The Cross River State Government has sparked controversy in Calabar by replacing the iconic Monolith sculpture with a statue of Jesus.

The original sculpture, located at Zone 6 roundabout, was a symbol of the state’s diverse identity and rich cultural heritage.

It was demolished and replaced with a statue of Jesus as a shepherd leading sheep, which has drawn mixed reactions from residents.

The Monolith sculpture was a tribute to the ancient monoliths found in Alok and other northern regions of the state, showcasing Africa’s rich cultural legacy.

The late Pastor Anthony Akinbola, a renowned Nigerian artist, crafted the sculpture.

While some residents have expressed sadness and disappointment at the change, others have welcomed it, claiming that the monolith statues were associated with witchcraft and juju activities.

A government representative has clarified that the structures were not actual monoliths but symbolic representations of the scattered monoliths in the state.

The government has preserved this representation at the Calabar Museum, Old Residency, with accompanying guides to educate visitors on the significance of the stones.

According to the government, the statue of Jesus as a shepherd represents the current administration’s commitment to safeguarding every individual in the state, reflecting the government’s responsibility to protect lives and properties.

The shepherd symbolizes dedicated leadership focused on the people, as depicted by carrying both the state and national flags, serving as a visual representation of this leadership approach.