Youth Group of Efik Extraction Decries Growing Violence, Crimes in Calabar; Wants SSD to produce Governor, 2023

An umbrella body of Efik Youth Leaders in the 12 Clans of Efik Nation – Nka Ikemesit Nkparawa Essien Efik Duob-Eba, has criticised the increasing trend of violence and criminal activities in Calabar and other Efik communities in Cross River State.

The group announced its displeasure in a communiqué issued at the end of its 2021 inaugural general meeting held at Margaret Ekpo International Airport Field, Calabar, a copy which was made available to our correspondent.

The communiqué signed by its Chairman, Ekpo Ekeng,, Secretary, Chief Ekpenyong Bassey Ekpenyong and other Principal Officers, appealed to Efik indigenes, residents and visitors to abide by the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), by allowing peace to reign in Efik land.

It noted that Calabar had been known as the most peaceful place in the country and urged the youths and residents to cooperate with the association to achieve peace in Efik nation.

Furthermore, the association called on political parties in Cross River to abide by the rotational accord which gives the Southern Senatorial District the shot to produce the next governor in 2023, stressing that, “anything short of that will breach equity and create confusion and chaos in the state.”

“Those who consulted us during the last governorship election can testify to our strength and commitment to delivering a candidate of our choice.

“Although we are still waiting to receive the benefits of our effort but we will do much more in 2023 by mobilizing all households in Efik nation to come out in their numbers to vote a candidate of their choice; politics we know, is a game of numbers, it’s a task that must be done in 2023,” the association stated.

Again, youths of Efik extraction were advised by the group to apply for the ongoing Federal Government empowerment programmes in the country as well as those in charge of the programme to ensure that the people, particularly at the grassroot benefit from it.

The assembly declared its loyalty and support to the Obong of Calabar, Edidem Abasi Otu V and vowed to ensure that peace is restored in Calabar.