Unity in Diversity: How Bunyà Wà Efut Brings Together Calabar’s Tribal Kings

Calabar's cultural calendar is set to witness a historic moment this December as the maiden full-scale edition of Bunyà Wà Efut (Efut Day 2025) brings together the city's frontline traditional rulers in an unprecedented show of unity.

For years, Efut celebrations were modest and community-centered. But the 2025 edition, organisers say, is designed to project a strong message of cohesion, collaboration, and peace among the major tribes in Calabar. The Muri Tata-Ribu I, Prime Minister of Efut Nation and Chairman of the Central Planning Committee, HRH High Chief Efeffiong Nta Eke, Ph.D, emphasised that this gathering is as much political as it is cultural.

"This festival is about positioning the Efut people not only in the traditional landscape but also within the political and social fabric of Cross River State," he said. "It is a statement of unity among our people, and it is a testament to the collaboration that exists with our neighbouring tribes."

Indeed, the event is expected to host the three traditional rulers of old Calabar: the Muri Munene of the Efuts, the Obong of Calabar, and the Ndidem of the Quas. Their joint presence signals a renewed commitment to mutual respect, collaboration, and conflict resolution across ethnic lines.

Chief Charles Offiong Obo, Secretary of the Planning Committee, highlighted the festival's historical significance: "Far and near, we are putting our heads together to build a formidable Efut people. But this is also about celebrating peaceful coexistence with our neighbours. The presence of the Obong of Calabar and the Ndidem of the Quas shows that tradition and diplomacy can go hand in hand."

The festival also reflect the evolving role of traditional institutions in modern governance. By uniting these leaders under a single cultural platform, organisers hope to reinforce the Efut's visibility in the state's political and social spheres, while promoting broader community cohesion in Calabar.

High Chief Nta Eke described Bunyà Wà Efut 2025 as a historic benchmark: "It is going to be very impactful. It will stand the test of time, showing that under certain leadership, we were able to bring together our kings, our people, and our heritage in a way that fosters peace, progress, and unity."

As Cross Riverians and tourists prepare to witness the festival, Bunyà Wà Efut promises more than dance, music, and cultural displays. It is a bold statement: unity in diversity remains a defining strength of Calabar, and tradition can coexist with modernity to shape a peaceful, cohesive society.

Bunyà Wà Efut (Efut Day) celebration which is billed to hold on Saturday, December 13 is the homage to the Efut King, The Muri Munene, Tribal King, Natural Ruler and Grand Patriarch of Efut Nation to intensify a collective ideology of the Efut people and heighten the unity, peace and love amongst the Efuts of Calabar.

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ALGON Fires Back: C'River LG Chairmen Dismiss “Inciting Lies,” Say Projects Expose False Corruption Claims

Ukorebi Esien | December 8, 2025

CALABAR The Chairman of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) in Cross River State and Executive Chairman of Yakurr LGA, Hon. Yibala Igri Inyang, has strongly reacted to what he described as false and inciting claims made by a senior media aide to Governor Bassey Edet Otu, insisting that the allegations of corruption and mismanagement against council chairmen are baseless and disproven by ongoing developmental projects across the state. 

The comments by the governor's aide, published online and widely circulated on social media, criticised council bosses for alleged absentee leadership, mismanagement of council resources, and a disconnect from grassroots communities. 

Speaking in an Interview with TDN, on behalf of all LG heads, Yibala described the allegations as "unfounded, unfair, and capable of inciting unnecessary tension within the government."

According to him, the aide failed to verify information or seek clarification from the accused chairmen before going public.
"Chairmen have been in their councils; chairmen have done a lot of projects that some former chairmen could not do in three years. We have completed almost ten projects in one year in Yakurr alone across nine wards, and we are still going," he stated.

He added that he is aware that "most chairmen across the state have executed several people-oriented projects in line with the People's First agenda". He described the sweeping accusations as "a generalisation based on isolated grievances." 

Hon. Inyang condemned the approach taken by the governor's aide, saying such public criticism without verification was unnecessary, unhelpful, and capable of demoralising hardworking chairmen.

