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  • JariLeague Coalition Set To Celebrate Defection Of Sen Jarigbe To APC

    JariLeague Coalition Set To Celebrate Defection Of Sen Jarigbe To APC

    By Elijah Ugani 

    A sociopolitical group made of opinion leaders, academia, business tycons and politicians from across political parties in northern Cross River who have identified the impactful representation of Sen Jarigbe Agom, is set to celebrate the entry of Sen Jarigbe into the All Progressive Congress APC.

    A release made available to TheLumineNews, and signed by the Convener, Prof Patrick Egaga, indicate that the event will hold Saturday, November 1st, 2025, at Lions Park, Marian Road, Calabar Cross River State at 2pm.

    The release further invites all members of Jarileague Coalition, friends, well wishers and all intending members to come out to grace the occasion.

  • What Brings God’s Attention To Us Is Not Our Money, Good Deeds Or Titles, But A Sincere And Humble Disposition Before God BY FR PETER OBELE ABUE

    What Brings God’s Attention To Us Is Not Our Money, Good Deeds Or Titles, But A Sincere And Humble Disposition Before God BY FR PETER OBELE ABUE

    PHARISEE
    (Religion of merits)

    The Pharisee was an upright and honest man. He kept God’s laws. He avoided all sins. He was not a thief, adulterous and unjust. In fact he did even more than was required of him. For example, the Law prescribed fasting once a year (Lev. 16: 29), but the Pharisee fasted twice a week. The farmer at harvest time was to give the tenth part of his main crops but the Pharisee would go beyond that and pay from his own pocket for other farmers (Deut. 14: 22-27). However, in spite of his moral integrity, the Pharisee takes up the wrong attitude in the sight of God (Luke 18: 9-14). What was his mistake? He went to the temple thinking wrongly that his good deeds would merit him a good standing before God.

    The Pharisee practiced a religion of merits; wrongfully thinking that because he was a man full of good deeds, he had an automatic ticket to salvation and that affected his prayer life. Anybody performing good deeds and relies solely on that to gain God’s attention, cannot merit anything in the sight of God. He must only be thankful to the God who helps him to stay on the right course to happiness. In other words, he must stay humble before God. What finally brings God’s attention to us is not our money, our good deeds, our titles, but a sincere and humble disposition before God; “For he is a God of justice who knows no favorites” (Sir: 35: 12).

    The Tax Collector on the other hand! He was not the meek man that we imagine. In fact, he was an experienced thief, a heinous exploiter, a jackal. He did not steal from the rich, he exploited the poor, forcing miserable peasants to pay exorbitant taxes. Jesus was not praising the Tax Collector at all, nor does he approve of his sin. He only says that he was taking the right attitude in the sight of God. At the end of the day, that’s what matters; our attitude in the sight of God especially at prayer because a sincere attitude can turn the devil into an angel. Scripture says: “the prayer of the lowly pierces the clouds; it does not rest till it reaches its goal…and the Lord will not delay” (Sir. 35: 16-18).

     

    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.

  • Bishop Akpan Commissions Outpatient Department At Sacred Heart Hospital Obudu Constructed By POMA Adie Foundation

    Bishop Akpan Commissions Outpatient Department At Sacred Heart Hospital Obudu Constructed By POMA Adie Foundation

    By Elijah Ugani 

    The Bishop of Ogoja Diocese, the Most Rev Donatus Edet Akpan, has commissioned an ultramodern Outpatient Department OPD, at the Sacred Heart Hospital Obudu, constructed by POMA Adie Foundation.

    The commissioning which took place on Wednesday 22nd October 2025, at the hospital premises, had the Executive Secretary, Ogoja Catholic Diocesan Medical Board, Very Rev Fr JoeMacus Ogan, Rev Fr Joseph Afu and other priests and dignitaries in attendance.

    Speaking during the commissioning, Bishop Akpan commended the goodwill of Mr Emmanuel Adie, who through his foundation complemented the efforts of the church to cater for the health needs of the people.

    The Bishop noted that “There are people out there who have more than what Emmanuel has, but he has decided to support the health needs of his people through this project. I want to call on others to copy from him to ensure that our people get the support they need to leave a fulfilled life.”

    On his part, the Hospital Administrator, Rev Fr Bernard Anake, thanked the donor of the OPD, Mr Emmanuel Adie for coming to the aid of the hospital and used the opportunity to call on other spirited individuals and organizations to consider supporting the hospital to provide for the health needs of the people. He also acknowledged the fatherly counsel of the Bishop and support to deliver quality healthcare.
    He commended the staff of the hospital, the medical doctors, nurses, and other staff for their relentlessly efforts to attend to the needs of the patients.
    He finally commended the patience of the patients throughout the period of seeking medical attention in the hospital.

