Obongship Tussle: DSS allegedly raids Ekpe Shrine in Calabar

Obongship Tussle: DSS allegedly raids Ekpe Shrine in Calabar

As part of the Obonship tussle DSS have allegedly raids Ekpe Shrine in Calabar today May 18, 2023.

News Week Nigeria had earlier reported that fresh crisis was brewing in the Obongship tussle in Calabar, as a group of Etuboms (kingmakers) has rejected recent re-election of the Obong.

But according to Validnews.ng, men of the Department of State Services (DSS) on May 18th, 2023, reportedly raided the Ekpe Shrine in Calabar.

The Obong, Edidem Ekpo Okon Abasi Otu, was re-elected and proclaimed the Obong of Calabar on January 18 by the Etubom Conclaves, complying with the Supreme Court January 13 judgment that sacked the Obong and called for a fresh election.

The rejection is contained in a statement signed by 13 members of Etubom Conclave and read to newsmen by the Chairman, His Royal Majesty, Etubom Ntiero Efiwwat, at the palace of the Obong.

But some Etuboms of the palace: former chairman, Etubom Traditional Rulers Council, Etubom Essien Ekpenyong Efiok; former secretary of the Council, Etubom Micah Archibong VI; and Chairman, Central Calabar Traditional Council and Paramount Ruler of Calabar South Council, Etubom Nyong Effiom Okon had kicked against selection process that produced Edidem Ekpo Okon Abasi Otu as Obong on January 18.

The traditional rulers had also urged the state governor to intervene in the matter to forestall a breakdown of law and order and ensure unbiased implementation of the decisions of the Supreme Court.”