•Obong of Calabar
It was glitz and glamour days back when Edidem Ekpo Okon Abasi Otu V commemorated his 15-year reign as the Obong of Calabar.
The monarch marked this significant milestone with a series of events highlighting the rich cultural heritage of the region, reports Saturday Tribune.
Festivities commenced with a regal Crystal anniversary thanksgiving at the Presbyterian Church of Nigeria, Duke Town Cathedral, Eyamba, Calabar.
The event featured a procession, traditional displays with Ekombi dancers, and the iconic Ekpe masquerade.
Adorned in ceremonial attire and regalia presented by Queen Victoria of England, His Eminence presided over the ceremony with grace and dignity.
The celebration extended to the Utomo Obong Golf Kitty at the Calabar Golf Club, where enthusiasts gathered to pay homage to the longest-reigning Obong.
The culmination of the 15-year anniversary festivities was the Utomo Obong, a prestigious event where all 12 Efik Clans expressed their reverence for the leadership of the Obong of Calabar. Dignitaries that were present at the 12th annual Utomo Obong include the governor of Cross River State, Sen. Prince Edet Otu, former governor Donald Duke, Senator Florence Ita-Giwa, Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong and Honorable Minister of Humanitarian Affairs Dr. Betta Edu amongst others.
Before ascending the throne, Edidem Ekpo Okon Abasi Otu V held positions in the public and private sectors, culminating in becoming the Divisional Manager at McNair Nigeria Limited. Called back by his community, he assumed leadership roles, eventually becoming the Clan Head and Etubom Ufok Adiabo Ikot Mbo Otu.
His coronation, blending tradition and Christianity, took place at the Presbyterian Church of Nigeria, Duke Town Parish.
The monarch has played a pivotal role in instituting scholarships for Efik students, fostering sustainable charity projects in Efik communities, and achieving the remarkable distinction of being installed as the Chancellor of the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta.
