‘This is Who I Am’: Florence Ita-Giwa Lectures Donald Duke

The persistence of malice, in friendship squabbles to be precise, is mainly the result of a vast mass of habitual, petty malevolence, egotism, recklessness, and trivial gaffes. Only a residual fraction manifests from thought and superior intellect. In the amphitheater of Cross River politics, two luminaries have ignited a spectacle that dances on the precipice of incivility. Dame Florence Ita-Giwa, a venerable figure in the political terrain, now stands resolute, unyielding against the torrent of calumny. This is her story – a tale of grace, dignity and purpose, as she takes centre stage to lecture Donald Duke, a former compatriot turned antagonist whose recent barrage of calumny erodes his already questionable legacy.

Dame Florence Ita-Giwa’s life is a testament to resilience and achievement, a symphony composed of relentless determination and a commitment to service. Born to the union of an Efik journalist mother and a Bakassi traditional ruler, her trajectory began in nursing, honing her skills in Aba before taking up the mantle as a Medical Secretary in London. Her foray into the pharmaceutical realm bore fruits of success, birthing Flobett Pharmacy and Med-Equip Limited in Lagos—a testament to her entrepreneurial spirit and foresight.

In the intricate world of Nigerian politics, Dame Ita-Giwa has shone as a luminary. Her name resonates with victory in four elections as a candidate from an opposition party. But her pursuit of excellence did not waver; she sought further enlightenment in Legislative Management at a renowned London institution. Presently, she labors on a literary endeavor, crafting a book entitled “Legislative Management and Parliamentary Lobbying” with the intent to educate the next generation of politicians.

Beyond the corridors of power, Dame Ita-Giwa’s maternal instincts are vividly apparent. A mother of 16 children, her embrace extends indiscriminately, transcending bloodlines. She has rescued some of her children from the challenging clutches of Bakassi, ensuring their access to quality education in private schools. It is an investment in the future, an act of benevolence that creates pillars upon which Nigeria’s promise can be fulfilled.

Amidst the cacophony of controversy, let us address the issue of alleged cosmetic surgery. Such procedures, often private matters, do not inherently involve third-party participation. Accusations of vanity and unethical advantage-taking remain unsubstantiated. The fat-reduction surgery, for which Dame Ita-Giwa was criticised, was not shrouded in secrecy; she openly shared her motives with the public. It was a choice made to alleviate the fat around her waist, a decision not alien to Efik women due to their physiological proportions.

Contrary to the narrative cast by her former compatriot, Donald Duke, Ita-Giwa stands as the Mother of the female folk of the Efik Eburutu Kingdom, bearing the prestigious title of Eka Iban Esien Efik Duop-iba. Within the royal palace of the Obong of Calabar, she commands respect and admiration. Even as her age is weaponised against her, she remains an unwavering force, impacting countless lives and shaping a brighter tomorrow.

Donald Duke, once an ally, has chosen to partake in the unsavory theater of character assassination. His actions reek of pettiness and egotism, driven by motives veiled in darkness. Instead of addressing issues with civility, he has resorted to mudslinging and baseless accusations. In a world where chivalry and respect for one’s elders should prevail, his actions stand as a stark antithesis.

In the end, as Ita-Giwa rises above the tumult, her legacy remains untarnished. She is a paragon of grace, wisdom, and unwavering commitment to the betterment of her community and nation. Her story serves as a beacon of hope, reminding us that even in the face of adversity and malicious intent, one’s true character can shine through, undiminished by the shadows of falsehoods. Donald Duke would do well to heed the lessons of civility and integrity that Dame Ita-Giwa exemplifies, for her narrative is a testament to the enduring power of authenticity.