Governor Bassey Otu has presented staff of office and certificates of recognition to the newly elected Paramount Rulers of Yala and Akpabuyo Local Government Areas, His Royal Majesty Ogamode Eje Ipuole and His Royal Majesty Etinyin Francis Edem Efa, respectively.
The ceremony, which took place at the Traditional Rulers Council Chambers in Calabar, marked the formal recognition of the monarchs following their selection and endorsement by their communities.
In his address, Governor Otu described the occasion as “beyond the ceremonial presentation of staff of office,” stressing that the installation of traditional rulers is a call to service. He reminded the royal fathers of their role as custodians of culture, promoters of peace, and partners in grassroots governance.
“Before the advent of modern government, our communities were effectively governed by the Council of Chiefs. That era witnessed unprecedented peace, law and order. Strengthening our traditional rulership is therefore vital in ensuring stability and progress,” Otu said.
He tasked the monarchs to prioritize security in their domains, warning against shielding criminal elements. He also called on traditional institutions to support government in boosting internally generated revenue, citing their historical role in tax collection.
While assuring that his administration will continue to strengthen the traditional institution, Otu disclosed plans to restructure and sanitize the proliferation of uncertified clan heads across the state, noting that such distortions have fueled disputes, especially in mining communities. He further announced the provision of official vehicles to the newly sworn-in monarchs and pledged to extend the gesture to other paramount rulers awaiting theirs.
The Obong of Calabar and Father of the day, His Eminence Edidem Ekpo Okon Abasi V, commended the governor for reinvigorating the traditional institution. He urged unity among monarchs and called for the historic stool of the Obong of Calabar to be accorded its rightful recognition in national affairs, alongside peers like the Ooni of Ife and Sultan of Sokoto.
Chairman of the Cross River State Traditional Rulers Council and Paramount Ruler of Abi, His Royal Majesty Ovai Solomon Edward JP, described the event as a milestone in the history of the state. He thanked the governor for his continued support for traditional rulers and urged the provision of certificates and vehicles to aid the effective discharge of their duties.
Speaking on behalf of the newly inaugurated monarchs, HRM Ogamode Eje Ipuole of Yala pledged loyalty to the government and promised to prioritize peace and development in his domain. He thanked the governor for ensuring a peaceful and transparent selection process and appealed for government intervention in resolving lingering communal disputes in Yala.
Highlight was presentation of keys to the newly inaugurated paramount rulers of Akpabuyo and Yala Local government area.
