Some notable stakeholders in the trader’s law court had shown support for each other and agreed to settle for a compromise outside the courts. Happening in the state High Court in Uyo underscores communal preference for dialogue and peace over legal confrontation.
The fundamental dispute in this matter is the TRC law, cap 154, 2022 which established the State Supreme Council of traditional rulers and bestowed a perpetual presidency on Oku Ibom Ibibio. Initially, the law caused disputes among various paramount rulers in different local government areas covering Annang, Urueffong Oruko, Okobo, Mbo, Eastern Obolo, Ibeno, Oron, and Udung uko.
According to a report by Vanguard, the latest hearing, however, saw a different direction because Ekpęnyong Ntèkim, representing the plaintiffs and a former Attorney-General of Akwa Ibom State pleaded orally with the court to permit them to conduct negotiations outside the court. All parties involved accepted this proposition, emanating from a common desire to maintain peace in the state positively.
However, there were several initial concerns raised by the Attorney General of the State and Commissioner for Justice, Uko Udom, represented by Bassy Ekanem, regarding the informal nature of the request. Nevertheless, the presiding Judge in the matter was Justice Archibong Archibong He overruled the objections, emphasizing the importance of counsel’s united demands for peace and settlement.
The move towards a friendly settlement is indicative of the effectiveness of alternative dispute resolution in complex legal and cultural scenes. Apart from preventing clashes and enhancing communication, it unites different people in one community. The court’s adjournment date of December 14 2023, will provide an opportunity for parties to develop a solution taking into consideration divergent interests and preserving the fabric of coexistence.
Thus, the decision by Akwa Ibom’s traditional rulers to reconcile with one another offers more than what can be found in the courtroom, as it presents a model for conflict resolution that centres on peace, understanding, and common well-being.
Such an approach may act as a source of inspiration for other communities with the same problems. It demonstrates that dialogues based on mutual respect are strong enough to solve the disputes.
