By Sylvia Akpan, Government House Correspondent
The loggerheads between the Government of Cross River State and social-cultural group, Nkot Mbok has continued to garner controversy.
In the latest developments, the State government has suspended the masquerade displaying group – Nkot Mbok indefinitely, saying it constitutes a security threat to the public.
The government in a public service announcement from the office of the State Security Adviser, Major General O. U. Obono (Retired), warned that concerned parties must adhere strictly to the suspension, stating that defaulters will be prosecuted.
Major General Obono (Rtd) averred that despite an earlier announcement suspending the planned activities of Nkot Mbok on January 24, 2025, the organizers are still planning to hold the event on February 1, 2025, without complying with the relevant laws and regulations.
He said the earlier suspension was necessitated by the organizers’ failure to obtain the necessary permits to hold the event to avoid breach of peace, law and order in the state.
The statement reads “We refer to the earlier announcement dated 24th January, 2025, suspending the planned activities of Nkot Mbok.
“Despite the said announcement, the organisers of Nkot Mbok are bent on holding the event on the 1st of February, 2025 without due permit.
“In view of the above, the activities of Nkot Mbok are hereby suspended indefinitely. Concerned parties are advised to adhere strictly to the suspension. Defaulters will be prosecuted.”
Meanwhile, an elder statesman, Senator Florence Ita Giwa has called on Cross Riverians to unite behind Governor Bassey Otu and allow him fulfill his campaign promises without distractions.
In a statement, Senator Ita-Giwa emphasized the importance of respecting Governor Otu’s position as the political leader of the state, citing his progress in just one and a half years in office.
She reminded Cross Riverians of the hard-fought battle to return power to the South in 2023 and urged them to protect this achievement and continue enjoying the current “season of sweetness.”
Senator Florence stressed the need for collaboration between lawmakers and the governor, citing her experience working with former Governor Donald Duke despite belonging to opposition part – the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
The senator described the “Back to South” agenda as an eight-year mission that is already delivering visible results and growth to the state, and urged Cross Riverians to remain united and dedicated to the course.
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