The Lumine News

Author: News

  • Ibil Nation Unveils Ntol-Atol, Ntol Felix Ugbashe Ijanyi Ibu, Launches Palace

    Ibil Nation Unveils Ntol-Atol, Ntol Felix Ugbashe Ijanyi Ibu, Launches Palace

    By Elijah Ugani 

    It was a celebration galore as the Eniiri people of Ibil Kingdom, unveiled the Ntol-Atol of Ibil, His Royal Highness, Ntol Felix Ugbashe Ijanyi Ibu.

    The event which brought together dignitaries from all works of life held today, May 9th 2026 at St Michael’s Primary School, Ibil – Ogoja, also had a launching of a magnificent 50 Million Ntol palace.

    In a welcome address on behalf of the Ibil nation, Chief Austin Edibe, noted that the Chieftaincy institution in Ibil remains a pillar of the community’s identity and authority which has continued to uphold the unity, stability and progress of their people.

    Speaking on the preparedness of the Ntol-Atol of Ibil, Ntol Felix Ugbashe Ijanyi Ibu, Chief Austin Edibe noted that “He began his career as a classroom teacher, and later distinguished himself in banking, education administration and management. In retirement, he devoted himself to service in the church, Rotary Club and the wider community. These experiences have prepared him for the responsibility he now assumes”.

    Chief Austin Edibe, congratulated the Ntol-Atol for accepting the responsibility. “Your Royal Highness, we congratulate you on accepting this sacred responsibility. Leadership at this level calls for vision, discipline and commitment to service. We are confident in your capacity to guide this stewardship. We urge you to lead with integrity and fairness. Listen to your people and respond with wisdom. Preserve our traditions while remaining open to ideas that will advance the progress of our people. A leader who walks with the people never walks alone.

    “Today’s gathering reflects our hope for a united and prosperous Ibil. It also reminds us of our duty to uphold moral and cultural values that will guide the next generation, especially our youth facing changing and challenging world. We reaffirm our loyalty and support to your leadership in the pursuit of peace, unity and sustainable development”.

    Speaking during the palace launch, the Chief launcher, Chief John George, Chairman and Chief Executive of Sub-Sea 9, noted that “This day is not just about bricks and mortar. It is about legacy, about the enduring strength of our culture, and about the vision of a leader whose life has been dedicated to the service of his people. Ntol Felix embodies wisdom, courage and the spirit of unity. His reign has been marked by peace, progress, and an unwavering commitment to the welfare of Ibil.

    “I must acknowledge the robust relationship we share with Distinguished Sen Jarigbe and other persons who have consistently stood by Ibil. Their presence here today underscores the importance of this project and the unity of purpose that binds us together. For me, as one deeply connected to this land and its people, it is not just a duty but a privilege to be involved in anything connecting Ibil.

    “But let me be clear; such a monumental project cannot be carried out by one man alone. It requires the collective strength of all of us. I therefore urge each an everyone of you to contribute handsomely to this noble cause. Let your giving be a tastement to your love for Ibil, your respect for Ntol Felix, and your commitment to the future of our community”.

    Chief John George made a donation of 10 Million Naira towards the building of the palace of Ntol Ibil.

    Speaking with Theluminenews, the Ntol-Atol of Ibil, Ntol Felix Ugbashe Ijanyi Ibu, noted that “There have been a lot of skepticism when it comes to chieftaincy and because of the rituals involved. The last traditional ruler of Ibil Ntol Gregory Adima, who also served as the Clan Head of Nkum and later paramount Ruler of Ogoja. He transited to the great beyond on the 25th December, 2017, so since then this community has not been able to get a traditional ruler”.

    The Ntol-Atol of Ibil, noted that he was among those who were at the forefront of searching for a traditional ruler for Ibil and never knew that his people wanted him to serve them. “I was
    on a hunt for a traditional ruler and didn’t know that I was gamed. Being in the forefront to advocate for a traditional ruler for Ibil, I couldn’t decline when my people unanimously agreed that I should be the one to serve them now”. He stated.

