Founded in 1993 by Chief Orok Duke, Tinkoriko – a sociocultural group, is a platform that fosters harmony among youths from diverse political, social, economic and cultural orientation. The group, with large membership, stands strongly against violence, cultism, drug abuse, kidnappings, human trafficking and other forms of societal vices.
As the relevance of the group in the sociocultural milieu crescendo, Tinkoriko Calabar Heritage was officially registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission in 2018, with Prof. Emmanuel Eyo assuming the presidency of the group, while Chief Orok Duke hold sway as the Patron and Leader of Tinkoriko.
The group has had a profound impact on its members over the years. Beyond entertainment, Tinkoriko, according to the President, Prof. Emmanuel Eyo, has been awarding scholarships to registered members. “We also contribute to the well-being of the less privileged and vulnerable individuals, visiting motherless baby homes to provide support.”
The inclusion of Tinkoriko in the Carnival Calabar calendar, further underscores its relevance in contemporary society. Tinkoriko parade is arguably the second largest street procession in Cross River after the Carnival Calabar. The sociocultural group holds its annual parade on January 1st, which usually kicks off at Efut Street and passes through Hawkins, Chamley, Target, Mary Slessor, Marian Road, Barracks Road, 11-11 Round About, Calabar Road and finally terminates at the Watt Market Round About.
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Rooted in traditional practices, Tinkoriko serves as a medium for conflict resolution and community engagement through artistic expressions such as music and dance. Tinkoriko emphasizes the importance of communication and shared experiences, allowing young people to connect with their heritage while addressing contemporary issues.
By promoting cultural awareness and inter-group relations, Tinkoriko encourages collaboration among diverse youth groups, fostering understanding and reducing tensions. Its activities often involve traditional symbols and narratives that resonate with participants, reinforcing communal values and identity. As a result, Tinkoriko not only preserves cultural heritage but also cultivates a sense of belonging and unity among the youth, making it an essential tool for social harmony in a rapidly evolving society like ours.
The 2025 Tinkoriko street procession will come up on Wednesday 1st January, 2025. The muster point is usually at Efut street by Egerton, Calabar. This event offers opportunity to more people, especially the youths to get involve towards building a strong and viable community where peace and social harmony prevails.
All interested participants are encouraged to register their names, home addresses in Nigeria, phone numbers, along with their passport photographs from 15/12/2024 to be eligible for gifted Tinkoriko T shirts.
Registration would take place at NO 51 Egerton Street Calabar South LGA. Other possible venues, include Headquarters of selected Local Govt Areas.
“Tinkoriko, Calabar Heritage”
(Season of Sweetness)