"It is not proper for somebody to go to the media and generalize things. We are all from the same government, and it is wrong to wash our linen openly," he said. "One person may have an issue with one chairman, but extending that to all chairmen is not correct."

He further explained that the councils are functioning strictly within the legal framework, including the controversial joint account system, which remains active under state law.
"There is a law that we must have a joint account in the state. That law has not been set aside. We are working within that framework," he clarified.

Responding to accusations that some chairmen run their councils from Calabar or Abuja and have allowed council headquarters to deteriorate, the ALGON Chair insisted that several council Chairmen, including Yakurr, have already renovated their secretariats and are implementing development projects across wards.

He also addressed claims of mismanaged internally generated revenue (IGR), adding that, "Most chairmen are transparent and connected to the needs of their communities. The projects are visible. People are not complaining," he maintained.

Commenting on reports of clashes between some chairmen and their councillors, especially in areas where suspensions or legislative disputes have occurred, Inyang noted that such tensions are normal in a democracy.

"Democracy is not a church. There must be disagreements to agree. Chairmen are human beings; they may make small mistakes, but they should be allowed to correct them," he said.

He added that many chairmen are first-timers who are still learning the dynamics of local governance and should not be condemned based on early challenges.

Reacting to calls for the reinstatement of the suspended Chairman of Bekwara Local Government Area, Hon. Mrs Theresa Ushie, the ALGON leader emphasised that such decisions fall under the jurisdiction of party leaders and state authorities.

"Whatever the government and stakeholders decide is what we will align with. My duty is not to condemn but to support corrective measures where needed," he noted.

The chairmen reaffirmed their commitment to sustaining developmental efforts across all Local Government Areas in line with the People's First vision of Governor Bassey Otu. They urged the public to disregard unverified statements that could destabilise the third tier of government.
"Our focus is on service delivery, not distractions," Hon. Inyang concluded.

Efut Nation to Host First Large-Scale Bunyà Wà Efut day Celebration on December 13

The Council of Efut Nation has announced plans to hold the first large-scale edition of Bunyà Wà Efut (Efut Day)celebration on Saturday, December 13, 2025, marking a major shift from previous low-key commemorations of the annual cultural event.

This event is the homage to the Efut King, The Muri Munene, Tribal King,  Natural Ruler and Grand Patriarch of Efut Nation to intensify a collective ideology of the Efut people and heighten the unity, peace and love amongst the Efuts

Speaking during a briefing in Calabar, the Secretary of the Planning Committee, Chief Charles Offiong-Obo, said the Efut Nation has "come of age to launch its cultural brand," adding that the 2025 edition represents the first time the festival will be hosted with extensive publicity, community mobilisation, and high-profile attendance.

According to him, the event, scheduled to hold at Atu Field, Mayne Avenue, in Calabar South Local Government Areais expected to attract a large turnout, including traditional rulers, government officials, and Efut sons and daughters from home and abroad.

Chief Offiong-Obo noted that the celebration aims to showcase the heritage and identity of the Efut people while expressing gratitude to God for preserving the community as a distinct nationality. He added that this year's event also reflects renewed unity among Efut clans after years of internal divisions.

Also speaking,  the Muri Tata-Ribu I, Prime Minister of Efut Nation and Chairman of the Central  Planning Committee, HRH High Chief Efeffiong Nta Eke, Ph.D, described the event as a "maiden high-profile edition" designed to reposition the Efut Nation within the cultural and traditional landscape of Cross River state. He said the festival will feature cultural displays, conferment of chieftaincy titles, and the unveiling of a model for a proposed modern palace for the Muri Munene, the Grand Patriarch of the Efut Nation.

The organizers also confirmed that the three royal fathers of Old Calabar—the Obóng of Calabar, the Ndidem of the Quas, and the Muri Munene of the Efuts—are expected to attend the event in a show of unity.

The annual celebration, which the Efut Nation intends to sustain every December, is part of the ongoing efforts to revive cultural consciousness, strengthen communal ties, and preserve the tribe's historical origins traced to the Balondo  people of southern Cameroon.

