The Henshaw Town Council in Calabar South Local Government staged a peaceful protest to draw government attention to lingering issues that have created fear and unrest in the community.
According to a petition that was also signed by the Council’s spokesperson, Adim Glory Henshaw (Secretary, Mbono Iban Nsidung), the crisis stems from the actions of Etubom Nyong Effiom Okon (NEO), who continues to lay claim to the Presidency of the Council despite his removal in July 2019 and subsequent invalidation of his authority.
Issues Raised by the Henshaw Town Council Protesters
The protesters highlighted the following grievances which they insist require urgent government intervention:
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Terror and Intimidation: Continuous land grabbing, frequent arrests, detention, wrongful trials, and convictions of community members.
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Abuse of Office: Allegations against a government-certified traditional ruler of unlawful appropriation and sale of community lands and properties (including Cowan House, the Health Centre, and Uyu’s land), as well as extortion of community members and investors.
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Illegitimate Authority: Persistent claim to leadership by Etubom Nyong Effiom Okon despite his legal removal, causing division and unrest in the community.
The peaceful demonstration extended to the Governor’s Office. Although Governor Bassey Otu was absent, the protesters were received by Otuekong Frank Edet, Special Adviser on Chieftaincy Affairs.
Otuekong Frank commended the community for maintaining peace during the protest. He assured them that their grievances would be conveyed to the Governor for urgent attention.
The protesters also visited the Palace of the Obong of Calabar, where kingsmen of the Obong reassured them that the matter would be handled by the Council of Chiefs. Finally, they proceeded to the office of the Chief Judge of Cross River State, Hon. Justice Akon Bassey Ikpeme, where a representative pledged to deliver their message to the Chief Judge.
What Henshaw Town Council Wants the Governor to Do
The protesters outlined six key demands:
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Justice and Intervention: Take immediate action to restore peace and justice in Henshaw Town.
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Removal of Etubom Nyong Effiom Okon: Strip him of authority as Clan Head and Paramount Ruler for actions that violate his oath and disrupt community peace.
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Investigation of Allegations: Launch a full inquiry into land grabbing, extortion, intimidation, and misuse of security forces for unlawful arrests.
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Protection of Legitimate Leadership: Guarantee the safety of the authentic Henshaw Town Council leadership and ensure the Nkot Mbk Nsiduñg peace process continues unhindered.
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Probe the Anti-Cultism Squad Incident: Investigate the alleged unlawful arrest and detention of council members on September 25, 2025.
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Safeguard the Peace Process: Ensure the Nkot Mbk Nsiduñg initiative proceeds without threats or interference.
Conclusion
The peaceful protest underscored the community’s determination to seek justice through lawful means. With appeals made to the Governor, the Obong of Calabar, and the Chief Judge of Cross River State, the Henshaw Town Council awaits swift government action to resolve the leadership crisis and restore lasting peace in their community.
