C'River Initiative Dismisses Eba's False Claims on Gov Otu's Election

 Judex OKORO

The Cross River State Initiative for Good Governance (CRSIFGG) has dismissed claims by the former state chairman of the All Progressives Congress Alphonsus Eba on Governor Otu's qualifications for the 2023 governorship elections.

The group rubbished his claims that Governor Otu' was disqualified from the 2023 race describing it as "disdainful" and "maligning".

Chairman of the Initiative George Sunday, who made this known during an interview also  dismissed allegations that the Governor owed his ticket victory to the former chairman as "completely false" and an attempt to tarnish the Governor's reputation.

The Initiative  cited the former chairman's removal for misappropriating N60 million from party form sales, as well as allegations of embezzling N20 million meant for local government executives, as reasons behind his bitter claims.

The Chairman  also questioned the former chairman's accusations against the Chief of Staff, asking if he was a chapter chairman or involved in party form sales.

The Initiative urged  the public to disregard the former chairman's claims, emphasizing that the Governor's emergence was "divine" and not dependent on 

any individual's support.

The group called on the embattled Eba to harken to the voices of Cross River State APC Caucus in the House of Representatives  who have called him to respectfully resign so as to allow the ship of the party to continue to sail smoothly.

According to the Initiative, the Leader of the caucus , Hon  Mike Etaba's had stated it clearly that such move "will further help to strengthen the foundations of our party as well as stir up confidence amongst Cross Riverians thereby portraying us as serious, people oriented and focused political party to reckon with come 2027", he said .

C'RIVER’S ASCENDANT PATH: Illuminating Facts In Reply To Hilliard Eta’s Misguided Utterances

CROSS RIVER STATE CONSULTATIVE FORUM, CRSCF 

PRESS STATEMENT
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

December 15, 2025

CROSS RIVER'S ASCENDANT PATH: ILLUMINATING FACTS IN REPLY TO HILLIARD ETA'S MISGUIDED UTTERANCES

Beloved Cross Riverians,

As custodians of collective wisdom and forward momentum, the Cross River State Consultative Forum (CRSCF) emerges from the heart of our shared heritage to clarify the canvas of our state's journey. Mr. Hilliard Eta's recent echoes from afar in Abuja—painting portraits of frailty, entrepreneurial voids, and revenues adrift in uncharted waters—deserve a brushstroke of reality, not retort. In the tapestry of time, Governor Senator Bassey Edet Otu's tenure of two and a half years weaves threads of resilience and renewal, turning whispers of want into choruses of capability. If doubt dances like shadows at dusk, let facts flood the dawn, revealing a state not stumbling, but striding with purpose under the "People First" banner.

Mr. Eta, consider the fallacy of fragility: Our state stands robust, fortified by a 106% leap in Internally Generated Revenue (IGR), escalating from N20.5 billion in 2022 to N36 billion by mid-2024, courtesy of streamlined digital collections, sealed fiscal gaps, and incentivized performance. This surge, harmonizing with federal allocations, fuels a N538 billion 2025 budget—elevated 17% from its predecessor—with 66% dedicated to capital endeavors that pulse with public need. 

Sarcasm aside, those proclaiming stasis might have missed the memo on Tinapa's triumphant return from AMCON's grasp in November 2025, now magnetizing investors and infusing N14 billion through a Calabar Carnival that enchanted 300,000 souls, or the N18 billion tourism infusion repositioning us as West Africa's leisure luminary. 

Mr. Eta, the dirge of entrepreneurial dearth dissolves in the deluge of Otu's initiatives, where innovation isn't an illusion but an irrigated field yielding bounties. The N30 billion Project Grow fund nurtures mechanized marvels in maize, rice, cassava, and fisheries, birthing over 100,000 jobs and N50 billion in revenues.  

Pioneering the South-South's first digital soil fertility map, we've dispersed 625,000 oil palm nuts, fertilizers aplenty, and seeds galore, spawning 286 agribusinesses that generate N4.74 billion and 2,158 opportunities for youth and women.  

For tomorrow's trailblazers, September 2025's N800 million grants empowered 400 youths—distilled from 5,000 trainees at CSS Farms at Nasarawa community—to cultivate agribusiness empires, especially in Calabar Municipality's dynamic Nasarawa enclave.  

