Author: The Lumine News

  • 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

  • Alokponi Care Foundation Celebrates World Menstrual Hygiene Day In Northern Cross River

    Alokponi Care Foundation Celebrates World Menstrual Hygiene Day In Northern Cross River

     

    On May 28, 2025 Alokponi Care Foundation joined the global world body to celebrate ‘World Menstrual Hygiene Day’ with advocacy for menstrual health and support for the Girl Child.

    Menstrual Hygiene Day is an annual awareness day that highlights the importance of good Menstrual Hygiene Management (MHM) at a global level.

    The day was initiated by the German NGO WASH United in 2014. It’s a global movement to promote good menstrual hygiene management and end the stigma and silence surrounding menstruation. The date, May 28, was chosen because most menstrual cycles average 28 days, and periods last around 5 days—symbolically combining 28/5.

    The day brings together governments, NGOs, schools, community leaders, and individuals to make menstrual health a priority—for education, dignity, and health.

    World Menstrual Hygiene Day is about the persistent inequalities surrounding Menstrual Health and Hygiene (MHH).

    This year’s Menstrual Hygiene Day, on 28 May 2025, is themed “Together for a #PeriodFriendlyWorld”, urging collective action to ensure that menstruation does not limit access to education, health, or opportunity.

    Alokponi care foundation undertakes massive awareness campaign across Cross River State North in commemoration of the day, highlighting the ten reasons why menstrual hygiene is important, viz:

    1.Health and Safety : Proper menstrual hygiene helps prevent infections, such as urinary tract infections (UTIs) and reproductive tract infections. Using clean and safe menstrual products reduces the risk of health complications.

    2. Comfort : Maintaining good menstrual hygiene can help alleviate discomfort, such as cramps, odour, and irritation. This enhances overall comfort during menstruation.

    3.Psychological Well-being : Good menstrual hygiene can improve mental health and self-esteem, as individuals feel more confident and comfortable during their periods.

    4. Preventing Odor : Regular changing of menstrual products and basic hygiene can minimize unpleasant odors, making menstruation a more discrete experience.

    5. Confidence and Mobility : When individuals manage their menstrual hygiene properly, they can engage in daily activities, such as work or exercise, without fear of leaks or discomfort.

    6. Environmental Impact : Choosing eco-friendly menstrual products (like reusable pads, menstrual cups, or organic disposable options) can promote sustainable practices and reduce waste.

    7. Education and Awareness : Understanding and practicing menstrual hygiene contributes to better health knowledge and can encourage conversations about reproductive health, breaking the stigma surrounding menstruation.

    8. Social Participation : Proper menstrual hygiene allows individuals to participate fully in social and educational activities, reducing absenteeism from school or work due to menstruation.

    9. Cultural Sensitivity : Addressing menstrual hygiene promotes inclusivity and respect for cultural practices and beliefs related to menstruation, improving community relationships.

    10. Empowerment : Knowledge about menstrual hygiene empowers individuals to take control of their health, make informed choices about menstrual products, and advocate for their needs in various settings.

    Promoting menstrual hygiene awareness and education can lead to healthier outcomes and improved quality of life for those who menstruate.
    God bless you Akobi Grace

  • Jarigbe Felicitates Gov Otu On His Second Year Anniversary In Office 

    Jarigbe Felicitates Gov Otu On His Second Year Anniversary In Office 

     

    Message of Congratulations on the Second Anniversary in Office of His Excellency, Prince Bassey Edet Otu, the Governor of Cross River State

    It is with great joy and profound respect that I extend my heartfelt congratulations to His Excellency, the Governor of Cross River State, on the occasion of his second year anniversary in office.

    Over the past two years, your Excellency has demonstrated a very laudable vision for the development and progress of our beloved State. Your unwavering commitment to good governance and service delivery, coupled with your admirable decision to eschew retrogressive politics, has distinguished your administration as one that truly prioritizes the welfare and advancement of the people of Cross River State.

    As you mark this milestone, I encourage you to remain steadfast on this commendable path, so that you may leave lasting legacies and etch your name indelibly in the sands of time. The people of Cross River State are fortunate to have a leader whose focus is squarely on transformation and sustainable development.

