Governors Enliven Calabar With Power-Bikes

By John Adie

Cross River state governor, Professor Ben Ayade and his predecessor, Donald Duke, have shown that if the chips are down, they might try their hands, professionally, as power-bikers and entertainers.

Both men were among power-bikers who entertained thousands of Calabar residents Friday during the Bikers’ Parade.

Among the Bikers were participants from Europe and Asia.

Speaking during the flag off, Professor Ayade, decked in biker’s safety apparels,said the essence of the parade was to demonstrate that humanity transcends religion, race, and culture.

Said he: “We are all one-in colour, in design, in economy, in class.That is humanity.That is the essessence.We have come to deepen and spend money in Calabar.We have come to bring economy into it. Before now the carnival was all about entertainment but now we are moving into business.

“And that is why we are introducing deep content that can, at least, bring the rich and wealthy into Calabar; let them come and enjoy themselves and have humanity at the back of their minds.

“Let them remember that the theme and essence of this year’s carnival are humanity-love for fellow human beings providing a shoulder for the weak and the vulnerable to lean on, and bringing everybody together on a tripod as one people, one culture, one religion which is humanity”

Bikers’ Parade is a segment of the yearly Carnival Calabar. Carnival Calabar, an international tourism fiesta, which holds between December 26 and 28 every year, attracts foreign and local visitors to the Cross River state capital.

Displaying nerve-wracking stunts, the Bikers took off from Millennium Park, near the U.J Esune Stadium, and rode through designated carnival routes, including the popular Eleven Eleven roundabout, through Mary Slessor, Marian Road and  Rabana roundabout, and then converge at an adjudication point at Marian Road.

The police and other security personnel had a hectic time controlling thousands of awe- struck spectators who lined the streets to catch a glimpse of the breathtaking stunts displayed by the Bikers.

Amazing galaxy of vintage cars driven leisurely round the streets added colour to the parade.

The spectacular displays literally enlivened Calabar as virtually all fun spots were filled with gaily dressed guests and participants, including foreigners

Petty traders also made brisk business as items like soft drinks, snacks, bottled and sachet water, among others, were in high demand.

The yearly event has turned into a major boost to the Cross River state economy.