Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State has ordered the immediate suspension of Chief Okon Archibong, the Village Head of Esuk Utan, along with his council members, following serious allegations of misconduct.
The suspension comes in response to multiple petitions accusing the traditional leader and his council of abusing their positions. In a statement released by Chief Press Secretary Nsa Gil, Governor Otu has tasked the Calabar Municipal Traditional Rulers Council with conducting a thorough investigation into these allegations. The council is expected to submit its findings and recommendations to the Special Adviser on Chieftaincy Affairs within one week.
In the interim, the Obutong Clan Council has been directed to establish a five-member committee to oversee the affairs of Esuk Utan Village until the investigation concludes. Governor Otu has urged residents and business operators in Esuk Utan to continue their daily activities without interruption and to refrain from engaging with the suspended village head and his council during this period.
