C’River Gov’t Recognition of Otu V as Obong of Calabar Receives Approval from Ekpe Lords, Initiates
…Efik Grand patriarch sues for reconciliation
Calabar, Cross River State – The traditional institution of Ekpe, wielding significant political authority in Efik Eburutu, has responded positively to the Cross River state government’s affirmation of His Eminence Edidem Ekpo Okon Abasi Otu V as the Obong of Calabar. This formal recognition, signifying Otu V as the substantive Natural Ruler, Grand Patriarch, Treaty King of Efik Eburutu, and the Obong of Calabar, was conferred by the state government on November 7, 2023.
Lords of Ekpe from various ethnic groups, including Efik, Efut, and Qua lodges, gathered at the Efe Ekpe Otu Mesembe, an Ekpe lodge situated in Odukpani. The event featured esoteric dances, displays of Nsibidi, and joyful celebrations before the initiates convened for a private, closed-door meeting.
Murua Nkanda in her elements, on Friday , as she performs esoteric pantomimes in the presence of the Obong of Calabar and other Ekpe lords and initiates. This was at the Efe Ekpe Otu Mesembe in Odukpani pic.twitter.com/4t8K4mQqp2
— NEGROID HAVEN (@NegroidHaven) November 11, 2023
Within the exclusive Ekpe conclave, the Obong of Calabar expressed gratitude to the lords and initiates for their unwavering support in the face of challenges to the throne. He emphasized the importance of reconciliation, unity and cultural preservation.
“I beg of you: firmness and continued unity. Let’s unite our nativity in Efik, Efut, and Qua. Should we succumb to distractions, our detractors will succeed against us,” urged the Obong.
His Eminence Edidem Ekpo Okon Abasi Otu V returning to his residence in Adiabo after his outing at Efe Ekpe Otu Mesembe where Ekpe lords and initiates reaffirmed him as the Obong of Calabar sequel to the recent Cross River state government's affirmation. pic.twitter.com/JyxFH2Y6DC
— NEGROID HAVEN (@NegroidHaven) November 11, 2023
Governor Bassey Otu officially announced the recognition on November 7 through a press release, putting an end to years of contention and legal battles surrounding the Obong Stool.
— NEGROID HAVEN (@NegroidHaven) November 11, 2023
The Ekpe lords and initiates’ positive response aligns with the resolution of the longstanding dispute and reaffirms their commitment to the cultural heritage represented by the Obong of Calabar.
