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  • August 22 Is The _Chapter Two_ Of My Soon-To-Be-Released Book, The Pen In Jail – Agba Jalingo.

    August 22 Is The _Chapter Two_ Of My Soon-To-Be-Released Book, The Pen In Jail – Agba Jalingo.

    By Admin

    Today is August 22, 2020, exactly one year since I was abducted from my home to begin a treason trial I am still standing. I mark the anniversary by bringing you the chapter that recreates the drama that happened on that fateful day.

    **********************
    Bright days are often a rarity during the raining season in Lagos particularly now that we are contending with the unpredictabilities of climate change. So anytime you have one, you want to make the best of it. 22nd August 2019 was one of those bright days that arrived with a lot of energy. Having just returned from one of my frequent journeys, it was very reasonable for me to spend that whole August Day with *Okemena*. But it was not to be. A day that started out with bowls of energy and decibels of excitement, was abruptly punctuated by four plain clothes detectives barging into our house to forcefully take me away.

    A siege had been laid on Okemena’s business outlet since the morning of August 22. Her staff were held hostage by the same plain clothes men. For over 4 hours, they were under guard and panicking. They were not allowed to make calls. The detectives were anticipating the arrival of Okemena or I. When they waited and none of us were forthcoming, they took Seyi, one of the staff, under gun point and threats to bring them home where we were. On arriving at the gate of our house, a familiar face was with them so they gained access easily into the compound, through the staircase up to the last door to our living room. I rushed to the door claded only in underpants.

    Who is at the door, I inquired…

    As I peeped through the pigeonhole, I spotted Seyi sweating and panicking profusely. Still talking to her through the pigeon hole, I asked her what the matter was that she was under so much pressure and panic. She broke down in tears and was shouting, “Oga I don’t know oooo, oga I don’t know oooo.

    ***********************
    Immediately I opened the door to let her in, two men sprinted from under the staircase and pushed their way through, forcing themselves into our living room shouting, “we are policemen, you are under arrest.” I asked them what I was under arrest for and their first answer was that, I will know when I get to their station. They initially said they were from Abuja. They created quite a drama that lasted up to 15 minutes. Two other plain clothes men were outside mounting surveillance for the others who had entered the building.

    ***********************
    I called out loudly to Okemena who was in the bedroom telling her we have policemen in the house. She rushed out and joined me and was in obvious shock and panic. She asked them who they were, where they came from and if they brought a warrant of arrest and they told her they had no business with her. That they came for me. I was only claded in an underpants without a singlet and I requested to go get a pair of clothes to wear from the room but the stern detectives will not let me do any of that. I requested that Okemena brings a pair for me and they obliged. She then brought a pair of my blue native dress which I wore in their presence and they advised that I should “carry money” because I may need it. I asked why they thought so and one then informed me that they were taking me to Calabar. I think that actually slipped out of his mouth but it gave me a hint of what I was in for. Meanwhile, Okemena had gone back into the room to also change her dress because she insisted on following us to wherever they were taking me.

    ***********************
    She took a little while and before she came out, the detectives had already marched me downstairs into a waiting gold color highlander. Several AK47 rifles were under the vehicle seats and a driver was already seated. They were very impatient. They all entered and drove away with me leaving Okemena behind. She came out of the gate shouting and racing after the vehicle on the street. Eventually, they stopped and created a tight space were she squeezed herself in.

    ***********************
    They drove off into the hectic traffic along Lagos Ibadan Expressway veering into Ojota to Maryland into Bank Anthony way and turned into Isaac John and Joel Ogunaike street in Ikeja GRA. They turned again into a close off Joel Ogunaike and drove for less than 50 meters and a policeman opened a big black gate for the vehicle to drive in.

    *************************
    From outside, while driving into the compound, the presence of a handful of armed mobile policemen at the gate and the police colors which adorn the fence of the compound gives you an idea already that it’s a police facility. Inside the compound, as we drove in and came out of the vehicle, I am guarded through a bunch of abandoned vehicles to somewhere in the back and ushered into a make shift office. Okemena kept following and watching every move closely. While we were guarded to the back, I heard one of the policemen yelling at Okemena from behind us that she had taken a picture with her phone and must delete it. Okemena insisted she didn’t take any picture. The angry policeman kept emphasizing that visitors to the facility are usually not allowed to enter with their phones but Okemena’s own only got in because she was allowed to drive in with us in their vehicle and didn’t go through the regular gate checks. He forced Okemena to open her phone after a protracted altercation, and two of them checked through the pictures in her phone to see if she actually snapped and found none. Her phone was seized until late evening when she was leaving the station before it was returned to her.