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Journalists Tasked to Strengthen Ethical Reporting of GBV Cases in Anambra

 Ukpa Ewa  | December 6, 2025

Journalists in Anambra State have been urged to improve the quality, sensitivity and ethical standard of reporting Gender-Based Violence (GBV) as the menace continues to grow due to deep rooted cultural norms and weak enforcement structures. The charge was made during a one day capacity building workshop in Awka for media personnel on GBV reportage, content development and amplifying survivor voices.

The training, titled "Empowering Christian Women and Women Leaders of Culture for Prevention and Response to Gender-Based Violence in Nigeria, Through the Strengthening of Grassroots Organizations " was implemented by Gender Perspective and Social Development Center (GPSDC) with support from WomenAid Collective (WACOL).

Speaking at the workshop, Executive Director of GPSDC, Mrs. Eucharia Anakwe said many GBV cases collapse at the police level because the media often publicise details prematurely, enabling perpetrators to flee. She noted that improved reportage would enhance justice delivery, strengthen advocacy and promote the work of civil society organizations. She implored journalists to apply the knowledge gained and raise the standard of GBV reporting across their platforms.

Delivering a presentation on the legal and ethical framework for GBV Reporting in Nigeria, a Developmental Communication expert and lecturer at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka Dr. Julius Nwosu described GBV as pervasive in Nigeria, manifesting through domestic abuse, sexual assault, human trafficking, female genital mutilation among others. Citing recent demographic survey, he noted that at least 30 percent of Nigerian women aged 15 to 49 have experienced physical or sexual violence. He advised journalists to understand national and international legal frameworks such as Violence Against Persons Prohibition Act and Child Rights Act, protect survivors identities and avoid retraumatizing them through insensitive reporting.

Also speaking, the Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Anambra State Council, Comrade Odogwu Emeka Odogwu, PhD, emphasized that journalists must prioritize survivors dignity, consent and safety. He warned against sensational headlines and urged reporters to focus on solutions, use visuals responsibly and adopt survivor centred storytelling that drives social change. He added that every story should inspire hope, strengthen accountability and encourage community action.

Giving an overview of the project, the Monitoring and Evaluation Officer GPSDC Mr. Christian Madubueze said the programme aims to empower Christian women and female cultural leaders to challenge harmful norms and promote gender equality within their communities. He stressed that the media remains a crucial bridge between survivors and support systems.

Contributing during the training, Hajia Khadijat Olahan, Assistant Zonal Coordinator of the Federation of Muslim Women Association of Nigeria (FOMWAN), South East II, said the session exposed her to better ways of documenting and reporting GBV cases without endangering survivors. She narrated cases where victims were afraid to speak out due to fear of being identified, adding that the training has provided safer alternatives for reporting incidents.

On his part, a Journalist with Radio Nigeria, Mr. Uche Ndeke, commended GPSDC for the training, noting that GBV cases continue to rise despite existing laws and treaties. He added that although a one day session may not exhaust all aspects of GBV reporting as the training has laid a vital foundation for deeper understanding and responsible media practice.

National Working Committee Intervenes in C’River APC Turmoil

Ukorebi Esien | December 8, 2025

CALABAR – The crisis within the Cross River State chapter of the All Progressives Congress has taken a significant turn as the party's National Working Committee moves to restore order and enforce due process amid growing internal tensions.

This development follows a formal summons issued by the APC National Legal Adviser, Murtala Aliyu Kankia, directing State Chairman Alphonsus Eba to appear before the national leadership over allegations raised by members of the State Executive Committee.

It could be recalled that the State Executive Committee had recently passed a vote of no confidence on Eba and claimed to have removed him from office. Immediately at the party's secretariat in Calabar, Ntufam Ekum Ojogu was unveiled as acting chairman,  according to earlier reports by TDN.

In a letter dated December 4, 2025, made available to newsmen on Friday in Calabar, Kankia instructed the embattled chairman to appear at the APC National Secretariat in Abuja on Monday,(today) December 8, 2025, at 4 pm to respond to the allegations, emphasising that the meeting would allow the national leadership to hear directly from Eba and ensure that established procedures are strictly followed.

