The Cross River State governor, Bassey Otu, has given his approval for the election of His Highness, Orbon (Sir) Celestine Awor as the clan head-elect of Ekinta Clan in Akamkpa local government area of the state.
According to the special adviser to the governor on Chieftaincy Affairs, Francis Edet, the governor’s approval follows due process by the community kingmakers.
In a letter dated September 8, 2025, the Department of Chieftaincy Affairs informed Awor of his approval and requested that he presents himself to the Paramount Ruler of Akamkpa local government area and his clan council within 30 days.
After this, the governor would present Awor with a certificate of recognition as the substantive clan head of Ekinta Clan.
The approval comes after a petition was forwarded to the governor on January 13, 2025, by the Ekonganaku Ruling Council, signed by five monarchs, regarding the decertification of a traditional ruler and the election of a new clan head.
A traditional ruler, who wished to remain anonymous, told LEADERSHIP Weekend that Awor’s election aligns with Cross River State Edict No.1 (Clan Creation) 1996.
In a telephone conversation, the newly elected monarch, Celestine Awor, vowed to lead with humility, wisdom and the fear of God, seeking divine wisdom, peace and tranquility for his people in order to lift the clan to an enviable height.
