The Lumine News

Author: News

  • Jarigbe Facilitates Construction of Egbe Road in Mbube, Ogoja LGA

     

    The Senator representing Cross River North Senatorial District, Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, has facilitated the construction of Egbe Mbube road in Ogoja Local Government Area of Cross River State.

    The road stretching from Egbe to Ogbudu and other communities, which had long been in a deplorable state, is now witnessing significant transformation.

    The construction project has advanced, with engineers commencing the laying of stone base work, a crucial step toward ensuring a durable and long-lasting road.

    Inspecting the project on behalf of Senator Jarigbe, the Constituency Officer, Mr. Egar Mgbantul, commended the contractor for the commendable work done so far. He charged the contractor to maintain the tempo and ensure that the quality of work is durable enough to stand the test of time. This, he noted, is essential for promoting economic growth and development not just in the benefiting communities but in the entire Mbube and Ogoja LGA.

    Community leaders and constituents have expressed their profound gratitude to Senator Jarigbe for his effective service delivery, particularly through infrastructural development and human capital empowerment in Cross River North Senatorial District. They prayed that God would continue to strengthen the Senator and grant him the enablement to do more for the good people of Cross River North Senatorial District.

    TEAM JARI MEDIA

  • Jarigbe Receives Defectors As He Visits Engr Thomas Odu To Celebrate Mbube New Yam Festival At Idum-Mbube

     

    The Senator representing Cross River North Senatorial District, Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, paid a courtesy visit to Engineer Thomas Odu at his residence in Idum-Mbube on the occasion of the Mbube New Yam Festival.

    The visit was a significant gesture of goodwill and solidarity, highlighting the Senator’s commitment to building strong relationships with leaders and stakeholders in Cross River North Senatorial District.

    The visit aimed to felicitate Engr. Odu on the Mbube New Yam Festival, a significant cultural event that promotes unity and thanksgiving among the community.

    The lawmaker was accompanied by the Member representing Ogoja/Yala Federal Constituency, Hon. Godwin Offiono, Hon. Vena Ikem, Chief Igbe Aruku, Chief John George, Dr. Doncklaimz Enamhe, and others, showcasing the party’s commitment to reaching out to its committed members.

    Engr. Thomas Odu expressed his honor and privilege in hosting the Senator and his entourage, despite the impromptu nature of the visit.

    During the visit, the lawmakers, alongside the State Party Chairman and other stakeholders, received over 200 defectors from the APC, Labour Party, and other political parties led by John Apiko. The defectors cited the massive infrastructural overhaul being done by the PDP lawmakers in Cross River North as their reason for joining the party as they were formally received by Hon. Vena Ikem, who promised them the party’s commitment to the welfare and growth of its members.

    TEAM JARI MEDIA

  • Gov Otu Condemns Brutality, Orders arrest of Police Personnel Over death of 23-Year-old man

     

    The Cross River State Government has strongly condemned what it described as a “brazen act of lawlessness and abuse of authority” following the tragic death of 23-year-old Onyekachi Moses in Calabar.

    In a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information, Dr. Erasmus Ekpang, the government lamented that the young man, who sustained grievous injuries allegedly from the reckless actions of a police officer, died after several days of battling for his life in hospital. Governor Otu, the statement disclosed, has directed the immediate arrest and investigation of the officer involved.

    “His Excellency, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, has mandated the Commissioner of Police to effect the immediate arrest of the implicated officer and ensure a thorough investigation into this grievous misconduct,” the statement read. “Impunity has no sanctuary under this administration.”

    The government described the incident as a violation not only of human dignity but also of the core principles of justice and security that form the bedrock of civil order. “Those entrusted with protecting lives cannot become purveyors of fear and tragedy,” the release stressed.

    Governor Otu, according to the statement, warned that any officer who betrays the sacred duty of protection and public trust would face the full weight of the law. “Let it be known unequivocally: this government will not shield any agent of the state who undermines justice,” he affirmed.

    To the bereaved family, the government extended deep condolences, assuring them of justice. “Our hearts are with the family of late Onyekachi in this painful hour. The Cross River State Government stands firmly with you and assures that justice will not be delayed nor denied,” the statement conveyed.

    The release further called on citizens to remain calm and law-abiding, emphasizing that the government is determined to pursue accountability with transparency. “We urge our people to remain peaceful and confident in our collective resolve to seek truth and enforce justice,” it added.

    It pledged that the administration would not rest until the memory of the deceased was honoured with firm and transparent accountability. “This government shall not relent until the assurance is clear that such impunity will never again be tolerated on our soil,” the statement declared.