The latest NWC intervention comes amid rising factional disputes triggered by reports that some SEC members were informed that "The System" no longer wanted Eba to remain in office. His purported impeachment was dismissed by Eba as unconstitutional and "a joke taken too far." 

Party insiders suggest the move also reflects Eba's growing influence within the APC. A key figure in the party's ongoing constitution review, he was personally nominated by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the February 2025 NEC meeting. Eba also serves as the National Secretary of the Forum of APC State Chairmen and represents the South-South geopolitical zone in the constitution review committee.

With national intervention now underway, party stakeholders are hopeful that a ceasefire is imminent as the NWC moves to enforce order and guide the chapter toward reconciliation. 

CAC to ban unregistered PoS operators from Jan 1

The Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) has directed all Point-of-Sale operators (PoS) across the country to complete their registration before 1 January 2026, warning that unregistered operators will be barred from conducting business thereafter.

In a public notice on Saturday, the Commission said it had observed a surge in unregistered PoS operators across the country.

The Commission stressed that operating an unregistered PoS business violates the Companies and Allied Matters Act 2020 and the Central Bank of Nigeria's Agent Banking Regulations.

The CAC also faulted some fintech firms for onboarding unregistered agents, describing the practice as reckless and harmful to the stability of Nigeria's financial system.

It warned that the trend exposes millions of Nigerians, including small business owners and rural users, to economic and investment risks.

"Fintechs enabling illegal operations will be placed on the watchlist and reported to the CBN. All operators are advised to regularise immediately. Compliance is mandatory

"Beginning from 1st January 2026, no PoS operator will be allowed to conduct business in Nigeria without completing full registration," the CAC said

Daily Trust reports that this is not the first time the call regarding enforced regulatory monitoring of the PoS has been made.

There have been several calls on the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to take urgent steps toward curbing worsening cases of fraud affecting PoS businesses across the nation.

[DailyTrust]

Full List Of Lawmakers Who Refused To Dump PDP For APC In Rivers And Their Constituencies

The remaining members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the Rivers State House of Assembly have reaffirmed their loyalty to the party, vowing to continue legislative duties in line with constitutional provisions despite the recent mass defection of several colleagues to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

In a resolution passed by the minority lawmakers, the auditorium at the Legislature Quarters was formally adopted as the lawful and recognised hallowed chamber of the House, signalling their commitment to maintaining order and continuity amid political upheaval.

On Friday, the 10 remaining PDP lawmakers in the Rivers State House of Assembly took steps to strengthen their faction by selecting officers for key positions.

The roles of Minority Leader, Deputy Majority Leader, Minority Whip, and Deputy Minority Whip were administered with the oath of office for the new officials.

The decision to proceed with legislative activities and leadership appointments comes after the mass defection, which left the PDP with fewer members in the assembly. Despite this, the PDP lawmakers have vowed to maintain a functioning legislative process.

List Of PDP Lawmakers Who Remained Loyal

The following PDP lawmakers have remained loyal to the party and continue to represent their constituencies:

Hon. Mrs Emilia Lucky-Amadi – Obio/Akpor

Hon. Justina Emeji – Emohua

Hon. Ignatius Onwuka – Etche

Hon. Mrs Barile Nwakor – Khana 1

Hon. Mrs Ezekwe Nkemjika – Ogba-Egbema Ndoni II

Hon. Queen Owuma Tony-Williams – Ahoada East 1

Hon. Lemchi Nyeche – Ikwerre Constituency

Hon. Sylvanus Nwankwo – Omuma

Hon. Iderima John Dominic – Abua/Odual

Hon. Mgbar Bernard – Tai

[NaijaNews]

C'River ATRD to Intensify Automotive Sector Formalisation in 2026

Ukorebi Esien | December 6, 2025

CALABAR — The Cross River State Automobile Technicians Regulatory Department (ATRD) has announced plans to accelerate the formalisation, regulation and standardisation of the automotive industry in Cross River State beginning in 2026. The commitment was reaffirmed on Friday during the department's first anniversary celebration and symposium held at the Kashim Shettima Hall, State Library Complex, Calabar.

