Akasoba of Kalabari seeks legitimacy, advocates harmony

The Akasoba of Kalabari, Akasoba Duke-Abiola, who is the Chairperson of the Akasoba Centre for Peace and Conflict Resolution (ACPCR) has expressed appreciation to the governor of Bayelsa State, Seriake Dickson for his recent visit to the palace of the Amayanabo of Abonnema in Kalabariland.

Akasoba Duke-Abiola while speaking on her return from South Sudan after a meeting with the warring factions described the ongoing war in South Sudan as an unnecessary distraction of the developmental efforts of the world’s newest nation. She said that during her visit, she informed the President of South Sudan, Salva Kirr that Africa can only fully develop under a peaceful atmosphere of harmony and good governance. Adding the ACPCR is fully following the peace efforts in the war-torn country.

“We are for whatsoever would bring peace to Nigeria, Sudan, Africa and the world. That is why we utterly condemn the deplorable situation in South Sudan where women and children are suffering intolerable hardships,” she stated.

Recalling the present situation in the Niger Delta, particularly Rivers and Bayelsa States, she noted that the Bayelsa State Governor is a man of peace as well as visionary leader.

Duke-Abiola condemned the escalation of violence in different forms and shapes; saying the Kalabari people are in support of Seriake Dickson for his steps towards forestalling extension of conflict and bloodshed. While noting that the ‘Kalabari Se’ has been the highest national supremacy of the Niger Delta preceding the Southern Protectorate era and the amalgamation period, she indicated that it has been undisclosed to a majority people. She further revealed that Governor Seriake Dickson is a member of the ‘Kalabari Se’ as well as the late Nnamdi Azikiwe and MKO Abiola.

The Akasoba of Kalabari also noted that the Governor’s presence was a home – coming to his people; saying he is greatly welcomed in the interest of unity and peace in the country.

She recounted the individual struggles of the traditional rulers and elders of the Old Rivers State which resulted to the creation of Bayelsa State and cautioned those enjoying the dividends of democracy to pause and reflect on this. “Some of us battled tooth and nail to attain the creation of Bayelsa State. The name Bayelsa is indeed an acronym of the socio-political delineation of its local government areas, inscribed by me,” she explained.

While Speaking on the ownership of the ‘Soku’ Oil wells, Akasoba Duke-Abiola pointed out that the only justifiable solution will be to create a new Kalabari State as a paramount national discourse in pursuit of justice, equity and fair play for the people.

“The Kalabari kingdom right from Elem (old) Kalabari was the only place in Africa which had over thirty-three powerful and well organised city-states preceding colonialism. It is therefore only fair that they should be given their own state. This would show case to Nigerians how very civilized, patriotic and peace-loving the Kalabaris are,” she averred.

Federal Ministry of Information (FMI) Press Release