The Akwa Ibom State government has advised the Traditional Rulers in the State to always follow the part of dialogue in settling misunderstandings amongst them. This is coming on the hills of the amendment of the Traditional Rulers Law, Cap.155 of the state.
They literate their policy of neutrality on issues affecting traditional stools.
In a press release, signed by Mr. Ini Ememobong, who is the commissioner of information in the State, which was made available to reporters; the State government frowned at what they termed provocative statements, unnecessary threats, and the employment of mild violence on its officials, urging everyone involved to retract their steps to avert anarchy in the State.
Ioinews learnt that the amended law did not go down well with the traditional rulers of Annang Oro ethnic groups, forcing them to stage a protest against the bill. The paramount ruler of Etim Ekpo, Prof. Amanam Udo and his counterpart from Urue-offong Oruko, Edidem Umanawo, who addressed the press, described the bill as ‘discriminatory and insulting’ and insisted that the bill be scraped.
However, Ememobong, assured that the State government had heard their positions. He urged them to dialogue for an amicable resolution of the issue raised.
He maintained that the law passed by the State House of Assembly made the law in the interests of the people of the State, stating that the state is not the only one that has made such laws, as even other states in the country have made similar laws.
He explained, “Peace of our state is paramount, and the government led by His Excellency Pastor Umo Eno, will not abandon this responsibility for any reason.
“We respectfully urge our Royal fathers to dialogue among themselves in their Council, within the shortest possible time, reach a decision on the matter, and communicate the same to the State Government. The Government maintains its longstanding disposition of non-interference in traditional matters.
“All citizens are assured that this matter, like others in the past, will be peacefully resolved.”
IMAGE: Dakada Watch
