By Abasi Ita
Calabar
The Ishie Clan Traditional Council in Calabar has lauded Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Otu, for his developmental initiatives and for appointing qualified indigenes of the community into strategic positions in his administration.
The council, however, distanced itself from the recent protest against the governor’s appointment of Mrs. Fidelia Okpo Ene as Chairman of the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), which replaced Elder Esu Effiong Esu, also from the community.
In a statement issued in Calabar and dated September 27, 2025, signed by the acting head of the clan, His Highness Chief Eta Uso, and the secretary, Ededet Eyoma, the council described the protest as the work of mischief makers attempting to create friction between the community and the state government.
According to the statement, the protest was instigated by non-indigenes and a handful of misguided youths who acted without the consent or consultation of the community leadership. The council clarified that Elder Esu Effiong, the former SUBEB chairman, had dissociated himself from the demonstration.
“The Ishie Clan Traditional Council was shocked by the needless and emotional protest that greeted the appointment of a new SUBEB chairman,” the statement read. “Upon investigating those captured in the viral video, we discovered they acted independently. The council has since imposed appropriate sanctions on the few identified as indigenes.”
The council reaffirmed its unwavering loyalty and support for Governor Otu and his administration’s efforts to entrench peace, progress, and development in Cross River State. It urged the governor to disregard the actions of the protesters and continue implementing people-oriented policies.
Reiterating its commitment to a cordial relationship with the government, the Ishie Clan pledged continuous support for initiatives that promote unity and enhance the welfare of the people.