Complementing this, the Retirees Entrepreneurship Development Initiative (REDI) allocates N250 million to 500 elders for business births, while N1.2 billion in MSME loans via MEDA equips 8,000 in nano-enterprises.  

One might wryly wonder: If enterprise is extinct, how explain the 50,000-hectare rice expanse in Ogoja and Bekwarra, or Odukpani's 2,000-hectare maize mosaic, both fortresses of food security and employment fortitude? 

Mr. Eta, to the specter of squandered surpluses, behold the symphony of stewardship: Over 200 kilometers of roads reborn across realms, from Calabar South's urban veins to Yala's Akhreha-Okpoku span; 270 solar sentinels lighting Yakurr and Ogoja; and CallyAir's fleet fortified, soaring Calabar skies and knitting connections.  

Education enlightens with WAEC sponsorships for 31,000+ scholars, boasting a 72.1% triumph; 26 fresh classroom citadels; and new bastions like the University of Education and Entrepreneurship, plus ITM-Ugep's federal ascension.  

Health heals through 204 new professionals, Ikom's revamped General Hospital, gratis care for the fragile in 1,034 havens, and child stunting curtailed from 25% to below 2%.  

Gratuities of N10 billion restore retiree repose, the World Bank maritime venture unleashes blue economy waves, and environmental ethos reforests Obanliku and Akamkpa, curbing deforestation by 20%.  

In employment's embrace, 19,800 souls now thrive in state and public civil services, augmenting the 7,000 already enlisted by the local government services—a cascade of opportunities that mocks murmurs of missed moments. 

Mr. Eta, amid this progress, one cannot overlook the prevailing peace and security that has enveloped Cross River like a gentle dawn mist over our hills—a serenity that has endured unbroken throughout Governor Otu's two and a half years. Gone are the shadows of cult violence, rampant kidnappings, armed robbery, petty theft and farmer-herder tensions that once dimmed our horizon; today, farmers till their fields without fear, traders ply markets in harmony, and families sleep under stars unmarred by unrest. This tranquil canvas, painted through proactive community policing, distribution of security vehicles to 177 wards, inter-ethnic/inter religious dialogues, and youth empowerment that channels energies into productivity, has fostered an environment where investment flows freely and development thrives unhindered—a quiet miracle that speaks louder than any rhetoric of weakness.

In this maritime renaissance, the recent federal endorsement shines as a beacon of bold vision. Just days ago, on December 12, 2025, the Federal Executive Council approved the Bakassi Deep Seaport as a flagship Public-Private Partnership project, poised to attract $2.27 billion in private investment.  

This greenfield marvel—fully financed by private sector dynamism—will accommodate colossal vessels, integrate an industrial cluster and Free Trade Zone, and emerge as a vital gateway for Nigeria's North-Central and North-East regions, while serving as a premier hub for West and Central Africa.  

Thousands of jobs will cascade from its docks, decongesting national ports and elevating our blue economy to global tides. One cannot help but smile at the timing: Claims of weakness arrive precisely as this monumental approval anchors our future, a testament to Governor Otu's relentless advocacy that transformed long-held dreams into federally sealed destiny. Yet, the waves of progress extend deeper, with the Nigerian Navy's Hydrographic Office, under Rear Admiral Ayo Olugbode—the Hydrographer of the Federation—delivering updated navigational charts that remap our coastal expanses to cutting-edge S-100 international standards.  

This hydrographic symphony, flagged off in December 2024 and culminating in a grand presentation to Governor Otu in August 2025, integrates geophysical and geotechnical data, affirming Cross River's littoral stature and silencing outdated debates on our seaward sovereignty.  

In tandem, the inter-agency chorus—featuring the Surveyor General of the Federation, the National Boundary Commission, and state cartographic expertise—has charted fresh coordinates, revealing that 67 of the 76 long-lost oil wells nestle firmly within our maritime embrace, as etched in Nigeria's 11th Edition Administrative Map and the 2004 Well Dichotomy Study.  

