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  • The Current State Of Agbokim Waterfall Road: Setting The Records Straight BY JON OWAN ENOH

    The Current State Of Agbokim Waterfall Road: Setting The Records Straight BY JON OWAN ENOH

    PRESS RELEASE

    THE CURRENT STATE OF AGBOKIM WATERFALL ROAD: SETTING THE RECORD STRAIGHT

    I am compelled to respond to a trending video circulated by one MC Okrika on May 26, 2026, in which deliberate falsehoods, distortions and malicious allegations were made against my person regarding the deplorable condition of the Agbokim Waterfall Road.

    Let me state from the outset that this response must not be misconstrued as an attempt to excuse, defend, or trivialize the unacceptable condition of the road and the daily hardship endured by our people and neighboring communities. I share in these pains personally. As someone who has remained deeply connected to his roots and accessible to his people throughout my years in public service, I travel home regularly and experience firsthand the frustration, discomfort and economic setbacks caused by the current state of the road.

    However, while genuine concerns about the road are legitimate, the reckless falsehood peddled by MC Okrika, particularly the claim that I avoided the road during my recent visit by taking an alternative route is completely false, mischievous and clearly part of his coordinated smear campaign designed to tarnish my reputation and mislead the public.

    Those familiar with my concerns/ interventions on the Agbokim Waterfall Road know that I have consistently acknowledged that the condition of the road remains one of the greatest disappointments in my otherwise distinguished record in public service. At no point have I shied away from admitting the seriousness of the problem. What must equally be made clear, however, is that the prolonged deterioration of the road has never been due to indifference, neglect or lack of sustained effort on my part.

    For the purpose of clarity and public enlightenment, the following facts are hereby presented:

    1. THE ROAD HAS REMAINED UNDER AN ACTIVE NDDC CONTRACT FOR YEARS
    For virtually all the years the Agbokim Waterfall Road has remained in a deplorable condition, the road has been under a valid contract awarded by the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).

    The initial contract for the reconstruction of the road was awarded around 2009 to a company called JAMEON Nigeria Ltd.Because it was a company with no known record,the Senate Leader then,Senator Ndoma Egba(SAN)and i, signed a joint protest letter addressed to the then Director General of the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP),Engr Emeka Eze,against the award.Regrettably,we were ignored.

    Unfortunately, the execution of the contract by Jameon was plagued by an extremely slow pace of work and glaring incompetence. Years later, the road’s continued deplorable state more than vindicated the concerns we raised from the onset.

    2. I FOUGHT CONSISTENTLY FOR THE REVOCATION AND THE RE-AWARD OF THE FAILED CONTRACT
    Following the glaring failure of JAMEON Nigeria Ltd. , despite records indicating that the company had reportedly received nearly half of the contract sum, I continued to pressure the NDDC authorities for the contract to be revoked and reassigned to a more credible contractor.
    After sustained engagement with both the NDDC as well as the supervising Minister and even the Presidency, the NDDC eventually revoked the contract in the last quarter of 2024.
    Consequently,the contract for the emergency construction of the road in four Lots was awarded to two companies,FaithPlant and Rhema around the last quarter of 2024.By January 2025,the NDDC formally handed over the road to the contractors.

    3. THE CLAIM THAT I OWN THE CONTRACT IS FALSE, MALICIOUS, AND DEFAMATORY
    Let me categorically and unequivocally state that neither I nor any proxy linked to me has ever been awarded the Agbokim Waterfall Road contract.
    The insinuation by MC Okrika that I own the contract is a blatant lie fabricated to deceive the public and assassinate my character. It is malicious, defamatory, and borne purely out of hatred, mischief and political bitterness.
    Throughout my years in public office, I have conducted myself with integrity and an abiding respect for ethical standards. I have never solicited for, demanded, or received any financial benefit from any contractor handling the project. My commitment to public service and accountability will never permit such conduct.

    4. THE CURRENT SLOW PROGRESS IS LARGELY DUE TO FUNDING CHALLENGES
    It is a known fact that the current contractors moved with speed immediately they took over the road.However, the slow pace currently being witnessed on the project is due to funding challenges.
    Nonetheless, I have continued to actively engage the leadership of the NDDC and other relevant bodies to overcome this challenge and ensure the full resumption and completion of work on the road.

    Beyond this, I have continued to make personal efforts to mobilize resources and alternative funding aimed at accelerating progress on the project because I understand fully the strategic and economic importance of the road to our people.