    In my capacity as Senator representing Cross River North Senatorial District and leader of the main opposition Party (People’s Democratic Party) in the State, I assure you of my continued support and collaboration. Together, we shall work tirelessly to attract vital infrastructural projects and enhance human capital development, thereby delivering the democratic dividends our people richly deserve.

    I wish you good health, renewed strength, and unceasing success as you continue to lead Cross River State to greater heights.

    Long live Cross River State!
    Long live our dear Nigeria!

    Signed,
    Dist. Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe,
    Cross River North Senatorial District

  • The Assembly Wants Him To Substantiate His Claim Of 6.8M, If He Cannot, We Ask Him To Retract His Comment – Hon Charles Omang

    The Assembly Wants Him To Substantiate His Claim Of 6.8M, If He Cannot, We Ask Him To Retract His Comment – Hon Charles Omang

     

    The member representing Bekwarra State constituency, Hon Charles Omang KSM, has stated that despite insinuations and misconception that the 10th Cross River State House of Assembly wants to silence critics, on account of the summon of Mr Ejim Jonny Agogo, who alleged in a viral video that his house of assembly member, Hon Charles Omang and his colleagues at the Cross River State House of Assembly, receives 6.8M as monthly salary apart from constituency and other allowances.

    Responding to questions from TheLumineNews, Hon Omang noted that the video which was played in a church in Bekwarra Local Government Area, has spread bad blood among his constituents which increased the routine requests for financial assistance, has however put him and his colleagues in the negative light before their constituents.

    The lawmaker explained that “In the assembly, we took it very seriously because that is far from reality. The salary of a state house member is in the public domain since 1999. It has never been reviewed.
    When he made findings, he was told that our salary is #680,000.00 and he mischievously added one zero to the figure to pitch our constituents against us. It is not just about me here, it is about the entire assembly.

    “The assembly is not detaining him or sending him to any prison as wrongly speculated. We want him to come and tell us how he got that figure as our salary. If he cannot substantiate his claim, we ask him to retract his comments using the same energy he used to create the video, and that will end the matter”.

    The lawmaker stated that just very recently that they noticed an increment of #60,000.00 in the salary, and wondered why his constituents resorted to such a blackmail.

    Omang further disclosed that he played a very significant role to restore normalcy in the feud between the Chairman and councillors in Bekwarra last month, but that the said Mr Ejim Jonny Agogo, who hails from the same village with him Ukpah, claimed that he is among the persons sponsoring the councillors against the chairman of council.

    “This guy has been in this act to ruin my reputation. At some point, I called his elder brother’s attention to what he says and writes about me.
    “I was not hungry when I came into the state house of assembly. I have a law firm in Abuja and I was doing well for myself. I came into the assembly because I have always wanted to serve my people. But I can tell you that as assembly members, all is not well with us as people speculate. You can find out from your state constituency member, the deputy speaker. The pressure from personal, family and constituents responsibilities far outweigh our income”.

    Hon Omang noted that “I’m always available to provide information about the operations of the assembly and not for anyone to use falsehood to create rifts between us and our constituents that are unnecessary”.

    Meanwhile, the Cross River State House of Assembly has received widespread criticism for summoning Mr Ejim Jonny Agogo, for raising false alarm on the monthly salary of assembly members.

    Majority to those who have aired their views, suggested that the assembly was supposed to have issues a rejoinder other than the summon.

  • C’River Signs MoU With Bright Vision Health Foundation On Domestic Resource Mobilization

    C’River Signs MoU With Bright Vision Health Foundation On Domestic Resource Mobilization

     

    Cross River State Government has signed an MoU with Bright Vision Health Foundation (BVHF) to design, implement, monitor and evaluate Cross River State Domestic Resource Mobilization for HIV/AIDS and other disease burden in the health sector.

    Speaking at the MoU signing ceremony, the Director of Programs, BVHF Mr. Inah Willie Sunday lauded the initiative of His Excellency, Prince Bassey Otu for the establishment of DRM for HIV/AIDS and health related indices Trust Fund to complement the effort of International Aide.
    Donor funding has reduced drastically for low and middle income Countries due to wars, natural disasters and emerging diseases.

    The State Government was represented by the Permanent Secretary, State Planning Commission, Mr. Kingsley Eyibio on behalf of the Vice Chairman State Planning Commission, Dr. Bon Duke who assured Cross River State residents improved infrastructural development and health care services.