    Speaking on how he intends to bridge the gap between most of the traditions and practices in most communities that are variance with known laws of the country, the Ntol-Atol of Ibil, noted that “When I was coronated, some some of the youths came to me and said that now that I have been appointed to lead them, they are sure that most of their challenges will be resolved. But I told them that we will collectively be involved in running the affairs of Ibil.

    “I told them that I will consult with the youths, elders, women. I have started consultation. And I charged them to come up with a way forward to move the community. Both the youths and the women came up with useful suggestions and that will take us forward”.

    When asked on the importance of the unveiling, the Ntol-Atol of Ibil noted that “Since my coronation, I have been confined to my house, I haven’t gone passed the church. And I have not performed the functions of a traditional ruler. The unveiling now gives me the mandate to perform the functions of a traditional ruler and allows me to move freely while discharging my duties”.

    In a goodwill message, Sen Jarigbe Agom who hails from Ibil noted that “With a grateful heart and a deep sense of pride, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to His Royal Highness, Ntol Felix Ugbashe Ijanyi Ibu, Ntol-Atol of Ibil, traditional rulers and the good people of Ibil Kingdom on the occasion of the unveiling ceremony of His Royal Highness of Ibil.

    “This is a moment of great joy not only for Ibil Kingdom, but for the entire Bakor. The unveiling ceremony is a tastement to the strength of faith, family values, and communal support that our community embodies. It is truly a blessing to witness this call to the service of sacred service of humanity.

    “I commend the traditional rulers for nurturing the spirit of vocation and pray that this milestone inspires many more youth to pursue lives of purpose, disciples and service”.

    Highlights of the occasion was the presentation of  a Toyota Highlander to the Ntol-Atol of Ibil, by Sen Jarigbe Agom, represented by Chief Austin Edibe, launching of the Ntol palace, traditional dances, community/group greetings and pledges of allegiance to the Ntol-Atol.

     

  • Sen Jarigbe Agom Possesses The Wisdom To See People From An Equal Perspective, Valuing Them Beyond Material Wealth, And Communicating Effectively With The Current Generational Language Trend BY KOKO DAN

    Sen Jarigbe Agom Possesses The Wisdom To See People From An Equal Perspective, Valuing Them Beyond Material Wealth, And Communicating Effectively With The Current Generational Language Trend BY KOKO DAN

    In today’s world, exceptional talent and proficiency are highly sought after in all areas of human endeavor. An individual with outstanding abilities is highly competitive in all sectors, particularly in politics.

    Given that politics is a primary source of leadership, it requires someone with the expertise to understand the times, relate to the people, and build sustainable benefits for both themselves and their constituents.

    Over time, Sen Jarigbe Agom has consistently demonstrated the skills required for this role.

    It is unimaginable that a former senator and governor would lack the ability to garner organic support from the people he represented and governed, as this would be a misuse of their experience and knowledge.

    Politics, however, is not a career path suited to everyone, although some individuals seem to stumble into it, as seen in the case of Mr. Liyel Imoke. You identified Ayade.

    The state of Kogi illustrates this point well, where the entire state structure threatened to sue former Governor Yahaya Bello unless he ran for senate, simply because he was held in high esteem by the people led. “Even with accusation of theft and embezzlement ”

    Sen Jarigbe Agom possesses the wisdom to see people from an equal perspective, valuing them beyond material wealth, and communicating effectively with the current generational language trend. ” Oboy how far” You deh so? He doesn’t fake it !

    These qualities make him the ideal candidate, offering hope and leadership to the people. While every talent has value, the world currently seeks academics of high repute. If Professor Ayade wishes to benefit the global population with his knowledge, perhaps he should consider teaching at a university rather than pursuing politics, which is no longer solely about luck.

    Haba, Me koko Governor for 8 years? I swear na president go deh beg me!
    My brother go teach chemistry for crutech I beg ,The world is in need of that knowledge transfer.
    Whilst we thank God for giving us a leader in Sen.Jarigbe, May God sustain him to continue to make impact in our lives .
    Amen.

