By Onwa Ekor
The Ishie Clan Traditional Council in Calabar Municipality, has condemned recent protest in the area on the governor’s decision to appoint Mrs. Fidelia Okpo Ene as Chairman of the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), replacing Elder Esu Effiong Esu, an indigene of the area.
In a statement issued in Calabar and jointly signed by the acting head of the clan, Chief Eta Uso, and the Secretary, Ededet Eyoma, Esq, the Council described the protest as misguided and the handiwork of mischief makers seeking to strain the existing relationship between the community and the state government.
According to the Council, the demonstration was carried out by non-indigenous persons and a few uninformed natives who acted without the knowledge or approval of traditional leaders.
It added that the former SUBEB chairman, Esu, had clarified that he was not involved in or supportive of the protest.
“The Ishie Clan Traditional Council was astonished by the unnecessary and sentimental outburst that followed the appointment of the new SUBEB chairman.
“After interrogating those seen in the viral video, we found that they acted on their own.
“The council has since imposed appropriate sanctions on the few identified indigenes involved,” the statement read.
Reaffirming its unflinching loyalty and support for the governor, Prince Bassey Otu, the council pledged to stand firmly by his administration to promote peace, progress, and development in the state.
It further appealed to the governor to disregard the actions of the protesters and remain focused on his people-centered policies, assuring him of the community’s continued cooperation and partnership in advancing the welfare of Cross Riverians.
