The Governor of Cross River State, Senator Bassey Otu, has removed Ntufam Linus Effiong Oben Tabi as the village head of Mbot Akpa and Clan Head of Ekinta in Akamkpa Local Government Area, following allegations of impersonation and obtaining recognition through false claims.
This was made known by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Chieftaincy Affairs, Otuekong Francis Edet, who said the decision followed detailed investigations conducted by the Department of Chieftaincy Affairs.
According to Edet, findings revealed that Ntufam Tabi fraudulently secured a certificate of recognition for Mbot Akpa village — a settlement not officially listed as a community under the Cross River State Edict No. 1 (Clan Creation) of 1996.
“Mbot Akpa does not exist under the state edict. In fact, the area referred to as Mbot Akpa is actually part of Esuk Effiom Iyaweh in Iko Eneyo Clan, Akpabuyo Local Government Area. The certificate was obtained under false pretence,” Edet said.
He explained that the state government views the incident as a serious breach of traditional and legal norms, and could not overlook such misconduct.
The situation became more controversial when it was discovered that Tabi was serving as a clan head in two different local government areas simultaneously — Akamkpa and Akpabuyo — an action described by some local chiefs as destabilising and against tradition.
The removal followed a formal petition submitted by five traditional rulers under the Ekonganaku Traditional Rulers Council. The council accused the dethroned monarch of sowing confusion in the community and called on the state government to act swiftly to restore order.
“The activities of Ntufam Tabi were creating unnecessary tensions and rivalry. His removal is in the interest of peace and stability in our community,” a member of the council, who requested anonymity, told reporters.
Confirming the state government’s position, Edet said the administration of Governor Otu remains committed to maintaining peace and upholding traditional institutions rooted in law and fairness.
“We cannot allow the abuse of traditional titles and institutions for personal gain. The government is firm in ensuring that only those who have rightful claims are recognised,” he said.
He added that traditional institutions play a key role in community development and must be protected from manipulation.
Meanwhile, in his reaction, the dethroned monarch, Ntufam Linus Tabi, said he had not yet received any official notice of his removal.
“I have nothing to say for now because I am yet to be served. Once I am served, if the law says it’s right, no problem. If it says it’s wrong, I will know what to do,” .
It remains unclear whether Tabi intends to challenge the decision legally or seek intervention from higher traditional authorities.
Chieftaincy disputes have become common in parts of Cross River State in recent years, often sparked by disagreements over recognition, boundary disputes, and competition for political influence. The state government has repeatedly called for proper documentation and respect for the laws guiding traditional rulership.
