The Cross River Traditional Rulers Council has warned that it will start invoking “native sanctions” against criminals in the state, with effect from Tuesday, Dec. 1.
The council conveyed the warning via a statement issued by its Chairman, Etinyin Okon-Edet, on Monday in Calabar.
The council said that the sanctions would serve as a deterrent against the perpetrators of kidnapping, armed robbery, cultism and other vices which had been plaguing the state and its residents.
It said that the traditional rites, which would be performed by the monarchs and chief priests, was expected to start from Calabar and later progress to cover the entire local government areas of the state.
“The option is as a result of the continuous violation of public peace in the aftermath of the #EndSARS riot and other security challenges confronting the hitherto peaceful residents of the state.
“The hierarchy of the traditional institution, thereby, advises the indigenes, visitors and the general public to go about their daily businesses without fear.
“We do not have any other state but Cross River, so we must work together to enthrone and sustain an enduring peace.
“For quite some time now, the state has been embroiled in incessant incidents of kidnapping, abduction, armed robbery and skirmishes, associated with inter-cult riots, as well as looting and brigandage; thereby stalling social and economic activities,” the council said.
The traditional rulers’ council reiterated that it would invoke curses and supernatural powers to inflict harm on the perpetrators of evils in the society.
