The Lumine News

Author: News

  • Bekwarra Vice Chairman, Hon. Linda Etako-Agaji Felicitates With Bekwarra Nation, Commits To Quality Leadership

    By Elijah Ugani

    The Vice Chairman of Bekwarra Local Government Council, Hon. Linda Etako-Agaji has felicitated with the people of Bekwarra Nation in particular and Cross River Northern senatorial district in general on this auspicious new year celebration.

    The Vice Chairman made this known on a message she signed personally and made available to theluminenews.

    Hon. Etako-Agaji used the opportunity to call on the youths of the council to approach the year 2021 with renewed strength and vigour in anticipation of a better society where their talents are harnessed to meet global demand.

    She congratulated all those that made it to the new year, stating that “we were bastardized by the ravaging pandemic that threatened our economic resource across the globe. Many people lost their lives to the pandemic, and for us who survived the scourge, we must be thankful to God Almighty.

    “Our hearts are with all those who lost their lives to the pandemic and the families they left behind.

    “Let me encourage you to obey all Covid-19 protocols and guidelines as we unite to fight the pandemic to a finish.

    “As we enter the new year, we are committed to serving you better as we hope to deliver the dividends of democracy”

  • Wife of Obudu Local Government Chairman, Celebrates New Year With New Born Babies, Pays Hospital Bill For Vulnerable

    By Elijah Ugani

    As parts of her ingenuity and disposition to put smiles on the faces of the less privileged, the wife of the Chairman of Obudu Local Government Council, Mrs. Angela Eraye Ewhe has decided to pay hospital bill for all babies born today, January 1st, as part of her celebration to Mark the 2021 new year.

    Mrs. Eraye Ewhe said “I decided to identify with the babies born today, as part of my celebration of the 2021 new year. Today is a very unique day in my life as part of my dreams is fulfilled. I’m delighted not because I have reached some persons, my joy is that I have put smiles on the faces of the vulnerable.

    “One of the patients spent the Christmas at the hospital just because he couldn’t afford to pay the bills. If I had remained in my house to cook, eat and drink when these patients are left at the hospital without any form of aid, I would not have been a happy person.

    “With the smiles on their faces, I can now go home and celebrate because, God has used me to cause celebration in the homes of these patients and especially the new born babies”

    No fewer than ten new babies were put to birth at Sacred Heart Hospital, Obudu on January 1st, 2021 and 15 indigent patients were discharged from the hospital as Mrs. Eraye Ewhe pays off their bills.

    When contacted, one of the beneficiaries of the Chairman’s wife benevolence, who gave his name as Peter, said “the year 2021 is already a year of hope and expectations. I have long been discharged, but I have no money to pay the bill. God who knew my situation, came at the time he has programmed.
    For him to have chosen to come through the Chairman’s wife on this new year day, he certainly have something in stock for me.

    “I can’t thank her enough, if you know her, please help me thank her. She has really taught me a lot, I wish I will have money some day, I will reach out to others who are in need. May God bless her abundantly and continue to provide for her to enable her bless others”

  • Obudu Local Government Chairman, Bonny Ewhe Calls on His People To Eschew Bitterness As They Begin The New Year, 2021

    By BEE Media

    The Chairman of Obudu Local Government Council, Mr. Boniface Ewhe has called on his people to eschew every form of bitterness as they begin the new year 2021.

    In a release made available to theluminenews, Mr. Ewhe noted that “the dreaded pandemic, Covid-19 that ravaged the entire globe, killing thousands of people, is enough to inform and change their perception about life, that there is every need for us all to always live at peace with each other.

    “As Chairman of council, I envisaged a united front for us to change the narratives of governance in our time. We all owe ourselves the duty to do things right.

    “Let me use this opportunity to call on all sons and daughters of Obudu to contribute to making Obudu safe to ensure the development of our people.

    “The rising cases of Covid-19 is worrisome that may require another lock down. I wish to charge you to comply with all protocols and guidelines.

