Cross River Governor Suspends Esuk Utan Village Head Amid Misuse of Office Allegations

Cross River State Governor, Bassey Otu, has approved the immediate suspension of Chief Okon Archibong, the Village Head of Esuk Utan, and his council members following allegations of misuse of office.

The suspension, which was announced in a statement signed by the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Nsa Gil, on Monday, comes after several petitions were submitted against the traditional ruler and his council.

Governor Otu has mandated the Calabar Municipal Traditional Rulers Council to investigate the allegations and submit a report with findings and recommendations to the office of the Special Adviser to the Governor on Chieftaincy Affairs within one week.

In the meantime, the Obutong Clan Council has been tasked with setting up a five-member committee to manage the affairs of Esuk Utan Village until the investigation is concluded.

Governor Otu urged the public, including residents and business owners in Esuk Utan, to continue with their normal activities but refrain from dealing with the suspended village head and his council.