By Awade Friday
MC Mbakara my friend, this is the first time I am writing to you openly after years of us not talking with each other on the phone or even chatting on WhatsApp because I don’t want my opinion to be misinterpreted.
I have been thinking about how to respond to your post in a way you will not see it as a “Bigman Gateman” beefing with a big man. Because e no dey hard for big man to quick vex.
But wait a minute… why are you always thinking Cross Riverians are looking for your downfall? Why are you always trying to bring supporters of politics and politicians into your derogatory statements about Cross River State? See attached Picture of you during the campaign (If to say this our Political hustle been enter that year, you for still dey run am bro).
Have you forgotten the apology you posted the other day? Have you forgotten the hurtful statement you made about being richer than all politicians and commissioners in Cross River State? This latest comment against your own people is not nice at all.
You get money pass all of us today, no mean say na only you GOD or SATAN fit bless.
Cross River State is the same place that gave you your first audience, your identity, your confidence and your rise to fame. Before the national recognition, before the social media followers, before the money and celebrity lifestyle, there was Calabar. There was the Biase Local Government where you came and even married from. There were Cross Riverians who watched your skits, laughed at your jokes, invited you to events and pushed your content until you became a household name.
Your stage name itself is tied to the culture and language of Cross River. Your comedy style is deeply connected to the way our people talk, behave and express themselves. You built a brand from the identity of Cross River people and that identity contributed immensely to your success.
So it becomes disappointing when you repeatedly make statements that paint Cross Riverians as jealous, bitter or people who always want to see others fail.
That is not who we are.
Cross Riverians are among the most peaceful, welcoming and supportive people in Nigeria. We are a people known for hospitality, culture, unity and pride. Across business, entertainment, politics, academics and public service, Cross Riverians have always supported one another.
There are countless examples of sons and daughters of Cross River State helping others rise. There are people who sponsor education, help others secure jobs, promote businesses, support entertainers and stand by one another in difficult times.
Of course, like every other state in Nigeria, there are some people who may be jealous or bitter. But those few individuals do not represent millions of people.
The danger in making general statements like this is that younger people begin to believe that Cross Riverians are enemies to themselves, when that is not true. It creates unnecessary division and encourages hatred where there should be unity.
Nobody is saying you should not express yourself. Nobody is saying you should not defend yourself when people attack you. But there is a difference between defending yourself and insulting an entire state because of a disagreement with your followers.
Cross River made you. Cross River celebrated you. Cross River stood by you.
So when you speak about Cross Riverians, speak with balance. Speak with wisdom. Speak with respect.
Today you may be ahead financially, socially or politically, but life changes. Nobody remains at the top forever. The same people you dismiss today may be the same people you will need tomorrow.
Being successful should not make anybody look down on others or insult the same roots that helped shape them.
Cross River is not your enemy.
Cross River is your home.
And no matter how angry or emotional you become, never forget that.
My name is Awade Friday also known as Last Prophet, one of the many Crossriverians who will never wish his neighbours, colleagues or enemies bad.
My philosophy about Money…
“Who first get, na to help people were no get now, and who go get later na to partner with people wey get before.”
#Thinkcrossriver #SSAMediaAdvocacy
