Gov. Otu Seals Historic 32-Day Carnival with Tinkoriko Calabar Heritage
By Missang AKPET
Governor of Cross River State, Senator Bassey Otu, on Thursday graced the Tinkoriko Calabar Heritage ceremony, marking the grand finale of the state’s historic 32-day Carnival and festival celebrations, in what stakeholders have described as a defining moment for cultural inclusion and heritage preservation.
The event, which featured a formal opening ceremony at the iconic 11/11 Roundabout in Calabar, attracted a massive turnout of residents, cultural enthusiasts and stakeholders, adding colour and grandeur to the closing chapter of the 2025 Carnival season.
Declaring the Tinkoriko Calabar Heritage officially opened, Governor Otu described the extended carnival period as a testament to God’s faithfulness and the enduring unity of the Cross River people. He used the occasion to convey his New Year message, expressing optimism about the future of the state.
“I wish Cross Riverians well. We are moving to the next level. God has been very faithful, and greater things are definitely ahead. I wish everyone peaceful coexistence, long life and prosperity,” the governor said.
The inclusion of Tinkoriko Calabar Heritage in Carnival Calabar effectively ended more than two decades of advocacy for official recognition.
Giving historical insight, the founding father of Tinkoriko Calabar Heritage, Rt. Hon. Orok Duke, recalled that efforts to integrate the cultural group into the state carnival dated back to the year 2000.
He explained that while Carnival Calabar was later established through legislation, Tinkoriko remained outside the official framework for 23 years until Governor Otu, whom he described as a long-standing patron and supporter, fulfilled a promise made on January 1, 2025, to fully integrate the heritage group into the carnival.
“As part of that commitment, the governor benevolently extended Carnival Calabar to 32 days instead of the traditional 31 days to accommodate Tinkoriko,” Duke said, expressing deep appreciation.
He further disclosed that beyond ceremonial inclusion, Governor Otu has directed the institutional strengthening of Tinkoriko through the provision of a permanent office and administrative structure, enabling it to operate at the same organisational level as other carnival bands.
“Our focus is not on elaborate costumes or initiation. We exist to provide a platform for cultural and social expression. With the governor’s support, we are set to move from strength to strength,” Duke stated.
Also speaking, the President of Tinkoriko Calabar Heritage, Professor Emmanuel Eyo, described the celebration as a powerful sociocultural affirmation of unity, bringing together youths, elders, women and the wider Calabar community.
According to him, the event underscores the shared heritage of the people and reflects appreciation for the developmental strides of the Governor Bassey Otu-led administration.