    When contacted, the Hospital Administrator, told TheLumineNews that “When I conceptualised the remodeling of the hospital, Rev Fr Prof Julius Agba Ada, was handy to facilitate this project and I’m happy we have reached the final and it had been commissioned to the glory of God and service of humanity”.

    The Hospital Secretary, Mr Mcmary Thomas Agabi, welcomed guests and noted that “Since the establishment of the hospital in 1953, the hospital has experienced a transitional factory and other challenges that has not deterred the catholic mission from using this medium to enhance health and sustain life. Out efforts are geared towards the confidentiality and comfortability of our patients and the provision of a diversional therapy which culminate in achieving our desired goal.

    Dreams have been conceived within this premises, culminated upon, and brought to tangible reality and one of which is been commissioned today. The dreams are not entirely without assistance from individuals within and outside this neighborhood. In the wake of 2024, things began to take shape and with the help Mr Emmanuel Adie, CEO of POMA Adie Foundation, and with the fatherly and professional guidance of His Excellency, the Bishop of Ogoja Diocese, what started as a trip of sand in June 24, 2024, loom before us today, an ultramodern OPD that will carter for patients’ health in all ramifications.

    “We also appreciate the efforts of Rev Fr Prof Julius Ada, who stood as a link between the donor and the hospital.”

    Speaking during the commissioning, Representative of POMA Adie Foundation, Mr Moses Ugbe, commended the Bishop and the hospital management for the judicious use of the fund provided for the reconstruction and remodeling of the facilities to meet the health needs of the people.

    He noted that “As a foundation, the health needs of the people is sacrosanct and we want our people to access quality healthcare that is why we graciously intervened to ensure adequate healthcare services are available and timely. POMA Adie Foundation will continue to intervene in areas that will serve and benefit humanity”.

    When contacted, the elated Rev Fr Prof Julius Agba Ada, noted that “I am so delighted about the project being accomplished in accordance with the donor’s intention, the Bishop’s expectation and the Hospital necessities.

    “Emma, my younger brother and cousin, asked me what he should do to impact humanity. My decision to advise my cousin, Mr. Emmanuel Adie, to focus on the health sector is based on my previous roles:
    Secretary to the late Archbishop J. E. Ukpo (1997‑2002), Executive Secretary, Ogoja Diocesan Medical Board, where I oversaw the diocesan hospitals – Sacred Heart Hospital, Obudu; RCM Hospital, Moniaya, Ogoja; Holy Family Hospital, Ikom, etc.

    “In that role, I helped the Bishop take over and manage these medical institutions. My zeal for improving health services inspired my advice to my brother, and I’m glad to see this come to fruition.”

    Other projects undertaken by POMA Adie Foundation in the hospital includes, renovation (Re-roofing, tiling, and painting) of laboratory, pharmacy, Casualty, Observation and record units, as building of a four unit VIP toilet.

  • C’River State Ministry Of Education Shuts Down More Illegal Schools Across The State

    C’River State Ministry Of Education Shuts Down More Illegal Schools Across The State

     

    October 23, 2025

    In continuation of the ongoing statewide sanitization of the education sector, the Cross River State Ministry of Education Taskforce on the Closure of Illegal Schools has sealed off several unapproved schools operating without the mandatory Approval to Operate (ATO) across the state. The Commissioner for Education, Senator Professor Stephen Odey, reiterated the State Government’s unwavering commitment to enforcing standards and restoring order in the education system. He disclosed that some proprietors of previously shut-down schools had defied government directives by reopening illegally.

    “Any proprietor who continues to operate after being shut down will be arrested and prosecuted,” the Commissioner warned, emphasizing that the ongoing education reforms will not be compromised or sabotaged by any individual or group.

    On the fourth day of the exercise, the following schools were affected:

    1. Smart Sharunbella Academy, 1B Nyong Agbor Street, Calabar

    2. Christ Infant Nursery/Primary School, Odukpani Qua Town

    3. Grace of God Secondary School, Odukpani Qua Town

    4. Treasure Child Nursery/Primary and Secondary School, Odukpani Qua Town

    5. Blissful Life Christian Schools, Mbarakom Road, Awi, Akamkpa

    6. Holy Choice International Academy, Awi Mbarakom Road, Akamkpa

    7. Divine Partaker International Nursery/Primary School, Awi, Akamkpa

    8. Right Time Schools, Awi, Akamkpa

    9. King Solomon International Nursery/Primary School, Awi, Akamkpa

    10. Bright Future Nursery/Primary School, Awi, Akamkpa

    11. Major International Nursery/Primary School, Awi, Akamkpa

    12. Malcom Child Future Academy, Mbarakom II, Akamkpa

    13. Life Foundation Nursery/Primary School, Isong Inyang

    14. Briforth International Secondary School, Old Okomita, Akamkpa

    15. Foundational Builders Nursery/Primary School, Okana

    16. U.E.C. Nursery/Primary School, Ohana

    17. Leading Stars & World Changers Nursery/Primary School, Iyamoyong

    18. Echimachia Worowor Secondary School, Ovonum

    19. John Calvin Comprehensive Secondary School, Obubra Station

    20. Echimachia Worowor Nursery/Primary School, Ovonum

    21. Divine Kids Academy Nursery/Primary School, Ovukwa

    22. Perfect God Academy Nursery/Primary School, Ovukwa

    23. Seat of Wisdom Secondary School, Oderega

    24. Chrisbrown Nursery/Primary School, Ukpada, Obudu LGA

    25. Fidel Nursery/Primary/Secondary School, Mgbenege

    26. God Plan Nursery/Primary School, Nkerira, Utugwang

    27. Givicks International Academy, Kikong, Obudu

    28. Bright Light International Nursery/Primary School, Bebuagbong

    29. Jully Fidelity Nursery/Primary School, Atiekpe, Obudu

    30. Seat of Wisdom Academy, Bekpam, Obudu

    31. Maria Faustina Secondary School, Bekpam, Obudu

    32. Crystal Beacon Secondary School, Bishiri Road, Obudu

    33. Fortress Home International Schools, Ranch Road, Obudu

    The State Government, through the Ministry of Education, has reaffirmed that the closure exercise will continue until all illegal and unapproved schools across Cross River State are completely phased out. This, it stated, is to ensure that only duly accredited institutions are permitted to operate and deliver quality education to the state’s children.

    So far, a total of 133 illegal schools lacking the requisite learning environment and Approval to Operate (ATO) have been shut down within the first four (4) days of the ongoing education sector sanitation exercise.

    #Office_Of_The_Commissioner_For_Education_CRS

  • Jarigbe Supports Bill As Electoral Act Amendment Passes Second Reading 

    Jarigbe Supports Bill As Electoral Act Amendment Passes Second Reading 

     

    The Senator representing Cross River North Senatorial District, Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, today supported the bill seeking to repeal the Electoral Act 2022 and to reenact a new Electoral Bill 2025 which passed second reading at the Senate.

    The bill, which was sponsored by the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Electoral Matters, Senator Simon Lalong (APC, Plateau South), aims to strengthen the legal framework governing elections in Nigeria.

    The bill was initially presented for second reading last Thursday, but was stepped down to allow for wider consultation. It however, resurfaced during Wednesday’s session, where lawmakers extensively debated its general principles.

    Speaking in support of the bill , Senator Jarigbe Agom, stated that the repealing and reenactment of a new Electoral Act will make it possible for the country to take out all the ambiguities in the existing Electoral Act, especially in areas of concerns such as electronic transmission of votes, real time and independent candidature, etc which would help to curtail the excesses in the existing law.

    “If we do not repeal and reenact the Electoral Act, we will be faced with the incongruities in the existing Electoral Act” Jarigbe added.

    The Senate President thereafter put the bill to a voice vote, and the Senators overwhelmingly supported it to pass for a Second reading.

    TEAM JARI MEDIA

  • Cross River Ministry Of Education Shuts Down 36 Illegal Schools Across The State

    Cross River Ministry Of Education Shuts Down 36 Illegal Schools Across The State

    Cross River Ministry of Education has shut down 36 illegal schools across the State. These schools have poor structures and falls short of basic academic standards.

