Author: The Lumine News

  • Kanu Agabi Drums Support  For The Creation Of Ogoja State

    Kanu Agabi Drums Support For The Creation Of Ogoja State

    Chief Kanu Agabi SAN speech in support of the Creation of Ogoja State at the ongoing public hearing by the House of Representatives committee on constitution Review in Calabar

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    MEMORANDUM SUBMITTED TO THE COMMITTEE OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES FOR THE CREATION OF OGOJA STATE.

    Mr. chairman, and Honourable members of this Committee of the House of Representative.

    Distinguished ladies and gentlemen,

    I am immensely grateful to you, for the privilege of presenting this case to you for the creation of Ogoja state out of the present Cross River State.

    Agitation for states in our country was initially limited to the demand for the Middle Belt State, the Midwest State and the Calabar-Ogoja – Rivers State. In answer to those demands, the nation proceeded to proliferate states so that the purpose for which minority communities made those demands was totally and completely defeated.

    The condition of the minorities has worsened. Their condition never improved. We continue to suffer. We continue to suffer every calamity that can befall a people. There is not a single distress or disaster that we are exempted from.

    I am seventy-nine years old and I feel sorry that in all that time the condition of my people did not improve. It went from bad to worse. We have no good roads. We do not have electricity. In all our villages, our young are compelled to go to bed as soon as the sun sets because they have no lamps. It was Seneca who said that man should extend his life by using part of the night. Here we cannot do so. We go to bed in the dark and we wake up early to go to our farms – an occupation that has been stigmatized and degraded and discouraged by every policy of government.

    We have no good schools. We have never had good teachers. The education that we offer to our young does not equip them for life. It makes them proud and distant from the community. It deculturizes them. Our young have no jobs. They have no hope. The cities have distracted us from the occupation of our heritage without providing any suitable alternatives. We live in despair. The minds of our young have been brutalized. Our people live in squalor in the midst of the opulence of their leaders. And so, we agitate. We ask to be given the opportunity to take our lives into our own hands. To by ourselves by ourselves for ourselves the things that we believe in.

    This agitation is not rooted in malice. It is made in good faith. Our ancestors, when they promulgated the Constitution, realized beforehand that a time like this will come. They appreciated that conditions in our country will compel communities to make demands of the type that we now make. And so, they made provisions in the Constitution which you, Honourable representatives of the people have come to implement and give effect to. This request is made in exercise of a right vested in the people by the Constitution.

    Comments are sometimes made to the effect that the states are not viable. I submit that they are. The nation would never have survived but the creation of states. And if the nation is going to go on surviving, it would depend on the extent to which our leaders listen to the cries of those that are trampled upon. The exercise of states creation will forever go on until every community is able to take its own affairs into its own hands.

    Our greatest resources are the people. Not oil. Not minerals. Not agricultural produce. But the people. We are an intelligent people. A resourceful people. A resilient people. A hardworking and God-fearing people. We are a humble and honest people.

    It is such a people that present this memorandum to you. We are happy to present it to you who have been singled out of a competent House of Representatives to undertake the exercise. No one is more qualified than yourselves to undertake this exercise. You are patriots. You are nationalists. You have a better understanding of these issues than I do. That is why you have been chosen to undertake this exercise. We trust you to fill in the gaps for us. We appeal to you, we urge you to say for us whatever we ought to say but have failed or forgotten to say.

    We trust that you will establish a criteria of general and uniform application for the creation of states. You will prescribe a criteria of general and uniform application for the creation of local government areas. You will prescribe a criteria and set standards for the location of states capitals.

    And when you have done so, you will go down in history as a committee to be forgotten This is a committee that gives hope.

