By Maxwell Effiong
The Golden Pals international, a sociological association on Monday shocked the Ndidem Elect and Paramount Ruler of Calabar Municipal, Ndidem Eta Bassey Eteta III when they gathered at his residence singing jolly tunes to wish the monarch a happy birthday.
This was despite the wish of the monarch to be left alone as he turned 80. The octogenarian had said his 70th birthday was too elaborate and he was more focused on the task ahead than festivities.
But, did this not deter the group who donned their white attires and kept singing until the monarch was forced to come out and join the celebrations in his honor.
The monarch said he never knew such a group existed and warned against backbiting and unnecessary schemes.
“I know that some of you here will scheme behind me because you are close to me,” he said, and caused laughter when he said: “keep scheming but do not be caught.”
He commended the group and informed them that his reign as the Ndidem will see a more open monarchy that welcomes ideas from every member of the Qua nation.
He sued for their cooperation as he promised to lead them to the best of his ability even as he hoped that the younger generation will revert back to their true cultural heritage and humble themselves in order to live long.
The president of the group, Elder Etta Agbor Edim said that the group is optimistic that the reign of Ndidem Eta Bassey Eteta will work with the youths to make the Qua nation a better place and prayed God for good things not to pass them by during his stay on the throne.