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

  • Prince KJ Jeddy Agba Resigns From APC

    Prince KJ Jeddy Agba Resigns From APC

    A frontline aspirant for the House of Representatives for Bekwarra/Obudu/Obanliku federal constituency, Prince KJ Jeddy-Agba, has announced his resignation from the All Progressive Congress APC.

    In a letter dated 6th May 2026, and addressed to the Ward Chairmen, All Progressive Congress, Utugwang Central, Prince KJ noted that “I am writing to formally resign my membership of the All Progressive Congress (APC) effective immediately”.

    The former APC chieftain noted that “While my time with the party has been brief, recent political developments and strategic considerations has necessitated this decision. I believe this step is essential to align with a broader vision for effective political participation at such a time as now”.

    KJ Jeddy-Agba asked the APC to regularize his resignation by effecting same on their official documents, both (online and manual) registers as required by law.

     

  • Jarigbe Facilitates Laboratory Equipment For Government Secondary School, Ukende, Ogoja LGA

    Jarigbe Facilitates Laboratory Equipment For Government Secondary School, Ukende, Ogoja LGA

    The Senator representing Cross River North Senatorial District, Sen Jarigbe Agom , has facilitated the provision of laboratory equipment to Government Secondary School, Ukende, in Ogoja Local Government Area, as part of efforts to strengthen science education in public schools.

    Represented by his Constituency Officer, Mr. Egar Mgbantul , the Senator highlighted the growing importance of science and technology in an increasingly digital world. He noted that meaningful participation in today’s global landscape requires a solid foundation in scientific knowledge, which informed his decision to support the science students of secondary schools across the district.

    He further assured that the intervention is part of a broader initiative aimed at equipping public secondary schools with modern and functional laboratory facilities. According to him, this effort will be sustained until schools within the senatorial district are adequately provided with essential tools needed for effective science teaching and learning.

    Senator Jarigbe also urged teachers to make optimal use of the equipment, emphasizing the need for practical-based learning that will enhance students’ understanding and performance in science subjects. He encouraged students to take full advantage of the opportunity to build skills that will prepare them for future careers in science and technology.

    In response, the school management expressed deep appreciation for the Senator’s support, describing the intervention as timely and impactful. They offered prayers for his continued strength and capacity to extend such developmental initiatives to other schools and communities in Cross River North Senatorial District.

    TEAM JARI MEDIA

  • Muslim Community Appeals To Sen Jarigbe To Stop Responding To Ayade, Insists They Know Who Truly Love Them

    Muslim Community Appeals To Sen Jarigbe To Stop Responding To Ayade, Insists They Know Who Truly Love Them

    An Open Letter to Distinguished Senator Sen Jarigbe Agom For All: Do Not Respond to Prof. Ben Ayade

    Dear Distinguished Senator Sen Jarigbe Agom,

    We, your constituents from the Muslim community, most especially the Hausa community in Cross River North, are writing to urge you: do not waste your time responding to former Governor Ben Ayade.

    A man’s true character is revealed by his actions, not his Statement. We the entirety Hausa community (Muslim Ummah) have lived in Ogoja, Yala, Bekwarra, Obudu, and Obanliku for decades if not Century. We know who opened doors for us and who only remembered us during campaigns.

    When our Central Mosque in needed lighting, you did not send a delegation. You came yourself and solved it. When our brother and sisters needed help, you picked the call. When we lost Our Late Sarki (My Inlaw), you came personally to condole with us and even showed how generous you are, you donated handsomely for the widow( My Mother Inlaw) And the entire family. We were mourning and also smiling because you came and put a smile on our faces. Your door was open to many of us. You never asked us about tribe or faith. You acted!

    “True friends are best known by their actions, loyalty, and unwavering support during times of adversity, rather than just in times of prosperity or comfort” Dear Distinguished Senator Jarigbe, you are a true friend . You support us, ‘we Dey gidi gba wit you’

    That is why we say with full chest: we know who loves us by actions and who only claimed to love us with words.