    **********************
    While sitting in the make shift container office, one of the detectives who told me his name is Shaka, asked his colleague to get me a statement form so I could write a statement. I wondered what I was going to write in the statement when I have not been told why I am under arrest. I was then informed that the office we were was the Inspector General of Police Intelligence Response Team IGP IRT. That there was a complaint about me from the governor of Cross River state. They asked me if I had any issues with my governor, I told them we have been having a very frosty relationship lately and the policeman handed me a paper and pen to write what exactly has been going on between me and the governor as my statement. I did capture the much I could in the statement while the detective was watching me closely. I remember refusing some of the things he wanted me to write but he wasn’t forceful. After writing my statement, he informed me that I will need to wait to see their “oga” in another office who will sign my detention order, after which I will be detained pending my transfer to Calabar very early the following morning.

    *********************
    Okemena had gone outside the premises to contact our staff, lawyers and journalists. She also quickly moved to get some snacks from a fast food outlet around for me to munch and a pair of slippers, toothbrush and paste. All formalities were completed. She escorted me to the gate of the dingy cell along with an armed man. As I approached the cell gate, stripped and bare footed, the crowd in the police facility who had also come because of their relations locked in there, kept staring at us and wondering if I was the same Agba Jalingo they see on TV and what was going on. I hesitated briefly and had a short conversation with Okemena about what initial steps she should take as I was been taken away. I told her I may be away for long and we encouraged ourselves that the anxious moments, like others, will surely pass, I gave her my wedding ring so other inmates in the cell wouldn’t dispossess me of it and collected the slippers and toothbrush, we hugged and she stood there with tears laden eyes, watching as I was marched into the cell that night.

    ********************
    The night of 22 August, was indeed very long. A night when the gods forfeited their iron teeth of chastisement. A night when racing thoughts threatened the carapace of my mind. The policeman that took me into the cell was in all honesty not hostile. As the first gate opened, there is a hall way and two cells by the left, about 40 by 20 feet in size. The first one is designated for females and was very scanty. The second which is for males is congested. There were 82 inmates in the cell and I was the 83rd and the last for the night. The policeman took me to the gate of the second cell and called the cell marshall out.

    Marshall!

    Sir!

    I don bring you alejo o!

    Ok sir!

    But this one na your brother. So make you treat am well. Make nobody touch am o. E no be kidnapper. Na only one night e get for here. Early mor-mor, we dey move am go una town. Na your brother from Calabar o! Ask am if e dey chop dog meat! I think the policeman wanted to be humorous to put a smile on my face as he was pushing me into the dungeon.

    *******************
    He hands me the N500 I also collected from Okemena to settle the cell officials and opens the gate for me to be pushed inside. He locks the gate and turn back leaving me to my fate.

    Good evening ceeell!

    Good evening alejooo!

    I greet all the cell leaders and members!

    You are welcome!

    The Marshall abruptly wakes inmates laying around him ordering them to shift and create a space for me on the mat next to him. I was actually lucky because that is luxury in the cell, I was told. I handed Marshall the N500 begging him that, if I am able to see anyone before our departure for Calabar in the morning, I will be able to give him more money. He was satisfied.

    ********************
    It was a very sober night of intense memory. As usual, I had to tell the cell what brought me. The “cell cup” was scrubbed on the floor to grab everyone’s attention and Marshall informed them that the cell had a new entrant who is passing by and as culture demands, I had to tell them my story of what brought me to the cell. The “cell-cup” secured the rapt attention of cell members. I stood up and was pointed to a corner where I should stand. I introduced myself and briefly told them why I was arrested. I told them I had issues with my governor and I am needed in Calabar. I added that I was still confused until I get to Calabar then the whole picture will be clear to me. It wasn’t a long one and we all returned to our positions. But not long after that, the Marshall who told me he is from Ugep in Yakurr Local Government of Cross River state, tapped me.

    ********************
    Journalist, please I wan tell you wetin carry me come here.

    Ok Marshall.

    I no know how help fit take come but since you be journalist, if you go outside, you fit help. I don dey here over four months.

    Four month?

    So wetin happen Marshall?

    Na kidnapping carry me come here. We do the work for here, I come run comot for town, police trace me go Imo state go catch me come back.

    So why dey never carry you go court?

    Dey say make I pay N800,000 but I don see N400,000 pay. My people still dey find money and I still dey beg them.

    So if you pay that N400,000 balance now, dem go let you go house?

    Yes na!

    Ok Marshall, who be your IPO?

    E dey outside. I go call am for you for morning.

    Better. So that I go fit ask am somethings, then I go know wetin I fit do.

