The Lumine News

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  • Hon Martin Orim Receives Defectors In Alege/Ubang, Unveils Team Martin-Jarigbe

    Hon Martin Orim Receives Defectors In Alege/Ubang, Unveils Team Martin-Jarigbe

    By Elijah Ugani 

    The Chairman of the GFO Orim Foundation and Chief of Staff to former Governor Ben Ayade, Hon Chief Martin Orim, in company of the Ward Chairman, Mr Ikong Cyprain Oyor, received defectors from the People’s Democratic Party PDP, in his ward, Alege/Ubang, in Obudu Local Government Area.

    The defection which took place on the 3rd January 2026, at Okiro – Ubang, was part of the new year interactive session with party stalwarts his ward.

    Receiving the defectors, Hon Martin Orim, commended the bold step taken by the defectors to align with the All Progressive Congress APC, to bring development to the ward.

    He charged party leaders who pledged to support him to align with Senator Jarigbe Agom because the senator has shown effective representation.

    He noted that “Sen Jarigbe Agom has shown clearly that he is part of us. The Amukwong bridge the senator is working on, when completed will improve the economic activities of our people”.

    Hon Martin Orim, noted “Sen Jarigbe Agom is a performing senator and we cannot afford to replace a performing senator when he is everywhere and bringing the dividends of democracy that all of you here can see.

    “I enjoined you all to be formidable and rally support around the senator. I had previously appealed and let me remind us that the Vice Chairman of Obudu Local Government Council, Hon Rhoda Ashong, the Press Secretary to the Deputy Governor, Pastor Fed Abua, the Councilor representing Alege/Ubang ward, all political appointees from the ward should put a little amount of money each time they receive salary to host party meetings from village to village to keep the party alive”.

    Hon Martin Orim, informed that “the support you all have for me is hereby channelled to TEAM Martin-Jarigbe”.

    Speaking earlier and on behalf of the defectors, Mr Emmanuel Abua, thanked the Chief of Staff to former Governor Ben Ayade and Chairman of GFO Orim Foundation and the entire APC members in the ward.

    Mr Abua noted that “While it remains clear that we moved with our Distinguished Senator, Sen. Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe base on his leadership prowess and developmental strives, we pledged our loyalty to the party leadership in the ward specifically as well as to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Cross River State Governor Prince Bassey Otu, and the Deputy Governor, Dr. Peter Odey, While prioritising the success and development of our people”.

    On his part, the Deputy Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Hon Sylvester Agabi, commended the defectors and noted that “You are most welcome to the largest party. There is nothing like old or new APC members. We are all equal. Whatever that is due party members who have been here before today is equally due those that have defected today. I wish you all the best as you continue to support Gov Bassey Otu, his Deputy and President Armed Bola Tinubu”.
    The event drew several top party leaders and functionaries including the Deputy Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Hon. Sylvester Agabi Jnr., the Commissioner for Sports Development, Hon. Agnes Atsu, the Vice Chairman of Obudu Local Government Area, Hon. Rhoda Ashong, Press Secretary to the Deputy Governor, Barr Fred Abua, Hon. Philip Ikpa, former leader of the council for Alege/Ubang Ward, and other key stakeholders

  • Leaders: Epiphany Reminds Us That Jesus Is Indeed The Ultimate Leader And We All Need His Light To Forge Ahead BY PETER OBELE ABUE

    Leaders: Epiphany Reminds Us That Jesus Is Indeed The Ultimate Leader And We All Need His Light To Forge Ahead BY PETER OBELE ABUE

     

    The Magi (three wise men) were not Leaders but people well known in older times as capable of interpreting dreams and foreseeing the future by looking at the stars. When the true leader (Jesus) was born, a star appeared as a message from heaven to tell the world that something remarkable just happened and so the Magi went in search of it. The Magi’s visit really represents the yearning of humanity for a brighter future, and Jesus Christ is that light that shines in the dark, illuminating all people towards a better future. Isaiah prophesied to Jerusalem that, ” see, darkness covers the earth and thick cloud covers the people, but upon you, the Lord shines and over you appears his glory” (Is. 60:2). When Isaiah’s prophesy was finally fulfilled, the Magi came to pay homage to the new born leader (Mt 2:1-12).

