Atiku Receives Traditional Title Of Obong Emem Akwa Ibom

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential candidate, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar has received the traditional title of Obong Emem Akwa Ibom.

Atiku Abubakar on Monday, January 28, received the traditional title of Obong Emem Akwa Ibom while in the state in continuation of his campaigns to lead Nigeria. The was done on behalf of the traditional rulers in the state by the chairman, State Council of Chiefs, HRM Ntong Effiong Udoakpa, the paramount ruler of Ini local government area.

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential candidate also used the opportunity to interface with monarchs in the state and receive their blessings ahead of the February 16 contest. Residents in the state hailed Atiku for showing deep respect for Akwa Ibom traditional stool by his visit to Traditional Rulers Council on arrival to the state.

Atiku’s visit is a sharp contrast to the stance of President Muhammadu Buhari, who touched down the state for a similar event weeks ago.

President Buhari’s visit had caused a major controversy as it clashed with a major traditional event (coronation of Oku Ibom Ibibio) in the state.

The Akwa Ibom Liberation Movement had written an open letter to President Buhari expressing concern that the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Akwa Ibom state fixed Friday, December 28, 2019 for the flag-off campaign, a day it said is sacred for the Akwa Ibom traditional institution.

The group appealed to the president to reschedule the launch of his campaign, as a sign of respect to the Akwa Ibom traditional elections. While the group was ignored, many saw the action of the president as clear disregard to laid down protocols he upholds elsewhere and a deliberate slight on the people.

“President Buhari was probably acting on the advise of some Akwa Ibom sons. “It is a breach of protocols to visit a state without paying a courtesy visit to traditional rulers. Buhari is himself a titled chief, he should be aware of this and he certainly follows the norm except that he chose to ignore our monarchs,” a titled chief in the state said.

Speaking at the event, Atiku said, “when you elect me as president of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, I will, in partnership with Governor Udom Emmanuel whom you will reelect, build refineries in Akwa Ibom state. “Restructuring which is one of my promises will also have positive impact in Akwa Ibom state. I don’t discriminate. I am from Adamawa and I don’t care where one comes from.”