Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, has charged traditional rulers, as custodians of the traditional institution, to strengthen peace, unity and stability in their respective domains.
In commemoration of the state’s 39th anniversary, the governor also ordered an upward review of the welfare package for traditional rulers and announced one-off financial support for traditional institutions.
Eno spoke at the State Supreme Traditional Rulers Council Hall, Uyo, during the presentation of certificates of recognition to newly recognised rulers and clan heads. 
He stressed that the recognition was based on the beneficiaries’ capacity to promote harmony, urging them to exercise their responsibilities transparently.
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“We believe that you are selected because of your ability to promote peace and harmony in your respective clans. And I expect you to carry out your duties very transparently to reflect the recognition that the government has given to you.”
The Governor directed the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs Mkpisong Frank Archibong to review the salaries of village and clan heads, saying the traditional institution must maintain its appropriate place in the community leadership structure.
“The youth presidents cannot come and earn more money than their village heads. So I have directed that the Honourable Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs should look at it, sit with us and rejig the salaries of village heads and clan heads so that the order can be maintained.”
Eno also urged traditional rulers to help moderate political rhetoric ahead of the elections, stressing that political activities should be conducted without undermining peace.
“We can only do politics in an atmosphere of peace and decorum.”
He called on political actors to focus on issues and explain how proposed policies would be implemented rather than resorting to personal attacks.
“Most importantly, talk about how. The how is more important. Everybody can say things they will do, but let’s talk about how.”
The governor further urged traditional rulers to continue providing counsel and maintaining peace in their domains.
As part of the anniversary support, Eno announced ₦20 million for Mbong Ekpuk, ₦30 million for village heads, ₦25 million for clan heads and ₦5 million for Mboho Mkparawa Ibibio.
He added that each of the 31 wives of paramount rulers would receive ₦2 million, while each paramount ruler would receive ₦5 million.
“I do this in the spirit of unity and oneness, that no group is higher than the other.”
Earlier, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs and Dean College of Commissioners, Mkpisong Frank Archibong, expressed support for President Bola Tinubu, Governor Eno and Senate President Godswill Akpabio, while calling on Akwa Ibom people to embrace gratitude during the anniversary.
Archibong commended the Governor’s people-centred approach, noting that projects were being executed across the 31 Local Government Areas. 
“You have demonstrated that governance and development should be people-centred and inclusive.”
He said the state’s development efforts should also be appreciated alongside the peace enjoyed by its people.
“Your Excellency, above all of the projects, above everything else, we are grateful for the peace we enjoy in Akwa Ibom State.”
Archibong linked the prevailing peace in communities to the leadership role of traditional rulers.
“The peace we are witnessing in our communities today could also be traceable to the quality of leadership provided by the traditional rulers.”
Oku Ibom Ibibio and President-General of the Supreme Council, Ntenyin Solomon Etuk, commended the Governor’s peace-building disposition and pledged traditional rulers’ continued commitment to preserving peace and unity.
Chairman of the Supreme Council of Traditional Rulers, Akuku Saviour Sylvester Udofia, appreciated the Governor’s support for the traditional institution and assured him of continued support and prayers.