    While MC Okrika chooses to weaponize the suffering of our people for cheap political attacks and social media relevance, I remain focused on solutions, not propaganda. My commitment to the people has never been driven by noise-making or opportunism, but by genuine service and tangible impact.

    5. MY COMMITMENT TO MY PEOPLE REMAINS UNWAVERING,UNBEATABLE
    My love for my community and my dedication to the welfare of the people I represent remain unquestionable. Indeed, the people have always been at the center of my political philosophy and my public service engagements, both in the Legislative and Executive arms of government where I have had the rare privilege to serve.
    Ironically, even in the course of his ill-motivated attack, MC Okrika inadvertently acknowledged one of the many intervention programmes I currently champion — the Statewide MSME Intervention Programme designed to empower small businesses and expand economic opportunities for our people.
    Public service comes with sacrifices, including unfair criticism, deliberate misinformation and politically motivated attacks. I have accepted this reality long ago.

    However, no amount of coordinated hostility or sponsored blackmail will distract me from my responsibility to continue serving my people diligently and honourably.

    The undeniable truth remains that the Agbokim Waterfall Road requires urgent and lasting intervention. I remain confident that under the very able leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, whose administration I am privileged to serve as member of cabinet, the project will ultimately receive the attention and completion it deserves.

    I therefore urge our people to remain patient, vigilant and supportive as ongoing efforts continue to ensure that this important road is fully reconstructed for the benefit of present and future generations.
    Thank you and God bless.

    John Owan Enoh
    Hon. Minister of State for Industry
    27/05/2026

  • 2026 Children’s Day: Fr Peter Abue Charges Government, Parents On Education And Welfare of Children

    2026 Children’s Day: Fr Peter Abue Charges Government, Parents On Education And Welfare of Children

    By Elijah Ugani 

    The founder of CORAfrica Nigeria Rev Fr (Dr) Peter Obele Abue has called on Government, Parents and the general public to be more committed to the ideals of fostering the education and social welfare of children in Nigeria.

    Fr. Abue made this call to commemorate the 2026 Children’s Day celebration. He further extended warm wishes to children and reaffirmed his organisation’s dedication to helping those under his care achieve their aspirations and full potential.

    He noted that a lot needs to be done to ensure that the underprivileged children in rural Africa who by virtue of where they come from take their proper place to assess education, healthcare services and realise their full potentials.

    Fr. Abue used the opportunity to call on government at all levels, parents, corporate organisations, development partners, and philanthropists to support CORAfrica’s vision of expanding access to quality education and improving the welfare of children in rural communities.

    According to him, collective support and investment in children will help create a brighter future for society and ensure that no child is left behind.

    CORAfrica Nigeria is dedicated to child welfare and education, and is celebrating this 2026 Children’s Day with a renewed commitment to supporting children’s dreams, protecting their rights, and promoting access to quality education.

    Through the John Bosco Academy in Adagom, Ogoja, CORAfrica currently provides free education to more than 600 children, helping to bridge the gap between rural and urban education while preparing students to compete globally. The organisation also operates the John Stilley Schools in Victoria, where over 500 children receive quality education.

    The idea of setting aside a special day for children gained global recognition in 1954 when the United Nations General Assembly and UNICEF encouraged nations around the world to observe Universal Children’s Day as a way of promoting children’s rights and welfare.

    Nigeria officially adopted May 27 as Children’s Day in 1964, creating a platform to highlight challenges affecting children, including discrimination, exploitation, abuse, and limited access to quality education.

    In furtherance of child protection, Nigeria ratified the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child in 1989 and domesticated it through the Child Rights Act of 2003 by former President Olusogun Obasanjo. The Act extends the fundamental human rights provisions contained in Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution to children and outlines the responsibilities of government, families, and relevant authorities in safeguarding children’s welfare.

    On this 2026 Children’s Day celebration, CORAfrica Nigeria calls on parents, caregivers, government, and indeed people from all walks of life to become more committed to supporting children, irrespective of their backgrounds, in order to help them realise their full potential. The organisation stressed that there can be no safe and prosperous tomorrow without properly nurturing, protecting, and positioning children today.

    Happy Children’s Day to all Children in Nigeria.

  • Jarigbe Felicitates Muslims on Eid-ul-Kabir, Prays for Unity, Peace, Doles Out N5.5 Million

    Jarigbe Felicitates Muslims on Eid-ul-Kabir, Prays for Unity, Peace, Doles Out N5.5 Million

    Senator representing the Cross River North Senatorial District, Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, has felicitated with Muslim faithful on the occasion of the 2026 Eid-ul-Kabir celebration, calling on them to uphold the virtues of obedience, sacrifice, love, tolerance, and total submission to the will of Almighty Allah.