    1. Destiny Group of Schools, Obutong

    2. Peculiar Children Academy

    3. Aunty Etimbuk Blossom Academy, Big Qua Town

    4. Elevate International School, 4 Nyok Esu Street

    5. Help From Above Nursery School, Akai Efa

    6. Topmost Academy, 3 Akai Street

    7. De Jumbo Academy, Ikot Ansa

    8. Diamond Schools, 8 Inter Agro Road, Behind First Bank, 8 Miles

    9. Glad International Nursery School, Behind 8 Miles

    10. Excellent Future Academy, Ikot Nkebre

    11. Samfresh Lead Schools, 8 Miles, Ikot Ekpo

    12. The Almighty Academy, Efa Oboh Street

    13. De Palace Academy, Etomkpe, Ikot Ekpo, 8 Miles

    14. Divine Brains Academy, Nasarawa

    15. Aunty Celia Nursery and Primary School, Etomkpe, Ikot Ekpo

    16. Gospel Nursery and Primary School, Esuk Otu

    17. Alpha Noble Academy, by R&C Water, Border Road, Ikom

    18. Cephas Faith Academy, Obaji Ogar Estate, Grassfield, Ikom

    19. Majesty Unique Academy, by R&C Water, Border Road, Ikom

    20. Triumph Nursery/Primary School, Yawunde, Ikom

    21. Ideal Schools, Yawunde, Ikom

    22. Ark Salvation & Wisdom Schools, Edor

    23. God’s Double Academy, College Road, Edor

    24. Bendok Schools, by Ikom/Ogoja Highway, Edor

    25. Eden Academy, along Border Road

    26. Dominion Academy Secondary School, Nkarassi

    27. Stars Academy Nursery/Primary School, Ishiborr

    28. Kredeemers Academy (Redeem Church), Igoli Ogoja

    29. Firmament Stars Secondary School, Njaman Abakpa, Ogoja

    30. King Carries Multi-National High School, Ndok Junction, Ogoja

    31. Light Bearers Academy Nursery/Primary and Secondary School

    32. Satwo Nursery/Primary School, Ndok Junction, Ogoja

    33. Faith Mission Academy, Ndok Junction, Ogoja

    34. St. Peter Nursery/Primary School, Eshinjok

    35. Wisdom Nursery/Primary School, Mbok

    36. Freedom Heritage Academy Nursery/Primary School, Njaman Abakpa, Ogoja

  • Why Roads, Power And Local Tools Matter Most Than Foreign Schlolarshs BY MIKE UDAM

    Why Roads, Power And Local Tools Matter Most Than Foreign Schlolarshs BY MIKE UDAM

     

    Across Cross River North, the story is familiar. A farmer wakes before dawn, loads his cassava, and struggles through a 10-kilometre journey that takes three hours because the road is bad.

    Students still read under kerosene lamps. Women trek long distances to nearby streams to fetch water for drinking. These are not statistics. They are real people. Our people. And they need more than promises.

    Recently, some social media voices have argued that sending students abroad on scholarship is the best kind of empowerment. It sounds nice, but it tells only part of the story.

    Yes, Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe has supported overseas scholarships for some constituents, and that is commendable. Education changes lives. But while a scholarship lifts one person, good infrastructure lifts a whole community.

    Education is good, but people need water first

    Imagine a young man who wins a scholarship abroad. His parents rejoice. But back home, his mother still treks for water and his siblings still study under a leaking roof. When he returns, the same broken road greets him.

    Development must start from the ground up. Scholarships are like rain on one farm; infrastructure is like rain on the whole village. Both are good, but if the village stays dry, no farm can thrive.

    Why basic infrastructure should come first

    It helps everyone. One road, one transformer or one borehole benefits hundreds.
    It keeps our best brains home. When jobs and opportunities exist locally, fewer young people will run abroad.
    It is fairer. A scholarship touches a few; a road or borehole touches all.
    It builds dignity. A tricycle, sewing machine, or mini tractor gives lasting value.
    It brings visible results. People can see and feel real development.
    Every Ward Has Felt the Touch

    There’s hardly any political ward in Northern Cross River State without a life-changing project facilitated by Senator Jarigbe. From transformers lighting up forgotten villages, to mini-tractors that ease farming, to tricycles, motorcycles, and farm inputs empowering women and youths—the evidence is everywhere.

    The senator’s focus is clear: to lift burdens and create broad-based empowerment, not just bless a few families. His projects are practical, visible, and life-changing. They speak louder than speeches.

    Finding a better balance

    This is not about stopping scholarships; it’s about balance.

    Let 80% of effort go to infrastructure and empowerment, and 20% to education. Let every scholar who studies abroad come back to serve locally. Let every LGA have a vocational centre where skills are taught and livelihoods created.

    Most importantly, let leadership remain transparent so people can see how their mandate is being used.

    Real leadership is measured by what stays

    A scholarship ends when a student graduates. But a road, a transformer, a borehole, or a market stall keeps serving long after the ribbon is cut.

    Senator Jarigbe’s real legacy lies in these burden-lifting projects that bring light, water, mobility, and dignity to rural communities.

    Because at the end of the day, the people’s real question is not “Who travelled abroad?” but “Do we have light? Do we have water? Can we sell our produce? Can our children learn in dignity?”

    Foreign scholarships are good. But roads, electricity, clean water, and small businesses are better foundations for lasting progress.

    Let’s build home before we build abroad.
    Let’s raise communities before we raise headlines.

    True leadership is not about sending people away.
    It’s about giving them a reason to stay.

