Nigeria’s Minister of State for Industry, John Owan Enoh, has congratulated the people of Ugep, Yakurr LGA, Cross River State, the traditional institutions, and especially his friend, Ofem Ikpi Arikpo, on the remarkable achievement of becoming the first indigenous Commissioner of Police from the community and his subsequent traditional capping as the “Obol Kobil” of Ugep, by the Obol Lopon of Ugep and Paramount Ruler of Yakurr, His Royal Majesty, Obol Ofem Ubana Eteng.
Enoh, who spoke at the capping ceremony, said it was “thrilling to witness a powerful demonstration of the customs and traditions of the Yakurr people, a lasting heritage that has stood the test of time.”
“It is not every day that we witness such an elevation in our communities. For CP Arikpo, it is a recognition of his service to the nation and his people, and to whom much is given, much is required. The expectations are now very high, as he is counted among those entrusted with upholding law and order in our country”, he added.
At the capping ceremony, held at the Umor Otutu Palace and performed by HRM, Obol Ofem Ubana, Obol Lopon of Ugep, assisted by clan heads, the ‘Bi-nahs’ (the traditional kingmakers), and village heads, the monarch invoked blessings of peace, prosperity, and protection on Arikpo and advised him to remain thoughtful in his actions, uphold the expectations and trust reposed in him, a ceremony Owan Enoh described as “a deep appreciation for service and achievement.”
In his response after the capping, Arikpo expressed gratitude to all who attended the ceremony to celebrate with him and assured the Ugep community and the entire nation of his commitment to due diligence on duty, until the end of his career.
The event, held at the Obol Lopon’s Palace, attracted a large crowd of dignitaries from within and outside the state. The rich and exquisite culture of the Yakurr people was also on display.
