Conflicts of Traditional Norms in the Packaging of Ikom Monolith for Tourism in Cross River State

Abstract

The Ikom Monoliths represent one of the masterpieces of Nigerian Arts and a perfect tourism Showcase for tourists. Unfortunately, some locals or Tour Guides have continuously or erroneously projected the monoliths according to their subjective mythological beliefs as warriors, deities, or gods of Stone with powers to cure ailments like barrenness, epilepsy, and madness. This subjective point of view is neither scientific nor marketable to critical global minds. Rather, the Monoliths should be promoted or marketed as efforts of early settlers with astronomical awareness and capability for iron works and Artistry as depictions of these stone works range from noteworthy effigies or representations of village beauties, cultural emissaries, gifted farmers, shrewd hunters, wise chiefs and prominent dignitaries and positional astronomy. Furthermore, the astronomical angle when verified can make it an exciting visit for adventure Tourists. As a Tour Guide, the content of the packaging can make or mar a Cultural Product depending on the information you set out to transmit or dish out to your Regular and Potential Tourists. This paper intends to highlight the beliefs or myths that have either rebuffed or attracted Tourists, or Researchers, and the curious public to the Ikom Monoliths.