₦40,000 Is an Abuse, But ₦14,000 Is What Arthur Jarvis Offered: The Hypocrisy in His Concern for Northern Cross River Chiefs
By Francis Finian Offionor
A recent address by Sir Arthur Jarvis to traditional rulers in Northern Cross River has sparked questions over the level of support being offered to the custodians of the state’s traditional institutions.
In a live video monitored by the writer, Sir Arthur Jarvis addressed chiefs in Northern Cross River alongside his deputy, Ogar Eba, and other members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) leadership, including the State Chairman, Vena.
According to the writer, Jarvis expressed concern over the monthly stipends reportedly received by chiefs, describing the ₦40,000 monthly payment as inadequate and an abuse of the custodians of Cross River’s culture and traditional heritage.
He reportedly compared the situation with what obtains in neighbouring states and expressed disappointment over the level of financial support provided to traditional rulers in Cross River.
Writer Questions ₦1 Million Transportation Support
While acknowledging the concerns raised by Jarvis, the writer questioned the practical steps taken by the political team to address the situation.
According to Offionor, Jarvis provided approximately ₦1 million for transportation for a gathering involving between 40 and 70 chiefs.
The writer argues that if the money were divided among 70 chiefs, it would amount to approximately ₦14,286 per person, prompting him to question whether the gesture sufficiently addressed the concerns raised about the welfare of traditional rulers.
The author therefore challenges political actors who criticise the existing welfare arrangements for chiefs to complement their statements with tangible interventions.
Higgins Peters’ Support for Northern Cross River Chiefs
Offionor also highlighted the reported intervention of High Chief Higgins Peters, whom he described as a private businessman and a prominent leader from Northern Cross River.
According to the writer, Peters has been augmenting the monthly stipends of clan heads and the five paramount rulers in the Northern Cross River Senatorial District through a private initiative that began last year.
The author said such efforts should be acknowledged, particularly when political actors are discussing the welfare of traditional rulers in the region.
‘Politicians Should Match Words With Actions’
The writer acknowledged that political activities and campaigns often generate competing narratives, particularly as political parties and aspirants seek to win public support ahead of elections.
However, he urged the PDP governorship candidate and his team to go beyond political rhetoric by demonstrating their commitment to the welfare of traditional institutions through concrete interventions.
“I am urging the PDP Governorship candidate and his team, not just speak to cajole our people, they should match their words with actions.”
Offionor argued that both private citizens and public figures can contribute to community development and improve the welfare of traditional rulers, regardless of political affiliation.
A Debate Over the Welfare of Traditional Rulers
The controversy ultimately raises a broader question about the welfare and recognition of traditional institutions in Cross River State.
While political leaders continue to debate the adequacy of government stipends to chiefs and clan heads, the author maintains that criticism should be accompanied by practical support.
The welfare of traditional rulers, he argues, should remain an issue of genuine public interest rather than merely becoming a subject of political campaigns and election-season promises.
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