    Governor reaffirmed his government’s commitment to the sanctity of life, the rule of law, and the people-first philosophy that underpins his administration.

  • Concerns Over Governance and Forest Protection in Cross River State Forestry Commission: BY OKOI OBONO-OBLA 

     

    The employment of young people in Cross River State was initiated in 2024, following Governor Bassey Edet Otu’s approval in November 2023 to bolster the severely depleted workforce. Three hundred Forest Guards were recruited and documented; however, 14 months later, they remain undeployed and unpaid.

    Meanwhile, four commissioners have completely usurped the responsibilities of the professional staff of the Commission, arrogating those duties to themselves. The Commission has devolved into a cesspool of wheeling and dealing, with revenue accruing to the wrong quarters. As a result, our forests are ravaged by rampant illegal logging, leading to severe depletion and exposing both our State and the West African sub-region to the pernicious and deleterious consequences of climate change.

    The Afi Mountain Sanctuary in Boki Local Government Area has borne the brunt of this crisis, suffering extensive damage due to illegal logging and the blatant compromise and dereliction of duty by these four commissioners.

    Urgent reform and accountability are imperative to restore integrity, protect our forests, and safeguard the ecological future of Cross River State.

    @ Okoi Obono-Obla

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

  • Senator Jarigbe Commissions Busangfong Road Project In Obanliku LGA

     

    The Senator representing Cross River North Senatorial District, Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, commissioned the first phase of the completed Busangfong-Ikom-Obudu road in Bisu, Obanliku Local Government Area of Cross River State.

    The ceremony, which coincided with the community’s vibrant new yam festival celebration, drew large crowds and showcased the rich cultural heritage of the people of Obanliku, featuring a kaleidoscope of colors, rhythms, and traditions.

    During the ceremony, the Senator was joined by prominent figures, including the State Party Chairman, Hon. Vena Ikem, Dr. Dornklaimz Enamhe, Dr. Mike Aniah, and Prof. Zana Akpagu while he officially opened the road with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, marking a significant milestone in the community’s development.

    The Clan Head of Bisu Nation, Chief Gabriel Adaba, expressed deep appreciation to Senator Jarigbe on behalf of the traditional rulers council and members of the benefiting communities. In a symbolic gesture, he performed a traditional rite of praying for the Senator with kolanut, seeking blessings and prosperity for the lawmaker.

    The people of Obanliku turned out in large numbers to celebrate this momentous achievement, expressing their commitment to supporting Senator Jarigbe due to his impressive track record of delivering projects that positively impact their lives. The community’s enthusiasm and gratitude were palpable as they celebrated the Senator’s efforts to enhance their quality of life.

    Senator Jarigbe concluded his tour of Obanliku with a courtesy call to the Executive Chairman of Obanliku, Hon. Chief Sunny Ayang JP at his residence. He felicitated with the entire Obanliku community and enjoined them to eschew disunity and violence as they celebrate the new yam festival.

    TEAM JARI MEDIA

     

  • Humility Is Not Pretence. Being A sermon Delivered Today By Rev Fr Peter Obele Abue At Holy Trinity Parish Ogboja-Ogoja.

    By Elijah Ugani 

    The Vicar General Administration of the Catholic Diocese of Ogoja, Very Rev Fr Peter Obele Abue PhD, has charged christian faithfuls to imbibe the true virtues of humility.

    Fr Obele gave the admonition during the first mass (6.00am) at Holy Trinity Parish Ogboja-Ogoja , the 22nd Sunday in ordinary time, Year C.

    Fr Obele welcomed the christains and said “On this 22nd Sunday, Jesus reminds us that our lives on earth is likened to the invitees to a wedding fest. Our attitude must be like the wedding garment anchored on humility and love and putting others first in all our undertakings.

    “The parable told by Jesus in (Luke 14:7-14), after noticing how guests were choosing the places of honor at the table, teaches us a lesson on humility.

    “Jesus himself did not invent this parable; he was simply reminding the guests of the proverb they had learnt from the Rabbis at school; “Do not take your place among the great, better to be invited, ‘Come up here’, than be humiliated in the presence of the prince” (cf. Prov. 25:6-7). The words of Jesus, therefore, were not new to his listeners. What was new was the content, the lesson behind the words, which Jesus was trying to teach regarding the true meaning of humility.

    Stressing on Humility, Fr Obele noted that “Humility is not pretending in order to get attention. It is not calling attention to yourself or seeking preferential treatment over others (Lk 20:46).

