Monarch, the Edidem Ekpo Okon Abasi-Otu V, has appealed to traditional rulers in Calabar South to put aside their differences and work towards lasting peace, warning that continued disputes are undermining development in their communities.

The monarch gave the charge on Thursday, at his Efanga Nsa Palace when the Paramount Ruler of Calabar South, HRM Etubom Nyong Efiom Okon, paid him a courtesy visit.

He specifically urged the Paramount Ruler to take immediate steps in reconciling factions in Henshaw Town and other restive areas within the council.

“Leadership at all levels requires tolerance, dialogue, and compromise. Traditional institutions must set the example of peace and harmony for the people. If rulers fight among themselves, the community will suffer,” the Obong cautioned.

He charged Etubom Nyong and the Calabar South Traditional Rulers Council to convene meetings with all aggrieved groups.

He stressed that reconciliation and mutual concessions were necessary for peace to return.

“I know you have the capacity to handle every issue and bring peace, but where you find it challenging, do not hesitate to bring me in. I will gladly make myself available,” he assured.

The Obong emphasized that the traditional institution remains one of the strongest pillars of unity in Efik land and beyond, insisting that it must continue to serve as a rallying point for harmony.

Responding, HRM Etubom Nyong likened his return to the palace to that of a victorious warrior, recalling that no Efik man had previously been elected Paramount Ruler of Calabar South.

“I went to war to change the narratives and I emerged victorious. Now I have returned home to present myself to my royal father and to my people,” he declared.

The Paramount Ruler pledged to work closely with the Obong’s palace to uplift the Efik throne, which he described as the foremost traditional institution in the country.

He assured that he had already begun engaging stakeholders to foster peace in Calabar South.

“I promise to continue maintaining peace and unity in my domain because unity is what strengthens us as a people,” he said.

Restive communities must bury grievances, embrace peace – Obong of Calabar