Why Governor Otu Removed Clan Head – Official Statement

The Governor of Cross River State, Senator Bassey Otu, has officially deposed Ntufam Linus Effiong Oben Tabi from his role as the village head of Mbot Akpa and Ekinta Clan, located in Akamkpa Local Government Area.

According to the governor’s Special Adviser on Chieftaincy Affairs, Otuekong Francis Edet, the decision was taken after a thorough review revealed that the traditional leader was involved in impersonation and obtaining recognition through misleading claims.

Findings from Chieftaincy Affairs Investigation

A detailed investigation conducted by the Department of Chieftaincy Affairs confirmed that Tabi secured a certificate of recognition for Mbot Akpa village. However, Mbot Akpa was not included under the Cross River State Edict No. 1 (Clan Creation) of 1996, raising serious concerns about the legitimacy of his claims.

The official decertification letter also pointed out that Mbot Akpa is essentially the same as Esuk Effiom Iyaweh in Iko Eneyo Clan, Akpabuyo Local Government Area. Authorities concluded that this was a calculated attempt by Tabi to create legitimacy through deceptive means.

Dual Leadership Across Two Local Government Areas

Further findings uncovered that Ntufam Tabi was simultaneously occupying leadership positions in two separate clans located in different LGAs. Opponents described this as unlawful and destabilizing, insisting that such actions undermine community harmony and traditional authority structures.

Petition by Traditional Rulers

The disciplinary action came after a petition submitted by five traditional rulers under the Ekonganaku Traditional Rulers Council. The petition demanded his removal in order to restore peace, order, and respect for cultural institutions within the affected communities.

Government’s Position

Confirming the development, Special Adviser Francis Edet stated that the Cross River State Government would not tolerate misconduct from any traditional authority. He emphasized that peace, stability, and respect for the law must guide the recognition of all traditional rulers across the state.

Reaction of the Dethroned Monarch

When approached, the dethroned clan head, Ntufam Linus Effiong Oben Tabi, explained that he had not yet been served with an official notice of removal.

In his words:

“I have nothing to say for now because I am yet to be served. Once I am served, if the law says it’s right, no problem. If it says it’s wrong, I will know what to do.”