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In a significant development, Governor Bassey Edet Otu has intervened in the long-standing Obongship tussle that has plagued the Efik Kingdom. This historic dispute, marked by numerous court judgments and varying interpretations, has been a source of contention for over a decade.
In a recent press statement released by the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Emmanuel Ogbeche, it was emphasized that the Stool of the Obong of Calabar, a position that has endured for nearly six centuries and holds profound cultural significance within the Efik community, must be protected from both judicial and social discord.
Governor Otu unequivocally declared His Eminence, Edidem Ekpo Okon Abasi V, as the legitimate and duly elected Obong of Calabar, and the revered Patriarch of the Efik Kingdom. The Governor’s position was reached following a thorough examination of the State High Court and Supreme Court rulings, as well as a comprehensive review of the Constitution of the Obong’s Palace, in consultation with royal leaders.
The Governor’s resolutions are as follows:
1. The notion of a “WAIVER” for candidate qualification for the Obong Stool is deemed untenable.
2. The stipulations outlined in the Constitution of the Obong’s Palace concerning the process of enthroning an Etubom as the Obong of Calabar remain inviolable.
3. All subsequent judgments from appellate courts have not negated the State High Court’s ruling of September 25, 2022, and its binding effect on all concerned parties.
4. It is imperative that all parties ensure the full implementation of the judgment mentioned in point (3).
5. His Eminence, Edidem Ekpo Okon Abasi V, retains his rightful position as the Obong of Calabar and the revered leader of the Efik Kingdom.
6. The official pronouncement by the State Government grants explicit recognition to His Eminence, Edidem Ekpo Okon Abasi V as the Obong of Calabar, bringing an end to speculation, discord, and disaffection that may have arisen during the Obongship tussle.
7. His Eminence, Edidem Ekpo Okon Abasi V is urged to promptly establish a reconciliation team, with the primary objective of fostering a unified, harmonious, peaceful, and progressive reign over the Efik Kingdom, bringing together the previously conflicting parties.
This resolution by Governor Bassey Edet Otu represents a significant step towards bringing closure to the protracted Obongship dispute and uniting the Efik Kingdom under the leadership of His Eminence, Edidem Ekpo Okon Abasi V.
Follow this link to read the Governor’s full statement on the Obong stool tussle;
