CRS: Fmr Gov Clement Ebri Lauds Enthronement of "Obol Ebinyang of Umor Otutu" ... Sues For Cooperation.
Hannah ARIKPO
A one-time Governor of Cross River state, Chief Dr. Clement Ebri has lauded the three families which produces the Ebinyang Chiefs namely:- Ugom-Ijiman ward, Egbizum-Ikpakapit ward Kekomkolo-Ijom ward for installing a worthy Son of Ugep as the Obol Ebinyang of Umor Otutu, Obol Ofem Ikpi Ebri and as well stressed the need for cooperation in the area.
Ebri, who spoke through the Cross River Commissioner for Aviation, Captain Eno Utum Inah Rtd, was excited that these families quickly found a good replacement to fill the vacuum created by the demise of the previous Ebinyang of Ugep, in view of the importance of the traditional Stool.
The former Governor who was speaking at a grand reception of the Obol Ebinyang of Umor Otutu, Obol Ofem Ikpi Ebri and Palace building fund raising, held at the Umor Otutu round about Ugep, Yakurr local government area, outlined the important role of the Office of Ebinyang whose absence is capable of hindering the progress of the community.
Narrating the historical perspective, the Aviation Commissioner revealed that the traditional kingship Stool breeds peace, progress, togetherness and unity in the land. He commended the people for the initiative and called on Sons, Daughters, well-wishers as well as friends of Yakurr to support the laudable project.
"This project is commendable indeed, I appeal to all asundry for support. I also thank the Yakurr traditional rulers council, village and clan heads for ensuring a successful coronation. I pray to God to grant the new Ebinyang the grace to succeed in these onerous tasks". He prayed.
The Paramount Ruler of Yakurr and Obol Lopon of Ugep, Obol Ofem Ubana Eteng, noted with pride that during his reign, the land of Kekurr has witnessed continuous progress and achievements in the sustenance of the area as an urban centre besides its celebrated rich cultural heritage.
According to the Obol Lopon,"the building of a befitting palace for the Ebinyang of Ugep will set a precedent for the successive revered Obol title in Yakurr."
Earlier, in a welcome address by the Royal family of Ofem Edet Paternalism of the current Obol Ebinyang in Ugom- Ijiman ward, presented by Evang.Ubi Etowa PhD, described the office of Obol Ebinyang as one of the key positions among the Bi-Nah traditional rulers council which justifies the reason for the provision of a befitting official residence to the newly enthroned Ebinyang in Ugep.
Etowa, who was also the Chairman, Obol Ebinyang reception and fund raising planning Committee states, "In terms of culture and tradition, Obol Ebinyang ensures maintenance of peace and amicable conflict resolution between individuals and the Community at large during Leboku (New Yam Festivals) celebrations."
"Obol Ebinyang represents the Spiritual continuation of our existence from our ancestral point of last migration from UMOR-WEN AKPA to the present UMOR OTUTU," Etowa revealed.
Obol Ebinyang is the continuation of over six hundred years of family history and contributes to the moulding of Umor-Otutu tradition, culture and unity.