    He was optimistic that this project will attract more international funding as the state Government is ever ready to meet its own obligations in the MoU. He enjoined stakeholders to cooperate with Government and Consulting firm (BVHF) to achieve the objectives of the project.

  • Of Journalistic Consumerism And The Self Appointed Gate Keepers.. BY AGBA JALINGO 

    Of Journalistic Consumerism And The Self Appointed Gate Keepers.. BY AGBA JALINGO 

     

    Till date, I do not think anyone will doubt the fact that the Nigerian Television Authority NTA, remains the largest single public TV network in Africa. That is a fact. But in the past decade, their audience has dwindled scandalously that even those who work with NTA, rarely consume any information from their own station.

    The same station where kids used to rush with lightning speed to sit on bare floors to watch programs like Tales by Moonlight, Speak Out, Cockcrow at Dawn, Samanja, Mirror in the Sun, Checkmate, I Need To Know and many other very educative programs, has lost its appeal not just amongst young people but also amongst the elites who concoct the lies that the station churns out.

    Using the NTA as a classic example, how they pointed fingers at the emergence of private media houses as the cause of their misfortune, in like manner, the downward spiral of the fortunes of some self-appointed journalism gate keepers, is making them think that popular media practitioners, who were not originally trained as journalists, are the reason for their woes. These classroom and textbook journalists are about town fouling the air and trying to tell us who should be practicing journalism as they teach us in the classrooms, even when most of them know little or nothing about the practice of impactful journalism.

    I don’t want to mention some of the names of these self acclaimed pontificators, but I want to tell each and every one of them that; what you should be perturbed about is why the public no longer enjoys your kind of journalism and prefers to follow those who did not train as journalists enmasse? Why has the popular appeal shifted to individuals who may not be trained as journalists, but are practicing journalism? Why are those trained as journalists now incapable of serving the public the menu they enjoy consuming?

    What is the quality, content, model and intent of the journalism curriculum today? Does it retain the capacity to produce pen pushers that can capture the imagination of the population? What is the quality and depth of those training the journalist? Comparatively, how many of those textbook journalists have been able to make impactful reports that brought measurable change as against those who weren’t trained as journalists but are practicing journalism?

    If you are able to answer these posers frankly, you would have defined who a journalist is. The thing is that you are stuck with what the textbooks told you, what your journalism lecturers told you, what the professional organizations told you. Others who weren’t originally trained as journalists are targeting what the people need. They are serving the journalistic appetite and consumerism of the people directly. That’s why the people are running to them now every time they need the media. Not because they don’t know that you are trained as a journalist, but because they no longer need your services.

    And let me now tell you what your problem is: You are angry from within. Just shout it out loud and say you are envious of the wave the person living rent free in your head is making. It’s that simple. You know it yourself. In the deepest recesses of your heart, na envy dey worry you. You are upset that even without what you think you know better, that person is ahead of you. If you say so, you would not break any law. You simply would have said the truth because, ENVY is exactly what is wrong with you.

    People are risking their lives investigating stories you cannot, and risking their livelihoods asking questions you cannot dare to ask, yet all you classroom and textbook journalists fiddle with in your brain, is who trained as a journalist or not? There is a cliche in my place that; “the food of a cook who learnt cooking from a textbook, and the food of a cook who learnt how to cook from mama, do not taste the same.”

    The few most popular TVs, Radios and Newspapers in Nigeria today are manned mostly by people who were not trained as journalists. While the most inefficient ones around are those manned by people who were trained as journalists. Most of them were only trained to earn salaries from practicing journalism as a career, while those who picked up journalism are using it as a tool to change society.

    This is not in any way to detract from the argument for improved and continuous training to be more efficient in the practice of journalism. It is a very vital and essential requirement for everyone who wants to make significant progress in the field. This belaboring is to tell those who think that others must knock on their doors before picking a pen or gadget to practice journalism, because they sat in a classroom to study it, that they should all get out there, into the field and do what they were trained to do, make measurable impact, and they’ll be no space for others or shut their mouths forever!

    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, its agent or the organization the author works for.

