Paramount Ruler of Akamkpa Local Government Area, His Royal Majesty, Amb. Dr. Agbor Ebani, reaffirmed government’s commitment to respecting the democratic will of communities
By Joseph Kesimbah
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Published on July 7, 2026
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4 min read
The Traditional Rulers’ Council of Akamkpa Local Government Area was filled with excitement as a large gathering of traditional rulers, community leaders, government officials and residents witnessed the official presentation of the Certificate of Recognition to His Highness, Aitah Ophot Okom Esira Arorim (Otu Ekong I of New Esai Kingdom) as the Village Head of Iko Esai Autonomous Community.
The ceremony marked another significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to consolidate peace, strengthen traditional institutions and promote inclusive community leadership in Iko Esai.
In line with the extant laws regulating the operations of the Traditional Rulers’ Council, the presentation of the community’s choice was formally made by the Eldest Man of Iko Esai, Chief Egbe Etan, alongside the Women Leader, Madam Grace Owai, and the Youth Leader, Comrade Emmanuel Ekpo Okorie, who spoke on behalf of the entire community.
Welcoming the delegation, the Paramount Ruler of Akamkpa Local Government Area, His Royal Majesty, Amb. Dr. Agbor Ebani, reaffirmed government’s commitment to respecting the democratic will of communities in matters concerning traditional leadership.
Addressing the gathering, he said: “Esai people, you are all welcome. I am pleased to moderate this event as directed by the government. I want to see the person you are presenting as your Village Head, and I hope no one imposed him on you.”
The declaration was met with a unanimous affirmation from members of the community, who confirmed that His Highness Aitah Ophot Okom Esira Arorim emerged through a transparent and widely accepted process.
The Paramount Ruler further underscored the constitutional role of government in matters of traditional leadership, stating:
“It is the community that has the power to choose who rules them, while the government issues the Certificate of Recognition. Today, we are fulfilling that responsibility. I encourage you all to embrace peace and let go of every grievance against one another.”
Following the formal presentation, the Paramount Ruler officially handed over the Certificate of Recognition and declared His Highness Aitah Ophot Okom Esira Arorim the duly recognized Village Head of Iko Esai Autonomous Community, thereby authorizing him to perform all official traditional functions, including the execution of community documents.
The ceremony also featured royal blessings and goodwill messages from Clan Heads and traditional rulers in attendance. In a moving tribute, the Deputy Paramount Ruler described the newly recognized Village Head as a worthy son of the late Clan Head of Iko Esai, His Royal Highness Aitah Ophot Nelson Arorim Etan, of blessed memory.
He recalled the late monarch’s enduring legacy of wisdom, peace and selfless leadership, expressing confidence that the new Village Head would uphold those cherished values while fostering unity, stability and development within the community.
In his acceptance speech, His Highness Aitah Ophot Okom Esira Arorim expressed profound gratitude to the Governor of Cross River State, His Excellency, Apostle Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, for his unwavering commitment to restoring lasting peace in Iko Esai.
He also appreciated the Paramount Ruler of Akamkpa, the Chairman of Akamkpa Local Government Area, traditional rulers, community stakeholders and all peace advocates whose collective efforts made the occasion possible.
He pledged to lead with humility, consult widely with senior traditional rulers, preserve the rich cultural heritage of Iko Esai, promote peaceful coexistence and give maximum support to government policies and development initiatives aimed at improving the welfare of the people.
The colourful ceremony reached its climax with a captivating performance by the renowned Iko Esai Traditional Dance Group (Igban). Their energetic cultural display, accompanied by vibrant drum rhythms and traditional songs, electrified the atmosphere and drew dignitaries, traditional rulers and community members onto the dance arena in celebration of what many described as the dawn of a new era of unity, peace and purposeful traditional leadership in Iko Esai Autonomous Community.
