By Jacob Ajom

Iman Ibom Clan Traditional Council has named Otuekong Sunny Jackson Udoh as the Akpan IMAN-elect.

Udoh who is currently the Otuekong IMAN IBOM (War Leader) is also the Enin Afaha Iman. His wealth of experience in the tradition, norms and practises of both IMAN Ibom and the Ibibio Nation endeared him to his people.

The election took place at Otuekong Udoh’s palacia country home in Nkana IMAN, Etinan Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State during his birthday celebration last Sunday (August 18) in a manner Akin to the way such ceremonies were organized in the 17th and 18th centuries.

The Elder Statesman, Sunny Jackson Udoh the owner of foremost Carpet manufacturing company, Jackson Devos, a Chieftain of the ruling party, All Progressive Congress (APC) and one time political leader in Akwa Ibom State has been honoured with numerous traditional titles across the country. However, this is the crown he least expected to be thrust on him considering it’s royal significnce in Ibibio Nation.

The event conducted by the Iman Ibom Clan Traditional Council, presently under the hospices of Edidem Aniefiok Monday Akpanobong, the Clan Head of IMAN/ Paramount Ruler of Etinan Local Government Area in Akwa Ibom State came as a surprise to many including the special guest, The Oku IBOM and President-General of Akwa Ibom State Supreme Council of Traditional Rulers Nteyin Solomon Etuk who witnessed the ceremony alongside seventy traditional rulers in IMAN IBOM, the largest single clan in the state including those from Iman Ibom.

In a special message, the Oku IBOM, Nteyin Etuk applauded the IMAN IBOM traditional rulers for electing a man of sterling qualities and outstanding generosity.

“I am proud to say that he is my mentor and benefactor’
In an interview with the number one Crown Prince, Otuekong Udoh, the Chairman of Jackson G. H. Limited expressed surprise at his election for the throne.

“I have been nominated in the past for the same crown but towards the presentation ceremony, the Patriarch joined his ancestors. This is why the current election and confirmation is very important to me.

“I am now the Akpan IMAN Elect and it has been confirmed by the Oku IBOM . I just give God the Glory and thank every IMAN IBOM Son and Daughter for accepting my election and looking forward to honoring me during the crowning ceremony. I didn’t anticipate that it will become a reality so soon,” he said.