By Magnus Effiong
The Palace of the Obong of Calabar at Efanga Nsa Street, Calabar South, was agog on Friday as the First Class Monarch, His Eminence Edidem Ekpo Okon Abasi-Otu V, inducted HRH Etubom Ekong Esu Effa as the Etubom of Adiabo Okutikang House in Western Calabar.
Others also inducted as Otuekongs were ace broadcaster, Otuekong Ene Ita Eyo; retired Air Force Officer, Otuekong (Wg Comdr) Abasi Okon Etim Ekpo and Otuekong Offiong Andem Bassey.
Speaking at the ceremony, Edidem Abasi-Otu V charged the inductees to lead by example and to represent the Efik people well in all spheres of life, adding that the recognition accorded them was a call to service and commitment to the Efik kingdom.
“This induction serves as another milestone and is in recognition of your tireless contribution to the Efik people in particular and humanity in general. This cap on your head is a sign of elevation for service while the staff would serve as symbol of authority.
“With this, you shall fight and destroy anything that may attempt to scatter the fabrics of the Efik society and use same to unify our people in love. May you see this induction as a call to more service and may you continue to lead by example,” the Obong of Calabar advised the inductees while decorating them.
In his brief remarks, the newly sworn-in Chairman of Odukpani local government area, Hon Etim Asido, who graced the occasion, advised the inductees to always remember that they were representing the Efik throne in their different capacity as leaders.
He promised to give the palace all necessary support that would enable it carry out its functions without any inhibition.
HRH Etubom Effa, who was given opportunity to speak, commended the Obong of Calabar and the Etubom Traditional Council for considering the inductees worthy of the honour, and promised never to disappoint the Efik people.
Speaking on behalf of the inductees, Otuekong Ene Ita Eyo said the recognition took them by surprise. He pledged that because the Palace had placed such huge confidence on them, they would represent the throne well.
“We shall ensure that we do all that is expected of us with integrity and humility; we pledge to serve with a greater sense of responsibility so as to justify this confidence you have reposed in us,’ he stated.
Traditional dances and Ekpe display entertained the mammoth crowd which attended the event thereby adding colour to the occasion.