    Disclaimer: The opinion expressed in this article is strictly that of the author, Mike Udam, and does not represent TheLumineNews, or agent or the organisation the author works for 

  • Sen Jarigbe Commissions Betukwel, Igwo Roads Amidst Cheers

    Sen Jarigbe Commissions Betukwel, Igwo Roads Amidst Cheers

    The senator representing Cross River Northern Senatorial District, Sen Jarigbe Agom, has commissioned the Betukwel and Igwo Road, Begiading Ward, Obudu Local Government Area.

    As part of the commissioning process, Sen Jarigbe also inspected ongoing projects, including the Betukwel Ultra-Modern Town Hall and the Amukwong Bridge in Alege/Ubang, all in Obudu local government area.

    The elated Sen Jarigbe Agom, appreciated constituents for their continued support and promised to complete the remaining segments of the roads and while considering their requests.

    The Senator, who led his team to Obudu on October 13th , was received by traditional leaders, women, youths, and men who had gathered to witness the events at various locations.

    In Igwo, the Clan Head, HRH Utsu Cornelius Ulem, narrated the difficulties faced by his people and thanked the Senator for remembering them when all hope seemed lost.

    Similarly, the people of Betukwel expressed deep appreciation for the Lawmaker’s efforts, particularly the newly constructed road and ongoing ultra-modern town hall, while Amukwong community in Alege/Ubang also thanked him for facilitating the construction of their bridge, which had become a necessity due to its potential to boost economic development and improve their living standards.

    On their part, the people of Betukwel expressed deep appreciation for the Lawmaker’s efforts, particularly the newly constructed road and ongoing ultra-modern town hall, while Amukwong community in Alege/Ubang also thanked him for facilitating the construction of their bridge, which had become a necessity due to its potential to boost economic development and improve their living standards.

    Chief Austin Edibe, Prof. Zana Akpagu, Mr. John Atsu, Hon. Kingsley Agabi, Mr. Aninege Jimmie, Hon. Charles Eneji, Mr. Egar Mgbantul were among the dignitaries that accompanied the senator.

  • BREAKING: FCE Obudu Governing Council Suspends Provost

    BREAKING: FCE Obudu Governing Council Suspends Provost

    By Elijah Ugani 

    The 8th Governing Council of the Federal College of Education Obudu, Cross River State, has suspended the Provost of the College, Dr. Richard Ugbaha Utubaku for maladministration and gross misconduct.

    In a letter made available to TheLumineNews and signed by Mr Evans O. Iyenya, Registra/Secretary of Council, with Ref No: FCE/OB/REG/CT-A/Vol.II/273, and captioned “LETTER OF SUSPENSION AND GENERAL INEFFICIENCY”. The Registrar noted that “I am directed to inform you that 8th Governing Council is in receipt of allegations and series of complaints against you from Deans of Schools, the three Unions in the College; COEASU, SUUCOEN, NASU and Director of Procurement for surreptitiously auctioning of college unserviceable cars and other irregularities vehicles. This is in violation of the White Paper of the Federal Republic of Nigeria on the report of the visiting panel into the affairs of the College 2011-2015.

    “Consequently, the 8th Governing Council in its 5th Regular meeting directed that you proceed on a Three months suspension at the first instance with effect from 14th October, 2025 pending the conclusion of investigation.
    You are hereby directed to handover all college properties and official documents to the Deputy Provost.”

    It is alleged that the Provost has been having a running battle with the major unions in the College because of his style of administration, high-handedness, lack of transparency and insensitivity to staff welfare.

    The latest storm that is brewing in the College is the auctioning of about 15 College vehicles of various brands by the Provost to his cronies and family members without due process. A move that the Colleges of Education Academic Staff Union (COEASU) describe as “Kangaroo Auctioning of College Property”

    Documents obtained indicate that COEASU has given the suspended Provost till Tuesday 14th October 2025 to return the vehicles or they’ll down tools.

  • Jarigbe Set To Commission Igwo And Betukwel Road Projects on Monday

    Jarigbe Set To Commission Igwo And Betukwel Road Projects on Monday

     

    The Senator representing Cross River North Senatorial District, Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, will commission the newly completed road projects in Igwo and Betukwel communities, Obudu Local Government Area.

    The commissioning ceremony is scheduled for Monday, October 13, 2025, at 12:00 pm prompt in Igwo, followed by Betukwel community.

    During his visit, Senator Jarigbe will also inspect ongoing projects facilitated by him, including the Amukwong Bridge construction in Alege/Ubang and the Ultra Modern Town Hall project in Betukwel.

    All supporters, party members, and the general public are cordially invited to attend this significant event.