    Prof Ben Ayade had eight years. Good Eight years to show love to the Hausa whole community rather selected one, Eight years to fix our roads, support our markets men and women and respect our faith. The record is there. We saw it. We lived it.

    Responding to him now will only drag you into noise. The people who matter have already decided, because we felt your impact. Our elders say: “The goat that is already in the market does not join issues with the one still in the bush.” You are already with the people.

    Let your works keep answering for you. When he talks, let the solar lights in our mosque answer. When he writes, let the those who you felicitated their Hajj, Grants you paid for answer. When he grants interviews, let the peace we enjoy under your representation answer.

    Dear Distinguished Senator Jarigbe, stay focused. We, the Muslims and Hausa community of Cross River North, are not confused. We know our friend. We will show it at the right time.

    Remain silent and keep working. Action is the only reply Ayade does not understand.

    Thank you,

    Amb Mohammed Garba Yahaya
    Spokesperson,
    Coalition for Better Nigeria.

  • C’River Govt Condemns Hospital Vandalism, Clarifies UNICROSS Accident Response

    C’River Govt Condemns Hospital Vandalism, Clarifies UNICROSS Accident Response

    By Kingsley Agim

    The Cross River State Government has condemned the vandalism of facilities at the General Hospital, Calabar, following protests linked to a tragic accident involving students of the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS).

    The Commissioner for Health, Dr. Henry Egbe Ayuk, described the incident as “unfortunate and overblown” during an on-the-spot assessment, confirming that infrastructure including an ambulance, electrical installations, doors, windows and ward equipment were damaged.

    “We are assessing the extent of the damage. The ambulance screens have been broken, and parts of the hospital have been destroyed. We will also evaluate the impact on the wards,” he said.

    Ayuk explained that the protest stemmed from a fatal road accident along the Calabar–Uyo highway, where some students reportedly died at the scene.

    He clarified that injured victims brought to the General Hospital were promptly attended to, with critical cases referred to the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital (UCTH) for specialized care.

    “We responded immediately, coordinated with UCTH and created space in the casualty unit to handle the victims,” he said.

    The Commissioner stressed that no deaths were recorded at the General Hospital, attributing tensions to misinformation.

    “No patient died in this hospital. The deaths occurred at the scene. It is unfortunate that misinformation escalated the situation,” he added.

    While acknowledging the right to peaceful protest, Ayuk said the destruction of public property undermines healthcare delivery and assured that government would address any gaps in emergency response.

    Also speaking, the Special Assistant to the Governor on Nursing, Dr. Esu Coco-Bassey, condemned the incident, alleging that the protest was hijacked and fueled by misleading social media reports.

    “The accident happened along Odukpani Road, not in this hospital. Health workers attended to victims promptly, but unverified information triggered the protest,” he said.

    A nurse in the casualty unit, Mr. Godwin Betiang, described how the situation turned chaotic, forcing staff and patients to flee.

    “I saw a mob approaching, including a young man carrying a gun. We had to run for our lives,” he said.

    He added that the protesters invaded wards, damaged equipment and disrupted care, with some patients affected in the confusion, while many others fled the hospital out of fear.

    Meanwhile, a staff member of UNICROSS, who spoke on condition of anonymity, alleged that the situation escalated after suspected cultists hijacked what was initially planned as a candlelight procession in honour of the deceased students.

  • UNICROSS Students’ Protest and Fatal Motor Accident, No One Was Shot Says C’River Deputy Governor 

    UNICROSS Students’ Protest and Fatal Motor Accident, No One Was Shot Says C’River Deputy Governor 

     

    Earlier today, students of the University of Cross River State took to the streets to protest the tragic death of three of their colleagues in a motor accident, where a truck struck a bus conveying students returning from a friendly female football match in Uyo on Thursday, April 30, 2026, along the Itu-Odukpani Road. The Governor had earlier extended his deepest condolences to the families of the deceased, the students, and the entire university community over this painful and heartbreaking loss.

