Otu’s U-Turn Sparks Leadership Controversy

Governor Bassey Otu has faced criticism after reversing a decision to replace the chairman of the Cross River State Traditional Rulers Council just days after announcing the change.

A swift policy reversal by Governor Bassey Otu has triggered public debate in Cross River State after conflicting letters emerged regarding the leadership of the Traditional Rulers Council. The documents, both signed by the governor’s Special Adviser on Chieftaincy Affairs, Francis Edet, outlined two different decisions within a five-day period.

The first letter, dated 18 June, informed the council chairman that Felix Ukudare, the paramount ruler of the Obudu Traditional Rulers Council, had been appointed as the new chairman of the state body. The correspondence instructed the incumbent chairman to suspend his ongoing tour of local government areas and prepare handover notes ahead of the planned swearing-in ceremony.

However, a second letter dated 23 June overturned the earlier directive. Instead of confirming a leadership transition, the new correspondence announced a two-year extension of the incumbent chairman’s tenure. The letter stated that the governor approved the extension after reviewing the chairman’s performance and confirmed that the earlier decision had been cancelled.

The development quickly generated reactions on social media, with many residents questioning the circumstances behind the sudden change. Several commentators expressed concerns about decision-making within the administration, while others argued that the episode could affect public confidence in the state’s traditional institution.

Responding to the controversy, Linus Obogo, the governor’s spokesperson, directed enquiries to Francis Edet. Defending the decision, Edet maintained that every action taken by his office received the governor’s approval and complied with existing laws governing the Traditional Rulers Council.

He further argued that the governor possesses the authority to extend the tenure of the council chairman beyond the initial two-year term if he chooses to exercise that power under the law.

Do you think public confidence is affected when government decisions are reversed within a short period?