    I pray for you that the Lord guide you. May the Lord protect you. May the Lord preserve you. With these prayers, and in all humility, I present to you the memorandum of my people for the creation of Ogoja state out of Cross River state.ttot

  • Ogoja State Is On Track: Our People Deserve The Truth Not Misinformation – Jarigbe Agom

    Ogoja State Is On Track: Our People Deserve The Truth Not Misinformation – Jarigbe Agom

    PRESS RELEASE FROM THE
    OFFICE OF THE SENATOR REPRESENTING CROSS RIVER NORTH SENATORIAL DISTRICT

    Date: July 19, 2025

    OGOJA STATE IS ON TRACK: OUR PEOPLE DESERVE THE TRUTH, NOT MISINFORMATION

    Our attention has been drawn to concerns expressed by some constituents over the omission of Ogoja State from a recently circulated preliminary list of proposed states by the Constitution Review Committee of the Senate. We wish to assure our people that the pursuit for the creation of Ogoja State is very much alive, and firmly on track.

    It is important that we provide clarity and educate the public on the legislative process involved in state creation, so that no one is misled or incited by ignorance or mischief.

    The Bill for the creation of Ogoja State was sponsored by Hon. Godwin Offiono, a capable and committed representative in the House of Representatives. According to the established legislative procedure, a Bill for State creation cannot be concurrently sponsored in both chambers of the National Assembly. Once a Bill is initiated in one chamber — in this case, the House of Representatives, it must follow due process there and, upon successful passage, will be transmitted to the Senate for concurrence before the final reading and onward transmission for Presidential assent.

    The fact that the Bill is not originating from the Senate does not in any way mean it is not progressing. The process is deliberate, legal, and grounded in the Constitution. Let us not substitute the discipline of lawmaking with political drama.

    Let it be clear: we are not in the National Assembly to create superficial impressions or engage in fanfare. We are here to face realities, not to compete needlessly or commission non-existent projects. Our focus is to deliver real and tangible outcomes for our people, guided by law and principle.

    Furthermore, the Public Hearing for the proposed Ogoja State, as part of the Constitution Review process, is scheduled to hold in Calabar under the auspices of the House of Representatives. This is in line with the legislative pathway the Bill must travel. The final list of proposed states, which will ultimately include Ogoja State, will be published upon completion of due processes.

    Let us remain calm, united, and confident. Ogoja State is not just a proposal, it is a movement backed by history, merit, and growing national support. We must not allow misinformation to divide us or distract from the larger goal.

    We are one family, bound by shared aspirations. We urge our people to continue to support the ongoing efforts and to trust the process.

    SIGNED:
    Media Team,
    Office of the Senator Representing Cross River North

  • Otu Declares CIBN Zonal Conference Open, Charges South-South States To Harness Agriculture

    Otu Declares CIBN Zonal Conference Open, Charges South-South States To Harness Agriculture

     

    The Governor of Cross River State, Senator Prince Bassey Edet has called on South-South states to urgently harness their vast agricultural and extractive resources to drive regional economic transformation and resilience.

    The Governor, represented by his deputy, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey made this call on Wednesday, while declaring open the South-South Zonal Banking and Finance Conference organized by the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN), held at the Calabar International Convention Center.

    In his address, Governor Otu emphasized the urgent need for states within the region to leverage their comparative advantages, particularly in agriculture, oil and gas, and solid minerals, to diversify their economies and reduce over dependence on federal allocations.

    “The South-South zone as a region must now act with urgency to diversify its economy, leveraging our shared natural endowments
    in agriculture and extractive resources,” the deputy governor stated. “The fertile land across our zone gives us a comparative advantage that we must convert into prosperity through agriculture and its value chain.”

    He described the conference as timely, given the growing global economic uncertainties and trade tensions, as well as the need for sub national governments to develop sustainable economic frameworks.

    While highlighting that Cross River State has taken bold steps in key sectors such as agriculture, aviation, maritime, tourism, and infrastructure, he urged participants at the conference to explore investment opportunities both within the state and across the South-South region. He commended the CIBN for its foresight in organizing the conference and for choosing Cross River as host and expressed hope that the conference deliberations would chart a bold and strategic path toward the region’s economic transformation

    Earlier in his welcome address, the Commissioner for Finance and Chairman of the Conference Planning Committee, Dr. Michael Odere, emphasized the importance of decentralizing the hosting of the CIBN conference to foster inclusivity and regional engagement. He urged stakeholders to leverage ongoing economic reforms to drive socioeconomic development across the South-South region. Dr. Odere also encouraged participants to actively contribute to the discourse and offer meaningful input that would shape actionable outcomes.

