CALABAR SOUTH LG CHAIRMAN LEADS HIS COUNCIL IN COLOURFUL THANKSGIVING PARADE AND FESTIVAL OF PRAISE

*”AND HE OVERCAME”. CALABAR SOUTH CHAIRMAN LEADS LGA IN HISTORIC THANKSGIVING CARNIVAL PARADE

In a colorful fusion of praise, politics, and purpose, the Executive Chairman of Calabar South Local Government Area, Pst. Hon. Patrick Archibong, led top dignitaries and community leaders in a historic maiden edition of the Carnival Parade of Thanksgiving and Festival of Praise—a spiritual successor to the globally celebrated Carnival Calabar.

The grand event, themed “And He Overcame”, was flagged off by His Excellency, Apostle Sen. Prince Bassey Edet Otu, Governor of Cross River State, alongside his radiant wife and visionary of the parade, Her Excellency, Bishop Dr. Eyoanwan-Itam Bassey Otu.

In his heartfelt address, Governor Otu declared that “Cross River State is blessed by God,” affirming that the thanksgiving carnival is here to stay. “My mission is to see the glory of God fill this land so that peace may reign,” he proclaimed to a crowd that blended faith with festivity.

Her Excellency, the First Lady, shared the divine inspiration behind her vision, expressing a longing for “Cross Riverians to give God praise after the excitement of Carnival Calabar,” calling the act “ *symbolic and necessary.”*

Chairman Patrick Archibong, speaking in an exclusive interview, emphasized the spiritual significance of the route, most of which passed through Calabar South. “This is a spiritual cleansing of the land,” he said. “It’s about lifting Cross River through peace and prosperity. I’m proud that Calabar South was central to this divine procession.”

The parade featured vibrant floats, elaborate costumes, choreographed dance, and intercessory prayer sessions at major junctions. The spiritual ambiance was heightened by a moving performance from internationally acclaimed gospel artist Cobhams Asuquo, a native of Cross River State, whose soulful sound brought many to tears.

Special Adviser on Events, Mr. Effiong Ekpenyong, thanked the Governor for the opportunity to serve and praised the First Lady’s vision, calling her *“an icon of humanity.”*

Also in attendance were the Chief of Staff, Hon. Emmanuel Ironbar, his spouse, several commissioners, clergies, and a host of government appointees from both state and local levels.

The parade was not just a celebration—it was a prophetic proclamation: Cross River has entered a new season, one where gratitude governs, peace prevails, and divine glory leads the way.

*And indeed, He Overcame!!!*

*Nkese Eneyo*
Chief Press Secretary
Calabar South LGA