The traditional ruler of Bakassi local government area and chairman of Cross River State Traditional Rulers’ Council, HRM Etinyin Etim Okon Edet has added his voice to the calls for federal government to specify constitutional roles for traditional fathers.
Speaking with some journalists, the monarch also urged President Bola Tinubu and state governors to establish the Ministry of Chieftaincy and Rural Development.
He stressed that the traditional institution is the last hope of the people and the closest to the people.
Harping on the constitutional role, the monarch also called on the federal government to avail itself of the rich resources embedded in the traditional institution.
He said presently, it appears that the institution does not have a sense of belonging, recalling that when the colonial masters were around, traditional rulers were fully recognized.
He said, “The traditional institution is the last hope of the people at the grassroots. Governments at all levels would always come and go but the institution remains.
According to him, when the white men themselves came, they met the traditional rulers who were already administering their respective domains. Stressing that It is necessary that the traditional rulers be given constitutional roles just like what is practised in South Africa.
The monarch said when established, the Ministry of Chieftaincy and Rural Development will reactivate rural socioeconomic vibrancy.
