The Effanga Nsa palace of the Obong of Calabar in the Cross River State capital was agog, weekend, as the Efik people from all walks of life celebrated the capping and induction of the 72 years old Etubom (Justice) Charles Archibong into the Etubom Traditional Council of the Efik Kingdom as the Etubom of the Effanga Offiong Royal House.
The colourful ceremony attracted prominent sons and daughters of Efik extraction, traditional rulers, political leaders and other dignitaries from within and outside Cross River State.
Performing the induction, the Obong of Calabar, His Eminence Edidem Ekpo Okon Abasi-Otu V, charged the newly installed Etubom to lead the Effanga Offiong Royal House with the fear of God, stressing the need for unity, integrity and service to the Efik nation.
The monarch urged the newly capped Effanga Offiong Royal House Leader to uphold the rich cultural values and traditions of the Efik people while promoting peace and harmony within the royal house and the wider community.
Responding after his induction, Etubom Charles Archibong expressed gratitude to the Obong of Calabar for his capping and induction.
“I also express gratitude to the Etuboms, Otuekongs and Advisers for keeping my Royal House’s seat in the Council for us,” Justice Archibong, who is succeeding late Etubom Inyang George Duke Henshaw, said.
Several prominent Efik sons who attended the ceremony described the induction as a fitting recognition of Archibong’s years of service, integrity and contributions to society.
In a chat, the Special Adviser to Gov Bassey Otu on Chieftaincy Affairs, Otuekong Sir Francis Edet expressed confidence in Etubom Archibong’s ability to provide purposeful leadership for the Effanga Offiong Royal House and contribute meaningfully to the growth and stability of the Efik traditional institution.
