Ekong Udoro, Chairman of the Grand Elders Council of Clans Club International, has warned that divisive rhetoric over Nigeria’s rising terrorism threat undermines national resolve.

Speaking in Calabar during the club’s 38th Special Converge, themed “Back to Rutz: The Future, the Prospects”, Udoro called on Nigerians to unite behind government efforts to end killings by terrorists, bandits, and insurgents across the country.

“Cheering centrifugal forces aligned against the country’s economic interests leaves our national security vulnerable to attacks and ridicule,” Udoro said, emphasizing that defeating terrorism requires collective effort. “All hands must be on deck, Nigerians must speak with one voice, and support government measures to end this menace.”

The gathering also marked the enforcement of a Federal High Court judgment delivered on July 10, 2025, which nullified all actions taken by the club’s defunct governing bodies since April 1, 2017, and directed founding members to convene a meeting to reconstitute its leadership.

Following the ruling, the club elected new leaders, including Dr. Ekong Udoro as Chairman of the Grand Elders Council and Chief Oliver Orok as National President. The converge featured the formal handing over of the staff of office to the new president, signaling an end to years of internal disputes and a return to constitutional order.

Founding member Elder Mfon Essang encouraged members to embrace originality, responsibility, innovation, creativity, and mutual love to unlock their full potential.

Chief Oliver Orok, Chairman of the International Special Converge Planning Committee, pledged to promote unity and proper governance, stating: “We will lead the club forward, ensuring full compliance with our constitution and fostering cooperation among members.”