Governor of Cross River state, Bassey Otu has warned traditional rulers whose domains descend into communal violence that they risk losing their certificates of recognition.
Otu, who was represented by his Deputy, Peter Odey, gave the warning on Monday at the 21st edition of the Leboku International New Yam Festival held at the Yakurr Peace Stadium, Ugep.
The governor’s warning followed the recent communal conflict between Ugep and Idomi communities in Yakurr Local Government Area, which reportedly resulted in loss of lives.
Otu described the crisis as a “show of shame” and charged traditional institutions to take greater responsibility for preventing violence and promoting peaceful coexistence among neighbouring communities.
He said, “I wish to condemn in entirety the recent inter-communal war between Ugep and Idumi communities which led to the loss of precious lives in Yakurr Local Government Area. It is a ‘show of shame’ for us as a people.”
The governor warned that the state government would withdraw certificates of recognition from traditional rulers whose domains become disorderly.
He said the government would also not continue to recognise rival factions or camps that refuse to unite around a common traditional representative.
Otu disclosed that the government had considered cancelling this year’s Leboku festival because of the crisis but decided against the move, noting that such a decision would undermine the festival’s purpose of promoting peace, unity and brotherhood among the Yakurr people.
He urged the warring communities and other Yakurr communities that may have aligned with the combatants to embrace peace and reconciliation.
The governor further charged traditional rulers across the state to intensify efforts to prevent conflicts, stressing that they would be held accountable for the security and peaceful coexistence of residents within their domains.
He warned that failure to maintain peace could attract sanctions, including the withdrawal of their certificates of recognition.
Cross River Gov threatens Traditional Rulers over Communal crisps
