Residents of Calabar are growing increasingly anxious as the rising insecurity in Cross River State casts a shadow over the upcoming annual Calabar Carnival scheduled for December 1, News About Nigeria gathered.
With a surge in kidnappings, there are fears that the carnival, a major cultural and tourism event, could be significantly affected.
The capital city, Calabar, has witnessed a surge in almost daily abductions, targeting professionals such as doctors, lawyers, professors, and government officials.
The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) recently called off a 40-day strike in response to the kidnapping of Professor Ekanem Ephraim, a neurologist held captive for 115 days since July.
Dr. Felix Archibong, the Chairman of NMA, expressed concern about the deteriorating security situation, stating that the state has become uninhabitable for citizens due to the activities of kidnappers.
He emphasised the potential risks for investors and tourists planning to attend the carnival.
“This is the situation in the state, and it is regrettable that our colleague is still in captivity after 115 days. We are trying so hard not to make industrial action another alternative to getting the government and security agencies to keep to their promises,” Dr Archibong said.
Residents, alarmed by the increasing cases of abduction, attributed the trend to economic hardship.
They urged the government to create a conducive business environment that can generate employment opportunities.
“My stand is that if the government cannot provide the needed jobs for the unemployed, they should at least ensure an environment for businesses to thrive,” said Abel Achor, a concerned resident.
Governor Bassey Otu has condemned the kidnappings and announced rewards for information leading to arrests.
However, locals argue that mere condemnations are insufficient to address the security challenges.
Governor Otu emphasised the need for community members to provide information to aid security forces in tackling the issue.
“The technology can detect the whereabouts of kidnappers. I had earlier granted the criminals amnesty. Only a handful came out to surrender their guns. I am not taking anything for granted.
“I have decided to go all out for them. If they won’t allow others to live in peace, they, too, won’t. They live amongst us. And so, the people must help to volunteer information about them,” Governor Otu stated.
The state Commissioner of Police, Gyogon Grimah, acknowledged that suspects have been arrested, but he stressed the necessity for more proactive measures to curb insecurity before the December carnival.
As the security situation remains a cause for concern, residents await decisive actions to ensure the safety and success of the upcoming Calabar Carnival.