    “As we begin the new year, it is my earnest desire that we reevaluate our projections, yearnings and aspirations that will ensure lasting peace in Obudu. Happy new year to you”

  • Obudu State House Member, Hon. Maria Akwaji Wishes Constituent A Prosperous 2021

    By Elijah Ugani

    The Member representing Obudu State Constituency, Hon. Maria Akwaji felicitates with her constituents on this auspicious celebration of the first day in the year 2021.

    In memo signed by the lawmaker, Hon. Maria Akwaji noted that “the year 2020 was so devastating on account of the outbreak of the ravaging pandemic, Covid-19 and its associated challenges that affected all facet of our economy and human endeavors.

    “To have survived the challenges occasioned by Covid-19, it is a thing of thanksgiving. To all those who lost their lived during the pandemic, we pray for a peaceful repose of their souls.

    “As we begin the new year, I’m confident that we are more stronger and united in the fight against the pandemic.

    “It is my wish and prayer that you all will experience unmerited favours in all your undertakings as I wish you all a prosperous 2021 (new year) celebration”

  • New Year Message: Sen. Sandy Onor Thanks Constituents For Their Support, Renews Pledge And Commitment

    By Caterpillar Media

    The Distinguished Senator representing Cross River State Central Senatorial District, His Performance, Sen. Prof. Sandy Ojang Onor thanks his constituents for their steadfast prayers and support.

    In a new year message, the performing senator poured out his heart in appreciation to his constituents for their confidence in him. He said “Just as we value life and treasure each breath we take, we must also value each person and how they touch our lives everyday. Words cannot express my feelings, nor my thanks for all your believe and support towards this project of giving Cross River State Central Senatorial District and adjourning communities a new and befitting facelift. Your thoughtfulness will always be remembered.”

    He used the opportunity of the new year celebration to renew his pledge and commitment towards robust representation and service delivery. He emphasized that “During our campaigns we made some holistic promises and holistically, we shall fulfill them. The projects you see going on are just a tip of the iceberg. In no distance time, we shall transform the landscape and change the narrative of our constituency. This we can only achieve with your continuous prayers, love and support.”

    “I appreciate your determination in showing we can do it. Thank you for your perseverance, support, and love. I know someday, I will give back what you have given me in hundred folds. Thank You and God bless you all.”

    Senator Onor concludes the message by wishing his constituents a fruitful, prosperous and Covid-19 free New Year.

  • Operation Akpakwu Averts A Robbery Incident In Calabar, Arrests Two Thieves

    By Admin

    Operation Akpakwu averted a robbery incident in Satellite town in Calabar, and arrested two thieves.

    The incident happened when the thieves broke into the Presbyterian church, grace land, Satellite town, to cart away chairs, musical instruments and other valuables belonging to the church.

    Unfortunately, luck ran out of them when concerned members of the church saw when they broke into the church and alerted Operation Akpakwu, and in their swift response to crime, the team caught these two thieves.

    One of the defining moments of 2020 was the setting up of the Operation Akpakwu by Gov. Ayade. The team has recorded unprecedented success in the fight against crime.

    Interestingly, the ancient city of Calabar is beginning to witness relative peace.

     

  • Bonny Ewhe Presents N5.9Billion 2021 Appropriation Bill, Christened Budget Of Consolidation

    By Richard Abu

    The Executive Chairman of Obudu Local Government Council, Hon. Boniface Eraye Ewhe today, Thursday December 29th, 2020 presented the 2021 appropriation bill christened Budget of Consolidation to the Obudu Legislative Council.

    Drawing from the total estimate, N3,158,951,201 representing 53% is set aside for capital expenditure while N2,760,185,585 representing 43% of the budget is earmarked for recurrent expenditure.

    Hon. Ewhe explained that, with his adminstration coming halfway 2020, taking over from bureaucrats, he is consolidating on their collective gains to bring democratic dividends to his people in 2021.

    The Chairman further stated that “drawing from the 2020 experience, council shall in 2021 introduce measures to boost Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) to help finance the budget”.

    Ewhe implored the honourable members to educate their constituents on the need to pay revenue to Council as at when due to enable him deliver democratic dividends to his people in line with his campaign promises.