    In a goodwill message issued to commemorate the festival, the lawmaker described Eid-ul-Kabir as a sacred celebration that symbolizes faith, devotion, selflessness, and unwavering trust in God, as demonstrated by Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice in obedience to Allah’s command.

    Senator Jarigbe urged Muslims to reflect on the noble lessons of the season and apply them in their daily lives to promote peace, unity, mutual understanding, and sustainable development across Cross River North Senatorial District, Cross River State, and the country at large.

    He stressed the need for religious harmony and peaceful coexistence among Nigerians, irrespective of ethnic or religious differences, noting that national development can only flourish in an atmosphere of unity, tolerance, and collective responsibility.

    The senator also encouraged citizens to continue praying for the peace, stability, and prosperity of Nigeria, while extending love and support to the less privileged during the festive period.
    As part of his support for the Eid-ul-Kabir celebration, Senator Jarigbe donated N5.5 million to Muslim communities across Cross River North Senatorial District to enable them celebrate the festival with joy and dignity.

    He further wished Muslims in Nigeria and across the world a peaceful, joyous, and spiritually fulfilling Eid-ul-Kabir celebration.

    “Eid Mubarak,” the statement concludes.

  • Customs, NUJ Partner to Sensitise Border Communities Against Smuggling in Katsina

    Customs, NUJ Partner to Sensitise Border Communities Against Smuggling in Katsina

     

    The newly elected executives of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Katsina State Council, on Thursday, 21 May 2026, paid a courtesy visit to the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Katsina Area Command, where both organisations reaffirmed their commitment to sensitising border communities on the dangers and consequences of smuggling activities.

    Speaking during the visit, the Customs Area Controller of the Katsina Area Command (CAC), Comptroller Mohd Saidu, congratulated the newly elected NUJ leadership and described the media as a critical partner in promoting national security, public enlightenment, and economic development.

    He emphasised that combating smuggling requires collective efforts from security agencies, traditional institutions, community leaders, and the media to educate the public, especially residents of border communities, on the negative effects of illegal trade.

    According to him, smuggling poses serious threats to the nation’s economy by undermining government policies, discouraging legitimate trade, and endangering the citizens’ well-being
    He assured the NUJ of the Command’s readiness to sustain collaboration with the media, stating: “Curbing smuggling activities requires collective efforts. Therefore, the Katsina Area Command is ready to partner with the NUJ in sensitising the public on the dangers of smuggling.”

    In his remarks, the Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Katsina State Council, Comrade Aminu Dandagoro, said the visit was aimed at strengthening the existing relationship between the union and the NCS.

    He noted that the newly elected executives are committed to promoting responsible journalism and supporting initiatives that foster peace, security, and national development.

    Also speaking during the visit, the Patron of the NUJ, Comptroller Usman Bello (Rtd), commended the NCS for its sustained efforts in combating smuggling and safeguarding the nation’s borders.

    He urged journalists to use their platforms to promote public awareness campaigns, particularly among border communities, to discourage involvement in illegal trade and other economic crimes.

    Both organisations also discussed strategies for strengthening collaboration in the areas of public sensitisation, national security awareness, and effective information sharing for the overall development of Katsina State.

  • C’River Internal Revenue Service Launches Insurance Cover For Ad-Hoc Staff

    C’River Internal Revenue Service Launches Insurance Cover For Ad-Hoc Staff

    Culled From Negroid Heaven 

    The Cross River Internal Revenue Service has introduced a group life and health insurance scheme for its ad hoc staff as part of efforts to strengthen workers’ welfare and improve productivity within the agency.

    Chairman of the Service, Edwin Okon, disclosed this on Friday in Calabar during the presentation of a ₦1.4 million group life insurance benefit to the widow of a deceased ad hoc staff member, Mr. Charles Ugbe.

    Okon described the initiative as the first of its kind in the agency, explaining that the decision was taken in recognition of the contributions and commitment of ad hoc staff to the revenue drive of the state.

    According to him, the insurance scheme was designed to provide financial assistance and medical support for workers during emergencies while also reducing the burden on families of deceased employees.

    He stated that the Service had also introduced health insurance packages and mid-month transport bonuses to cushion the effects of the current economic realities on staff members.