    In a special remarks, the President and Chairman in Council of the CIBN, Prof. Pius Olanrewaju, praised Cross River State for its hospitality and reaffirmed the Institute’s commitment to deepening financial inclusion, institutional capacity, and economic policy advocacy across the geopolitical zones.

    He highlighted the vast untapped potential of the South-South region and stressed the need for coordinated support across financial, technological, and policy spheres to reposition the region for sustainable growth. He noted that financial institutions must be leveraged as catalysts for innovation, investment, and inclusive development.

    The event featured goodwill messages from Hon. Okon Owuna, Member representing Akamkpa I in the Cross River State House of Assembly and Chairman, House Committee on Finance and Appropriation, as well as from the representative of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Branch Controller. The conference also included presentations by subject-matter experts, notably Professor Akpan Ekpo of the Centre for Public Policy, University of Uyo.

    Deputy Governor’s Press Unit, Government House, Calabar
    17/0702025

  • Just In: C’River Police Command Confirms Arrest Of Nurse And Accomplice Involved In Child Trafficking In Ogoja

    Just In: C’River Police Command Confirms Arrest Of Nurse And Accomplice Involved In Child Trafficking In Ogoja

    CROSS RIVER STATE POLICE COMMAND
    PRESS RELEASE:
    17TH JULY, 202

    ARREST OF NURSE AND ACCOMPLICE INVOLVED IN CHILD TRAFFICKING – BABY RESCUED UNHARMED AT OGOJA LGA

    The Cross River State Police Command, under the leadership of Commissioner of Police, CP Rashid B. Afegbua, PSC, mnips, wishes to clarify the facts surrounding the recent incident involving a nurse arrested in connection with child trafficking.

    On the 15th of July 2025, at approximately 2:00 PM, operatives of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), in collaboration with an international NGO—Caritas International—and with the support of the Ogoja Divisional Police Headquarters, successfully apprehended two female suspects linked to a case of child trafficking reported on July 5th, 2025, at Okuku Market in Yala LGA.

    The suspects are:

    Paulina Banku Otu (female) – a nurse employed at Ogoja General Hospital the prime suspect, and

    Regina Abuashia (female) – a staff of Ogoja Local Government Council, identified as the buyer of the child.

    Following detailed investigation and intelligence gathering, the joint team, alongside the child’s biological mother, Mrs. Maria Ogar, located and arrested both suspects. The stolen child, Purity Lehi Sunday (female, age 2), was found unharmed and was reunited with her mother at the Ogoja Police Station.

    Both suspects confessed to the crime during interrogation and have since been transferred to the State NAPTIP Office in Calabar for further investigation and prosecution under relevant laws.

    The Command is aware of a misleading video circulating on social media platforms regarding this incident. We wish to categorically state that the video misrepresents the facts and appears to be a deliberate attempt to discredit the Police and incite public unrest.

    The Cross River State Police Command urges social media influencers, bloggers, and content creators to adhere to responsible journalism ethics and verify facts before publication. The spreading of false or sensational narratives carries serious legal consequences and can hinder the course of justice.

    The Command remains unwavering in its commitment to protect lives, uphold the law, and combat crimes such as child trafficking across the State.

    SP Ugbo Irene, ANIPR
    Police Public Relations Officer
    For: Commissioner of Police
    Cross River State Command

  • Cross River Northerners, How Much Is Your Vote? BY AGBA JALINGO

    Cross River Northerners, How Much Is Your Vote? BY AGBA JALINGO

     

    Are you aware that, no matter how lazy, truant and unthinking you are, once you become a politician over here, and win a political position, you automatically become rich without doing any work? That’s actually the biggest motivation for most persons seeking political office today.