    On his part, the Leader of the Obudu Legislative Council, Hon. Peter Ishoja thanked the Chairman for acting promptly by presenting the 2021 appropriation bill for proper planning and diligence management of council’s income and expenditure for the overall development of the Obudu and assured the Chairman of the house’s willingness to ensure quick passage of the bill into law.

     

  • DG BORDERCOM Felicitates With CRSHA Speaker, Eteng Jonas On His Birth Anniversary

    Your emergence as Speaker, Cross River House of Assembly is a clear indication of God at work.

    Perhaps for the first time, CRHA needed a mature leadership with a clear head, sagacity and tenacity. Though we didn’t perceive in advance how precarious the times were going to be, but Jehovah who knows the end from the beginning knew and chose you to bring stability and sanity to the System in a trying moment.

    There’s no gainsaying that development will not come through in the midst of ego boasting and show-off of brawns. With tact, uncommon wits and the penchant for sacrifice, you have proven yourself as a man who puts the State first and above even your personal prejudice and considerations.

    There wouldn’t have been a better leadership to ask for especially given the Herculean responsibility ahead of the State.

    It is your humility! Your benignity! Your simplicity! Your tenacity!
    You deserve to be celebrated, not just because it is your birthday, but because you are a GOOD MAN.

    Happy birthday 🎂 Rt. Hon. Eteng Jones William, Honorable Speaker, Cross River House of Assembly.

  • Bonny Ewhe Inspects Construction Of Garden Roundabouts, Directs Roadside Hawkers To Vacate Cyclist Park

    By Elijah Ugani

    The Chairman of Obudu Local Government Council, Mr. Boniface Ewhe inspected the ongoing construction of four roundabouts in Obudu metropolis.

    The Chairman undertook the inspection tour in the company of the Executive Secretary, Obudu Urban Development Authority, Ms. Elizabeth Adie, Chairman, Obudu Commercial Cyclists Union.

    The Chairman expressed satisfaction with the quality of work going on at the Ogoja road/Ranch road point, but however queried the delay in the commencement of work at the Cyclist park, T Boy and Animal junctions site of the project.

    At the Cyclist park, the chairman expressed concern over the traffic jam caused by roadside hawkers who have turned part of the road to selling, as well as commercial drivers who pack their cars and motorcycles indiscriminately.

    Mr. Ewhe held that the continuous use of the road for the wrong reason is an eye sore and directed that all hawkers who are currently using the road at the cyclists park relocate to the market to avoid defacement of the roundabouts when completed. He also directed commercial drivers who have turned the roundabout at the cyclist park into their motor park to desist from the act.

    Reacting to the use of the roundabout by hawkers, the Chairman of Obudu Commercial Cyclists Union, Mr. Michael Esor assured the Chairman of council that the hawkers will relocate to prevent traffic jam at the cyclist park as well as give the roundabout the beauty it deserves at the completion of work.

    Speaking with the contractor handling the project, Engr. Peter Yuguda Kumbo of YRK Global Ventures Ltd, stated that the roundabout the cyclist park and former Microfinance Bank will have water to water the flowers while the roundabouts at T Boy junction and Animal junction will have artificial grasses and materials which will be easier for council to maintain, because the Governor made it clear that it was supposed to be water fountain, as a water fountain, it will be beautiful and expensive, but we thought of the maintenance culture when the governor leaves office.

    On when the project is expected to be completed, Kumbo maintained that “all the materials are on ground, and like I said, give and take, before the end of January if God keeps us alive, we will complete the project”

    The four roundabouts are to be located at T Boy Junction, former Microfinance Bank, cyclist park and Animal junction.

    The project if completed is expected to add beauty to Obudu metropolis.

  • 35th Priestly Ordination Anniversary: Fr. Peter Obele Abue Launches 3 Books, Celebrates Survival Of Accident

    By Elijah Ugani

    It was a boisterous celebration as priests, religious, and catholic faithfuls converged at St. Columba Parish, Idum-Mbube to celebrate the Vicar General (Administration) of the Catholic Diocese of Ogoja and Parish Priest of St. Thomas Aquinas Parish Ogoja, Very Rev. Fr. Dr. Peter Obele Abue as he marks 35th anniversary of his priestly ordination.

