The Paramount Ruler of Eket in Akwa Ibom State, His Royal Majesty Edidem E. C. D. Abia, has advised The House of Representatives member representing Eket/Esit Eket/Ibeno Federal Constituency, Mr. Opolopum Etteh, over a controversial bill seeking to rename Eket and Esit Eket Local Government Areas.
Last month, it was recalled that Etteh—who hails from Ibeno LGA—sponsored a bill in the Green Chambers proposing the renaming of the two LGAs.
The move has sparked outrage among traditional leaders and community stakeholders, who view it as an attack on their cultural identity and heritage.
Speaking over the weekend at his palace in Eket, the monarch condemned the bill in strong terms, warning that if Etteh fails to withdraw the proposal, recall proceedings will be initiated against him.
The monarch further stated that the move by the Lawmaker is a direct and complete ”insult to the sensibility of the leaders of the area.
“I don’t know what Opolopum Etteh hoped to gain from this, but it is pure madness,” he continued.
“We have told him to withdraw the bill. If he refuses, we will unanimously ask for hi removal from the House of Representatives.”
According to the monarch, a recall is entirely feasible: “He represents Eket Federal Constituency, and Eket is the majority. We only need more than 50 percent support, and that can be achieved within one week.”
Edidem Abia also took time to commend Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, for the commencement of the first phase of construction of the Ibom Deep Seaport, which spans part of the Eket Federal Constituency.
The Monarch commended the State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno for the first phase construction of ibom seaport which cut across part of the Eket Federal Constituency.