Through Governor Otu's petition in March 2024 and unwavering pursuit of justice, these revelations—once veiled by 2012 judicial shadows—now buoy our claim, reclaiming resources from neighboring grasps without the need for stormy confrontations, all while bolstering derivation revenues and economic harmony.  

How poetic, that remapping the sea not only paves paths for ports but restores wellsprings of prosperity, turning tides of loss into currents of gain. While some, ensconced in external echoes, may cling to outdated optics—perhaps from a "last visit" that overlooked these tides of transformation—we urge a return to roots: Behold the subsidized tractors trundling to tillers, agro-hubs humming with harvest, digital deeds securing lands for legions, and now, the Bakassi horizon beckoning billions in investment. Cross River rises, its story scripted in sweat and strategy, holding helm-holders to high standards through deeds, not discord. As 2027's horizon gleams, rally round Otu's odyssey of opportunity, where every citizen claims a stake in this era of earnest elevation.

In solidarity for sustenance and synergy.

Signed:

Barr. Eyo Nsa Ekpo

Chairman, Cross River State Consultative Forum (CRSCF)

Dr. Ochim Julius Okputu

Secretary, Cross River State Consultative Forum (CRSCF)

Fed. Poly Rectorship: Etaba Round Peg in a Round Hole, Obla Hails Governing Council

Ukorebi Esien  | December 20, 2025

CALABAR – A former presidential aide and legal practitioner, Chief Okoi Obono-Obla, has described Dr. Okimba Peter Etaba as a "round peg in a round hole" following his emergence as the leading candidate for the position of Rector of the Federal Polytechnic, Ugep, Cross River State.

Obono-Obla, who spoke in a statement made available to journalists on Tuesday, commended the Governing Council of the institution for what he described as a transparent, merit-driven, and law-compliant selection process.

According to him, Dr. Etaba emerged as the most outstanding candidate among those who presented themselves for the interview, having satisfied all the requirements stipulated in the Federal Polytechnic Act of 2019 and the guidelines of the Federal Ministry of Education for the appointment of chief executive officers of federal tertiary institutions.

"Dr. Okimba Peter Etaba is a round peg in a round hole. He has met all the statutory criteria and clearly distinguished himself in the interview process. The Governing Council deserves commendation for allowing merit and due process to prevail," Obono-Obla said.

He stressed that the Council has a constitutional and moral obligation to forward Dr. Etaba's name to the Minister of Education for recommendation to the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria for formal appointment.

"The Governing Council has no choice but to transmit his name. Anything short of this would be a travesty and wholly unacceptable, as it would amount to a clear violation of existing laws and guidelines," he added.

Obono-Obla expressed confidence that the Council would act with speed and responsibility in concluding the process.

"I am confident that the Governing Council will act with dispatch and alacrity in forwarding Dr. Etaba's name, thereby reinforcing the principles of fairness, merit, and institutional integrity," he stated.

He noted that appointing Dr. Etaba would not only be in line with due process but would also set a positive precedent for leadership selection across Nigeria's tertiary education sector.

"This appointment will send a strong message that competence and integrity still matter in public institutions and that rules will be respected regardless of external pressures," Obono-Obla concluded.

Before now, the APC Obubra Chapter of the All Progressives Congress had also issued a separate statement congratulating Dr. Etaba on his emergence, describing it as a victory for merit and fairness. Similarly, the Concerned Youth for Good Governance and Leadership Development, commended Governor Bassey Edet Otu for ensuring a free and credible selection process, noting that Dr. Etaba's emergence goes beyond his strong academic and administrative credentials. According to the group, his selection is also significant as Obubra Local Government Area, long perceived as politically and institutionally marginalised, has finally secured a notable federal appointment, a development they described as both compensatory and confidence-building, while projecting a positive image of inclusion and equity in public service appointments.

The rectorship position at the Federal Polytechnic, Ugep, is expected to become vacant soon, prompting heightened public interest in the outcome of the selection process.

Abon Abang Foundation Staff Celebrate Executive Director, Engr. George Abang, on Birthday

Staff and members of the Abon Abang Foundation have paid glowing tributes to their Executive Director, Engr. George Ndifon Abang, PhD, as he marks his birthday today, describing him as a visionary leader whose passion for humanitarian service continues to transform lives.

