Cross River State governor, Ben Ayade, has cancels the 2021 Calabar carnival.
He cited the health concerns arising from the outbreak of COVID-19 variant, Omicron, as well as prevailing security situation as reasons for the suspension.
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.
Government official say 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.