By Frank Ulom
CALABAR (CONVERSEER) – Cross River State governor, Senator Bassey Otu, has removed Ntufam Linus Effiong Oben Tabi as the village head of Mbot Akpa and Ekinta Clan in Akamkpa Local Government Area.
According to Daily Post, the decision, announced through the governor’s Special Adviser on Chieftaincy Affairs, Otuekong Francis Edet, followed findings that the dethroned traditional ruler allegedly obtained recognition through impersonation and false claims.
Investigations and Findings
According to the Department of Chieftaincy Affairs, Tabi secured a certificate of recognition for Mbot Akpa village — a community not listed under the Cross River State Edict No. 1 (Clan Creation) of 1996.
The investigation also revealed that Mbot Akpa is the same as Esuk Effiom Iyaweh in Iko Eneyo Clan, Akpabuyo Local Government Area, and that Tabi’s claims were a ploy to secure legitimacy by trickery.
Further findings showed that Tabi was simultaneously heading two clans in different local government areas, a situation critics described as illegal and destabilising.
Petition by Traditional Rulers
The governor’s action was triggered by a petition filed by five members of the Ekonganaku Traditional Rulers Council, who accused Tabi of misconduct and demanded his removal to restore peace in the community.
Confirming the decision, Edet emphasised that the government would not tolerate such infractions.
“The government cannot overlook such misconduct. Peace and stability must guide the recognition of traditional institutions in the state,” he said.
Dethroned Monarch’s Reaction
Reacting to the development, Tabi said he had not yet received an official letter of removal.
“I have nothing to say for now because I am yet to be served. Once I am served, if the law says it’s right, no problem. If it says it’s wrong, I will know what to do,” he stated.
