YORUBA COMMUNITY PLEDGES SUPPORT, SEEKS INCLUSION DURING COURTESY VISIT TO CALABAR SOUTH CHAIRMAN
The Executive Chairman of Calabar South Local Government Council, Pastor Hon. Patrick Okon Archibong, received in audience the executives of the Yoruba Community in Calabar South, led by their President, Pastor Tunde Afolabi, during a courtesy visit to the Council Headquarters.
In his opening remarks, Pastor Afolabi expressed profound joy over the peace and security stability that have returned to Calabar South, describing it as a visible result of purposeful leadership under Pastor Archibong’s administration. He commended the Chairman for his recent International Award of Excellence from the International Institute of Professional Security (IIPS), recognizing him as the Most Security Conscious Local Government Chairman in Nigeria.
According to him, “We have watched with pride how your leadership has restored peace and stability to Calabar South. We are happy that the world has also recognized your efforts, and we pray that God will continue to bless you with more accolades and wisdom to lead.”
The Yoruba community president further used the occasion to highlight certain concerns, noting that the group had at times felt marginalized in the affairs of the local government. He also took time to clarify the difference between the Yoruba Community and the Yoruba Muslim Community, emphasizing that the two operate independently with mutual respect.
Pastor Afolabi proudly announced the creation of a youth wing within their executive structure—an innovation that had never existed before—and formally presented their Youth Leader to the Chairman. He appealed for at least two members of the Yoruba community to be appointed to serve with the Council Chairman, so they could have firsthand access to information and opportunities for collaboration.
“We are ready to work closely with your administration to promote peace, unity, and development. The Yoruba community is committed to adding value and bringing positive results to Calabar South,” he assured.
Responding, Chairman Archibong warmly appreciated the visit, describing it as timely and in line with his administration’s open-door policy. He noted that his government is deeply rooted in Governor Bassey Otu’s inclusive governance mantra of “People First” and assured that every ethnic group under Calabar South will continue to have a sense of belonging.
“Our administration does not see tribe or tongue; we see people. The governor’s philosophy of inclusiveness is what we uphold, and Calabar South remains home to all,” the Chairman stated.
He assured the visiting delegation that their requests and appeals would be duly considered, promising to continue working with all communities in harmony. The Chairman also urged them to mobilize their members to register for their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), stressing that civic participation is the true foundation of representation and progress.
Also in attendance for the meeting were key members of the chairman's cabinet, including Chief Nathaniel Ikpeme (Council Secretary), Barr. Eyo Okor (Director General of Services and Administration), Mr. Ignatius Ekpo (Director of Finance and Supplies), Mr. Patrick Okon (Special Adviser on Peace and Security), and Mr. Lawrence Inyang (Supervisor for Education).
The visit ended on a note of renewed partnership and hope, with both parties pledging to foster unity, inclusiveness, and peace within Calabar South.