  • The Evolution of Nigerian Democracy: Growing Pains, Political Fluidity, and the Path to Maturity BY OKOI OBONO-OBLA 

    The Evolution of Nigerian Democracy: Growing Pains, Political Fluidity, and the Path to Maturity BY OKOI OBONO-OBLA 

     

    On May 22, 2025, I appeared on TVC’s Politics Tonight to discuss the recent defections into the APC and the concerns surrounding the emergence of a one-party state. The anchor asked whether I found it problematic that some politicians frequently move from one party to another. I responded in the negative, explaining that what we are witnessing is a natural phenomenon linked to Nigeria’s evolving democratic landscape.

    Democracy, like all living organisms, undergoes growth and transformation. In biological terms, human beings and animals begin life through conception, followed by fetal development, birth, and subsequent stages—toddlerhood, infancy, adolescence, young adulthood, and eventually full-fledged maturity. Adolescence, often marked by instability and turbulence, presents challenges that many struggle to overcome. Some successfully navigate this transition, while others falter. Similarly, Nigeria’s democracy, still in its formative years, is experiencing growing pains.

    Democracy is a social science, situated between natural science and sociology. Thus, the fluidity we observe in Nigerian politics—what some interpret as inconsistency in political affiliations—is not cause for despair, hopelessness, or despondency. Rather, it is indicative of a system still learning, refining itself, and gradually stabilizing. At 25 years old, Nigeria’s democracy is akin to a young adult finding its footing. While setbacks occur, recovery follows, allowing progress to take shape.

    Nigeria transitioned to democracy in 1999, marking the beginning of the Fourth Republic. Since then, the country has witnessed multiple peaceful transitions of power, including the historic 2015 election, where an opposition party defeated an incumbent for the first time.
    However, challenges remain, such as fluctuating voter turnout, which dropped from 69% in 2003 to 35% in 2023.

    This reflects both political disengagement and evolving democratic participation.

    Additionally, Nigeria’s democracy has been shaped by its history of military rule, which lasted for nearly 30 years before the transition to civilian governance.

    The influence of ethnicity, regional disparities, and economic factors continues to play a role in political affiliations and defections.
    As democracy matures, political parties will likely become more ideologically distinct, reducing the fluidity seen today.

    With time, Nigeria’s political landscape will mature, and its politicians will become more attuned to democratic ideals. The perceived instability today, often seen as erratic political behavior, will gradually dissipate. As our democracy evolves over the next 25 years or more, we can expect greater ideological consistency and institutional stability, fostering a more robust and enduring political culture.

    @ Okoi Obono-Obla

     

    Disclaimer: The opinion expressed in this article is strictly that of the author, Chief Okoi Obono-Obla, and does not represent TheLumineNews, its agent or the organization the author works for 

  • Jarigbe Facilitates NLNG Training for 17 Constituents of Cross River North Senatorial District

    Jarigbe Facilitates NLNG Training for 17 Constituents of Cross River North Senatorial District

     

    The Senator representing Cross River North Senatorial District, Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, has facilitated training for 17 constituents at the Nigerian Content HCD training in Port Harcourt.

    The Nigerian Content Human Capital Development (NC-HCD) Basic Training Programme in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, is part of the NLNG Train 7 Project.

    This initiative highlights Senator Jarigbe’s commitment to equipping young graduates with skills that will boost innovation in Nigeria’s oil and gas industry and beyond.

    A total of 17 constituents of Cross River North Senatorial District, drawn from the five local government areas, from diverse academic disciplines and rigorously selected through the NCDMB’s NOGIC JQS portal, will embark on the 12-month training program. The program focuses on critical areas such as ICT, engineering, welding and fabrication, non-destructive testing (NDT), marine and offshore services, and facility management, preparing participants to become globally competitive professionals.

    The lawmaker, in a message to the beneficiaries and youths of Cross River North, stated that he is always available to work with relevant agencies and departments that support initiatives creating lasting value for individuals, businesses, and communities.

