African-American Ladies Trace Genealogy To Efik
... Homecoming Excites Efik Kingdom
No fewer than five African-American ladies have been officially welcomed into the Abasi Ntiero Family of Ntiero Edem Efiom Ekpo Royal House of Efik Eburutu Kingdom, in a long last quest to reconnect with their Efik origin.
The event was graced by the presence of the Obong of Calabar, Edidem Ekpo Okon Abasi-Otu V and other members of the Etuboms Council, highlighted the cultural inclusiveness of the Efik people, The Beagle News can authoritatively report.
The Obong of Calabar expressed delight at the ladies' decision to trace their origin, describing it as a, "a welcomed development."
"We don't want to shy away from it. For those who want to trace their roots and have found somewhere convenient for them that they can actually fit in. Please don't hesitate to do it. Do it. So I welcome all of you to Nigeria. I welcome all of you to Calabar. I welcome all of you back as you are now a part of the ancient Efik Eburutu Kingdom."
A representative of the American ladies conveyed their gratitude and sense of belonging, averring that, "I feel that I and my fellow African American ladies are now finally back home. We all feel so special and connected to all the Efik brothers and sisters we have met. Thank you very much for accepting us into your family and home." The ladies, part of a community service-oriented association, chose to trace their genealogy, seeking a deeper historical connection with their heritage.
During an interview with Chioma George from Chicago, Illinois, she shared her profound experience, describing it as an honor. She emphasized the importance of bringing her sisters to experience the same homecoming that had left a lasting impact on her years ago.
Reflecting on the occasion, Etubom (Arc.) Bassey Ndem, a member of the Etuboms Traditional Council, expressed great pleasure at the accomplished American ladies identifying with the Efik culture. He acknowledged the emotional experience for the ladies and highlighted the importance of their return to their roots.
In response to questions about the status and inclusivity of the women in Efik culture, Etubom Ndem clarified, "It is not a strange practice in Efik kingdom.They are now bonafide members of our family. We have taken them through the entire process of traditional adoption, the Efik way, including their Nkanda Ekpe rites, which is reserved for favoured Efik daughters. They've been given the blessings of even our king, the Obong of Calabar,Edidem Ekpo Okon Abasi Otu V. More importantly you saw us perform a solemn traditional naming ceremony and I bestowed them with primordial Efik names like our forefathers did. They have every right now to be a part of the family, and to participate in all family activities and even to vote and be voted for."
The ladies, including Sandra Baker-Ekanem Abasi Ntiero, Amania Drane-Asari Abasi Ntiero, Brenda Camille Davis-Nkese Abasi Ntiero, Yvonne Taylor-Nkoyo Abasi Ntiero, and Dorletta Flucas Payton-Ekei Abasi Ntiero, hold notable profiles and backgrounds, reflecting a rich tapestry of achievements and community service.
The event showcased the cultural richness and acceptance within Efik traditions, providing a blueprint for other families to embrace and welcome those seeking to reconnect with their ancestral roots. The ceremony was not just a symbolic adoption but a deep and sacred initiation into the Efik family, reinforcing the spirit of inclusivity and cultural unity.
The ladies expressed their commitment to continuing their support for the Efik culture, promising to fly in from across the globe to participate in future cultural events. As they embark on this new journey, the Obong of Calabar encouraged other families to follow the path of openness and embrace individuals eager to reconnect with their ancestral heritage.
