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EFIK OR IBIBIO?

Published

2 weeks ago

6 April 2025

My answer to the question is Efik, and I will present historical perspectives and other factual insights to settle the ongoing debates—both online and offline—as well as correct misrepresentations in creative works.

Before diving into historical facts, it is important to acknowledge that, in everyday life, the distinction between Efik and Ibibio fashion is increasingly blurred. Both groups wear caftans and babariga and accessory elements borrowed from other ethnic groups. There is nothing inherently wrong with the Ibibio incorporating elements of Efik attire into their fashion. However, it is equally essential to recognize and respect the origins of such cultural elements.

One of the defining differences between traditional Ibibio and Efik men’s attire is the Okpoñkpoñ neckpiece. While some Ibibio individuals have adopted this accessory, its origins remain firmly rooted in Efik culture. Acknowledging this does not diminish Ibibio identity but rather enriches our understanding and shared history.

In artistic and theatrical representations, it is crucial for performers, designers to research costumes in terms of their historical context, symbolism, and the impression they create. Every costume tells a story, and getting the details right enhances authenticity.

A Brief Historical Perspective

According to historical records, including the works of E. U. Aye, M. D. W. Jeffreys, and Baikie, the Efik people migrated from Uruan between the late 14th and early 15th centuries—approximately 700 years ago. This migration was largely attributed to a civil war, now remembered as Ekong Abasi Anwan, named after a proud Efik woman. At the time, they likely wore ikpaya, a raffia-based attire common among the Ibibio people.

With the arrival of the Portuguese in Calabar around 1472, as documented in E. U. Aye’s The Efik People, the first textile materials—known as “Itu Ita”—were introduced. The Efik, by virtue of their strategic location between the Calabar and Cross Rivers, had early interactions with Europeans, well before many other groups in the hinterlands.

The Okpoñkpoñ, which distinctly characterizes Efik men’s traditional fashion, is a creative adaptation of the European necktie. And the onyonyo for ladies is clearly Victorian fashion.This unique and elegant accessory is an Efik innovation.

Cultural Adoption vs. Cultural Origin

A notable example of cultural distinction can be observed in Akwa Esop Ima Isong Ibibio, one of the foremost Ibibio cultural organizations founded in 1980. Leaders of this organization, including its Ntisongs, rarely incorporate Okpoñkpoñ into their traditional attire, neither does the Oku Ibom Ibibio.

Furthermore, historical photographs of prominent Ibibio figures do not depict them wearing what is now occasionally presented as “Ibibio traditional wedding attire.”

Traditionally, the Ibibio man of old wore a floor-length wrapper (usopo), a long-tailed shirt (siòòd), and a thick shoulder fabric (ekpañ), complemented with a stylish hat and a walking stick. This ensemble didn’t only exude elegance and authenticity, but dignity.

Efik Influence Beyond Borders

Owing to their early contact with European traders, missionaries, and oil palm merchants, the Efik exerted cultural influence across the Cross River hinterlands, as well as in Cameroon, Gabon, and Bonny (in present-day Rivers State, Nigeria). One lasting evidence of this influence is the adoption of the Efik dialect as a primary language of learning and worship in Ibibio communities—a tradition that persists in many Ibibio churches today.

Preserving Cultural Identity

The Ibibio people are dynamic and adaptable, often embracing external influences—sometimes at the expense of their own rich cultural heritage. This write-up by Usò Ibibio, seeks not to warn them off incorporating aspects of Efik culture into their projects, but to help guide Ibibio creatives in making informed artistic decisions that accurately reflect time, place, and identity. Recognizing cultural origins fosters authenticity and appreciation rather than division.

Let history be our guide as we celebrate both Efik and Ibibio heritage with accuracy and respect.

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MENTAL HEALTH: Its Okay Not To Be.

Published

1 week ago

12 April 2025

towntalks

Let’s Talk Mental Health: It’s Truly Okay Not to Be Okay.

Feeling overwhelmed by stress, anxiety, or signs of depression?

Learn why mental health matters, how to recognize emotional burnout, and simple, effective ways to improve your mental well-being.

Let’s be honest, life can get really overwhelming, really fast. Between endless to-do lists, social pressure, and just trying to keep it together, it’s no surprise that more people are struggling with stress, anxiety, emotional burnout, and mental health issues more than ever before.

Here’s the good news: you’re so not alone, and more importantly—it’s completely okay not to feel okay sometimes.

What Is Mental Health and Why Should You Care?