    “Humility is giving your chance to another and not making a big deal about it (Mk 9:33-37)

    “Humility is shedding off those titles, no matter how good they make you feel (Mt 23:8-10).

    “Humility is not sheepishly following the high political class, so as to feel among”.

    Fr Obele averred that “We cannot continue to bask in the limelight of prominence and fame, unmindful of the needs and cries of others”.

    Speaking further, Fr Peter Obele Abue, reenergized the congregation when he said “Humility is somehow being ready to lose out in the world, but believing that God will raise you up in his own good time”.

    Continuing, Fr Obele asserted that “If you’re struggling to grow in virtue, or to conquer a habitual sin, or some great fault, you need to ask yourself how you are doing at the practice of the virtue of humility? The rivers of grace cannot flow uphill the steep cliff of a proud man’s heart.

    “Humility is the opposite of Pride, which is actually calling attention to yourself all the time, in thought, word and indeed.

    “Humility is a heroic virtue, yet often taken for granted. It is difficult to fathom, and some people have concluded it is impossible to practice. But humility is possible. It begins from the heart, the way we think and it flows through our actions”.

    He made inquiries about the manner at which we practice true humility.

    He asked “Why is there no true humility today? Why is there very little humility practised today in churches, communities and especially in the political arena?

    “Why does everyone play humility, yet no one is humble. Because everyone wants to excel, everyone wants to be greater than the other to identify with the head yo castigate others to get to the top People are uncomfortable with leaders who want to serve, because it is not our culture. They say ‘our culture demands that ‘great people be served’. (This is pagan culture. Read John 13:8)”.

    Fr Obele reassured the people of God that “Humility is possible. Humility is not just about external things, the way we dress, the car we drive, the gadgets we use, the tone of our voice etc. it is this, but much more.

    “Humility is the way we think, the care we have for others.

    “Our first reading today teaches us that the best way to be loved by God and by people is to be always open to helping others. The second reading also confirms that by approaching Christ with an attitude of love towards our brothers and sisters. We have accepted the new religion, the religion of cheer and joy, a banquet”.

    Fr Obele reechoed the words of Jesus: “My son, conduct your affairs with humility, and you will be loved more than a giver of gifts”. (Sirach 3:17).

    Fr Obele ended his sermon with prayers for the congregation “Lord Jesus Christ you invite us to imitate you by serving the least of our brothers and sisters in love and humility. You teach us to be meek and humble of heart like you were. Grant that we may serve you always in our neighbor and, in your mercy, hear and answer our prayers, Amen”.

  • Obudu New Yam Central Planning Committee Meets Traditional Rulers Council, Fixes Opening Ceremony for September 1st

     

    The Central Planning Committee for the 2025 Obudu New Yam Festival, on Friday, August 29, 2025, held a crucial consultative meeting with the Obudu Traditional Rulers Council as part of their preparations for the highly anticipated event. The meeting took place under a warm atmosphere of unity and respect for tradition, marking a significant step towards ensuring the success of the festival.

    The committee members briefed the royal fathers on the carefully laid plans for the festival, emphasizing the importance of the event in promoting Obudu’s rich cultural heritage, fostering unity among the people, and boosting tourism in the area. The discussions also highlighted the role of the New Yam Festival in strengthening community ties and celebrating the bountiful harvest.

    After a thorough deliberation, the council and the planning committee unanimously agreed on September 1st, 2025, as the official opening date for the festival. The grand opening ceremony will take place at the palace of the Paramount Ruler of Obudu, marking the beginning of a vibrant series of cultural displays, traditional rites, and festive activities that will run throughout the week.

    The Traditional Rulers Council expressed their gratitude for being actively involved in the planning process and assured their full support in ensuring the success of the celebration. The royal fathers highlighted the need to maintain the festival’s integrity while making it more inclusive and accessible to visitors from all over the world.

    Speaking after the meeting, the Supervisor for Information, culture Tourism and Orientation, Mr. Noel Ugbong, Chairman of the Central Planning Committee, reassured the Traditional Rulers Council and the people of Obudu that this year’s festival would be a testament to Obudu’s rich cultural heritage. He emphasized that the festival would not only serve as an occasio

  • Strengthening Community Ties: Dr Peter Odey’s Strategic Tour of Northern LGAs BY FRED ABUA

     

    Rt. Hon. Dr. Peter Odey, Deputy Governor of Cross River State, recently embarked on a strategic tour of the five northern Local Government Areas (LGAs) of the state. The aim: to engage directly with citizens and better understand their needs and expectations. This initiative reflects a clear commitment to people-focused governance and aligns with Governor Bassey Otu’s People First agenda.