    The Office of the Deputy Governor of Cross River State wishes to correct the public record in the interest of truth, peace, and responsible dialogue.

    The protesters first went to the General Hospital, then proceeded to Millennium Park, and later moved to the Governor’s Office. At Millennium Park, they blocked vehicular traffic for an extended period until they were persuaded to reopen the road. At a point during the protest, the situation became rowdy after the leadership structure among the protesters broke down, and some individuals began vandalizing government property. In response, the police used tear gas to disperse the crowd and restore order. No one was shot. This fact must be clearly stated to ensure that misinformation does not distort the facts or unnecessarily inflame public sentiment.

    While the concerns raised about healthcare facilities in the state and the completion of the Calabar-Itu Road are duly noted, the government makes it clear that the temporary breakdown of law and order should not be unfairly attributed to the State Government. The administration remains committed to addressing legitimate grievances through peaceful engagement.

    Acting swiftly and in the spirit of compassion and dialogue, the Deputy Governor immediately invited ten leaders of the student body to his office, where he personally assured them of the government’s concern and support. This included the use of his personal vehicles and security personnel to assist in evacuating injured accident victims to various hospitals for urgent medical attention.

    The Deputy Governor also addressed concerns raised about the General Hospital and the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital (UCTH). He explained that some of the accident victims were redirected from the General Hospital to UCTH not because the General Hospital was ill-equipped, but because it was overwhelmed beyond its capacity at the time. He has further directed the Commissioner for Health to remain fully engaged on the matter to ensure that all victims receive the best possible care, as the government has made full provision for their medical bills. He has also requested a full report on the state of the General Hospital so that any identified gaps can be promptly addressed.

    His Excellency urges the public, especially commentators, to avoid misinformation and exaggerated narratives capable of worsening an already painful situation. The government remains open to constructive engagement and continues to work in the interest of all citizens, including students and young people, whose welfare remains a priority.

    We once again commiserate with the families of the deceased and the university community, and pray for the repose of the souls of the departed students. May the injured recover swiftly and fully.

    Fred Abua, Esq.
    Press Secretary to the Deputy Governor
    04/05/2026

  • Stop Distorting Facts, You Took Part In The Presidential Primaries And Lost To PBAT, Jarigbe Reminds Ayade

    Stop Distorting Facts, You Took Part In The Presidential Primaries And Lost To PBAT, Jarigbe Reminds Ayade

    The senator representing Cross River North, Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, has replied former Governor Ben Ayade, that he contested the 2023 presidential primaries and lost to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, contrary to his false narrative that he supported the president.

    In his words “He lost woefully, refused to step aside, and then lost his state to the opposition. Why is he lying?”

    Sen Jarigbe accused  Ayade of distorting facts, spreading falsehoods, and desperately attempting to rewrite his declining political legacy.

    In a statement, signed by the lawmaker, Jarigbe dismissed Ayade’s recent claims as “blatant lies,” accusing the former governor of hypocrisy, ethnic bias, and political irrelevance.
    Jarigbe alleged that Ayade once mocked his Hausa traditional attire, describing it as evidence of “split personality,” and said such conduct exposed deep resentment toward Muslims, contrary to Ayade’s current posturing.

    “A man who openly derided Muslim traditional attire cannot suddenly present himself as a defender of Muslims,” Jarigbe declared, insisting that Muslim voters across Cross River North overwhelmingly supported him over Ayade.

    The senator refuted Ayade’s claims, and reminded the public that even while Ayade served as sitting governor, his political machinery suffered humiliating defeats in Cross River North.

    Jarigbe posited that “While in the opposition, we delivered the Senate seat, two House of Representatives seats, and four House of Assembly seats, while Ayade could secure only his immediate constituency.

    “We are not political weaklings. We come with real votes because we have worked for our people,” Jarigbe asserted.

     

    Jarigbe accused Ayade of abandoning the Senate seat out of personal ambition, despite existing political expectations that power should rotate to the North, describing him as entitled and disconnected from present political realities.

