By Bassey Edet
Calabar (FLOWERBUDNEWS): The Vice Chancellor of the University of Calabar, Prof. Florence Obi has lauded the Obong of Calabar, describing him as an exceptional monarch with a large heart.
The Vice Chancellor said this when she led Management Staff of the University on a courtesy visit to the Obong in his Countryhome.
This was disclosed in a statement by the Public Relations Unit of the University, a copy of which was made available to FLOWERBUDNEWS on Monday
Prof. Obi stated that this exceptional quality of the monarch accentuates the ancient stool he occupies, and calls for respect, reverence and honour from all within the Efik kingdom and beyond.
She said by virtue of the age of the stool, the Obong stands out as an advocate of Royal Fathers, a leading voice in his kingdom, and an influential figure nationally.
Prof. Obi who will complete her tenure as Vice Chancellor later this year used the occasion to thank the Obong and his Council for the support given her since assuming office, as well as, the understanding shown before, during and after the celebration of the institution’s 50th Anniversary.
The University helmsman stated that Unical like other institutions will continually exhibit goodwill to the palace, deepening the bond between both parties.
In his response, the Obong of Calabar, His Eminence, Edidem Ekpo Okon Abasi Otu V, commended the Vice Chancellor and her team for embarking on what he termed a “significant visit”.
The Patriarch of the Efik kingdom lauded the Vice Chancellor for raising the issue of respect for the ancient stool, an act which he said many have fallen short of, notably, a section of the political class.
The Monarch charged the people of Calabar and Cross Riverians generally to rally behind the ancient stool, join in its growth and collectively make it stronger.
He appealed to the people of the state to join the “stool” in projecting the voice and aspirations of Cross River at the national level and beyond.
While commending the Vice Chancellor on her achievements so far, the Obong expressed the optimism that her successor will follow suit in showing decency in relating with the palace. (FLOWERBUDNEWS/
