We’ll Deal With Any Traditional Ruler Igniting Crisis – Akwa Ibom Govt Warns

The Akwa State Ibom Government on Friday warned that it would deal decisively with any traditional ruler in the state who engage in activities that could breach the peace in their domain.

The Deputy Governor, Mr. Moses Ekpo, gave the warning in Uyo at a meeting with traditional rulers from Eastern Obolo and Ikot Abasi Local Government Areas (LGAs).

Ekpo expressed displeasure over repeated crises in the two local government areas over boundaries.

He said that any of them found using his position to breach the peace enjoyed in the state would face the consequences.

According to him, such infraction will henceforth attract withdrawal of a certificate of recognition from any traditional ruler found wanting.

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He reminded them that in line with the extant laws, only paramount rulers were authorized to place a traditional injunction over land matters.

Ekpo said: “It is not right for the village head to place an injunction on any land without consulting the paramount ruler or following due process.

“An offended party must always exhaust the established procedure of making official reports to the local government chairmen and the paramount rulers.

“Do not to take the laws into your hands or run to the press to escalate the crisis,” NAN quoted him as saying.