The event, which drew technicians, spare-parts dealers, security agencies, government officials and stakeholders across the automotive value chain, highlighted the milestones recorded within ATRD's inaugural year and set clear policy directions for the coming phase of reforms.

Speaking at the event, the Special Adviser to the Governor on ATRD, Chief Ndem Effiong, said the department has completed its foundational work and is now transitioning into full enforcement, compliance monitoring, industry mapping and the establishment of uniform professional standards.

He noted that ATRD was created by Governor Bassey Otu's administration to regulate and professionalise the sector, which plays a crucial role in transportation, public safety and the state's informal economy.

"The year 2026 will mark a decisive shift. We will strengthen the registration of technicians, ensure compliance with operational standards, expand training opportunities and institutionalise quality control within the industry," Effiong stated.

In its one-year performance report, ATRD showcased key accomplishments,  including:

Construction of an Automobile Training Centre (ATC) at the University of Education and Entrepreneurship (UEE), Awi-Akamkpa.

The facility is designed to train, certify and upskill thousands of automotive technicians.

 Establishment of a CNG and Electric Vehicle (EV) charging point at the University of Calabar (UNICAL), positioning Cross River among early movers in Nigeria's shift towards cleaner and modern mobility.

Registration of technicians and ongoing development of a statewide automotive database.

Deepened collaboration with the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC) to align state policies with national automotive sector reforms.

Effiong described these achievements as foundational investments that will support large-scale regulation and compliance activities beginning next year.

In their separate speeches, representatives of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Nigeria Police, DSS, NSCDC and other agencies commended ATRD for its commitment to safety and professionalism.

FRSC officials noted that standardising workshops and technicians is critical to reducing road crashes linked to poor vehicle maintenance.

The symposium also recognised the contributions of mechanics, panel beaters, auto-electricians, welders, vulcanizers, painters, motor dealers and spare-parts traders whose work sustains the mobility and logistics sectors in the state.

ATRD disclosed that 2026 activities will include:

* Full activation of the Automobile Training Centre for certification programmes

* Mandatory registration and categorisation of automotive workshops

* Enforcement of environmental, safety and operational standards

* Collaboration with security agencies to curb auto-related crimes

* Strengthening of partnerships with academic and technical institutions

* Improved access to modern tools, technology and alternative-fuel vehicle knowledge

Effiong also appealed for government support to enable wider participation of Cross River stakeholders in the West Africa Automotive Show (WAAS) 2026, describing it as a strategic gateway for partnerships, investments and innovation.

Offiong Vows to End Admission Racketeering and Indiscipline in UNICAL

Ukorebi esien | December 3, 2025

CALABAR - The newly inaugurated 12th Vice-Chancellor of the University of Calabar (UNICAL), Prof. Offiong Effanga Offiong, has pledged to stamp out admission racketeering, indiscipline, and all forms of administrative and academic corruption within the institution. He made the declaration on Monday during his official investiture held at the Godswill Akpabio International Conference Centre, Calabar.

Prof. Offiong, who assumed office following his confirmation by the university's governing council, outlined a comprehensive reform agenda aimed at repositioning UNICAL for excellence. Central to his vision is the eradication of fraudulent admission practices, a recurrent challenge that has dented the institution's reputation in recent years.

The Vice-Chancellor announced the reactivation of the Central Admissions Committee, insisting that "all admissions must strictly follow due process and JAMB guidelines." He warned that his administration would maintain zero tolerance for racketeering, illegal payments, and manipulation of admission lists, stressing that there would be "no sacred cows" in the enforcement of discipline.

Prof. Offiong also condemned the growing trend of fraudulent NYSC mobilisation and indiscipline among staff and students. He assured that robust internal monitoring systems and stronger disciplinary measures would be implemented to restore integrity to the university's operations.

Beyond discipline, the new VC unveiled a 12-point development blueprint focusing on academic excellence, ICT strengthening, enhanced student welfare, quality assurance, environmental sustainability, community engagement, and improved infrastructural management.