    Regardless of the lies of our politicians that their job is not well paid, they are some of the highest paid politicians in the whole world, aside their corruption. They amass so much money while in office, such that they never want to leave those offices. The allure to remain or return is scintillating and motivated by memories of the lavish life they leave; funded by public money. The perquisites of office are too sweet to be forfeited. You get them, whether you work or not.

    If not, how can someone complain or claim that there is so much stress and there is no money in the office he or she occupies, yet the person isn’t willing to exit the office. The person is still ready to fight, bribe, maim, and even kill, to remain or return to that same office, where you claim there is so much stress and no money?

    What exactly is sticking you there or alluring you to return? Service? Big fat lie! What exactly have you served or did you serve? My view is that, Cross River in general and the Northern part of the State in particular, have remained stagnated for such a long time now that there is a need for intentional people with very strong imagination to emerge again as leaders that can spiral the rapid growth and development of the old Ogoja zone and not some rusty, high shouldered and over pampered society fellas who feel entitled to continually lord over us.

    There are a litany of problems to be solved. We need problem solvers. Solution providers. We need people who can lead, not people who want to show off. People who can engage and solve our problems in the long term. People who have empathy and proven ideas on how to deal with what is challenging our communities. People who will be available to contain our onus, not those who will give us tokens. Tokenism and palliativism is not governance. It is see-finish. We need people that will govern us quantitatively.

    That’s why I am asking you this morning, how much is your vote, if you are from Cross River North? Is your vote for sale or for development? If it is for sale, how much is it worth? Don’t make the mistake of giving power to misfits again. There is a conspiracy of a desperate power drunk coterie, who are preying on our intelligence and we must not fall for it. We must now deodorize their stinking egos.

    We are already seeing the midterm results from those who are currently leading us in the North. I am deliberately keeping this to the North this morning. I hope you are keeping the records and scores. If you are not, I am. I am keeping every detail. It appears there are vacancies in some positions already and there are none in others. When the time is ripe, I will not sit on the fence. I will tell you where I stand, that’s if you don’t know already. I stand with development. I love performers.

    Yours sincerely,
    Citizen Agba Jalingo.

     

    Disclaimer: The opinion expressed in this article is strictly that of the author, Agba Jalingo, and does not represent TheLumineNews, it’s agent or the organization the author works for.

  • UNICAL VC Appointment Should Be Based On Merit Not Ethnicity And Zoning

    UNICAL VC Appointment Should Be Based On Merit Not Ethnicity And Zoning

     

    The University of Calabar (UNICAL), established in 1975, is a foremost citadel of learning that prides itself in academic excellence and research.

    Over the years, the institution has been led by competent scholars who have contributed their quota towards the development of the institution.

    In UNICAL, the administration of the current VC, Prof. Florence Obi, will come to an end on November 30, 2025, hence the process towards selecting a new VC has begun with the placement of advert for the position of the VC on national dailies.

    In the newspaper advert, the university management highlighted thus: “that the candidate for the office of the Vice Chancellor must hold the rank of Professor for at least ten (10) years by 1st December, 2025. Others are: (i) Have a distinguished academic record with significant contributions to research and scholarship.
    (ii) Hold a Ph.D in any academic field. (iii) Be an acclaimed scholar who is a professor of high repute and must have published in academic journals that are both of National and International repute. (iv) have had a wide range of academic and administrative experience. (v) Exhibit strong leadership skills with the ability to drive academic and administrative excellence.

    There was no section of the advert that highlights or zones the position of the Vice Chancellor to any part of Nigeria, Cross River State or Local Government Area. The advert is open to all qualified candidates to apply, given the fact that the University of Calabar is a federal institution.

    The University Miscellaneous Act (Amendment Act) 2012, states that “There shall be a Vice-Chancellor of a University (in this Act referred to as “the Vice-Chancellor”) who
    shall be appointed by the Governing Council” in accordance with the provisions of this section.

