The Abonnema Divisional Council of Traditional Rulers and Chiefs has observed, with profound concern, a recent proliferation of reports, commentaries, and deliberate misinformation circulating within various media sectors and digital platforms. These publications concern the person and office of the Amayanabo and Paramount Ruler of Abonnema (Nyemoni) Kingdom.
In response to the mounting public disquiet and the palpable tension generated by these spurious claims, the Council deems it imperative to issue this definitive clarification to uphold the sanctity of our traditional institutions.
On the Alleged Correspondence of January 2017 The Council states, categorically and without reservation, that no correspondence dated 8th January 2017, nor any such document at any other period, purportedly authored by the Owukori (Manuel)/Bob-Manuel Chieftaincy Houses regarding the Amayanabo, was ever received, tabled, or entertained. The official records of this Council are unequivocal: no such grievance has ever been formally presented for deliberation. Under the tenets of Kalabari customary governance, any document lacking formal presentation to the competent traditional council is devoid of customary validity. To suggest otherwise is not only false but inherently mischievous.
On the Sources of Defamation It has become evident that this wave of misinformation stems from a singular source, an individual whose conduct betrays a calculated pattern of defamation and a personal vendetta against the Amayanabo. We wish to clarify that the individual suspected as the primary instigator of these narratives no longer holds the status of a Chief in Abonnema. Having been formally destooled by his principal chieftaincy house, he lacks the moral, legal, and customary standing to comment upon or challenge the legitimacy of any chieftaincy stool within the Kingdom.
Matters Sub Judice The Council further observes that several issues currently being sensationalised are presently before the Courts of Law. As these matters are sub judice, the rule of law and customary decorum demand absolute restraint. Any attempt to manipulate public opinion or exert undue pressure upon traditional institutions during the pendency of judicial proceedings is an affront to the administration of justice.
Reaffirmation of Sovereignty The Abonnema Divisional Council of Traditional Rulers and Chiefs hereby reiterates that His Majesty, King Disrael Gbobo Bob-Manuel II, remains the lawfully installed Amayanabo and Paramount Ruler of Abonnema (Nyemoni) Kingdom. His Majesty ascended the stool in strict accordance with native law, custom, and established procedure, and he continues to enjoy the absolute loyalty and unwavering support of all members of the Council.
A Warning to the Public and Media The Council cautions all individuals, organisations, and media outlets to desist from the propagation of recycled, discredited documents and defamatory narratives. Abonnema will not permit its revered stool to be brought into disrepute by those acting without standing or in bad faith.
This statement is issued in the interest of truth, the preservation of order, and the enduring dignity of Kalabari custom.
SIGNED: For and on behalf of the Abonnema Divisional Council of Traditional Rulers and Chiefs
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