By: Vitalis Ugoh, Calabar
The Special Adviser to the governor on Non-indigenes Affairs, Mazi Okey Maduekwe led a powerful delegation of leaders of Igbo, Hausa, Yoruba and Akwa Ibom as well as other ethnic nationalities residing in Cross River state to pay homage to the Obong of Calabar, Edidem Ekpo Okon Abasi Otu V, during this year’s Utomo Obong celebration.
Mazi Maduekwe described the event as a special way of recognitizing and paying of homage to His Eminence, Obong of Calabar at the 14th Utomo Obong celebration in Cross River State.
He said this year’s event attracted the leadership of the Igbos, Akwa Ibom, Hausa, Yoruba and other ethnic nationalities with their delegation in their different attire during the Utomo Obong celebration.
According to him, “this is a testament of the fact that we recognize and appreciate the Obong stool and the government for the support and peace the non indigenes have enjoyed under his rulership over the years.”
Therefore, we fall short of words to say “we are deeply grateful as we seek for more friendly disposition in the years to come as we genuinely to purse our businesses here in Cross River”.
He used the opportunity to thank the Obong for accommodating the non indigenes as well as other ethnic nationalities residing in Cross River especially within the state capital.
Also, he extended his gratitude to His Excellency Sen Apostle Bassey Otu and his administration for graciously accepting non indigenes to do business in the state without molestation of any kind.
According to him, “as the environment continues to be friendly, there is hope for more investment in the nearest future”.
Mazi Maduekwe thanked the leaders for mobilizing their members to pay homage to His Eminence, the Obong of Calabar during the 14th Utomo Obong celebration.
