The Paramount Ruler of Boki, HRM Otu Fredaline Akando, has offered royal blessings to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate, Sir Dr. Arthur Jarvis Archibong, and other party candidates ahead of the 2027 general elections, while expressing concerns over poor roads, hardship and the welfare of traditional rulers in Cross River State.
The royal father gave the blessings on Wednesday during a consultation visit by the PDP candidates to the Boki Traditional Rulers Council at his palace in Olom, Boki Local Government Area.
Archibong was accompanied by the PDP senatorial candidate, Hon. John Ifere; the Ikom/Boki Federal Constituency candidate, Hon. Abang Pius Besong, popularly known as AB AMANI JOJO; and the State House of Assembly candidate, Mr. Commas Obi.
The visit was aimed at seeking royal blessings, guidance and support ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Speaking during the meeting, the Paramount Ruler declared his support through a heartfelt blessing, expressing confidence in the candidates' electoral prospects.
“I don't bless anyone from my heart and they fail to win an election. Today, I am blessing you all from the depth of my heart. I have blessed you with all my heart; go and succeed!” he said.
Beyond the royal blessings, the traditional ruler expressed displeasure over the hardship confronting residents and the condition of roads across Boki.
He lamented that the deplorable roads had damaged his vehicle, forcing him to sell it. He also explained that the poor road conditions had made it difficult for him to reciprocate visits from fellow traditional rulers across Cross River State by hosting them in Boki.
The Paramount Ruler further called for greater recognition and institutional support for traditional rulers, arguing that their counterparts in other states enjoy better treatment.
He also expressed concern over the small monthly stipends paid to traditional rulers, stressing the need for improved welfare and respect for traditional institutions.
The concerns raised during the visit reflect some of the challenges facing residents of Boki, where poor road infrastructure affects transportation, farming, trade and access to essential services.
For farmers and traders, bad roads can increase transportation costs, delay the movement of agricultural produce and make it difficult for rural businesses to reach wider markets.
The condition of roads across the area has remained a major concern for communities seeking improved infrastructure and greater government attention.
As the 2027 general elections approach, the issues raised by the Paramount Ruler are likely to remain part of the wider conversation about governance, development and the welfare of rural communities in Cross River State.
For the PDP candidates, the visit provided an opportunity to engage with traditional institutions and hear concerns about the challenges facing the people.
However, the impact of the meeting on the candidates' electoral prospects remains to be seen, as the royal blessings do not necessarily represent a formal endorsement by every traditional ruler or voter in Boki.
The visit has nevertheless drawn attention to the need for improved roads, better welfare for traditional rulers and practical solutions to the hardship confronting residents.
For many people in Boki, the expectation is that political leaders, regardless of party affiliation, will give these concerns the attention they deserve and translate their promises into meaningful development.
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