    The Magi represents people of the whole world who let themselves to be guided by the message of peace and love. They fell on their knees in worship of the newborn king and they did not pretend about it. We need, first and foremost, to learn to understand and reverence Jesus in our lives before we can truly recognize and acknowledge the position of those who would lead us in the society. Epiphany reminds us that Jesus is indeed the ultimate leader and we all need his light to forge ahead. Those in positions of leadership sometimes forget their utter dependence on God. Whenever a true leader emerges in a society, it is a re-enactment of the leadership of Jesus, and It ought to be characterized by humility and the presence of peace and harmony. Jesus came as a universal king and so Christian leaders must seek to be all-inclusive in their leadership.

    It is not unusual to see people’s seeking attention at the emergence of a new leader. The hope is that any affiliation with the leadership, would bring them good tidings. Like the Magi, however, when we flock to Leaders and present gifts, it should not be a mere physical exercise. Instead, our gifts should show our renewed and re-energised desire to collaborate with the new leadership to bring light to the world. If we visit a leader to tell tales, malign others and incubate factions, we are only stifling the process for such a leader. True leaders should be intelligent enough to perceive this.

    If our purpose of aligning with a leader is sycophantic and purely partisan, then that purpose is already defeated. Most Leaders have failed because their close associates advised them wrongly; seeking for selfish ends rather than the common good.

     

    Disclaimer: The opinion expressed in this article is strictly that of the author, Peter Obele Abue PhD, and does not represent Theluminenews, its agent or the organisation the author works for/with.

  • Yelitude: Sen Eteng Jones Doles Out 12M To Boki Local Government

    Yelitude: Sen Eteng Jones Doles Out 12M To Boki Local Government

    By Judex Okoro 

    As part of the Yuletide celebrations, the Senator representing Cross River Central Senatorial District, Eteng Jonah Williams, has donated over N12 million and 200 bags of rice to constituents in Boki local government area of Cross River state.

    The donation was made during a town hall meeting held at Boje on Sunday, December 28, 2025, where the Senator interacted with community leaders, party stakeholders and residents.

    The gesture is aimed at sharing the joy of the festive season and providing relief to vulnerable members of the community.

    Senator Williams explained that the outreach in Boki was part of his seasonal tour across the six local government areas that make up the Central Senatorial District.

    He noted that other local government areas including Yakurr, Abi, Obubra, Etung and Ikom would also benefit from the Yuletide intervention.

    Speaking at the event, the Senator said he came to celebrate Christmas and the New Year with his people and to appreciate them for their support.

    He commended the people of Boki for their loyalty to the administration of Governor Bassey Otu and assured them of continued engagement through regular town hall meetings to discuss development priorities and projects.

    He further announced plans to provide free transportation for students and holiday makers returning to Calabar after the festive season.

    In addition, various groups including youths, students, women, support groups and persons living with disabilities are to receive N500,000 each as part of the support package.

    In their separate remarks, the Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Boki local government area, Chief Kelvin Njong, and the Chairman of Boki local government area, Mrs Beatrice Nyiam, commended Senator Williams for consistently identifying with the people during festive periods.

    They described him as a committed leader and assured him of the continued support of the people of Boki while wishing him a merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year.

  • Sen Jarigbe Celebrates Christmas Wit Ogoja Exco, Reaffirms Grassroots Alliance

    Sen Jarigbe Celebrates Christmas Wit Ogoja Exco, Reaffirms Grassroots Alliance

     

    The senator representing Cross River State Northern Senatorial District, Sen Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, has celebrated the festive season with members of the Ogoja Local Government Executive Council (Exco).

    The senator used the occasion to commend the council for its commitment to grassroots governance and urged members to continue working in unity for the development of the local government area. He described Christmas as a period of love, sacrifice, and reflection, encouraging leaders to renew their dedication to selfless service.

    Senator Jarigbe also reaffirmed his commitment to advancing people-oriented projects across Ogoja and the entire Cross River North, noting that collaboration between elected representatives and local government officials remains key to sustainable development.

    Members of the Ogoja Exco who spoke through the Supervisor for Health, Hon. David Ilom expressed appreciation for the senator’s Christmas gifts and support, describing his s accessibility a morale booster and a sign of strong leadership ties between the National Assembly and the local government.

    The celebration featured interactions aimed at strengthening unity, peace, and prosperity in Ogoja and beyond, reinforcing a shared sense of purpose and community building.

