Obong of Calabar cancels birthday over insecurity in Nigeria

The Obong of Calabar, Edidem Ekpo Okon Abasi Otu V, has called off his birthday celebrations in a gesture of solidarity with grieving Nigerians. The decision comes in light of last week’s tragic abduction of 25 schoolgirls, attacks on Christian congregations, and the killing of soldiers by insurgents. In a statement issued in Calabar, the […]

The Obong of Calabar, Edidem Ekpo Okon Abasi Otu V, has called off his birthday celebrations in a gesture of solidarity with grieving Nigerians.

The decision comes in light of last week’s tragic abduction of 25 schoolgirls, attacks on Christian congregations, and the killing of soldiers by insurgents.

In a statement issued in Calabar, the monarch said it would be “pointless” to celebrate while so many across the country are suffering.

He cancelled public gatherings, cultural displays, and all congratulatory visits, calling instead for a day of quiet reflection and prayer for the bereaved.

The palace extended “profound condolences” to the families of the abducted girls from the Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School in Maga, Kebbi State, where gunmen killed a staff member and stole into dormitories on November 17, 2025.

In his message, the Obong specifically mentioned the affected regions — Kebbi, Kwara and Zamfara — describing the insecurity as a national tragedy, not confined to any particular part of Nigeria.

 “Though these tragedies lie beyond Efik borders, the pain is borne by the nation, and the throne shares in it with heartfelt compassion,” the statement read.