In a colorful and historic ceremony held in the heart of Basang, Obanliku Local Government Area, Cross River State, rights activist and senior lawyer, Dr. Dorn cklaimz Enamhe was conferred with the revered chieftaincy title of “Papa Wey U Keh Balare Ukpere 1 of Basang Obanliku.”

The award celebrates Enamhe’s outstanding contributions to community development, peacebuilding, youth mentorship, and grassroots leadership.

A statement seen by CITY LAWYER reads:

Papa Enamhe is a highly respected teacher, motivational speaker, peace builder, and community leader.

Reputed for his visionary leadership and commitment to unity, Papa Enamhe has over, for decades, remained a beacon of hope and inspiration across generations.

A man of immense versatility, he holds multiple degrees in Agriculture, Sociology, Environmental Science, Education Law, Social Work, Public Administration, and Political Science. He is also a Chartered Mediator and member of respected organizations such as the Institute of Chartered Mediators and Conciliators, the Association of Professional Negotiators & Mediators, and the Nigerian Bar Association.

At the University of Calabar, Papa Enamhe has served in several administrative roles, including Alumni Relations Officer, Deputy Director of the Directorate of Board of Community Services, and Secretary of important committees such as the Unical @ 50 Anniversary and the burial committee of the late Senate President, Senator Joseph Wayas GCON.

He is equally celebrated for his dedication to elder care, often advocating for the welfare and dignity of senior citizens in his community.

The prestigious title, “Papa Wey U Keh Balare Ukpere 1” — which means “The Father Who Takes Care of Elders” — was bestowed by the traditional leadership of Basang in recognition of his remarkable legacy.

In his heartfelt acceptance speech, Papa Enamhe thanked the royal fathers, community leaders, and the people of Basang for the honor, pledging to continue championing peace, youth empowerment, education, and inclusive development.

The ceremony drew dignitaries from across Nigeria, including:

Hon. Chief Dr. Sunny Ebebe Ayang JP, Chairman of Obanliku LGA (also conferred with a chieftaincy title)

HRH Amb. Eugene Abraka, Chairman, Basang Traditional Rulers Council

HRM Amb. Dr. Auchi’s Amos Uyimulam Item, Paramount Ruler of Obanliku

HRH Joseph Ikanshu, Clan Head of Bayaine West

Hon. Marc Enamhe Esq, Former member of the Cross River State House of Assembly

Sir James Atuo

Hon. Sylvanus Anyawho, President, Basang Nation

Hon. Chief Ashakia Pius Ashas, Member representing Obanliku in the Cross River State House of Assembly.

It could be recalled that after the death of the former Senate President, Rt. Hon. Dr. Joseph Wayas GCON, in a London hospital, his remains were left unattended as his children and family reportedly failed to take responsibility. The last Cross River State administration formed and dissolved a burial committee without success. It eventually took the tireless intervention of Papa Dorn cklaimz Enamhe — Convener of the “Who is Who Platform of Northern Cross River (WWPNCR)” — alongside his Co-Convener, Johnny Agim SAN, to galvanize support. Through this grassroots-driven initiative, they secured funding and backing from community members, the Governor of Cross River State, Sen. Prince Bassey Otu; Senate President, Sen. Dr. Godswill Akpabio GCON, and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, which made it possible to repatriate and lay to rest the late Senate President in his native Basang land with dignity and honour.

This selfless act remains a defining legacy of Papa Enamhe’s leadership, underscoring his role as a bridge-builder and true servant of the people.

As “Papa Wey U Keh Balare Ukpere 1,” Papa Dorn cklaimz Enamhe embarks on a new chapter of leadership — firmly rooted in service, mentorship, and tireless advocacy for humanity.