UNICAL passay of reggae movement of Nigeria hold 4th annual symposium

The University of Calabar Passay of the Reggae movement of Nigeria on Thursday 12th December held her 4th annual symposium themed, “The Role of Reggae in the Socio-Political/Cultural Development in the society” at Ndidem of Calabar palace hall, Big Qua, Ibom Layout Calabar, Cross River State.

The event which featured among others, paper presentation by Prof. Aniedi-Abasi Markson titled: “Rastas as change in the Socio-Political/Cultural Development of societies,” highlighted reggae’s contribution to international discourse on issues of injustice, resistance, love and humanity. He harped on the dynamics of the element as being cerebral, socio-political, sensual and spiritual. The function of the music he said is a vehicle for social commentary, a cathartic practice and a means for praising God,” referencing a UNESCO 2018 assertion as testament to its recognition by a BBC presenter, Dave Rodigan.

Multiple presentations were made by members of the academia on the future of Reggae and it’s role in shaping the Nigerian society. Some of such presentations was by Associate Prof. Arnold Udoka, Director of Calabar Performing Company, and Barrister Maxwell Eba, member governing council of the University of Calabar.

Goodwill messages were received from Hon. Eric Anderson, former commissioner for culture and tourism and later information in Cross River State and Mr. Patrick Ugbe, chief executive officer (CEO) of first private radio station in Calabar Hit 95.9 FM as well as from Hon. Abubakar Robert Ewa, Commissioner for Culture and Tourism who are all patrons of the association.

In his welcome address, Dr. Aaron Nwogu, HOD of Department of Linguistics and Nigerian Languages at University of Calabar who doubles as Ras Ronnie Most High Priest of Reggae Movement of Nigeria, Unical Passay described Reggae and Rastafarianism as sources of ancestral consciousness which is rooted in Africa, because of her abundant natural resources which makes it unique among committee of continents in the World.

Dignitaries at the symposium among others, were Dr. Patrick Mbu, Chief Priest and Head of Department of Marketing, University of Calabar, General Brown Bread, Renowned Reggae Musician, Empress Beatrice Koja Eriom, Empress Emilia Iso, Ras Ben Odure (Scribe), Empress Wofai Usani, Empress Agnes Nyiam and Daddy Ital who moderated the program.

Dr. Maurice Efem, State Secretary of Reggae Movement of Nigeria, Cross River State and Axe man Prince Nwoko, Chairman of Organizing Committee thanked all participants at the event and announced that as part of the ceremony to wind down the fiesta, a Reggae splash is taking place on Friday 13th December 2024 at Ndidem Play Ground, Big Qua, Ibom layout Christmas village.

By Archibong Emmanuel
(Snr. Reporter)