AN EXCURSION TO OBUDU CATTLE RANCH
It all started in a geography class, we were discussing on the diverse climate in Nigeria, ranging from the equatorial rainforest to the Sahel savannah. While we were discussing an inquisitive classmate of mine asked my teacher if it is possible for a particular state to experience more than one climate condition, of course replied the teacher then he added an example of such place with a different climate condition is Obudu.
At the mention of that place, the class became hot with questions. Most of us have heard different stories about this haven, like being the only place in Nigeria where snow falls, as having the same climate with some European countries and also being the most aesthetic place in Nigeria. So in order to answer these questions, our teacher decided that an excursion to Obudu might be the solution.
Whatever the cost was, we were prepared to sacrifice, realizing that it was an opportunity of a lifetime. We were told to contribute #2000 each before the next weeks Thursday but before Tuesday over 75% of the students had paid. This showed the level of eagerness in our minds.
The excitement in our minds and the anxiety we felt was so great, in our minds, the clock should be ticking faster and Friday should be the next day. Gradually, the sun gave way to the moon and the moon to the sun and before long, Friday was by the corner.
That Friday is one I will never forget, I had this habit of going to school just after devotion (as a senior student) but had to break the jinx, just for that wonderful Friday and before 7:30 a.m. I was in school.
I observed anxiety on the faces of many, eagerness in all and depression in none. The puzzling one was when I saw Ruphos a notorious dirty youngster so neat and tidy; I needed no one to tell me that everyone was crazy for the trip.
Before 10 a.m., the school bus was ready to move. After a little exhortation from the principal, who talked on the need for us to be of good characters realizing that we are going out as ambassadors of our great and prestigious institution. Then, at about 10:30 a.m. the bus left for the long journey.
For most of us, this is the longest journey of our lifetime. Personally, I have only gone as far Uyo, the capital of our sister state, but the journey is merely 2½ hours from Calabar, and now here I am on a 4 hrs journey, I was looking up for what it will be like.
As students, the normal chatting, laughing and playing was not left out while in the bus, yet all the fun was pointing towards the excursion. I remember when a student mocked at another telling him that if it were in his capacity he would not allow him enter the Obudu Cattle ranch, because his face can deem the beauty of the place.
As expected, the Geography teacher was sitting in front of the bus and whenever we got to any important place, tourist site, historical site or business place he would point to us, and then add one or two facts about the place to us.
Like immediately, we were about leaving Calabar he pointed to Tinapa business resort, which he said in the long run will be one of Africa's largest business and leisure resort. Along Akamkpa (L.G.A.), he showed us CALSEMCO where rocks are mined for limestone, then he also told us the type of rock found there. Also at that Akamkpa, he showed us a road which he said leads to Kwa fall, one of Natures most beautiful site in Cross River State. At Biase L.G.A. he showed us the road which according to him leads to the birthplace of Leader Olumba Olumba Obu, who is the founder of The Brotherhood of the Cross and Star. He also added that in his birthplace there is a stream known as the healing stream, this statement stirred up curiosity and anxiety in our young minds. At Ikom L.G.A., he showed us the road leading to Agbokim waterfalls and at different points, he related his facts with what we were taught in class. His narration, description and explanation made the journey a more wonderful one.