Ensure peace in your domain or your staff of office will be withdrawn – Otu warns traditional rulers
Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State has urged traditional rulers to prioritize peace in their communities or risk losing their official titles.
Otu, represented by Deputy Governor Dr. Peter Odey, made the remarks during the annual International Leboku Festival in Ugep, located in the Yakurr Local Government Area (LGA) of the state. The governor condemned recent violent clashes between the Ugep and Idomi communities that resulted in casualties and property damage.
He characterized the violence as a “show of shame” that overshadowed the celebrations, emphasizing that canceling the festival would have betrayed its purpose of promoting inter-communal harmony within the Yakurr Nation.
The governor reminded traditional leaders, including clan heads, of their duty to maintain peace and uphold customs and traditions. He warned that the state government would revoke recognition from any royal figure in an area where peace is disrupted.
Otu also stated that the government will not acknowledge competing leadership factions until communities consolidate behind a single representative.
Chief Inyang Yibala Igri, chairman of Yakurr LGA, called for peace and encouraged communities to focus on their historical ties, laying aside grievances in favor of development.
He highlighted that prosperity is rooted in unity and urged youth to view farming as a viable business, while encouraging elders to offer guidance.
Addressing the attendees—including locals, guests, and government officials—HRM Obol Ufem Ubana, the Obol Lopon of Ugep and traditional ruler of Yakurr, spoke on the festival’s cultural significance. He committed to efforts aimed at sustaining communal peace and brotherhood. However, he expressed concerns about dual coronations in Agoi-Ibami that have heightened tensions.
The Obol Lopon also appealed to the government for an upgrade of the Ugep stadium and better coverage from the Cross River Broadcasting Corporation, while appreciating recent political appointments of Yakurr indigenes.
