Gov. Emmanuel Pledges Respect To Royal Fathers

By Usiere Akpan

UYO

Gov. Udom Emmanuel has pledged the commitment of his administration to preserve the sanctity of the traditional institution in the state.

Emmanuel made the pledge while playing host to the new leader of the Afe Annang, a foremost socio – cultural organization, Obong Blaise Awaka-Ama, which took place at Government House, Uyo, Wednesday.

The governor said that the royal fathers across the three senatorial districts including those from the Annang extraction have accord significantly contributed immense quota to the smooth and peaceful process of governance in the state, adding that the emergence of the newly elected Itai Afe Annang was a demonstration of the royal fathers support to the sustaining of peace and brotherhood in the state.

He expressed delight at the leadership credentials of the new Itai, dotted with impeccable records of hard work for community service, the state and the nation, adding that traditional institutions in the State have set impressive standard in selecting leaders with unquestionable qualities and character across the major ethnic groups of the state.

The state chief executive officer said that his administration would continue to remember the cordial working relationship established by the immediate past Itai, Okuku Pius Eside with the leadership of the state and other socio cultural organizations, urging the new leader to collaborate with the state government in maintaining peace while assuring of continuous support for the  Afe Annang traditional stool.

Emmanuel remarked that the credentials of the new Itai afe Annang was unbeatable and  worthy of being presented at the national level of  traditional institutions, emphasizing that similar socio cultural organizations are also under leadership of excellent personalities with service records of experience and something to offer to the growth of the traditional institution.

The chairman of the Afe Annang Board of Trustees, Obong Michael Afangide, appreciated Emmanuel for identifying with the programmes and projects of the Afe Annang traditional institution, calling for the continuation of an unbroken relationship for mutual benefits.

Afangide assured that given the pedigree of Awaka-Ama and his disposition, the Afe Annang would witness another era of great achievements, encouraging individuals and institutions to support the new Itai without reservations.