Communal clashes: Otu threatens sanctions against Cross River traditional rulers

By Christian Njoku

Cross River Governor, Bassey Otu, has threatened to withdraw the certificates of recognition of traditional rulers if peace breaks down in their communities.

Otu issued the warning on Monday during the 21st Leboku International New Yam Festival in Ugep, Yakurr Local Government Area, following recent communal violence in the area.

The governor condemned the Ugep-Idomi communal clash, which reportedly claimed lives, describing the violence as a “show of shame” and unacceptable.

Represented by his Deputy, Peter Odey, Otu said the government had considered cancelling the 2026 Leboku Festival because of the crisis but decided to retain it.

He said the festival was preserved to promote peace, unity and brotherhood among the people of Yakurr and neighbouring communities.

Otu warned traditional rulers to maintain peace or risk losing their certificates of recognition from the state government.

He also said the government would not recognise rival factions involved in the Agoi Ibami leadership dispute until they resolved their differences.

According to him, the government would only deal with one recognised traditional leader after reconciliation among the contending parties.

The governor pledged N50 million for the renovation of the Ugep Peace Stadium to improve sporting and community facilities.

Yakurr Council Chairman, Yibala Inyang, described Leboku as a celebration of gratitude, culture, unity and economic opportunity, rooted in the first yam harvest.

Inyang said the festival had grown into an international cultural event promoting tourism, agriculture and economic development across Cross River.

He added that Leboku attracted Yakurr indigenes and visitors from across Nigeria and the diaspora every year.

Inyang commended the state government and other stakeholders for sustaining the festival as a platform for showcasing Cross River’s cultural heritage.

He said preserving Yakurr traditions also created opportunities for investment, tourism and broader community development.

Obol Lopon Advisory Council spokesman, Azikiwe Williams, praised Otu for ongoing infrastructural projects across Yakurr communities.

Williams appealed for the rehabilitation and upgrading of the Ugep Peace Stadium, including the provision of a standby generating set.

He also urged the government to extend the Cross River Broadcasting Corporation’s signal to Yakurr to improve residents’ access to official information.

“Improved infrastructure, communication and peace would strengthen Yakurr’s capacity to attract tourists, investors and development opportunities,” Williams said.

Tourism Commissioner, Obi Offor, said the government remained committed to making Leboku a major tourism attraction and economic asset.

Offor said the ministry was improving tourist sites, including cleaning up the Yakurr waterfall, while encouraging visitors to explore the area beyond the festival.

He identified waterfalls, landscapes, heritage sites, music, dance, arts and traditions as key tourism assets that required peace and hospitality for sustainable growth.

(NAN)