In a congratulatory message issued by members of the Foundation and signed by Elvis Okorn Tbi, Director of Programmes and Project, the staff commended Engr. Abang for his dedication to community development, inclusive governance, and sustainable humanitarian interventions across Cross River State and beyond.

According to the message, Engr. Abang's leadership has been instrumental in shaping impactful programmes that address the needs of vulnerable groups, while fostering a culture of professionalism, teamwork, and excellence within the organization.

"Your leadership, humility, and unwavering commitment to service inspire us daily. Under your guidance, our programmes and projects have delivered meaningful results and restored hope to many," the message read.

The staff further prayed for renewed strength, sound health, and greater wisdom for the celebrant, expressing confidence that his vision and passion will continue to drive the Foundation's mission to greater heights.

Engr. George Ndifon Abang, PhD, is widely respected for his engineering expertise and humanitarian leadership, serving as the Executive Director of the Abon Abang Foundation, where he has championed initiatives focused on social welfare, empowerment, and community development.

The birthday celebration, according to staff members, is not only a moment to honour the Executive Director but also an opportunity to reaffirm their collective commitment to the Foundation's vision under his leadership.

Yuletide Outreach: Otu’s Wife, Abon Abang Foundation Feed 100 Widows in Obubra, Etung LGAs

By Judex Okoro

In the true spirit of Christmas, the wife of the Governor of Cross River State, Her Excellency, Bishop Dr. Eyoawan Itam Bassey Otu, through her humanitarian initiative, Humanities Without Borders, in partnership with the Abon Abang Foundation, has extended love and compassion to widows in Obubra and Etung Local Government Areas.

The yuletide outreach reached no fewer than 100 widows across the two LGAs, providing food items and other essential support aimed at easing their burden and enabling them to celebrate the season with dignity and joy.

Representing the First Lady during the outreach was Dr. Inyang Asibong, former Commissioner for Health and Special Adviser on NGOs, who led members of the Humanities Without Borders team to the beneficiary communities.

In Obubra Local Government Area, the delegation was formally received by the Vice Chairman, Hon. Leonard Ogwa, alongside members of the council's executive, who commended the gesture and described it as timely and impactful.

Similarly, in Etung Local Government Area, the outreach team was warmly welcomed by the Wife of the Council Chairman, Mrs. Akinne Anom, in the company of the Executive Director of the Abon Abang Foundation, Engr. George Ndifon Abang, PhD.

Speaking during the distribution exercise, Engr. Abang explained that the outreach was conceived to ensure that widows and other vulnerable persons are not left out of the joy associated with the Christmas season.

According to him, "This initiative is about sharing love, warmth, and hope. Christmas teaches us to care for one another, especially those who need our support the most. We will continue to look into the needs of widows and vulnerable persons within our communities."

He reaffirmed the commitment of the Abon Abang Foundation, in collaboration with the First Lady's office, to sustained humanitarian service and interventions that promote dignity and social inclusion.

The outreach drew heartfelt appreciation from beneficiaries, many of whom described the gesture as a source of relief and renewed hope.

One of the beneficiaries from Etung, Mrs. Jessica Agbor, expressed gratitude, saying the support made her feel remembered and valued during a difficult period.

"It is not easy to live without a husband, especially during festive seasons like this," she said. "Sometimes, it feels like the community has forgotten you. But this gesture shows that we are not alone. We sincerely thank the Governor's wife and the Abon Abang Foundation for remembering us."

The outreach further underscored the dedication of Her Excellency, Bishop Dr. Eyoawan Itam Bassey Otu, and the Abon Abang Foundation to promoting compassion, inclusion, and social responsibility across communities in Cross River State. 

UPHOLDING MERIT AND FAIRNESS: A COMMENDATION OF RESPONSIBLE LEADERSHIP

In a political climate where public confidence in institutions is often tested, moments of fairness and transparency deserve not only recognition but commendation. The ongoing process leading to the emergence of Dr. Okimba Peter Etaba, as the preferred candidate for the position of Rector of the Federal Polytechnic, Ugep, stands out as an example of how leadership should function guided by merit, due process, and institutional integrity.

