Cross River State Governor, Prof. Ben Ayade has expressed sadness over the ugly incident where an errant motorist ran into a crowd that thronged the Carnival route to watch the bikers parade.
The Cross River State Police Command confirmed the death of six persons as well as twenty-four other casualties.
A statement by the Special Adviser on Media and Chief Press Secretary, Barr. Christian Ita said Governor Ayade is devasted by the incident and has directed security agencies to apprehend the motorist who is on the run.
While sympathising with the victims of the accident and their families, the governor, according to the statement, ordered an immediate investigation to unravel how the motorist was able to get through security barricades to have access to the routes which were closed to the public.
Ita said the Governor directed the immediate discontinuation of the Bikers parade in honour of the victims of the accident.
Governor Ayade while promising to ensure the culprit is arrested and brought to book, however, sued for calm.
The Carnival Calabar Commission has also issued a strong warning to motorists in Calabar to respect the laws of the land.
Sir Gabe Onah, Chairman CRS, Carnival Commission says, “The lack of respect for the barricades along the carnival routes will no more be tolerated. Meanwhile the Commission sympathizes with the families and victims of the unfortunate incident during the Bikers Parade. The incident happened when an errant driver ploughed into the crowd”.
He stated that, henceforth any vehicle that breaks the cordons and barricades on the streets during the carnival season will be severely dealt with according to the laws of the land.
“All revellers and participants of the annual festival should endeavor to be law abiding in the spirit of the season”.
The Commission assured all residents and all visitors that things are under control and order will be enforced in the city and their well being and security in Calabar.