He announced plans for a Vice-Chancellor's scholarship scheme, expansion of the work-study programme, upgrading of staff quarters, reopening of closed access roads, and renewed collaboration with host communities to rebuild trust.

Prof. Offiong appealed for cooperation from staff, students, alumni, and stakeholders, stating that the new administration would be firm but fair. He emphasized his commitment to restoring the university's dignity and ensuring that UNICAL "is no longer in the news for the wrong reasons."

The inauguration was attended by top government officials, academics, traditional leaders, and members of the university community, all of whom expressed optimism that the new leadership would usher in a more disciplined and progressive era for the institution. 

MEDA Holds 2nd Enterprise Awards, Splashes Over N6m on Deserving Entrepreneurs

Ukorebi Esien | December 3, 2025

CALABAR - The Cross River State Micro Enterprise Development Agency (MEDA) has hosted the second edition of the People's First Enterprise Awards, where over 13 entrepreneurs drawn from various sectors received ₦500,000 each in recognition of their outstanding performance and potential. TDN can confirm.

The beneficiaries encompass both established businesses and promising startups across key sectors, including agriculture, tourism, manufacturing, logistics, entertainment, content creation, fashion, media, and community development.

Speaking at the event, the Director-General of MEDA, Great Ogban, described the awards as a strategic effort by the agency to strengthen enterprise development across Cross River State under the visionary leadership of Governor Sen. Prince Bassey Edet Otu.

Ogban noted that the People's First Enterprise Awards is more than a ceremonial gathering, but a deliberate platform to reward excellence, stimulate innovation, and motivate entrepreneurs contributing to the state's economic transformation.
He highlighted the Governor's unwavering commitment to enterprise growth, citing the recent approval of ₦500 million, which has been matched by partnering financial institutions to raise a ₦4 billion SME fund, accessible to Cross River–based entrepreneurs at single-digit interest rates.
The DG further revealed that over 500 retirees recently trained by MEDA on enterprise development received ₦500,000 each to begin their business ventures, with more than 80–90 new enterprises already established as a result of the initiative.

"When we place people first, enterprises do not just survive—they thrive. These awards demonstrate our belief in the boundless potential of our people," Ogban said.

Chairman of the MEDA Board, Mr Essessien Bassey Edem, applauded the dedication of the awardees while encouraging aspiring entrepreneurs to position themselves for next year's edition. He emphasized that MEDA's impact is driven by teamwork, innovation, and accountability.

List of Awardees

Competitive Categories
• Agricultural Value Chain – Alexi Newtown and UT Martins
• Tourism & Hospitality – Queenie Kitchen
• Fashion & Styling – Ajeboo Printing and Branding
• Transportation & Logistics – Now Now Logistics
• Event Management – Jenate Touch Event
• Manufacturing & Production – Seekee's Cooties
• Entertainment & Lifestyle – Roman Premium
• Retail/Wholesale/Distribution – Babie & More
• Content Creation & Filmmaking – Patrick Dominic
• Health & Fitness – Hogis Fitness
• Artisans & Skills – Benco Fabrication
• Education & Advocacy – The Orange Show
• Media & Journalism – Calabar Gist

Special Categories
• Most Influential Personality – High Chief Peters Higgins
• Professional of the Year (Academic) – Asst. Prof. Elder Mrs. Virginia Ironbar
• Leadership Personality of the Year – Rt. Hon. Hilary Bisong
• Lifetime Achievement – Chief Effiong Etim Okon
• Entrepreneur of the Year – Prince Ejah Igwe Ejah
• Social Entrepreneur of the Year – Henry Ojong Foundation
• Most MSME-Friendly Chairman – Hon. Yibala Igri Inyang
• Most MSME-Friendly Legislator – Hon. Cyril James Omini
• Most MSME-Friendly Foundation – Sir Augustine Agbor Odere Foundation
• Most Compliant Gaming Operator – KC Gaming Network (Bet9ja)
• Community/Social Impact Personality – Quinesta Ekom

The event, themed "Empowering Dreams and Transforming Futures," affirmed the state's commitment to enterprise growth, innovation, and job creation.