By Frank Ulom
High Chief Higgins Peters has continued the payment of monthly stipends to traditional rulers in Cross River North Senatorial District, with beneficiaries receiving the third phase of the initiative covering May, June and July, 2026.
The latest disbursement, paid in arrears for three months, was made to 128 clan heads and the five paramount rulers across the northern senatorial district, according to a statement issued by his supporters.
The initiative, described as part of Peters’ commitment to supporting the traditional institution in the district, has been presented as an effort to strengthen the role of traditional rulers and recognise their contributions to their communities.
Reacting to the payment, two of the five paramount rulers commended Peters for sustaining the programme, describing him as a leader who has consistently demonstrated concern for the welfare of the people.
One of the traditional rulers said, “Higgins is not the richest man in Cross River. He’s not in competition with anyone; he’s just a good man with a good heart, showing deep respect, love, care and affection to his people.
“He does not owe us or anyone the good things he has been doing for the people of the North. We pray God to preserve, protect, guide and bless him more and increase all that concerns him. We also pray that one day he will come out to contest for something so that the entire North will show him how much we appreciate him.”
Supporters of Peters said the continued payment reflects his longstanding commitment to philanthropy and community development, describing him as a compassionate leader who has consistently supported people across the northern part of the state.
Referred to by his traditional titles as Emoma and Akpa-Owo of Yala, and Uni Ekpere of Bekwarra Nation, Peters’ interventions have continued to attract praise from the Northern Senatorial District.