Twins are usually seen as a blessing in most parts of the world. Families celebrate, communities rejoice, and traditions honor them. But in one corner of Nigeria, twins were once seen as something far more sinister — a curse that brought fear, tragedy, and death.…….CONTINUE FULL READING>>>>>
This dark chapter of history belongs to the town of Calabar, in Cross River State, where, for centuries, twins were not welcomed into the world.
The Belief That Shaped a Culture
According to old Efik traditions, giving birth to twins was considered an evil omen. Many believed twins were products of the spirit world, bringing misfortune to the family and the entire community.
Because of this belief, whenever twins were born, they were taken away and abandoned in the evil forest, left to die. Mothers often suffered deep shame, sometimes even banished from their homes.
It’s almost unthinkable today, but back then, people saw it as a necessary sacrifice to “protect” the village.
The Turning Point
Everything changed in the late 19th century when Mary Slessor, a Scottish missionary, arrived in Calabar. She was horrified by the practice and began rescuing abandoned twins, raising them herself and convincing communities that twins were not a curse but a blessing.
Her bravery slowly broke centuries of superstition. Over time, the killing of twins faded away, and today, Calabar has monuments and festivals celebrating her impact.
The Mystery That Remains
Yet, the story still leaves questions: How did such a belief take root so strongly? Why twins, and not other unusual births? And how many lives were lost before the practice was stopped?
Some elders whisper that the belief came from ancient spiritual practices. Others say it was fear of the unknown, magnified into law.
Conclusion
The story of Calabar’s twin mystery is a reminder of how culture, belief, and fear can shape destiny. What was once seen as a curse is now celebrated as a blessing.
And perhaps the real mystery is this: how many of today’s “truths” will one day be seen as superstition?…….CONTINUE FULL READING>>>>>
