Cross River State Governor, Bassey Otu, has dismissed two traditional rulers during his administration, with the latest action announced just yesterday.
The governor suspended the Village Head of Esuk Utan, His Highness Okkn Archinong Eke, along with the entire Esuk Utan Village Council. The suspension, effective January 3, 2025, was communicated in a letter signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Gill Nsa.
No specific reasons were provided for the suspension. However, Governor Otu has instructed the Calabar Municipal Traditional Rulers Council (CMTRC) to investigate allegations against the village head and council. The CMTRC has been given one week to conclude and submit its findings.
In the interim, the governor directed the Obutong Clan Council to establish a five-member committee to manage the affairs of the Esuk Utan community until the investigation is completed.
This is not the first time Governor Otu has intervened in traditional leadership matters. In April 2024, he removed the head of Akansoko in Akpabuyo Local Government Area, His Royal Highness Etinyin Archibong Ita, who was acting following the passing of the former Paramount Ruler.
Etinyin Ita contested the governor’s decision, arguing that the selection of a Paramount Ruler should have been determined by the clan heads through due process. He claimed the governor’s choice lacked fairness and equity.
Despite the protests, Governor Otu appointed HRH Etinyin Francis Effiom Edem Efa, the Clan Head of Esuk Mba in Akpabuyo, as the new Paramount Ruler for the area.
This series of decisions has sparked discussions about the role of the government in traditional institutions and its impact on local governance in Cross River State.
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