  • Jarigbe Agom Felicitates Christians on Christmas, Calls for Peace and Unity

    Jarigbe Agom Felicitates Christians on Christmas, Calls for Peace and Unity

     

    The Senator representing Cross River North Senatorial District, Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, has extended warm Christmas greetings to Christians in Cross River North Senatorial District and across the State.

    In his Christmas message, Senator Jarigbe described the birth of Jesus Christ as a powerful symbol of love, sacrifice and hope for humanity, urging constituents to reflect on the true essence of the season by showing compassion to one another.

    He called on the people of Cross River North to continue to live in peace and unity, irrespective of ethnic, religious or political differences, adding that sustainable development can only thrive in an atmosphere of harmony and mutual understanding.

    The Lawmaker also used the occasion to appreciate constituents for their continued support and cooperation, assuring them of his commitment to people focused legislation and effective representation at the National Assembly.

    He prayed that the birth of Jesus Christ will usher in hope, good health, and prosperity for families, while wishing all Christians a joyful celebration and a peaceful New Year.

    Merry Christmas

    TEAM JARI MEDIA

  • Dr. Godwin Agbor Extends Christmas Support to Widows, Stakeholders in Utukalu

    Dr. Godwin Agbor Extends Christmas Support to Widows, Stakeholders in Utukalu

     

    In the spirit of the Christmas season and in furtherance of his commitment to humanitarian service, Dr. Godwin Agbor on Tuesday carried out a series of outreach activities across Utukalu in Obudu Local Government Area of Cross River State.

    The outreach spanned the five wards of Utukalu and benefited a total of 500 persons, comprising 300 widows and 200 community stakeholders. The initiative was aimed at enabling widows to celebrate the festive season with dignity, while also appreciating community stakeholders for their contributions toward unity, peace, and development in the area.

    Dr. Agbor noted that the gesture was also in support of the people-oriented initiatives and humanitarian efforts of the First Family of Cross River State, Gov. Bassey Edet Otu, whose commitment to social welfare and care for the vulnerable continues to inspire community-based interventions across the state.

    As part of the outreach, Dr. Agbor also paid a compassionate visit to a sick woman, Mrs. Elizabeth Ateb, at Ukpe.

    During the visit, he offered material support and words of encouragement, reaffirming his belief in standing with the vulnerable, especially during periods of health and economic challenges.

    Beneficiaries of the outreach expressed deep appreciation for the kind gesture, describing it as timely and impactful. They offered prayers and goodwill to Dr. Agbor, noting that the intervention reflected the true meaning of Christmas which encompasses love, sharing, and compassion.

    Dr. Agbor reaffirmed his commitment to humanitarian service and inclusive development, assuring the people of Utukalu and Obudu Local Government Area of his continued dedication to initiatives that promote care for the vulnerable and strengthen community well-being.

  • Elijah Ugani Celebrates Christmas with Widows, Set to Launch Limre Global Initiative

    Elijah Ugani Celebrates Christmas with Widows, Set to Launch Limre Global Initiative

    By Fredaline Ibobo 

    In a show of compassion and commitment to community welfare, the Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer of Limre Integrated Farms, Mr. Ugani Elijah on December 23, 2025, visited his community, Ukwortung in Obudu Local Government Area of Cross River State, where he spent time with widows and encouraged them not to lose hope despite the loss of their husbands.

    During the visit, Mr. Ugani distributed 5kg bags of rice to 50 widows, a gesture aimed at easing their needs during the Christmas season and reaffirming his care for the vulnerable in society.

    The outreach was warmly received, with beneficiaries expressing joy and gratitude for the timely support.

    The widows took turns and offered heartfelt prayers for Mr. Ugani Elijah, asking for God’s continued guidance, protection, and blessings upon his life for remembered them and having stood in solidarity with them during a challenging period.

    Community members described the gesture as timely and impactful, noting that such acts of kindness help strengthen communal bonds and promote shared responsibility for social welfare.

    Reiterating his commitment to humanitarian service, Mr. Ugani Elijah pledged continued support for initiatives that uplift widows and other vulnerable groups within and beyond the community. He also announced plans to launch the Limre Global Initiative, a platform aimed at expanding his humanitarian interventions and reaching more people in need.

    He noted that he has been doing this for past ten years when he said “I have been giving rice to widows for the past Ten years now. Each year, since I cultivate rice, I usually instruct my sister to mill a 100 kg bag and share to some widows. This year, since I have delved into processing, bagging and selling rice, I decided that the profit made from this December sales, I should bag the rice in 5kg to enable me reach out to these widows. I gave rice to widows in Ogoja more than 20 persons, in Obudu urban, I reached to more than Ten persons and other places”.

