culture. The
police claimed that the palace guards were responsible for a
'murder' several months ago, but there's been no body, and
no other evidence. It's telling that this invasion happened
the day after
'elections' where the Governor Imoke is a leader.

Before Calabar Burns,
8/8/2008 Press Release from the Etubom Traditional Council of the Efik
Nation on the murder and mayhem committed by Cross River State government
backed militias, with photos of some victims.

EDIDEM Bassey Ekpo Bassey II,
one of the contestants to the lingering Obongship crisis narrowly escaped
death yesterday as militants group suspected to be members of "Isakaba"
invaded his residence cum palace.

No reason was given for the attack but it may not be
unconnected with his persistent in getting justice in the Obongship
crisis.

Armed with dangerous weapons, the group stormed the No
11, Ikot Esu Square, residence of Basseyin Calabar and caused serious
havoc. There was still tension but heavily armed mobile policemen have
been deployed to maintain security in the area

The assailants, about 25 in number, armed with guns,
machetes, knives, clubs and charms, invaded Bassey's residence at about
9.00a.m. and made straight for the inner chambers of his house, where he
usually receives his visitors, with a plan to kill him.

The initial move by the invaders was resisted by
Bassey's guards and staff who succeeded in preventing the Isakaba members
from doing any harm to Bassey but at great cost as some of the guards and
staff were severely injured.

Also attacked and seriously manhandled by the invaders
is a Cuban national, Professor Ivor Miller, who is in Nigeria to conduct
his research on some aspect of African culture, especially the Ekpe.
[Correction: Ivor Miller is