Bayelsa Guber: Monarch denies endorsing any candidate, restates neutrality
The Paramount Ruler of Koluama Kingdom in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area of Bayelsa, HRM King Solomon Ebifatei Edi-Mangi, Kolu XI say he is father to all.
Edi-Mangi, , Ibenanawei of Koluama on Saturday dismissed reports claiming that he endorsed the governorship candidate of the All Progressive Candidate (APC) who visited his palace during campaign.
The traditional ruler in a statement issued on Saturday denied endorsing any governorship candidate ahead of the Nov. 11 poll in the state.
According to the paramount ruler, as the custodian of culture and traditions of Koluama, he has consistently maintained a position of neutrality when it comes to politics.
Edi-Mangi, who was reacting to claims made by some political gladiators that the visit of the APC candidate amounted to an endorsement said he has not endorsed any political candidate.
According to him, he believes that it is his sacred duty to ensure that the cultural heritage and values of the people of Koluama are preserved, and he has never let political affiliations interfere with his responsibilities.
He explained that the purported endorsement circulating on social media is nothing more than a figment of imagination of partisan political gladiators and should be disregarded.
He insisted that he is a firm advocate for peace and unity in Bayelsa and called on all political actors and their followers to embrace peace.
The royal father further urged them to shun violence as we work together to build a progressive Bayelsa State.
He further emphasized the importance of peaceful co-existence and unity among the people of Bayelsa.
“We should put aside our differences and come together for the greater good of our state.
“Violence and division only hinder our progress. Let us focus on the issues that truly matter, the development and prosperity of Bayelsa.” Edi-Mangi said.
He advised those who may have been misleading the people and heating up the polity to have a rethink as the interest and passion that people have for the political process is healthy and within their rights.
He urged them to channel that energy into positive and constructive endeavours that benefit the entire community.
The traditional ruler reinstated his firm commitment to his role as a symbol of unity and culture and called on everyone to stand together in the spirit of peace and progress.
“Bayelsa State’s future is bright, and together, we can achieve great things for our beloved state,” he stated.