    The lawmaker clarified that Ayade defected from the PDP to APC only after losing control of the PDP structure, insisting his defection was driven by political survival rather than party loyalty. “Senator Ayade deserves no reward. He emptied our treasury and now seeks another chance to deprive our people,” Jarigbe charged.

    Jarigbe praised APC leadership for resisting any attempt to impose Ayade on Cross River North, declaring that the former governor has been thoroughly rejected by the people. “He remains a political disaster, and our people will never vote for him again,”

    He mocked Ayade’s social media conduct, daring him to reopen public comments on his posts to witness what he described as overwhelming public rejection.

    Addressing zoning, Jarigbe outrightly rejected Ayade’s narrative, insisting there has never been formal zoning for the Cross River North senatorial seat.
    “No matter how you embellish a lie, it will never become the truth,” He added.

  • Conflicts: No Conflicts Can Be Resolved When Demands of Underrepresented Groups Are Compromised BY PETER OBELE ABUE

    Conflicts: No Conflicts Can Be Resolved When Demands of Underrepresented Groups Are Compromised BY PETER OBELE ABUE

    Earlier in the Acts of the Apostles, we read that “The community of believers was united in heart and soul; no one claimed private ownership of any possessions, as everything they owned was held in common” (Acts 4:32-35). But much later when the human element stepped in, that ideal became threatened by selfishness and clannish mentality. A section of the group decided to follow the “I know more than you,” “I am better than you,” “I am richer and more influential than you,” mentality. Consequently, the majority Hebrew Jews who prided themselves as those who knew better, decided to take the lion share in the daily distribution of the common goods, thereby neglecting the Hellenist Jews who were the minority.

    This is one problem with humans; we often put aside the value of care for others, especially the less privileged and project our own egos. We poison the community with our perverted ideas and damn the consequence; when we allow ourselves to be overtaken by greed. We worsen up relationships and create animosities where there should be peace and harmony. In situations like these, conflicts will most certainly arise. Please, let’s realise that no conflict can be resolved when demands of underrepresented groups are compromised. No conflict can be resolved when people selected to resolve conflicts are themselves corrupt. And come to think of it, the reason we display all these emotions is because we feel we are members of the inner caucus; we are scared we may be left out of “our inheritance” or “national cake” as we sometimes call it.

    Let us learn from the early Christians themselves how they provided a solution to these conflicts: They did not take sides. They decided in favor of the common good and weaker members. They let service be their watchword. They paid attention to higher values like prayer and worship and instead set up a committee of 2nd level managers (‘the deacons’) to take care of the conflict.
    In setting up the committee, they choose people of integrity “men of good reputation, filled with the Spirit and with wisdom” (Acts 6:4); not just people they wanted to reward because they belonged to the same “party.” How can we reshape our world if we don’t consider these values in our national or even local settings? Think about the words of Jesus: “in my father’s house there are many mansions” (John 14: 2) and forget this needless struggle over positions, trampling upon people simply because we want the lion share of everything.

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

  • Jarigbe Inspects Burnt Recreation Centre in Ogoja, Promises New Facility

    Jarigbe Inspects Burnt Recreation Centre in Ogoja, Promises New Facility

    Jarigbe Inspects Burnt Recreation Centre in Ogoja, Promises New Facility

    Senator Jarigbe Agom today inspected the recently burnt recreation centre in Ogoja, hinting at plans to construct a new facility following the extensive damage to the structure.

    Addressing newsmen at the site, Senator Jarigbe said he had not initially realized the full scale of the destruction, describing it as severe.

    He added that instead of carrying out repairs, a completely new structure would be built and properly equipped for the benefit of the people.

    “Fortunately, provision has been made for a new recreation centre in the 2025 budget. We will demolish what is left of this structure and erect a new recreation centre for our people,” he stated.

    The lawmaker was accompanied by Rt. Hon. Peter Igbodor, Hon. Martins Orim, Hon. Agnes Atsu, Hon. Beatrice Igwe, Hon. Regina Anyogo, Mr. Egbede Jarigbe, among others.

    TEAM JARI MEDIA