By Kelvin Ololo And Sylvia Akpan
As the rain dropped gently at the Udoakaha Jacob Esuene (U.J Esuene) stadium, Cross Riverians joined Nigerians across the country to recite deeply the powerful reflective lines and stanzas of the Nigeria National Anthem, hailing the nation at 65 years of independence from the British government.
It is six and a half decades since the nation lowered the union jack and hoisted the Nigeria flag as a sign of self rule.
The flag waves excitedly in green and white accompanied by the Cross River State blue and white flag saw children, women and various bodies of the government parade on the wet field to salute and celebrate the struggle of the heroes’ past.
Addressing participants at the celebration, the Cross River State Commissioner of Information Erasmus Ekpang said that the day offers Nigerian the opportunity to remember the struggles of the heroes’ past which gave the nation independence on First October 1960, as well as all past leaders of Nigeria that have sacrificed to keep country together as one indivisible entity.
He said “Let us therefore celebrate 65 years of strength and unity in diversity, striving for all hands to be on deck to sustain our oneness in order to achieve a great nation for a generation yet unborn.”
Eramus who double as the host of this year independence day celebration also told journalists in an interview that “the biggest problem we have in Nigeria is corruption, and if we can limit this corruption to some extant, and actually be very transparent in what we do to the people, Nigeria will become a better place. We don’t need so much wealth, we don’t need so many cars, we don’t need so many houses when a lot of people are impoverished and are suffering.” he said.
While recounting the achievement of the present administration of Governor Bassey Otu, Eramus said the ceremony was on low key affirming further that the theme of the 65th independence celebration: “All hands on deck for a greater nation” aligned with Governor Otu’s “people first agenda”, calling on all Cross Riverians to belief in the renewable hope agenda of President Ahmed Tinubu and redouble their prayers for the Executive Governor of the state to take the laudable initiative.
Governor Bassey Otu had earlier announced in a press release signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Linus Obogo that the day will be observed on low key in the state in line with the directive from the federal government.
The Governor, however congratulated Nigerian and Cross Riverians as he described the day as a sacred moment for Nigerians to look back on how far they have come as a people, celebrating their resilience, and renewing their collective vow to unity, peace, and progress. He enjoins citizens to embrace the spirit of patriotism and togetherness that binds the state and the nation in hope and destiny.
The highlight of the celebration was March passed by students, dance and cutting of the anniversary Cake.
The 65th independence day celebration was attended by some commissioners, Head of civil service, permanent secretaries, Senior Special advisers and special advisers to the Governor.