    The beneficiaries include;

    1. Ador Godwin Ute (Ogoja)

    2. ⁠ Oti Purity Francis (Ogoja)

    3. ⁠ Egobor Samuel Egor (Ogoja)

    4. Abang Abang (Ogoja)

    5. Anthony Ebah Ushie (Bekwarra)

    6. ⁠ Abem Godwin Ukor (Bekwarra)

    7. ⁠Okiri Gabriel-West (Bekwarra)

    8. ⁠ Adariku Denis Ogbudu (Bekwarra)

    9. Egere Sunday Abuga (Yala)

    10. ⁠ Idu Augustine Odey (Yala)

    11. ⁠ Ogabor Alphonsus Agu (Yala)

    12. Ushang Grace Awhobiwom (Obudu)

    13. Akomaye Anthony Ukah (Obudu)

    14. ⁠ Anashe Thomas (Obudu)

    15. Dorcas Abeyou Unubashere (Obanliku)

    16. ⁠Kayang Justin Kanung (Obanliku)

    17. ⁠Atiteh John Atiteh (Obanliku)

    Congratulations

  • Jarigbe Debunks Defection Rumor, Receives Hundreds Of Defectors In Bekwarra

    Jarigbe Debunks Defection Rumor, Receives Hundreds Of Defectors In Bekwarra

    By Elijah Ugani 

    The Senator representation Cross River Northern Senatorial District, Sen Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, has debunked the rumours of his defection from the People’s Democratic Party to the All Progressive Congress.

    Sen Jarigbe made the clarification during the town hall meeting with constituents held in Obudu, Bekwarra, Obanliku local government areas.

    The lawmaker noted that if Tinubu and Bassey Otu had not stayed in the opposition, they would not have been president and governor today, and so he can not abandon the people and the platform that gave him their support and mandate to represent them.

    In his words ‘It is true that there are some issues at the national level. But those issues are going to be resolved. The election is not tomorrow. The election is not next week. It is not next year.

    “I don’t want us to distract ourselves with all of that. It’s time for governance. We have no excuse not to deliver. We want you to hold us accountable.

    “Party politics is different, but I have to share a few things with you. There are issues surrounding who will be National Secretary and who will not be. But those issues will be resolved. There is nothing like PDP will not be able to file candidates.

    “By the grace of God, I will be on the ballot. Nothing is going to stop you for voting for your son and the person you want. I want to correct an impression that I’m moving from this party. I’m not moving.

    “If our president, President Tinibu, did not stay in opposition, he will not be president today. If our governor, Prince Otu, did not stay in opposition, he wouldn’t have been governor today. So nobody can come and coerce me and say that I must move to any party.

    “In Obanliku, we chose one of your sons and sent him to the national assembly as member of the House of Representatives. Today there are insinuations that he says that there will be no tickets for us on the platform of PDP. Please, there will be tickets for us. If he wants to leave the party, it’s for personal reasons. I am not part of it.

    “It wasn’t the name of any party that voted for us. The people that voted for us are seated here. We will go by your decision and not the decision of anybody in Abuja or Calabar”.

    The lawmaker explained that it was very necessary for him to interface with the people whose mandate he holds to give account of his stewardship for the period of two years in the 10th assembly, and also to have the opportunity to be accessed by his people. He further charged the people to draw his attention to areas of concern where he needs to focus on in the next two years.

    Sen Jarigbe listed projects he facilitated in each of the ten wards of the three Local Government Areas he visited including the electrification of Gakem to Abuochiche, Bekwarra Local Government Area and construction of Amukwong bridge, Alege, Alege/Ubang ward in Obudu Local Government Area which are ongoing.

    He used the opportunity to thank his constituents for the support and steadfastness demonstrated and pledged to always put first the interest of his constituents.

    Speaking earlier during the town hall meetings held at various locations in Obanliku, Obudu and Bekwarra Local Government Areas, the Chairman of the People’s Democratic Party PDP, Cross River State chapter, Mr Vena Ikem Esq, noted that “Globally, it is a common practice for representatives to hold town hall meetings periodically to enable them meet with their constituents as to get feedback to enable them improve their representation.

    “Very recently, I have witnessed where representatives where booed by their constituents on account of their failed representation.

    “Please do not hesitate to tell your senator where he has not done well to enable him serve you better. Where he has done well, please don’t forget to commend him as that will definitely encourage him to do more”.

    Leaders and stakeholders of the three local governments took turns to commend the uncommon representation of Sen Jarigbe Agom, and noted that they have not had it this easy with any senator since 1999.

