CALABAR, Nigeria — Governor of Cross River State, Senator Bassey Otu, has ordered the immediate suspension of an ongoing exercise to create new clans and villages across the state. The governor declared that the process had not received any authorisation or approval from his administration.

The directive was officially communicated through a statement issued by the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice. The statement emphasized that any activities related to this unauthorised exercise should cease immediately.

Governor Otu's administration has stressed its commitment to due process and adherence to established legal frameworks for any administrative restructuring or creation of new entities within the state. The suspension is intended to prevent further actions that could lead to confusion or legal challenges.

Further details regarding the specific reasons for the unauthorised nature of the exercise and the steps to be taken to regularise or address the situation are expected to be released by the state government in due course. The public and all relevant stakeholders have been advised to await official communication before engaging in or recognizing any newly created clans or villages.