    The event was a tripartite celebration for Fr. Obele as he marks 35th priestly ordination anniversary, launching of his three books and thanking God for surviving a ghastly motor accident alongside his sister Ms. Monica Abue.

    The homilist, Very Rev. Fr. Bob Etta extolled the virtues of the celebrant and reminded him of the common denominator among the prophet.
    According to Fr. Bob, “the common denominator among the prophets is that all prophets regretted their call.
    The only person who never regretted his call was Abraham”

    Fr. Etta posited that “Every prophet must go through a difficult time. He listed prophets who at one point or the other regretted the essence of their existence on account of the trails and persecution they faced to include but not limited to; Jeremiah, Job, Jonah and Elijah.

    “As priests, there are going to be very difficult moments and those moments are part of our calling.

    “I want to remind father that whatever he is going through, be it frustration, rejection, false accusation or backstabbing, it is not extraordinarily, it is part of our calling.

    “Non of us priest is worthy of our calling. Everyone of us sitting at the alter has our negatives and God called us in spite of our negatives”

    He admonished the celebrant to be strong in the Lord and that God Almighty is with him till the end of time, and that as he enters the year 2021, he should forgive every person who offends him, and stressed that forgiveness has no limit.

    On the apostolic mandate, Fr. Etta called on the Vicar General (Administration) to assist the Bishop, Most Rev. Dr. Donatus Akpan steer the ship of the diocese “The Lord gave you the responsibility to help the bishop, you must do it with every sense of commitment, but remember that the Lord is with you till the end of time”

    Fr. Peter Obele Abue was born in the village of Idum-Mbube, Ogoja LGA of Cross River State, Nigeria on April 27th 1958 to the family of Butro Peter Muan Abue (Paramount Ruler of Ogoja) and Ma Clara Elejie Abue, both of blessed memory.

    He was ordained a priest of the Catholic Diocese of Ogoja on December 28th, 1985.

    Fr. Obele Abue obtained a Diploma in Radio Broadcasting, Media Centre, Kaduna, Nigeria (1988), Diploma in Video Editing and Production, School of Telecommunication, Dallas, Texas, USA (1991), B. A. Philosophy from Urban University, Rome (1979), B. D. in Theology from Pontifical Urban University, Rome (1985), M. A. Mass Communication from Duquesne University, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania USA (1994) and a Ph. D. in Development Studies from Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA (2006).

    He is vested with both pastoral and Development strides with numerous success stories to his credit. He was honoured by the Cross River State with a special award for humanitarian services during the state jubilee celebration, Cross River State @50 in June 2017.

    In partnership with Abode for Children, Inc, USA, he founded the St. Joseph Primary/Secondary Schools and a Medical Clinic in Idum-Mbube, Ogoja. Now a property of his home diocese, managed in collaboration with Abode for Children Inc. USA, a nonprofit organization.

    He is presently the Vicar General (Administration) of Ogoja Diocese, Parish Priest of St. Thomas Aquinas Parish, Igoli-Ogoja, Chaplain of the Catholic Women Organization, Ogoja Diocese, Vice Chairman of the Ogoja Diocesan Agric Commission (ODAIP), Chairman of the 3rd Synod of Ogoja Diocese and Chairman of the New University Commission, Ogoja Diocese.

    Highlight of the event was the launching of the three books; 1. Remove the stone: Obeying God’s Command to Break your poverty Cycle.
    2. Give Them Something To Eat: Essays on Community Empowerment.
    3. Light For Our Path: Sunday Homilies. A, B, C, Feasts and Solemnity.

    In his vote of thanks, the cerebral Fr. Peter Obele Abue thanked God for the gift of his life and all those who have been instrumental to his apostolate and especially those who have found time from their crowded schedules to identify with him on this auspicious day of his tripartite celebration, and prayed God to grant everyone safe journey back home.

    Proceeds from the book launch was to be channelled into St. Columba Idum-Mbube church building project.