Akwa Ibom State governor, Mr. Udom Emmanuel has called for maximum respect and honour for the newly installed Paramount Ruler of Oku Ibom and President General, Supreme Council of Ibibio Traditional Rulers (Ifim Ibibio), HRM Nteyin Solomon D. Etuk.
The governor gave the charge today at Asan Ibibio during the installation ceremony of a new Oku Ibom.
The coronation will be done on a later date.
Gov. Emmanuel said the traditional institution should be treated with dignity, adding that any attempt to disrespect the traditional stool will not be tolerated. “This is a reverred stool, let us accord it due respect. No Akwa Ibom son or daughter will accept any insult on this stool,” said the governor.
Udom prayed God to bless the new Oku Ibom with long life so that many can tap from his well of wisdom. While thanking God for the success of the event, he commended the efforts of Obong Victor Attah in making the day a reality.
Governor Emmanuel, said he had looked forward to the occasion, adding that Ibibio people now have someone they can run to for advise.
In his address, the newly installed Oku Ibom, Edidem Solomon Etuk, thanked God for the day, especially for making it possible for the people to gather in a harmonious atmosphere for the occasion.
He paid tributes to Royal Fathers for deeming it fit to choose him as the first amongst equals. “It is a great honour that I do not take for granted.”
He also commended Assembly of Clan Heads, Mboho Mme Eteidung, Mboho Mme Obong Ekpuk, Ntisong Akwa Esop Imaisong, among others for always supporting the course of Ibibio land.
He called on all sons and daughters of Ibibio Nation to come together and forge a strong bond of unity for greater glory of Ibibio land, urging that there’s should be no compromise on the unity of the people.
While thanking Ibibio monarchs for selecting him for the position, he noted that with their support and corporation, he will not let the people down.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Paramount Ruler of Onna, Edidem Raymond Timothy Inyang, Secretary, the Supreme Council of Ibibio Traditional Rulers, said that Ibibio Union was the first organization in Nigeria that preached unity and development in education and other sectors.
Edidem Inyang, said that Ibibio Union was equally the first to demand a state of its own in the country, adding that it was also the Union that sponsored her children abroad for studies from across all parts of the state.
He stated that the gathering is meant to “show the Ibibio Nation that the torch that was lit by our forefathers is burning aglow – it is still burning.”
He described the new Oku Ibom as a humble man with an impeccable character and God fearing. Edidem Inyang, said that a new vista has been opened for Ibibio people to respect, unite and corporate to bring fruition to the hopes and aspirations of the Oku Ibom for the people which he said will be unfolded soon.
In his vote of thanks, Chairman of the Central Planning Committee and Speaker of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Barr. Onofiok Luke, thanked Nteyin Solomon Etuk for accepting to be the Oku Ibom.
He acknowledged the support of Governor Emmanuel and for contributing to the successful planning and execution of the event, noting that the governor had insisted on a peaceful selection process, which he said, was actualised.
He thanked all who contributed in various ways to the success of the occasion, while commending the Paramount Ruler of Ikot Abasi, Edidem Udo Joe Ntuk Obom, for his efforts geared towards ensuring peace and stability in the traditional institution.
The traditional rites/proclamation of the Oku Ibom was followed by traditional obeisance where Governor Emmanuel led other dignitaries to symbolically greet and show respect to the new Oku Ibom. The Oku Ibom, in turn, offered blessings to all.
Several side attractions including traditional dances, spiced up the occasion.
By Kenneth Jude
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