    The CRIRS chairman noted that the improved welfare measures had significantly boosted workers’ morale and productivity, contributing to the increase in the state’s internally generated revenue from ₦22 billion to ₦57 billion.

    Okon further said the insurance initiative would encourage accountability and discourage corrupt practices by providing workers with a stronger sense of financial security.

    “I urge workers to invest in insurance and savings schemes that can secure their children’s education and future needs,” he said.

    He commended Governor Bassey Edet Otu for supporting reforms aimed at improving workers’ welfare and strengthening the operations of the revenue service.

    The chairman also expressed hope that the welfare initiatives would be institutionalised to ensure continuity beyond the present administration.

    Speaking at the event, the Head of Service, Mr. Orok Okon, represented by Mrs. Lucy Enakirerhi, Permanent Secretary, Career Management Office, praised the extension of welfare packages to ad hoc workers, describing it as a step that would improve workers’ commitment and sense of belonging.

    Also speaking, the Vice Chairman of the Cross River State Planning Commission, Dr. Bong Duke, represented by Mr. Kingsley Eyibio, Permanent Secretary in the commission, described the initiative as timely and beneficial to workers.

    He encouraged civil servants to adopt long-term insurance and investment plans to secure financial stability for their families.

    Responding on behalf of the family, Mrs. Monica Ugbe, widow of the deceased staff member, thanked the CRIRS management for the support and pledged to use the funds judiciously for the welfare of her family.

  • City Boy Movement Solidarity Rally : From Calabar to Presidential Recognition BY INYALI PETER 

    City Boy Movement Solidarity Rally : From Calabar to Presidential Recognition BY INYALI PETER 

     

    Politics is full of noise, but every now and then, a moment happens that cuts through the crowd and sends a clear message about influence, relevance and rising political capital. That moment came yesterday when President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, during his acceptance speech, specifically acknowledged the solidarity walk organized in his support ahead of 2027 by the City Boy Movement in Cross River State.

    In a country where many political groups struggle daily for recognition from the centre, that single mention was not ordinary. It was deliberate. And for many politically conscious youths in Cross River State and across the South/South, it confirmed what has become increasingly obvious; the leadership of the City Boy Movement in the geopolitical zone under Sen. Asuquo Ekpenyong (Suki) is not only active but strategically visible at the national level.

    Recognition in politics matters because it reflects access, trust and relevance. Presidents do not randomly mention every support group that marches on the streets. For President Tinubu to publicly recognize the Cross River solidarity movement means the effort stood out among many others across the federation. More importantly, it shows that the South/South chapter of the movement, coordinated by Sen. Ekpenyong and the State led by Eyo Ita Okon has become one of the strongest grassroots political mobilization structures aligned with the President ahead of 2027.

    But beyond the optics of political recognition, many young people in Cross River are enthusiastically embracing the movement because the support is not built merely on slogans or social media excitement. It is tied to visible governance outcomes and the emergence of a younger political generation that many youths can directly relate to.

    Governor Bassey Otu has played a major role in creating that atmosphere. Across the state, there is a growing perception that his administration is gradually restoring confidence in governance through infrastructure renewal, tourism revival and efforts aimed at stabilizing the economy of the state.

    Whether one agrees entirely with his style or not, there is no denying that many young people see in his government a calmer and more inclusive leadership approach compared to the political turbulence of previous years. That stability naturally feeds into support for the broader political family associated with the President.

    Nevertheless, another strong driving force behind the youth enthusiasm is Sen. Ekpenyong himself. While many young leaders struggle to justify the confidence placed in them, he has steadily built a reputation anchored on performance and accessibility. From infrastructure interventions to job opportunities, support for small businesses, educational scholarships and empowerment initiatives, he has managed to connect governance directly with the everyday aspirations of young people.

    Beyond constituency projects, his voice in the Senate has also strengthened his profile nationally. Through motions, legislative contributions and policy engagement, he has positioned himself as more than just another senator occupying space in Abuja. Many Cross River youths now see him as proof that young leadership can combine intelligence, loyalty and effectiveness without losing touch with the grassroots.

    That is why the City Boy Movement in Cross River feels different from the usual politically rented crowd culture Nigerians have become accustomed to. There is a growing emotional investment in it because many young people believe they are not just supporting a President but also supporting one of their own who has earned visibility and influence at the national level.

    The bigger lesson from yesterday’s presidential recognition is that political relevance is no longer determined only by age, old alliances or loud rhetoric. It is increasingly shaped by organization, consistency and results. Suki’s leadership of the City Boy Movement in the South/South has now placed Cross River firmly on the national political conversation ahead of 2027.

