OBONG OF CALABAR CAUTIONS AGAINST SPREADING RUMOURS TO SPLIT SOUTHERN DISTRICT
Anthony Ekpo BASSEY
The Obong of Calabar, Treaty King, Grand Patriarch of the Efik kingdom and Defender of the Christian Faith, His Eminence, Edidem Ekpo Okon Abasi Otu V, has cautioned the people against spreading falsehoods aimed at splitting the southern senatorial district, urging them to be united as unity remain the foundation for the growth and prosperity of the Efik people.
The Monarch, who gave the warning at the 2024 edition of “Utomo Obong” a unique annual cultural festival where Royal Houses within the Efik kingdom pay homage to their monarch at his home, further warned the Southern Senatorial District people against creating divisive tendencies among themselves and especially, between the Governor of Cross River State, Sen. Bassey Edet Otu and the Senator representing, Cross River South Senatorial District, Sen. Asuquo Ekpenyong.
The Monarch said he has heard some controversial talks that, “Senator Asuquo intends to be the next Governor", cautioning the people to desist from peddling such unfounded rumour in order not to destabilise the polity.
Obong advised them against resorting to lies in order to curry the favour from the Governor, commending Bassey Edet Otu for his achievements so far and urged the people to join hands with him to foster development, and progress of the state.
He persuaded the people to embrace peace and be united against divisive tendencies.
He thanked the Chairman of the event, Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong (Jr), whom he said had made invaluable contributions to the success of the event.
The Monarch also acknowledged his colleagues and friends from the National Assembly who graced the occasion though had left before his speech.