We sincerely appreciate His Excellency, the Governor of Cross River State, Apostle, Sen. Prince Bassey Edet Otu, for ensuring an atmosphere that allows competence to thrive and due process to prevail. By enabling a free, fair, and transparent selection process, the Governor has once again reinforced his administration's commitment to people-centred governance and respect for established procedures. Such leadership reassures citizens, particularly young people, that excellence and hard work still matter in public affairs.

Equally deserving of commendation is the Governing Council of the Federal Polytechnic, Ugep, under the chairmanship of Distinguished Senator Florence Ita-Giwa, The Council's adherence to laid-down guidelines and its conduct of a credible selection process reflect institutional maturity and a deep sense of responsibility. Senator Ita-Giwa's leadership in overseeing a process anchored on merit and fairness demonstrates statesmanship and respect for the sanctity of collective decision-making.

The emergence of Dr Okimba Peter Etaba

is therefore not accidental, nor sentimental. It is the outcome of qualification, performance, and credibility. His academic background, administrative capacity, and understanding of the institution's mission position him as the right choice to provide purposeful leadership that will strengthen academic standards, institutional growth, and community relevance.

Importantly, Dr. Etaba's emergence also carries symbolic significance. Obubra Local Government Area, despite its demographic strength and long-standing contributions to the development of Cross River State, has over the years remained underrepresented in key strategic appointments. His selection therefore represents not just merit rewarded, but inclusion advanced, an affirmation that every part of the state belongs and matters in the collective journey of progress.

We congratulate Dr. Okimba Peter Etaba on this well-earned recognition and commend the Governing Council for a decision that reflects fairness, balance, and foresight. We are confident that his leadership will justify the trust reposed in him and bring pride to the institution, Obubra, and Cross River State at large.

It is now our respectful expectation that this commendable process be brought to its natural and honourable conclusion. We call on the Governing Council to finalize its recommendation by ensuring the timely transmission of Dr. Etaba's name through the Federal Ministry of Education to the Presidency for final approval, announcement, and inauguration. Completing this process will further strengthen public trust and preserve the credibility of all parties involved.

When leaders choose fairness, they earn lasting goodwill. When institutions uphold merit, they inspire confidence. This moment offers an opportunity to affirm both, and history will remember it kindly. 

 

–Concerned Youth for Good Governance and Development, Obubra Chapter

CAVEAT:

This opinion represents solely the views of the Obubra Chapter of Concerned Youth for Good Governance and Development and is expressed in the interest of promoting merit-based leadership, institutional integrity, and inclusive development. It does not purport to reflect the positions of The Daily News, its staff or management nor any government institution, political party, or public office holder.

Fed. Poly Ugep: Youth Group Hail Otu, Ita-Giwa over Choice of Rector

A youth-based civic organisation, Concerned Youth for Good Governance and Development (Obubra Chapter), has commended the Governor of Cross River State, Sen. Prince Bassey Edet Otu, and the Chairman of the Governing Council of the Federal Polytechnic, Ugep, Senator Florence Ita-Giwa, over what it described as a transparent and merit-driven process that led to the emergence of Dr. OKimba Peter Etaba as the preferred candidate for the position of Rector.

In a statement issued and published on social media, (Wetin Sup Today Facebook handle) the group praised Governor Otu for fostering an atmosphere that allowed due process and institutional independence to thrive.

We commend His Excellency, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, for allowing a free, fair, and transparent process to take place. This reflects a leadership style that respects merit and strengthens public confidence in governance, the group said.

The youth group also lauded the Governing Council of the institution, under the leadership of Senator Florence Ita-Giwa, for adhering strictly to established procedures in the conduct of the rectorship interview and selection exercise.

 "The Governing Council, led by Senator Florence Ita-Giwa, demonstrated maturity and integrity by conducting a credible process anchored on laid-down rules. This is how public institutions should function, the statement added.

According to the group, Dr. Etaba emerged from the exercise based on merit, having satisfied all statutory requirements and performed credibly during the screening and interview stages.

'⁸Dr. Kimba Peter Taba's emergence was not accidental. It was the outcome of qualification, competence, and a transparent evaluation process. He has the academic and administrative capacity required to lead the Federal Polytechnic, Ugep, at this critical stage of its development," the group noted.

