Council of Oro Traditional Rulers suspends centenary celebrations

The Council of Oro Traditional Rulers (COTR) has announced the immediate suspension of the Oron Union Centenary celebrations, citing disregard for traditional norms and protocols.

The decision was reached during a monthly general meeting of the Council held on Friday, April 25, 2025, at the Oron Civic Centre.

The position was conveyed through a press statement issued after the meeting and endorsed by HRM Offong Efiong Matthew Unanaowo, JP, Chairman of the Council, and Sir Paul Ulo Ante Uye, Acting Secretary of the Council.

According to the statement, the COTR expressed disappointment that President-General of Oron Union, Sir Esang Nsa Bassey, neither consulted with them nor shared the itinerary of the planned celebrations.

“Regrettably, the President-General of Oron Union, Sir Esang Nsa Bassey, neither consulted the Council of Oro Traditional Rulers, nor shared the itinerary of the planned celebrations.

“Furthermore, we were not involved in any of the activities leading up to the centenary,” the statement read.

The COTR emphasized the importance of upholding traditional norms and protocols, stating, “As the apex traditional institution and custodians of our heritage, we cannot compromise on the respect and adherence to traditional norms and protocols that define our identity.”

The suspension is aimed at ensuring that all activities are conducted with dignity and respect due the Oro ancestors and heritage.

“The events of the centenary stand suspended forthwith until further notice”, the statement concluded.

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