Tragedy avoided as Cross River State magistrate slumps while protesting two year salary arrears

TRAGEDY was recently avoided in Calabar when one of the magistrates currently protesting outside the governor's office of the non-payment of their two year salary arrears by the Cross River State slumped but was immediately resuscitated by colleagues and state house staff.

Over the last few days, Cross River State magistrates have been picketing out the offices of Governor Ben Ayade over the fact that they have not been paid for two years. During the protest, one of the magistrates slumped at the State House gates but luckily, he revived by his colleagues and other staff of the governor’s office who poured water on him.

One witness who gave his name as Godwin Effiom, said the incident which occurred outside the gate of the governor's office and the deputy governor, Professor Ivara Esu drove past when the incident occurred. He added: “It surprises me about the kind of leaders we have these days because a deputy governor of a state can pass through the gate of the governor’s office and saw a large crowd trying to revive a victim and he drove past. It’s unfortunate.”

Magistrate Safiya Iyeh Ashipu, of the chief magistrate's court and her two children started the protest in front of the governor’s office yesterday.  Mrs Ashikpu and her two children disrupted official functions and other government activities at the governor’s office in Calabar, claiming one of the reasons for the protest was her inability to her pay rent.

It was gathered that the state attorney-general paid N210, 000 as part payment of the rent from his personal pocket. Over the last two days, the protesting magistrates who came with their full regalia were at the governor’s office with placards and flex banners protesting.