Politics: Cross River Governor Ayade Dethrones Paramount Traditional Ruler

The Cross River state governor Prof Ben Ayade, has directed the withdrawal of the certificate of recognition of the Paramount Ruler of Calabar South Local Government Area, Prof Itam Hogan Itam for getting himself involved in partisan politics.

The Governor’s directive was contained in a letter signed by his Senior Special Assistant on chieftaincy matters, Victor Adoga, saying the paramount ruler ceases to be so recognized and cannot operate as one forthwith.

The governor directed Itam to surrender his certificates of recognition to the Department of Chieftaincy Affairs, Governor’s Office, Calabar with immediate Effect.

Prof Itam Hogan was part of the Peoples Democratic Party PDP, Southern Senatorial District caucus that recently met and chose one of its governorship aspirants, Authur Jarvis as the party’s consensus candidate for Cross River South for the 2023 governorship election.

The act which saw the monarch’s name written in attendance and allegedly signed by him according to the government was contrary to the law establishing the state traditional rulers council.

“Following the report of the panel set up by the Cross River State Traditional Rulers Council (CRSTRC) and the approval of His Excellency, you have been removed as the village head, Clan head of Ukem and Paramount Ruler of Efuts with immediate effect to enable you go ahead to do your partisan politics.

“You therefore cease to be so recognized and cannot operate as such forthwith” the statement read in part.