The move to sanitise the traditional institution has continued unabated as Cross River state government has revoked the certificate of recognition Akpabuyo village head, Mr. Francis Effiong Asuquo.
Asuquo is the village head of Ifiang King Duke in Akpabuyo local government area in Cross River state.
The revocation of the certificate was contained in a letter signed by Sir Francis A. Edet, Special Adviser to the Governor,Chieftaincy Affairs
Office of the Governor.
According to the letter, Mr. Francis Effiong Asuquo was said to have acquired his certificate of recognition through fraudulent means and has consequently engaged in activities that pose a significant threat to the peace and stability of Ifiang King Duke and its surrounding areas.
It read in part: "Following a thorough review of the petition addressed to His Excellency, Governor of Cross River State, via the Special Adviser to the Governor on Chieftaincy Affairs, regarding the recognition status of Mr. Francis Effiong Asuquo as the Village Head of Ifiang King Duke in Akpabuyo Local Government Area, a decision has been reached.
"It has been determined that Mr. Francis Effiong Asuquo acquired his certificate of recognition through fraudulent means and has consequently engaged in activities that pose a significant threat to the peace and stability of Ifiang King Duke and its surrounding areas.
"In light of the aforementioned gross misconducts, the government has officially revoked the recognition status of Mr. Francis Effiong Asuquo as the Village Head of Ifiang King Duke, effective immediately.
"Mr. Francis Effiong Asuquo is hereby instructed to promptly surrender the fraudulently obtained certificate of recognition and all associated insignia of authority to the Chairman of Akpabuyo LGA Traditional Rulers Council within 48 hours of receipt of this notice.
"Furthermore, Mr. Francis Effiong Asuquo is explicitly advised against holding himself out as the Village Head of Ifiang King Duke in Akpabuyo LGA. Failure to comply with this directive will result in legal action being taken against him.
"For any inquiries or further information regarding this matter, please contact the office of the Special Adviser to the Governor on Chieftaincy Affairs."
Ndifreke Bassey, Beagle News