  • Very Very Distinguished Sen Jarigbe Agom: A man that keeps proving beyond all reasonable doubt that not every Nigerian politician is all self centered BY GIFT NKARI AROBOR

    Very Very Distinguished Sen Jarigbe Agom: A man that keeps proving beyond all reasonable doubt that not every Nigerian politician is all self centered BY GIFT NKARI AROBOR

     

    My husband and I had been in a silent battle concerning his health. We had fought this battle for over one year. Only closed friends and relatives knew about it.

    In April of 2025, after so much procedures, tests and examination, he was properly diagnosed.
    Having him living with a health challenge that proved all efforts to get him out of it abortive was very tough on us as a family.
    But getting to know what was actually wrong with him, getting to know what we were in for, financially and otherwise shattered us.💔

    Then we began to reach out to people for financial assistance. My husband wrote and printed many letters to individuals in public offices like the man you see in the picture above.

    To cut a long story short out of all the politicians he communicated to, seeking for financial assistance.

    Today, I publicly write to tell the world that only this man distinguished Sen Jari Agom responded and sent something to us.

    I’LL TELL YOU HOW IT ALL PLAYED OUT
    On that fateful night, disturbed about how to get money to at least commence treatment, my husband put up a call to our Senator Jari. He picked up and according to my husband, he sounded like he was already asleep, the call woke him up. On hearing my husband make mention of what he had been diagnosed of, he could tell that the senator’s eyes cleared instantly and he from the sound of his voice, he sat up! This is nothing but show of empathy for humanity. He understood it was something serious and instantly, he felt the pain in his heart.

    They spoke, he expressed how sorry he was that my husband had to go through all he was going through. After which he admonished him not to worry too much, that by God’s grace, he was going to be alright. (Very comforting words he spoke). Then he asked him to send his account details on Monday of the next week (the call was made on a Friday night). That night we went to bed grateful and hopefully knowing whom he had spoken with.

    Monday came and he sent the account details.
    Then the next day which was Tuesday, I was outside spreading out clothes I had washed on the line to dry, deep in thoughts as it had become of me. I was awaken from my deep thoughts by my husband who came out see bare feet holding his phone on his hand.

    “Guy what’s up, what’s so important that you had to come outside and with bare feet” I asked curiously. He came closer as he said in a low tone “honey come see what Sen. Jarigbe has done” handing me the phone.

    Men and brethren, when I collected the phone and looked at the message. Behold it was a credit alert from Senator!

    The amount?
    It was a whooping 4 million Naira! Seeing that made me fall to my knees with tears in my eyes in thanksgiving to God for the gift of such a man to humanity. And knowing that we can commence treatment as soon as possible.

    Someone somewhere may begin to think “eh he knows him now that is why he did that”.
    Well NO he didn’t have much personal knowledge of my husband. If he saw him on the road he’d walk pass him. All he knew was that a member of his constituent, the Divisional Officer of NSCDC Yala, who happens to be from Ogoja by origin called him. Nothing more!

    Senator sir, though my husband could not make it out of the sickness, he passed. But here is me telling the world that he d!ed with a very grateful heart to you sir.

    As a person, I have always had this different view of you as a very distinguished Nigerian politician. You do good things not just for votes or praises but you do good for humanity sake. I’ve always known you to be a good person but this time around you shocked us with your goodness and kindness….what a great man you are!

    If you were someone that does things for your personal interest only, my husband wouldn’t have been near qualified for your support.

    Now I am short of words to describe how it feels on hearing your name alone. You’re such a good man!
    On behalf of me and my family, we are and will remain grateful to you sir.

    May the Lord God in his infinite mercy continue to bless and prosper you🙏
    You shall continue to win in your career. 🙏
    You shall grow to the very apex of your career in good health 🙏

    The Lord shall continue to be with you in all you do.

    THANK YOU!
    THANK YOU!!
    THANK YOU!!!

