Engines Rev, Crowds Enthralled as Bikers Parade Electrifies Calabar

More than 200 motorcycle riders have taken part in the 2024 Bikers Parade, part of the renowned Cross River State Carnival held within Calabar, the capital city. The 12-kilometre road show was flagged off in grand style by the Cross River State deputy governor, Dr. Peter Odey accompanied by leaders of the six participating motorcycle clubs.

The event, which featured jaw-dropping performances by the six motorcycle clubs, captivated a massive audience on-site and online.

Dr. Odey, who expressed excitement at the turnout of more than 200 bikers from across Nigeria, urged the participants to prioritize safety throughout the event and hinted at his intention to join the parade soon.

“I am delighted to see the number of motorcycle clubs and others participating in this parade. You know, safety is our watchword. So, I urge all of us including spectators, to adopt adequate safety measures and cooperate with security operatives in this regard,” he stressed.

The deputy governor also praised other top government officials for their active involvement and commended the carnival commission for organizing yet another spectacular edition of the parade. “The energy here is electrifying, and the commitment of everyone involved is commendable. I appreciate the carnival commission for continuing to raise the bar with this event,” Dr. Odey said.

The Chairman of the Cross River State Carnival Commission, Mr Gabe Onah, shared insights on the evolution of the Bikers Parade since its introduction in 2013. He said, “Since 2013, the Bikers Parade has grown in popularity, drawing interest from local, national and international motorcycle clubs. As a commission, we are working toward making the Bikers Parade a standalone tourism event in the future.

“The Bikers Parade is now a signature event, showcasing the vibrancy of Cross River and its ability to host world-class entertainment. We are determined to elevate its status as a global attraction,” Onah said.

Also speaking, the Gang Leader of Diamond Bikers Gang, one of the clubs that participated in the parade, Mr. Eric Anderson said, “We have increased. We have more than 30 bikers from the six gangs here today. I am excited having recovered from yesterday’s carnival, which ended at about 3 am. Just imagine the excitement out there.

“We are very particular about safety. We do not want any incident. So for every biker and the pinions, we recommend strict adherence to safety standards and we are not doing so much of the speed, but in each of the club’s, we have those to do the stunts,” he assured.

Similarly, the leader of the Tinapa Motorcycle Club, Captain Esuabanga Fuller remarked, “I am delighted to be part of this year’s parade. I was a founder of motorcycle clubs in Calabar and in 2013, we had only one club, the Tinapa Motorcycle Club participating in the parade. Today, we have more than six clubs in the parade.

“Our membership in all the clubs cut across Nigeria, my deputy is from Kano. We have members from Gombe and other places. Our stunts are coordinated and performed with utmost care and precision. We take safety measures very important as one, who is coming from a family of bikers,” he stressed.

The deputy leader of the Metallic Knights, Aisha Maman Vatsa also known as ‘Fly Girl’s said, “Calabar is my home and every since this parade started in 2013, I have been a pioneer member and major stakeholder of the Bikers Parade. In our club, we do not compromise on quality and safety standards. As we thrill the crowd, we will do so with great care.”

The thrilling stunts, colorful displays, and roaring engines left spectators mesmerized, further cementing the Bikers Parade as one of the highlights of the Cross River Carnival.