A Closer Look At The History Of Dog Meat Consumption In Calabar And Akwa-Ibom

In recent years, there has been a rising controversy in Nigeria and around the world about the ethics and legality of eating dog meat.

Concerns have been raised by animal rights activists and organizations regarding animal suffering as well as the potential risk of disease transmission related to the consumption of dog meat.

Jackie Idimogu, an animal rights activist had slammed celebrity Hilda Baci over a recent viral video of her eating dog meat.

Recall that Hilda Baci who attempted a Guinness World Record for the longest cooking marathon by an individual, recently visited her home state of Akwa Ibom with influencer, Enioluwa Adeoluwa.

In a widely shared video, the pair could be seen seated at a table where dog meat was being served. While trying to get Enioluwa to try it, Hilda stated that she consumes dog flesh, but he refused.

In response to the footage, Idimogu accused Hilda of animal cruelty in a video statement posted on her social media profile.

She berated Hilda for eating dog meat despite her group members and their canines showing up to support the chef during her cookathon.

This got people talking on social media with different varied responses. While some rebuked Hilda’s act, some agreed that dog eating was an age-long tradition.

It should be noted that dog meat consumption is not limited to Calabar and Akwa Ibom. It is also eaten in states like Ondo, Ekiti, Plateau, Gombe, and Taraba.

Dog meat has been consumed as part of traditional cuisine in many regions of the world, including some Asian countries.

According to a report by Matthew Nash, a lead researcher of an in-depth Dog-Friendly Country Index, South Korea, Vietnam, and Nigeria are the top three countries with the highest dog consumption in the world.

The History of Dog Meat

Dog meat has long been prized as a delicacy and a staple of the local diet in the Nigerian states of Calabar and Akwa Ibom.

Dog meat has historically been consumed by the Efik and Ibibio ethnic groups, which are the dominant communities of Calabar and Akwa Ibom, respectively.

In Calabar, the capital city of Cross River State, dog meat consumption has a long-standing history. The Efik and Ejagham people, who are indigenous to the region, have traditionally consumed dog meat as part of their culinary heritage.

Dog meat is commonly referred to as “404” in Akwa Ibom and it is often enjoyed in specialized restaurants that cater to this particular dish. It is often prepared with ‘Kaikai’ (local gin) and Ntong (scent leaves).

It is believed that dog meat consumption is rooted in cultural beliefs and rituals. Dogs are typically raised for this reason, and their flesh is highly regarded for its distinct flavor and taste. Dog meat is thought to have properties that improve strength, fertility, and vitality in traditional Efik and Ibibio civilizations. It is frequently consumed at important events and festivals, including weddings, funerals, and other cultural rites.

Dog meat was once considered a symbol of wealth and prestige. Serving dog meat to guests was a display of hospitality and social rank. It was frequently reserved for notable guests and dignitaries.

However, attitudes surrounding dog meat consumption have changed over time, and not everyone in Calabar and Akwa Ibom consumes dog meat today. Dog meat consumption has declined in some areas as a result of greater globalization, urbanization, and the influence of other cultures. Concerns about animal welfare have also led to criticism of the practise.

However, it is critical to address this subject with cultural awareness and tolerance for different points of view.

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