By Kingsley Agim
Attempt to impeach the Leader of the Etung Legislative Council, Hon. Ekubnse ThankGod, of Etung Local Government Area (LGA), has been doused.
This major peace breakthrough was achieved on Wednesday following a high-level stakeholders’ meeting that successfully de-escalated the tensions
The peace-building meeting, convened at the residence of the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Prof. Anthony Owan-Enoh, brought together prominent political figures of Etung extraction, including the council chairman, legislators, current and former political appointees, and other critical stakeholders, all united in the mission to forestall further breakdown of legislative harmony.
Addressing journalists after the closed-door session, Prof. Owan-Enoh described the meeting as “highly successful,” noting that it provided a safe space for open and honest dialogue between the councillors and the embattled council leader.
“After frank deliberations, the leadership resolved that the council leader should apologize to his colleagues and embrace a more inclusive leadership style going forward,” Prof. Owan-Enoh stated.
“In turn, the councillors accepted the recommendations, expressed remorse for their hasty actions, and pledged to work together in unity”, he added.
He was quick to emphasize that the intervention was not meant to infringe on the legislative council’s autonomy but rather to promote cohesion and good governance at the grassroots level.
“Our role is not to dictate, but to guide. Governance thrives where mutual respect exists among all arms,” he said and advised the council chairman to prioritize open communication and sustained engagement with councillors for a more productive relationship between the executive and legislature.
Also speaking, the Executive Chairman of Etung LGA, Hon. Henry Anom, described the crisis as a minor political misunderstanding, not uncommon in emerging legislative bodies.
“This is not peculiar to Etung. But I believe the maturity shown in resolving it will only strengthen the synergy between the two arms going forward,” he said.
The Member representing Etung State Constituency in the Cross River State House of Assembly, Hon. Kingsley Isong, also praised the peaceful resolution, stressing that dialogue remains the most effective tool for conflict resolution.
“Today’s outcome underscores the power of dialogue over confrontation. It’s a win for Etung,” he affirmed.
Special Adviser to the Governor on Asset Management and Recovery, Barr. Gilbert Agbor also commended the efforts of the stakeholders, particularly the SSG, for his timely leadership. He urged the councillors to see their current positions as stepping stones to greater leadership opportunities and to avoid actions that could derail their political growth.
Responding to the outcome, the Leader of the Legislative Council, expressed profound gratitude to the stakeholders for their intervention and pledged a renewed commitment to inclusive leadership.
“This experience has been a valuable learning curve. I’ve gained a deeper understanding of the importance of leading with humility and consensus,” ThankGod said.