     

  • Excerpts From Governor Bassey Otu’s Remarks at Senator Jarigbe Agom’s 55th Birthday event at Hilton Hotel in Abuja

    Excerpts From Governor Bassey Otu’s Remarks at Senator Jarigbe Agom’s 55th Birthday event at Hilton Hotel in Abuja

    Compiled By Agba Jalingo 

    “I want to say that nobody came to this world for nothing, that whoever it is, was created by God for nothing. But each and everyone cannot be blessed at the same time. But the bridge between people achieving that purpose is how to manage, navigate to get to that date of promotion. So I celebrate people who are people oriented and are loved by the people. Distinguished Senator Jarigbe Agom, seems to be one. Who is so entwined with his people, which is a direct opposite of some people who carry on without a pulpit, which of course is a problem to society.

    “55 years, he is still a young gentleman. I know that in my school days, when they say somebody is 50, I’ll say oooh that person is gone. But look at me here today, 55 is far behind me and I am still kicking and also very very strong.

    “Senator Jarigbe Agom, I bring you many more felicitations from all of Cross River State, both home and abroad, to say that they are happy with you. They wish you the best, long life and prosperity. At some time, politically, Cross River State was divided. And the major opposition was distinguished Senator Jarigbe Agom, because of his people oriented policies. But today, Cross River State is one, because of their coming. They came from all nooks and crannies.

    “When I came in here, I didn’t expect people to come all the way from the villages, particularly on a Tuesday like this, but I was surprised to come and see almost, from Councilors, House of Assembly members, Chairmen, the chairmen here you cannot count. Chairmen of local governments and their deputies, and other members who of course share his blessings with him. And you see all our governors here, that indicates something.

    “So one of the reasons for finding time to come here is that, Cross River State is going forward and will never go back. Our achievements within this time are quite enormous. God has done very well in our State. We are breaking new grounds and making new endings. That is why we need everybody to come together to do the needful so that the difference will be glaring. We are taking it from where our forebears left it, we have added value in all ramifications and I can assure you that when you cascade, when you move down, you will see that you have people who are ready to take the mantle and continue to lead the State forward.

    “Senator Jarigbe Agom, we wish you the very best in life. 55 is a giant age, but at 55, you have gained enough experience. In terms of maturity, you can take a decision in any sphere of life. At this stage, you are committed. We want to wish you the best. What the future holds, we don’t know, power belongs to God, but I know that there are better days to come.”

    HE Senator Prince Bassey Otu.

  • DC Enamhe Celebrates Sen Jarigbe Agom, Says At 55, His Journey Reflects Integrity, Compassion And A Sense Of Hope

    DC Enamhe Celebrates Sen Jarigbe Agom, Says At 55, His Journey Reflects Integrity, Compassion And A Sense Of Hope

    Dear Distinguished Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe
    Senator Representing Cross River North
    NASS
    Abuja

    Dist Sen Sir ,
    Greetings

    On this special and memorable occasion, I join the good people of Bekwarra, the entire Cross River North, and numerous admirers across Nigeria in celebrating you as a truly outstanding son of our land, Distinguished Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, as you mark your 55th birthday.

    Distinguished Senator Sir,your life remains a powerful story of courage, selfless service, and unwavering dedication to the people you represent. You have shown that true leadership is defined not by loud proclamations but by meaningful impact.

    At 55, your journey reflects integrity, compassion, and an uncommon sense of duty qualities that uplift communities and inspire hope far beyond your constituency.

    For us in Bekwarra, from where your mother hails, of the respected Odey Eneji family unit that is extended across the entire Bekwarra,your leadership has never been distant or abstract.
    It is evident in the empowerment of our youths, the strengthening of our local economy, the renewal of critical infrastructure, and the confidence you continually restore in our collective aspirations.
    You have carried the cause of Cross River North with dignity, consistently advocated fairness in national conversations, and ensured that our people are no longer invisible in the corridors of power.

    Your footprints across the district reflect a leader guided not by personal ambition but by a deep and genuine calling to serve. You have shown empathy when it mattered most, resilience in the face of challenges, and consistency in pursuing justice, equity, and development for all.

    As you celebrate 55 years of purpose and grace, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to you Sir

    May this new chapter bring renewed strength, greater wisdom, and deep fulfillment.

    May your vision for a more prosperous, united, and equitable Cross River North continue to flourish.

    Above all, may God bless you with long life, sound health, and the courage to keep shaping the destiny of our people.

    On behalf of my family and the wider communications community in Bekwarra, I salute you, Distinguished Senator.

    Your life remains an inspiration, and your impact is a legacy still unfolding.

    Happy 55th birthday.

    May your light continue to shine brightly.

    Papa Dorn Cklaimz Enamhe
    Ukpong -1 of Bekwarra