    In Obanliku, principal among the things mentioned that requires the senator’s attention was the Kakwe road .

    In Obudu, the people called on Sen Jarigbe Agom to lobby for federal appointments for the youths, noting that the youths are roaming the streets with qualified certificates with no one in sight to assist them get jobs. They argue that Obudu youths deserve to also occupy positions in Nigerian National Petroleum Cooperation NNPC, Federal Inland Revenue Services and others.

    In Bekwarra, the people commended Sen Jarigbe Agom, to have facilitated federal government scholarship for three of their sons who are currently abroad on studies.
    They requested the senator to give their youths Jobs and to see to the completion of the electrification project, which worries every Bekwarra person.

    The people of Bekwarra assured Sen Jarigbe Agom, of their unflinching support even beyond 2027 and referred to the coercion by the All Progressive Congress to silence other parties as a failed project. They posited that the APC should coerce the prices of commodities in the market to crash so that the common people can live averagely. And that unless that is done, whatever some of the leaders who were given opportunities on the plater of gold, but failed to utilize it, are wasting their time as majority of the Bekwarra people will continue to support the good work Sen Jarigbe is doing.

    During the town hall meeting at Bekwarra, the All Progressive Congress Chapter Secretary, Mr Joe Okpen Adams, Ayade’s former aide, Odama Groovydee Abednigo Oga, led hundreds of APC faithfuls to the PDP and cited Sen Jarigbe Agom’s leadership prowess and service to the people as the basis for their defection. They used the opportunity and declared support for the lawmaker and the party.

    The were received into the party by the chapter Chairman of the PDP, and encouraged by the state Chairman, Barr Vena Ikem Esq.

    Sen Jarigbe Agom commended their bold step to join the PDP and noted that the move was natural and organic as the PDP has nothing to coerce or to use as a tool to lure anyone to join the party.

  • Leadership That Resonates: The Impact of Senator Agom Jarigbe’s Town Hall Meetings BY OKOI OBONO-OBLA 

    Leadership That Resonates: The Impact of Senator Agom Jarigbe’s Town Hall Meetings BY OKOI OBONO-OBLA 

     

    I have been closely following the town hall meetings convened by Senator Agom Jarigbe, representing Cross River Northern Senatorial District in the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. These gatherings serve as a platform for his constituents to stay informed about his activities since his inauguration in 2023. What has struck me most is the overwhelming turnout of enthusiastic constituents who thronged the various town halls in large numbers—a genuine demonstration of the love and support they have for their Senator. Unlike the usual political rallies where crowds are sometimes bought or hired, these attendees are genuinely eager to connect with a leader who has established a strong rapport with them and who has been delivering effectively.

    I must admit, I am green with envy. How I wish Senator Jarigbe were in my party! Unfortunately, the senators from my party in Cross River State, through hubris and arrogance, have failed to build any real connection with their constituents. They lack the ability to engage the people meaningfully, let alone organize such impactful town hall meetings. This is a stark contrast to Senator Jarigbe’s approach. His actions reaffirm the fundamental principle that true leadership cannot be faked—one cannot give what one does not possess. Leadership is a natural gift, and pseudo-leaders, lacking the charisma and empathy required, will always struggle to resonate with the people.

    However, there is one aspect of Senator Jarigbe’s town hall meetings that does not sit well with me—his ability to use his electrifying charm to attract notable figures to his party, including my good friend and fellow alumnus, Professor Zana Akpagu. While I am disappointed by this political maneuvering, I must admit that it speaks volumes about Senator Jarigbe’s influence. His ability to draw competent individuals into his party—one that has been struggling nationally—underscores his status as a crowd-puller and a leader who understands the importance of surrounding himself with strong minds. It is an ability that senators from my party sorely lack.

    Ultimately, Senator Agom Jarigbe’s town hall meetings reflect the kind of politics Nigeria needs—leadership built on genuine connections, openness, and the ability to inspire trust among the people. He is setting a standard that others should aspire to, and his approach to governance is one that should not be ignored.
    @ Okoi Obono-Obla

     

    Disclaimer: The opinion expressed in this article is strictly that of the author, Chief Okoi Obono-Obla, and does not represent TheLumineNews, its agent or the organization the author works for.