We talk a lot about physical health—eating right, staying active (exercise)—but what about our minds?. Mental health is just as important. It affects how you handle stress, relate to others, and make decisions. When your mental health is in a good place, life feels more manageable (free)—even when things get tough.

On the flip side, poor mental health can creep in quietly. That’s why mental health awareness is so important: to recognize when something is off and know how to take care of yourself before things spiral.

Signs You Might Be Struggling With Your Mental Health.

Sometimes the signs aren’t obvious. You may feel “off” but can’t quite put your finger on the “why”. Keep an eye out for these common mental health warning signs:

* Feeling constantly anxious, overwhelmed, or restless

* Persistent sadness, hopelessness, or irritability

* Sleeping way too much—or not enough

* Losing interest in things you used to enjoy

* Withdrawing from friends or avoiding social interaction

These symptoms can be early signs of depression or anxiety, and they’re more common than you think. The important thing is to not ignore them.

5 Realistic Ways to Improve Your Mental Health

You don’t need to completely overhaul your life to feel better. Small, consistent changes can make a big difference. Try these simple, science-backed self-care tips to support your mental wellness:

1. Talk it out: Chat with someone you trust or seek help from a mental health professional. Talking really helps, even if nothing gets “solved” right away, just talk and share your feelings.

2. Practice mindfulness: A few minutes of breathing exercises or guided meditation can calm the chaos in your mind.

Meditation

3. Move your body: You don’t need a gym. A walk around the block or a quick stretch can boost your mood naturally.

4. Cut back on screen time: Social media can be toxic. Log off your Instagram, X, Facebook, threads, YouTube, Snapchat or Whatsapp when needed, and protect your mental space.

5. Get good sleep: Prioritize a good sleep routine. Poor sleep makes everything feel harder—including your emotions.

Ending the Stigma Around Mental Health

Too many people suffer in silence because they’re afraid of being judged. But here’s the truth: struggling doesn’t make you weak, it makes you more human.

The more we normalize talking about mental health, the easier it becomes for people to ask for help. Whether it’s therapy, journaling, or just admitting you’re having a tough day, all of it matters.

Conclusion

Your mental health deserves attention, care, and compassion—just like your physical health. If you’re battling anxiety, depression, or just feeling emotionally exhausted, know this: you’re not broken, and you don’t have to face it alone.

Let’s break the silence. Let’s support each other. Because mental health matters, every single day.

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In A World First, Baby Born In Mexico Through Fully AI Driven IVF Prodecure.

Published

1 week ago

11 April 2025

towntalks

World’s First AI-Conceived Baby Born in Mexico: A Milestone in Fertility Technology

In a groundbreaking moment for reproductive medicine, a 40-year-old woman in Mexico has given birth to the world’s first baby conceived entirely through an in vitro fertilization (IVF) procedure powered by artificial intelligence. This remarkable birth marks a major leap forward in the integration of AI technology within the field of fertility treatment.

What sets this case apart is that, for the first time in history, an AI system successfully performed all 23 steps of a highly specialized IVF technique known as intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). This includes the critical tasks of selecting viable sperm and injecting it directly into the egg — procedures traditionally carried out by skilled embryologists under a microscope. In this instance, however, the entire process was completed without any human hands, relying solely on the precision and decision-making capabilities of the AI system.

This technological achievement suggests a promising future where fertility treatments may become more efficient, accessible, and potentially more successful. It could also help standardize IVF procedures across clinics, reducing variability in outcomes due to human error or differences in skill level.

As the field of reproductive medicine continues to develop, this birth represents a pivotal moment and growth in the journey toward AI-assisted or even fully autonomous fertility treatments — offering new hope to countless individuals and couples around the world struggling to conceive.

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Neo Akpofure Stuns In Coat Of Many Colors (Photos)

Published

1 week ago

11 April 2025

towntalks

Ex BBNaija Reality Star, Neo Akpofure shared new photos via his official X account with the caption “Coat of many colors” leaving fans in awe and in admiration over his style.

https://x.com/NeoAkpofure/status/1910332615300644969?t=G0RdSi6FFEnY1dX-vgsVmA&s=19

The reality star who shared the photos via his official X account garnered thousands of admirable comments from his fans on social media with some asking if he made the outfit himself.

Neo Akpofure was a contestant on the season five edition of the BBNaija reality show titled “Lockdown” and he was also called back for the “All stars edition” in 2023.

Although he did not win, he gained popularity and fame through the platform which he has used to his advantage.