know for a fact that the Tiv people have always been courageous enough to say ‘no’ to anyone who seeks to take them for granted,” Waroh declared.
The PDP chieftain urged traditional rulers to remain neutral, serve as symbols of unity, and preserve the integrity of their exalted institutions rather than risk diminishing their relevance through political involvement.
Support InfoStride News' Credible Journalism: Only credible journalism can guarantee a fair, accountable and transparent society, including democracy and government. It involves a lot of efforts and money. We need your support. Click here to Donate