Cross River State governor, Sir Ben Ayade, has suspended the 2021 Calabar Carnival.
Announcing the suspension of the 2021 Carnival at State Executive Council Chamber, attended by carnival band leaders, Speaker of the state House of Assembly, Eteng Jones Williams, members of the state Executive Council, local government chairman from the 18 Council areas of the state, Governor Ayade cited the health concerns arising from the outbreak of COVID-19 variant, Omicron as well as prevailing security situation as reasons for the suspension.
READ: Africa: Aftermath of Carnival Calabar Awards, Governor Ayade Suspends Gabe Onah
He said he would not as a governor and leader compromise the lives and safety of the citizens for the fleeting excitement of the carnival.
Before announcing the suspension, Ayade had subjected the decision to popular votes, following which majority of the stakeholders voted for the suspension of the carnival.
