The Akwa Ibom State Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Frank Archibong, has condemned in the strongest terms recent abuses of tradition and culture in the state.
He cited specific instances of individuals using the internet to hurl insults at the Governor and a case where a masked individual inflicted physical harm on a citizen.
Disturbing footage of one Princess Udoito, summoning the state governor, Umo Eno, before a deity of Eket, had surfaced on social media. Dressed in tight black clothes with rafia leaves knotted around her ankle and waist, Udoito was seen standing before a tree, clutching a local bottle of gin and performing a ritual.
Speaking during a visit to the Traditional Rulers Council in Uyo on Wednesday, Archibong emphasised that while the government cherishes and promotes culture, it will not tolerate its perversion into a tool for violence and intimidation.
He therefore directly appealed to the Royal Fathers, as custodians of peace and order, to curtail such excesses within their domains.
“While the state government is not against culture, it will not condone harmful practices against the people in its name,” he stated.
He also called for unified and sustained support from traditional rulers for Governor Umo Eno’s administration and its transformative ARISE agenda.
Archibong stated that the depth and quality of the Governor’s development blueprint for the state necessitate a broad coalition of support from every sector.
While thanking the Royal Fathers for their support thus far, Archibong passionately appealed for this collaboration to continue through the Governor’s first term and beyond, adding that such an enduring partnership is crucial to consolidating the developmental gains already achieved.
“This support for the governor has been remarkable, and I’m sure it will continue. We must support him in all ramifications, 360 degrees,” Archibong declared.
He assured the monarchs that their efforts are highly valued, noting, “I appreciate the royal fathers for their work, and I know the governor does not take their contributions for granted.”
He described the traditional institution as the bedrock of societal stability, indispensable for ensuring order and fostering an environment where government policies can flourish for the benefit of all citizens.
Reflecting on his own experience as a former Council Chairman, the Commissioner acknowledged the relentless service and challenges faced by traditional rulers and expressed profound gratitude for their steadfast backing.
On civic duties, the Commissioner urged the traditional leaders to champion the ongoing voter registration exercise, as the response so far has been unimpressive.
He explained that as key influencers, their role is critical in strengthening the state’s democratic foundations by ensuring a fully enrolled electorate, which is essential for fair political representation and development planning.
The Commissioner also highlighted the upcoming state anniversary celebrations on September 23rd, an event designed to honour the traditional institution and therefore called for their full cooperation to ensure its success, framing it as a testament to the government’s respect for the royalty.
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