By Akpan Udo-Inyang
CALABAR -Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River, has reminded traditional rulers, including clan heads and certified leaders of their responsibility to uphold peace, customs and traditions.
He has also warned that the state government would withdraw certificates of recognition from any royal father in whose domain peace breaks down.
The governor, who was speaking at the Leboku New Yam Festival in Ugep, Yakurr Local Government Area, through his deputy, Peter Odey, condemned the recent inter-communal clashes between Ugep and Idomi communities that resulted in loss of lives.
Otu also stated that the government would not recognise parallel camps in certain areas until communities unite behind a single representative.
He described the violence as a “show of shame” that dampened the celebrations stressing that cancelling the festival would have undermined its core objective of fostering inter-communal harmony within the Yakurr Nation.
On the festival, the governor, assured of support for small l holder farmers through revolving loans, mechanisation with tractors and other equipment.
Government also intends to provide a broader private-public partnership investment package valued in the billions of dollars.
Otu, highlighted his administration’s agricultural focus under the Green Economic Revolution and mentioned key projects to include rice value chains, fishery development, dairy and livestock initiatives, and oil palm development.
While wishing the people of Yakurr a bumper harvest and continued prosperity festival, Governor Otu, was grateful for the harvest season.
He lauded the theme which was “Rooted in Culture, Growing in Prosperity.”
Commissioner for Tourism, Art and Culture, Obi Ayuk, in a goodwill message, described Leboku as a profound expression of Yakurr culture, identity and agricultural heritage.
He reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to strengthening the festival as a major tourism attraction, promoting sites such as waterfalls and encouraging visitors to explore the area’s cultural and natural assets beyond the celebrations.
The commissioner, therefore, called for peace, hospitality and responsible conduct.