Beyond merit, the organisation said the selection also advances the principle of inclusive representation, pointing out that Obubra Local Government Area has historically remained underrepresented in key strategic appointments despite its demographic and electoral significance.

"For Obubra, this development is both encouraging and symbolic. It sends a strong message that no part of the state should be excluded when qualified candidates are available," the statement said.

The group congratulated Dr. Etaba on his emergence and urged the Governing Council to conclude the process by ensuring the timely transmission of his name through the Federal Ministry of Education to the Presidency for final approval and inauguration.

"We respectfully call on the Council to complete this commendable process by transmitting the recommendation to the appropriate authorities. Doing so will preserve the credibility of the institution and the integrity of the process," the group stated.

The organisation emphasized that its position represents a civic intervention in support of good governance and merit-based leadership.

 "Our intervention is purely civic and driven by the desire to see fairness, due process, and institutional integrity upheld in Cross River State and Nigeria at large," the statement concluded.

Read full statement here Obubra Youth Statement on Fed POLLITEECNIC UGEP

Who Will Wear the Crown, as 22 Young People Jostle for Stardom

Ukorebi Esien  | December 16, 2025

CALABAR – The city of Calabar is once again set for an evening of glamour, talent and youthful ambition as 22 young contestants compete for honours at the 11th edition of the Entrepreneur Queen Nigeria (EQN) High School Program and Awards, scheduled for Friday, December 19, 2025. at the Akai Efa Town Hall, MCC Road, Calabar.

Organised by Gold Touch Organisation, the annual event has grown into a respected platform for discovering, mentoring and celebrating young talents in entrepreneurship, leadership and the creative arts. The 2025 edition, themed "Emerging Starz," will see participants drawn from secondary schools showcasing their skills through fashion displays, runway presentations, dance, creativity and enterprise-driven performances.

Activities for the day will begin with an Ankara Carpet session at 5:00pm, followed by the main event at 6:00pm, featuring competitive showcases, entertainment performances and award presentations.

A major highlight of the ceremony is the Entrepreneur Queen Nigeria Initiative (EQNI), segment, focused on "Transforming Young Women in Leadership and the Creative Economy." Through this initiative, young girls are encouraged to develop confidence, leadership capacity and entrepreneurial thinking.

The event will also host distinguished guests, with the Commissioner for Education, Cross River State, Senator Dr. Stephen Odey, attending as Special Guest of Honour, reinforcing government support for youth empowerment and education-focused programmes.

Over the past eleven editions, the Entrepreneur Queen Nigeria platform has consistently produced confident young leaders and creative talents, many of whom have gone on to excel academically and socially. As the curtains rise on the 2025 edition, all eyes will be on the stage as the 22 contestants jostle for stardom and the ultimate crown.

With colourful performances by dancers, comedians and guest artistes, the night promises inspiration, excitement and celebration of youthful potential, as Calabar waits to see who will wear the crown.

Ebokpo Empowers 250 Students, 55 Widows, Rice Farmers In Obubra

 

Ovat Lawrence  | December 16, 2025

In a sustained demonstration of compassion and people-focused leadership, the Commissioner for Agriculture and Irrigation Development, Hon. Johnson Andiambey Ebokpo, KSM, has awarded bursaries to 250 students across various tertiary institutions under the second edition of the Johnson Ebokpo Bursary Scheme.

The empowerment programme, held over the weekend in Obubra Local Government Area, also featured the distribution of household items, cash support and other palliatives to 55 widows, as well as the provision of mechanised farming inputs to 14 rice-producing communities in the area.

Speaking at the event, Hon. Ebokpo expressed profound gratitude to God for His guidance and sustenance, while appreciating His Excellency, Sen. Prince Bassey Edet Otu, for the opportunity to serve and positively impact lives.

The Commissioner also extended appreciation to the First Lady, Bishop Mrs. Eyoanwan Bassey Otu for serving as a model through her numerous humanity programmes.

He prayed for sustained grace to continue serving the people of Obubra and commended the event's planning committee led by Dr. Cletus Omono and Hon. Solomon Ekam for their effective coordination of the programme.

Community members and beneficiaries expressed appreciation for the Commissioner's generosity, offering prayers for divine reward and greater accomplishments in his service to humanity.