    And for many ambitious young people watching closely, the message from the President’s acknowledgment was unmistakable because when leadership meets performance and grassroots connection, even the highest office in the land takes notice.

    Inyali Peter, Ph.D.
    Publicity Secretary, City Boy Movement
    Cross River State

  • Sen Jarigbe Agom Wins APC Northern Senatorial District Primaries

    Sen Jarigbe Agom Wins APC Northern Senatorial District Primaries

    The senator representing Cross River Northern Senatorial District, Sen Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, has won the All Progressive Congress election held today Monday May 18th 2026.

    The election which held simultaneously across the five local government areas that makes up the senatorial district was said to be peaceful with no record or incidents of violence.

    Announcing the result after collation, the Returning Officer for Cross River North Senatorial District Primary Election of the  APC, Mr Nnana Arikpo, declared Distinguished Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe as the winner of the Cross River North Senatorial Primary Election.

    Senator Jarigbe polled a total of 31,702 votes to emerge winner, while Cecilia Adam Esq, scored a total of 218 votes, Professor Ipuele Ochugudu garnered 209 votes, and Dr John Onyi, got 137 votes.

     

  • Jarigbe Receives Former Senatorial Aspirants at His Ogoja Residence

    Jarigbe Receives Former Senatorial Aspirants at His Ogoja Residence

    The Senator representing Cross River North Senatorial District, Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, on Sunday received former senatorial aspirants at his residence in Ogoja, following their withdrawal from the race and declaration of support for his candidacy.

    The delegation included Professor Ochugudu Ipuele, Barrister Cecilia Adams, and Dr. John Onyi, who was represented by Prince Abel Adinya.

    Speaking during the visit, Senator Jarigbe described the visit as a strong demonstration of unity, solidarity, and shared commitment to the continued growth and development of the Cross River North Senatorial District.

    He commended the former aspirants for their support, sportsmanship, and willingness to work together in the interest of the people. The Senator also reaffirmed his commitment to effective representation, inclusive leadership, and the delivery of democratic dividends across the Senatorial District.

    Senator Jarigbe was joined by the Honourable Commissioner for Education, Professor Stephen Odey and Chief Peter Ojie.

    TEAM JARI MEDIA

  • C’River PDP Commends Navy Commander Solomon Esor’s Sacrifice for Party Unity and National Victory

    C’River PDP Commends Navy Commander Solomon Esor’s Sacrifice for Party Unity and National Victory

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  • 5 NASS Members Denied APC Tickets In Cross River State

    5 NASS Members Denied APC Tickets In Cross River State

    By Frank Ulom, Converseer

    Five out of the eight Federal House of Representatives members have been denied the All Progressives Congress, APC Tickets in Cross River State ahead of the 2027 general elections.

    Among those denied tickets were three-term member, Rt. Hon. Mike Etaba representing Obubra/Etung Federal Constituency; two-term member, Rt. Hon. Alex Egbona representing Abi/Yakurr Federal Constituency, who defected; and one-term member, Hon. Godwin Offiono representing Ogoja/Yala Federal Constituency.

    The others are one-term members, Hon. Emil Inyang representing Akamkpa/Biase Federal Constituency; and one-term member, Hon. Bassey Akiba representing Odukpani/Calabar Municipality Federal Constituency.

    Meanwhile, three Reps members were given a returned ticket. They are one-term members, Hon. Peter Akpanke representing Obudu/Bekwarra/Obanliku Federal Constituency; one-term member, Hon. Joseph Bassey representing Akpabuyo/Bakassi/Calabar South Federal Constituency; and one-term member, Hon. Victor Abang representing Ikom/Boki Federal Constituency.

    Full List Of APC Candidates For House Of Reps In Cross River

    Ogoja/Yala – Dr Stella Odey-Ekpo

    Akamkpa/Biase – Hon. Ngim Okpo

    Boki/Ikom – Hon. Victor Abang (Mature).

    Obudu/Bekwarra/Obanliku (OBO) – Hon. Peter Akpanke.

    Etung/Obubra – Blessing Egbara.

    Abi/Yakurr – Rt. Hon. John Gaul Lebo.

    Akpabuyo/Bakassi/Calabar South (ABC) – Hon. Joseph Bassey (Papa).

    Odukpani/Calabar Municipality – Hon. Effefiong Nta Eke.

    Converseer reports that the primaries were held on Saturday, May 16, 2026.