Cross River State Governor, Bassey Otu, has drawn a hard line for traditional rulers in conflict-prone areas, warning that his administration will not hesitate to withdraw certificates of recognition from any traditional ruler who allows his domain to be at war with their neighbours.
Otu issued the warning yesterday while speaking at the 21st Leboku International New Yam Festival in Ugep, Yakurr local government area.
Represented by his deputy, Dr. Peter Odey the governor described the recent inter-communal clash between Ugep and Idomi that claimed lives as a “show of shame” that desecrated the spirit of Leboku.
He said the government will no longer tolerate divisions or “parallel camps” in any community.
“Traditional rulers, clan heads and other certified leaders have a direct responsibility to uphold peace, customs and traditions,” Otu stated.
“The government will not recognize parallel camps in certain areas until communities unite behind a single representative. No peace, no certificate.”
In a bid to drive development through stability, Otu also announced an approval of N50 million for the construction of the Ugep Peace Stadium.
The approval followed a request by the Obol Lopon of Ugep and Traditional Ruler of Yakurr, HRM Obol Ufem Ubana, who had appealed for renovation of the facility and provision of a standby generating set.
Linking peace to prosperity, the governor said investments under his Green Economic Revolution agenda can only thrive where there is stability.
He highlighted plans for revolving loans, mechanization with tractors, and a multi-billion-dollar private-public partnership covering rice value chains, fishery, dairy, livestock and oil palm.
In his remarks, Chairman of Yakurr local government, Chiief Yabila Inyang, backed the governor’s position in his welcome address, urging warring communities to “lay down grievances and choose development over destruction” and called on youths to embrace farming while elders provide guidance.
Also speaking, the traditional ruler of Yakurr local government area, the Obol Lopon, His Royal Majesty, Obol Ofem Ubana Eteng hailed Otu on his emergence as the APC governorship candidate and pledged the support of Yakurr people.
He, however, raised concerns over dual coronations causing tension in Agoi-Ibami and appealed for improved CRBC signal coverage in Yakurr.
The festival, themed “Rooted in Culture, Growing in Prosperity,” drew participants from across Yakurr and beyond. Commissioner for Tourism, Art and Culture, Obi Ayuk, said Leboku cultural festival remains a profound expression of Yakurr culture and pledged the ministry’s commitment to promoting the festival and other tourism sites.
Related News
