Babiene Kepe Jackson Martins has been designated as the new third-class chief of Ofrikpabi village, Nguti Sub-Division, Kupe Muanenguba Division, replacing Chief Ndumbe Martin Kepe, who died on November 15, 2013.
The designation is contained in Prefectorial Order No. 021/AP/G.42/8/S2/PS, bearing the designation of the 3rd class chief of Ofrikpabi village, Nguti Sub-Division, Kupe Muanenguba Division, signed by the Senior Divisional Officer, SDO, Nguia Beina Theophile, on March 13, 2026.
The SDO detailed that the designation is in accordance with Minutes No. 422/PRV/G42.02/ALPA of March 6, 2026, on the consultative talks of the Divisional Officer of Nguti, held with kingmakers of Ofrikpabi village on March 6, 2026.
In Article Two of the Prefectorial Order, Nguia disclosed that the new chief shall perform his duties in accordance with the provisions of Decree No. 77/245 of July 15, 1977, and is entitled to all the rights and benefits provided by Decree No. 2013/332 of September 13, 2013, bearing on the organization of traditional chiefdoms.
The SDO charged the Divisional Officer of Nguti Sub-Division, Boog Calvin Junior, with implementing the Order, which shall be registered, published, and communicated whenever and wherever need arises.
In his reaction, the YCPDM Section President of Kupe Muanenguba II, Nguti, Dr. Esong Simon, congratulated the people of Ofrikpabi for choosing their new chief, making the job easier for administrators.
Dr. Esong also lauded Chief Babiene Kepe Jackson, and prayed for God’s wisdom and guidance in his new leadership role.
Also, Nelson Takha, on behalf of Nguti Area Synergies, congratulated the new chief, saying, “The heavenly blessings, authority, and favors of the Almighty God and the goodwill of the ancestors of our heritage protect, preserve, sustain, perfect, promote, and establish your royal stool forever.”
He prayed that Chief Babiene Kepe’s reign will be garnished with unity, love, health, abundance, development, and the fear of God. “Long live Chief Babiene Kepe Jackson Martins, the lion of Ofrikpabi Bassosi village,” he added.
The new chief was born on the 24th of September 1960.
By Olive Ejang