Representing the Traditional Rulers' Council, HRH Ovat Bob Mbina Mbina Ajom III described the empowerment initiative as epoch-making, noting that despite being an appointee, Hon. Ebokpo has surpassed the achievements of many elected officeholders. He prayed for expanded opportunities for the Commissioner to further impact society.

In separate remarks, the Chairman of the event Dr. Sylvernus Odong, Prof. Enang the key note speaker, Mr. Albert Ovat, President of Federation of Obubra students Association worldwide (FOSA WW), and Comr. Ndoghi Ogidi, President of NACRIS UNICAL Chapter, both commended the Commissioner's consistent benevolence, called for greater responsibilities to be entrusted to the Honourable Commissioner 

A major highlight of the event was the defection of Comrade Eno David, PDP Ward Chairman of Ofumbongha-Yala, alongside several supporters, who attributed their decision to the Commissioner's people-oriented initiatives. Comrade Eno thanked Hon. Ebokpo for his generosity and prayed for sustained grace in his leadership journey.

The programme was further enlivened by cultural performances, including the Eweweh dance from Ofumbongha Number 3, Ekana dance from Ovonum, Ntime and Idang dance from Ogada communities.

The event attracted a wide range of stakeholders, including traditional rulers, university dons, captains of industry, and party supporters from both state and local government levels.

Colour, Culture, Chieftaincy Titles Mark 4th Edition of Bunya wa Efut Festival

Ukorebi Esien | December 14, 2025

CALABAR – The city of Calabar was awash with colour, pageantry and deep cultural symbolism on Saturday as the Efut Nation staged the 4th edition of the Bunya wa Efut Festival, a celebration that blended rich traditional heritage with modern spectacle and royal grandeur.

Held at the Atu Field along Mayne Avenue in Calabar South Local Government Area, the festival attracted a large turnout of traditional rulers, government officials, political leaders, academics, cultural troupes and indigenes of Efut Nation from across and beyond Cross River State.

The atmosphere was electrifying as traditional drummers, dancers and masquerades took turns to thrill the audience, offering vivid expressions of Efut history, maritime livelihood and ancestral identity. Clad in colourful traditional regalia, chiefs and clan heads processed ceremonially to pay homage to the Muri Munene of Efut Nation, His Royal Majesty, Prof. Itam Hogan Itam Nnankor, JP, the Natural Ruler and Grand Patriarch of the Efut people.

Declaring the festival open, the Chairman of the Occasion, Etubom Architect Bassey Eyo Ndem, described Bunya wa Efut as a powerful platform for cultural revival, unity and pride, noting that the festival has grown in scope and significance since its inception.

"This celebration affirms who we are as a people. It is about honouring our king, preserving our heritage and projecting the Efut Nation to the world," he said, before formally declaring the 4th Bunya wa Efut Festival open.

A major highlight of the festival was the conferment of honorary chieftaincy titles on eminent Nigerians in recognition of their contributions to governance, education and societal development. Among those honoured were the Governor of Cross River State, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, and his wife, Her Excellency, Bishop (Dr.) Mrs Eyoanwan Itam Bassey Otu. The Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem also received a chieftaincy title.

Other awardees included the Vice Chairman of the Cross River State Planning Commission, senior academics such as serving and former vice-chancellors of tertiary institutions, federal and state legislators, and notable professionals from various sectors.

In his royal message, delivered at the event, the Muri Munene traced the ancestral roots of the Efut people to Southern Cameroon and reaffirmed the nation's place as one of the indigenous communities of the Cross River Basin. He used the occasion to call for renewed commitment to the preservation of Efut culture and values, while appealing for support towards the revitalisation of the traditional palace.

Beyond the speeches and honours, the festival remained a visual spectacle, with royal processions, rhythmic drumming, traditional songs and communal celebration dominating the venue well into the day.

Organisers described the 2025 edition as a significant milestone, noting that Bunya wa Efut has evolved into a major cultural event that complements Cross River State's tourism and Christmas celebration calendar.

As the drums faded and festivities drew to a close, participants expressed optimism that the annual celebration would continue to grow, strengthening cultural identity, unity and pride among the Efut people while showcasing their heritage to a wider audience.