Akwa Ibom House of Assembly amends “contentious” Traditional Rulers Law

The Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly in Nigeria has passed a bill amending the Traditional Rulers Law, Cap. 155, Laws of Akwa Ibom State, 2022 (as amended).

The amendment makes the Office of the President General of the Council rotational, addressing widespread criticism from traditional rulers and ethnic groups.

Governor Pastor Umo Eno had requested the amendment in a message to the Speaker during an emergency plenary session on Friday.

This move follows the formation of a 7-man committee in April 2024, chaired by Paramount Ruler of Eket, Edidem E. C. D. Abia, to resolve the controversy surrounding the original law.

The amended law, now known as ‘Traditional Rulers (3rd Amendment) Law’, takes effect from September 20, 2024. Key provisions include:

– Rotation of the President General’s office among the three major ethnic groups.
– Four-year term for the President General, renewable for another four years at the Governor’s discretion.
– Ceremonial role for the President General, representing the Council nationally and internationally.

Diaspora Digital Media gathered that all lawmakers present supported the amendment. Speaker Udeme Otong directed the Clerk, NsikakAbasi Orok, to communicate the decision to Governor Eno.

Governor Eno is scheduled to swear in newly recognized Traditional Rulers on Monday, September 23, 2024, at the State Traditional Rulers Chambers in Uyo.

This development aims to promote peace, equity, and representation in Akwa Ibom State‘s traditional leadership.

Background:

Initially, the law proposed Oku Ibom Ibibio as the perpetual President General, igniting fears of ethnic dominance and exclusion.

The lack of rotation provisions raised concerns about marginalization, disregarding the diversity of Annang and Oro ethnic groups.

This perceived disregard for diversity and equity violated the Nigerian Constitution’s principles of fairness and federal character.

Traditional rulers from diverse ethnic groups vehemently opposed the law, citing its potential to undermine peace and unity.

The concentration of power in one ethnic group threatened governance balance, exacerbating ethnic tensions. Protests and criticisms ensued, prompting Governor Pastor Umo Eno to constitute a 7-man committee to find lasting solutions.

The amended law, now known as ‘Traditional Rulers (3rd Amendment) Law’, addresses these concerns. Key provisions include:

– Rotation of the President General’s office among the three major ethnic groups.
– Four-year term for the President General, renewable for another four years at the Governor’s discretion.
– Ceremonial role for the President General, representing the Council nationally and internationally.

These amendments promote inclusivity, equity, and peace.

By rotating the presidency, the law ensures representation and addresses marginalization concerns. The ceremonial role reduces potential power imbalances.

For Diaspora Digital Media Updates click on Whatsapp, or Telegram. For eyewitness accounts/ reports/ articles, write to: citizenreports@diasporadigitalmedia.com. Follow us on X (Fomerly Twitter) or Facebook