    The narrative in some quarters that promotes zoning arrangement for the office of the Vice-Chancellor is quite laughable and misleading because a federal university does not operate by zoning in the selection of a Vice Chancellor or any principal officer, rather the qualities of such a candidate must include academic excellence, integrity, wide knowledge of the university system, being an acclaimed scholar of high repute and must have published in academic journals that are both of National and International repute. Also, the basis of appointment should be that the candidate has had a wide range of academic and administrative experiences, be a fair-minded and dynamic individual with a reputation that
    is impeccable in his dealing with people at all levels.

    Those advocating the adoption of a zoning structure among the senatorial districts or ethnic origin in the selection of a Vice-Chancellor have lost touch with the modern workings of higher institutions of learning.

    The University of Calabar should have by now grown beyond ethnic sentiments in appointments of key officers of the institution.

    It is unfortunate that while universities across the world are making research breakthroughs in the field of humanities, social sciences, science and technology, Nigerian tertiary institutions are enmeshed in the struggle of who becomes the next Vice-Chancellor, bursar, registrar and other principal officers.

    It is high time the Governing Council, the President, and Visitor to the University, de-emphasise the issue of zoning and ethnic considerations in appointments in Nigeria’s citadel of learning, because it breeds mediocrity and undue favouritism.

    The time has come for a change of the primordial system of appointments and revert to a new order where merit, achievement, experience, service to humanity and charisma as well as intellectual capability are top priorities in appointments of managers of university system.

    It is disheartening to hear mundane arguments by some academics and non- academics that it is the turn of north or south or central and so on once the processes of selection of Vice-Chancellor or other principal officers kicks-off.
    It is sad that even some groups who have little or nothing to contribute in the process also beat ethnic drums just to rubbish and inflame the entire system.

    This should be the auspicious time to redirect our energies in doing the right thing by appointing the chief executive of our institutions based on merit and ability to deliver in the area of research, teaching and learning upon which the university was founded on.

    We advise those aspiring to lead the university in whatever form to lay emphasis on what they can bring into the system and how they intend to turn around the academic community, rather than dissipating energy whipping up sentiments.

    The university community is the heart of socio-economic development of any country and reducing the leadership to a particular geo-ethnic group is the highest level of clannishness.

    The intellectual community and all stakeholders interested in the affairs of the university of Calabar should rise up for once in defense of quality education and service delivery by standing for merit, excellence, credibility, capacity in the appointment of the next Vice-Chancellor of UNICAL on December 1, 2025.

  • Humanity Without Borders, UNFPA Takes Inter School Debate To Northern Cross

    Humanity Without Borders, UNFPA Takes Inter School Debate To Northern Cross

    By Elijah Ugani 

    Humanity Without Boarders Empowerment Initiative (HUWIB), a pet project of the wife of the Cross River State governor, Bishop Eyo-Anwan Bassey Otu, with support from United Nations Population Fund UNFPA, has taken inter school debate competition to northern cross river state.

    The debate which was held June 5th 2025, at Holy Child Secondary School, Ogoja had four schools that took part in the competition.

    Speaking at the event, the Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Dr Inyang Asibong, welcomed participants to the event and noted that “Humanity Without Boarders is a non-governmental organization founded by t Bishop Eyo-Anwan, Wife of the Governor of Cross River State.

    “The governor’s wife has goodwill, empathy and the desire to better the lives of our students through various interventions.

    “We have been to this school before. We have visited other schools and initiated agric clubs.

    “Today we have come for something else, debate on the topic ” Should Schools be Held responsible for School related gender based violence.

    “Other areas of her interventions include Social welfare, taking care of the environment and sporting activities.

    “We will keep coming because we want to make sure that all the schools get involved”.

    On his part, the Programme Manager, Mr Jeffery Adamade, welcomed the participants and teachers from the participating schools to the debate competition and noted that “The essence of the debate is not to look down on any school. The debate is to enable us know what gender-based violence is all about and get to socialize and familiarize with the different schools around here considering the short notice and invitation. We encourage you to feel free, enjoy yourselves and know that our boss, Bishop Eyo-Anwan Bassey Otu, wife of the governor loves you”.

