By Akanimo Kufre (The New Diplomat’s A/Ibom|C/River Correspondent)
Infuriated by the rising wave of kidnapping, armed robbery and other forms of criminality, the Cross River State Traditional Rulers Council has said it would invoke native and traditional sanctions against criminals across the 18 local government areas of the state.
The Council in a statement made available to journalists read in part,
“in keeping to our role as Ambassadors of Peace and custodians of tradition; and in support of the State Government and people of the State, wish to inform the general public, that it would invoke Native and Traditional Sanctions to serve as deterrence against the perpetrators of kidnapping, armed robbery and other criminalities and vices in our dear State.”
The conclave of traditional rulers led by Chairman of the Traditional Rulers, Etinyin Etim Okon Edet said “This is consequent upon the continuous violation of public peace in the aftermath of the #EndSARS riots and other challenges in the state.”
Recall on the on the 18th November 2020, three ladies were reportedly kidnapped within the state capital around Mbukpa, Atekong as the state continues to record a spike in the rate of crime and criminality.
The statement, while urging visitors and the general public to go about their normal daily businesses without fear, insisted that “We don’t have any other state, but Cross River State, so we must work together to enthrone and sustain an enduring peace in our dear State.”
