The Cross River State Governor, Bassey Otu, has reversed the planned removal of the Chairman of the Cross River State Traditional Rulers Council, Osim Edward, extending his tenure by another two years.
The decision comes barely five days after the state government announced the appointment of the Paramount Ruler of the Obudu Traditional Rulers Council, Abanbeshie Ukudare, as Edward’s successor.
In a letter dated June 18, 2026, and signed by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Chieftaincy Affairs, Francis Edet, the government had directed Edward to suspend his ongoing tour of local government areas and prepare handover notes ahead of the inauguration of the new chairman.
The letter stated that Governor Otu had approved Ukudare’s appointment as chairman of the council and instructed Edward to cooperate fully with the transition process.
However, in a fresh letter issued on Tuesday, the same office announced a reversal of the earlier directive, confirming that Governor Otu had approved a two-year extension of Edward’s tenure.
According to the letter, the decision followed a comprehensive assessment of the monarch’s performance as chairman of the council.
“The Department of Chieftaincy Affairs is pleased to inform you that His Excellency, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, after a thorough assessment of your performance, has graciously extended your tenure as the Chairman of the State Traditional Rulers Council for another two years,” the letter stated.
It added that the tenure extension supersedes the earlier directive announcing a change in the council’s leadership.
The government commended Edward for his leadership and contributions to the traditional institution, expressing confidence in his continued role in promoting peace, unity, and development across the state.
The latest decision effectively halts the planned transition and retains Edward as chairman of the Cross River State Traditional Rulers Council for another two years.