Statesman condemns protests against amendment of traditional ruler act

Akpan Umoh, Uyo

Disturbed by the unnecessary protests over the recent amendment of Akwa Ibom State Traditional Rulers Council edict, an elder statesman Chief Sunny Udoh and renowned industrialist and former Chairman, Champion Breweries Limited, Uyo, have called for a truce saying that those involved do not wish the new government of Governor Umo Eno, well.

Udoh, who was a frontline sponsor of the agitation for the creation of Akwa Ibom State since 1981, noted that the people have always been united and speak with one voice despite their differences.

“This is not the time for the unity of Akwa Ibom State to be undermined, especially with the present governor’s determination to engender development of the state economy and does not need any distraction at this time,” he said.

The one-time member of the Cross River State House of Assembly during the Second Republic, applauded Akwa Edidem Solomon Etuk, the Oku Ibom, whose recognition as President General of the Supreme Council of Akwa Ibom Traditional Rulers, was confirmed by the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly last month.

Udoh believed that the highly respected Edidem had the capacity and discipline to lead his people as well as perform traditional responsibilities.

“I must confess that I have known Edidem Solomon Etuk for a long time. He is a leader with the right qualities and integrity; he is humble and respected. He is revered among the traditional rulers in the country,” he stated.

The community leader added that “In spite of all the sponsored protests against the monarch, Akwa Edidem Etuk, is not interested in confronting anybody, he always calls for peaceful resolution when there is any disagreement in the community. This is the kind of leader we have been yearning for all these days.”

Udoh further opined that the state Governor, Mr. Umo Eno should be supported, especially seeing his commitment to development and drive for good governance.

The Adaha Ibibio, commended the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly and its Speaker, Mr. Udeme Otong, for resisting pressure from politicians to strengthen the traditional rulers’ law and their plot to disparage the hallowed chamber.

Otong said: “If we fail to preserve our history and culture like other people, we shall live to always regret it. The decision taken by the House of Assembly to amend the chieftaincy law is nothing short of our expectations as it would stem further crises in the traditional ruler’s council.

“We are one indivisible people with a rich culture and history worth preserving for the generation yet unborn.

“Our sacred weapon is our homo genius culture and language. This is why we should join hands together to build a state rather than creating a problem where there is none.”