Special Assistant, Cultural and Heritage, Pays courtesy visit to Traditional Rulers in the State

The Special Assistant to the Governor on of Governor, Mr. Effiong Bassey Edem has embarked on a courtesy visit to the Muri Munene of Efut, and Natural Ruler of Efut Nation, HRM Professor Itam Hogan Itam. The Special Assistant explained that the visit was to seek his blessings and advise.

Mr Effiong Bassey Edem who visited with select staff of the Department of Culture and Heritage and some socio-cultural groups heads, stated that the government of His Excellency Bassey Otu attaches great importance to the traditional rulers in the society as custodians of culture and tradition, as well as mobilizers and influence, which occasioned the visit, adding that the visit was also to seek their support.

In his words, “Your Majesty, I have come with a contingent from the Department of Culture and Heritage seeking your blessings and wisdom as a father. The Governor of the state, His Excellency Sen. Bassey Otu has intentions of reviving the state and taking it back to its place of glory. He holds traditional institutions in high esteem. Whenever you need us the presence of department we will be there for you.”

The Muri Munene responded that, “I read your letter stating your reason for familiarization, advocating collaboration. I am willing to partner with you. I want to believe you have a research unit in your department. I would advise they research on Efut culture and tradition, and we are willing to give the necessary support. I would advise also that you pay courtesy visits to other monarchs in the state. Align with the Department of Chieftancy Affairs because the leaders of the 18 LGAs are notable custodians of culture and tradition in the state. Also, research into the cultures of the state. Our languages are going extinct, that is why we have reputable organizations like UNESCO are making great efforts to revive them. I am once again pledging that in as much as you want me and the Efut nation to collaborate with you, I will give you all the support. I want to state also that the efforts of the governor so far is laudable.”

In a separate visit, the Special Assistant paid a courtesy visit to the Ndidem of the Qua, and Paramount Ruler of Calabar Municipality, HRM Dr. Bassey Eteta III at the Palace of the Ndidem.

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The SA acknowledged the presence of the royal fathers who were in attendance, and described the Ndidem as a straight forward, time conscious monarch.

“Your Majesty, I am very passionate about promoting the culture of Cross River State. We have one of the best cultures in the world. I have come with my people to seek your blessings as the custodian of the Ejagham culture and traditions. I have come to tap from your wealth of knowledge and experience, to collaborate with you to promote aspects of our culture that is almost into extinction. I have come to let you know that the Department of Culture and Heritage is ready to work with your Palace. God has blessed us with a Governor in the person of His Excellency Sen. Bassey Otu who is ready to support in whatever capacity to promote what make us unique.”

Responding, the Ndidem thanked the SA and the department for recognizing the office of the Ndidem, adding that they are also willing to collaborate with the SA and the department. The Ndidem also described the visit as a sign of regard which the administration of Gov. Otu attached to the institution of the Ndidem.”

Also in attendance were Clan and Family Heads that make up the Qua Nation.