    Earlier, the principal of Holy Child Secondary School, Mount Carmel, Ogoja, Rev Sr Anthonia Eze, welcomed guests and thanked the organizers for choosing the Mount Carmel.

    She noted that “Mount Carmel is an ancient school just like Mary knoll College Okuku. I want you to sit enjoy yourself and have fun while you are here”

    At the end of the debate, Holy Child Secondary School, Mount Carmel Ogoja, came first, Maryknoll College Okuku came second, St Catherine School, Igoli, came third and John Bosco Academy Adagom, came fourth.

    Highlight of the event was presentation of trophy to the overall best school and plaque award to second to the fourth school and group photograph.

    UNFPA’s key areas of focus are organized around three transformative results and four core priority areas. Here’s an overview:

    Transformative Results

    Zero Unmet Need for Family Planning: Providing access to family planning information and services to empower individuals to make informed choices about their reproductive health.

    Zero Preventable Maternal Deaths: Strengthening health systems, training health workers, and improving access to maternal health services to reduce maternal mortality.

    Zero Gender-Based Violence and Harmful Practices: Working to prevent and respond to gender-based violence, and eliminating harmful practices such as female genital mutilation and child marriage.

    Core Priority Areas

    Sexual and Reproductive Health: Providing access to quality sexual and reproductive health services, including family planning, maternal health, and HIV/AIDS prevention: Adolescent and Youth Empowerment: Empowering young people to make informed choices about their reproductive health, and providing them with comprehensive sexuality education and opportunities for leadership and participation.

    Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment: Promoting gender equality and empowering women and girls to exercise their reproductive rights, free from coercion, discrimination, and violence.
    Population Data and Analysis: Strengthening national population data systems, and providing technical assistance to countries to improve their data collection and analysis capabilities.

  • Eid Al-Adha: Jarigbe Felicitates With Muslims in Cross River North Doles Out N5m, Six cows 

    Eid Al-Adha: Jarigbe Felicitates With Muslims in Cross River North Doles Out N5m, Six cows 

     

    The Senator representing Cross River North Senatorial District, Sen Jarigbe Agom, has felicitated with the Muslim community in Cross River North Senatorial District as they mark this year’s Eid-al-Adha celebration.

    The Senator in his Sallah message prayed that this year’s celebration will bring blessings, peace and prosperity to all Muslim faithful in the country, particularly in Cross River North Senatorial District.

    “May Allah accept our sacrifices this Eid al-Adha and bless us with His boundless mercy, forgiveness and countless rewards. Eid Mubarak to you and your loved ones”, Jarigbe added.

    While assuring them on the fulfillment of promises made, the lawmaker urged them to continue to give him the necessary support and cooperation to enable him continue with his infrastructural and human capital reforms in the Senatorial District.

    The Constituency Officer, Mr. Egar Mgbantul, on behalf of the lawmaker, presented the items for the Eid celebration across the five Local Government Areas of the Senatorial District and prayed that Allah showers His countless blessings upon all and makes this year’s Eid al-Adha a memorable one.

    Eid Mubarak!

    TEAM JARI MEDIA

  • Empowerment, Infrastructure, Compassion: Chief Martin Orim – The Man Who Gave Even When He Had Little BY DENIS INAKEFE

    Empowerment, Infrastructure, Compassion: Chief Martin Orim – The Man Who Gave Even When He Had Little BY DENIS INAKEFE

     

    The Chairman of the GFO Orim Foundation, Chief (Dr) Martin Orim, is a name synonymous with selfless service. His record speaks for itself and reflects the true meaning of his slogan: “You don’t give because you have, but because you care.” He will do even better if given the opportunity to serve again, and this he has constantly reaffirmed.

    While serving as Chief of Staff with a monthly salary of #275,000 and an imprest of #5 million, Chief Martin Orim carried out an unprecedented level of empowerment and community development.

