Asutan Ekpe Clan Head Gets Certificate of Recognition

By Ekemini Simon

7 days after emerging Clan Head of Asutan Ekpe Clan, His Royal Higness, Clement Ekpenyong has been given
Certificate of Recognition.

The Certificate was today handed over to him by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon Udo Ekpenyong at the Council of Chiefs Chamber, Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs.

Presenting the certificate, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon Udo Ekpenyong
noted that the gesture was in line with the provisions of Section 15, Cap 134 of the Traditional Rulers Law of Akwa Ibom State 2000.

While conveying the congratulatory message of the Akwa Ibom state Governor, Mr Udom Emmanuel, the
Commissioner noted that the Clan Head emergence offered indication of his acceptability describing the election conducted as a confirmatory election.

Hon Ekpenyong observed with displeasure what he described as intrusion of politics into the process that led to the emergence which he pointed out had caused the delay.

He said " Since my emergence into this office, I have witnessed the emergence of five Paramount Rulers, 15 Clan Heads and several Village Heads.

Never have I observed intrusion of politics like the one of Asutan Ekpe Clan."

The Commissioner however expressed joy over how peace has been restored between the two groups of Villages that
make up the Clan- Ndikpo and Iwawa.

He said the State Government expects high level of performance, understanding, and abiity to carry everyone along from the Clan Head while calling on Village Heads to cooperate with the new Clan Head for him to effectively carry out his responsibility.

In his response, the Clan Head of Asutan Ekpe, HRH Clement Ekpenyong who expressed joy over the presentation thanked royal fathers of the area for the
support given him.

He thanked God for granting him the privilege to serve and thanked the State Governor for working through the
Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs in restoring peace to the area.

He pledged his readiness to treat all fairly and just while also promising to be creative thus contribute to the
development of the area.

In a swift reaction, the Political Leader of the area and Chairman, Akwa Ibom Water Company Prince Uwem Ita
Etuk congratulated the Clan Head describing him as a good choice for the area.

Commenting on what may have caused political intrigue on the position, the Political Leader stated "It shows that
it is a well informed community.

Everybody have the constitution on their fingertips. No one wants to be taken unawares or for granted."

He urged the Clan Head to follow traditions mixed with custom stressing that since he has been favoured with
justice, he has to dispense same.