    Dr. Odey’s outreach signals a shift toward responsive, grassroots-based leadership. Rather than applying generic solutions to complex local issues, the tour provides an opportunity to design policies and programs that are tailored to the realities of each LGA. It addresses a long-standing challenge in governance—misdirected development efforts that result in underused or abandoned infrastructure due to the absence of proper needs assessments.

    By listening to community voices and responding directly to their concerns, the administration is laying the groundwork for more effective, sustainable, and inclusive development.

    So far, the tour has covered two of the five LGAs. During these visits, community leaders and stakeholders have openly shared their challenges and priorities. A recurring theme in their feedback has been widespread appreciation for Governor Otu’s rural development initiatives, particularly visible infrastructure projects that are transforming rural communities and revitalizing long-neglected public assets.

    Among these projects are the construction of the Yahe–Ebo–Wanokom–Benue Border Road in Ukelle, the Ndok Junction–Abakpa–Igoli–Moniaya Ring Road, and the Ndok–Mbube Road in Ogoja. These strategic developments have significantly improved road connectivity, expanded access to remote areas, and unlocked new economic opportunities.

    Governor Otu has also demonstrated a strong understanding of ‘government is a continuum’ by his commitment to building on inherited foundations and completing major projects initiated by previous administrations. A prime example in the north is the Obudu Cargo Airport, which has progressed to advanced stages of completion under his leadership.

    In Yala LGA, one stakeholder expressed deep appreciation, pledging total support for the Governor and his deputy ahead of the 2027 elections. He highlighted the administration’s magnanimity, particularly its inclusion of several Yala indigenes in key federal and state appointments. “The Yala people are committed to returning kindness for kindness,” he affirmed.

    As the tour continues across the remaining LGAs, it is clear that Dr. Peter Odey’s initiative is achieving more than administrative outreach. It is reinforcing trust, promoting inclusion, and reaffirming the principle that effective governance begins with the people.

    The Northern tour which was deliberately planned to coincide with the new yam festivals could not have been better timed; His Excellency’s entourage will be celebrating the festivals with fanfare in all the LGAs. He has doled out N15,000,000 to N25,000,000 to stakeholders of each LGA ranging from women and youths to traditional rulers.

    Today, in his Idum-Mbube community, the Deputy Governor is celebrating ‘Bitchong Ifife’ as the festival is called in the local parlance. This gesture is an indication of the government’s commitment to cultural heritage and community engagement. As Dr. Peter Odey immerses himself in the local culture, thankfully enjoying traditional delicacies like pounded yam with bansan soup and palmwine, it is clear that this tour will achieve more than just governance, it will lead to the building of stronger relationships and fostering a sense of community.

     

    Fred Abua Esq.

     

    Disclaimer: The opinion expressed in this article is strictly that of the author, Fred Abua Esq, and does not represent TheLumineNews, its agent or the organization the author works for.

  • From Propaganda to Reality – Ukelle Has Been Heard; The Practicality of a People-First Agenda BY PHYLO MODLIN ODU

     

    The Cross River State Government, under the administration of His Excellency, Prince Bassey Edet Otu, has demystified the long politicized Ukelle road with the near completion of Yahe–Wanokom–Wanikade-Wannihem-Benue border road.

    According to the people of Ukelle in Yala Local Government Area, they have carried for too long the burden of broken promises and endless propaganda. The Ukelle road has been a pawn on the chessboard of politics for many years. Every election season, politicians would troop to Ukelle, lamenting the condition of the road as though they were concerned, only to vanish after the elections.

    Governor Bassey Otu has broken this cycle of propaganda by prioritizing the people’s interests. The first phase construction of this road has already started to make significant impact on the welfare and livelihood of the people. Today, the Ukelle people speak of their road with pride and gratitude.

    Governor Otu’s intervention is more than concrete and asphalt; it is a statement of trust restored, hope renewed, and a people reconnected to the rest of the state. Ukelle will not forget those lost years of propaganda, but more importantly, they will remember the man who turned their symbol of neglect into one of progress.

    Modlin Philomena Odu
    SSA to the Governor,
    Tactical Media Research and Engagement.

     

  • Jarigbe Set To Commission Busangfong Road In Obanliku

    By Elijah Ugani 

    The Senator representing Cross River Northern Senatorial District, Sen Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe is set to commission the completed Busangfong road in Obanliku Local Government Area.

    The commissioning is slated for tomorrow, August 30th, 2025, at 9am Prompt.

    The release made available to TheLuminenews indicates that all party men and women, supporters, and well-meaning constituents are cordially invited to be present.