    Vehicle Empowerment Highlights:
    1. Ernest Ublibli (Alpha) – Toyota Camry (Muscle)
    2. Hon. Sylvester Agabi – Toyota Corolla
    3. Augustin Abua – Toyota Corolla
    4. Hon. Phillip Ikpa – Toyota Camry
    5. Justin Ayabie (Ajebota) – Toyota Camry + 4-bedroom house in his village
    6. Rev. Fr. Aniah’s Ordination – Toyota Corolla
    7. Rev. Fr. Greg Ashie’s Ordination – Toyota Corolla
    8. Chief Spokesman Agogo – Lexus RX 350
    9. Arewa Undeshi – Mercedes Benz E350
    10. Mayor Undeshi – Toyota Camry
    11. Cyprian Ikong – Toyota Camry
    12. Barry Okang – Toyota Camry
    13. Elder Agustin Ogbe – Toyota Camry
    14. Cyprian Batiang – Toyota Camry
    15. Phydel Aben – Toyota Camry
    16. Chief Ekunke Osang (FG) – Toyota Camry
    17. NURTW – Toyota Sienna Bus
    18. NYCN – Toyota Sienna
    19. Chief Moses Ogbe – Toyota Camry
    20. Hon. Godwin Ejugo Odey – Nissan
    21. David Bekwara – Toyota Camry
    22. Sylvester Iruma (Tompolo) – Toyota Highlander
    23. Joseph Wonah (JoeBella) – Toyota Camry
    24. Sylvanus Udie – Toyota Highlander
    25. Mrs. Grace Ukpi – Toyota Camry
    26. Kingsley Ukpong – Previa Bus
    27. Ajana – Nissan Car
    28. Pastor Chinedu – Nissan Car
    29. Joe Odama – Camry
    … and many others. For Motorcycles Empowered: Too numerous to count.

    Other Empowerment Initiatives by Chief Hon. (Dr) Martin Orim include Sponsorship of education for many underprivileged students, Supporting widows and market women, and Assisting persons with disabilities. He Facilitated 3 ICT centers:
    1. Technical Secondary School, Ibong
    2. The Den, CRUTECH (now UNICROSS)
    3. St. Joseph Center for the Visually Handicapped

    That’s not all. Chief Orim dedicated his entire salary to orphanage homes, he Facilitated the construction of a 3-classroom block in Primary School, Udigie, Built market shades in Sankwala Market

    Chief Orim remains one of the very few from our OBO constituency who left visible, tangible impacts despite limited resources. Many others had the same opportunity but did little or nothing. He proved that leadership is not about personal gain, but about service.

    “Those who are faithful with little will be faithful with much.” Let us support Chief Martin Orim for greater service to our people.

    #mediachiefpriest
    #certifiedcmo
    @highlight

    Disclaimer: The opinion expressed in this article is strictly that of the author, Denis Inakefe, and does not represent TheLumineNews, its agent or the organization the author works for.

     

  • EFCC Jailed Internet Fraudster In Uyo

    EFCC Jailed Internet Fraudster In Uyo

     

    Justice Maurine Adaobi of the Federal High Court sitting in Uyo has convicted and sentenced Elijah Okwa Etenrulimre to three months imprisonment for offences bordering on criminal impersonation on the cyberspace.

    Etenrulimere was arraigned by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission ,EFCC, Uyo Zonal Directorate, on Thursday May 29, 2025, on a one count criminal charge for his illicit activities on the internet.

    The charge against Etenrulimre reads;
    “That you, Elijah Okwa Etenrulimre (aka Kaley Couco), sometime in 2024, in Nigeria, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, did fraudulently present yourself as Kaley Couco on social media with the intent to gain advantage for yourself, and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 22(2)(b)(i) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) (Amendment) Act, 2024 and punishable under the same Section.”

    When the charge was read to him, he pleaded ‘guilty.

    In view of his plea, prosecution counsel, Eno