    *********************
    I couldn’t sleep. I couldn’t eat. Not even the snacks that Okemena bought for me. I could only drink water through out the night. Other inmates were readily available to eat the snacks. I kept rolling restlessly in the spot I was lucky to be alloted and in the darkness of the cell, I could still see the stacks of human beings cramped into a room that wouldn’t be habitable even for animals. In the midst of my anxiety, my greatest fear for the night befell me. I was pressed and needed to ease myself. That’s one fear I had nursed before being thrown in there. I had prior experience of how a toilet in a congested cell looks like and didn’t want to witness it. But I was so pressed till I couldn’t hold it any longer. I beckoned to Marshall to help me find my way and he was still in a good mood and was nice to me. Before then, I was not just worried about what I will meet in the tight far corner designated as toilet, I was even more worried about how I will cross the stack of human beings who were laying on the ground to get there without incurring some wrath.

    ********************
    Hey you!

    Marshall shouted at his assistant.

    The assistant jumps up.

    Help clear road make journalist go use lavatory.

    Tell am the law for there o.

    I accompanied the person assigned the task and he clears the road for me until I get to the toilet. There is no door. People are sleeping by the entrance almost rolling into the toilet. He instructs me to cross over the people that were sleeping by the entrance and enter. I obeyed the instruction. But on getting into the toilet, I couldn’t even wait for him to finish telling me the lavatory rules before I bolted back into the cell not minding anymore whether I will step on anyone. Whatever I went to do in the toilet also sympathized and cooperated with me and returned to my belly immediately and I had to go back to my position and endure the night. When Marshall asked me why I did not ease myself again, I told him I was no longer pressed. He smiled and told me he knows it’s because I find it difficult to use the toilet. He further informed me that tap water did not flow that day at all. So they were managing the water they had in the bucket for the night. So they allow 10 to 15 people to defecate per time before they flush. I think I was unlucky to arrive the toilet when the 14th person just left and I just couldn’t bear the stench and the sight.

    ***********************
    The morning came longer than expected. I was anxious for it. We had no time piece in the cell but someone had a device we used to check time. About 4:48am, the same policeman who brought me into the cell came for me.

    Agba Jalingoo!

    Yes sir!

    You don bath?

    No sir but I don ready…

    We dey go Calabar now o.

    I know sir.

    You no wan bath?

    I go bath after sir.

    For where you go bath?

    Anywhere…

    You don brush?

    Make I come brush for outside there na before we enter motor.

    Ok. Oya come make I open door for you. Carry your brush and toothpaste. Come take pure water for outside or use that tap for where Muslim dey pray there.

    I quickly picked the small polythene bag that contained my paste and brush and rushed to the cell door. He opened the door for me and we left together. I remembered to tell my cell mates, bye bye but we didn’t have time to conclude our unfinished discussions over the night.

    **********************
    Outside the cell, I took a plastic cup at the Muslim prayer point and collected water from the faucet on the wall and brushed my mouth. I wrapped the brush and paste back in the bag and told the policeman I was ready. He called his colleagues who were milling around and they all got into the vehicle. I was also handcuffed and thrown behind and we departed for Calabar shortly after 5am in the morning of 23rd August, 2019.

    *End!*
    *******************
    The story continues in Chapter 3 and other Chapters of my book, *THE PEN IN JAIL.*

    There is a lot of anticipation for the book, but we all have to wait a little more for the work to finish and come out fantastic and that will be very very soon!

    Watch out!!!

    Yours sincerely,
    Citizen Agba Jalingo.

     

    Disclaimer: The opinions expressed Here are strictly that of Agba Jalingo and does not represent TheLumineNews.

  • APC Primary Election: Akpagu CAN Replicate Massive Projects in Unical for Cross River North

    APC Primary Election: Akpagu CAN Replicate Massive Projects in Unical for Cross River North

    By Admin

    Every genuine leader or representative who holds any position of authority to further the policy thrust of an administration or yearnings of a people is identified by a unique vigour to execute visible projects for enhanced productivity.

    These projects aimed at reducing pressure on existing ones and opening opportunities for optimal performance within a particular sector are key indicators that heighten productivity.

    As a function of value, productivity stems from passion to mitigate negative impact of people’s sufferings through felt needs and working towards achieving them.

    Thus, even at the twilight of Prof Zana Akpagu’s projects driven reign as University of Calabar Vice-Chancellor. The second generation University in Nigeria under his watch has indeed bludgeoned into a much sought after citadel of learning cherished by all.

    Attracting projects into the University by lobbying government, private sector,donor agencies and the international community is very key in modern times. While the zeal to expeditiously execute such projects based on timelines, prudence and due diligence requires special skills.

    In the light of trending global best practices, the state of the art facilities as influenced by Ntufam Professor Akpagu into the University keeps daily converts within and outside the senatorial district in awe having thrilled the University publics as well as the Presidency with frugal spendings in projects execution.

    A trip to the University where massive infrastructure delivered by the towering giant in good stead for the All Progressives Congress (APC) ticket in the 3rd September primary election are legion .

    It is incontrovertibly clear that Prof Akpagu is not just called “Mr Projects ” but one with capacity to do more if the APC paves way for him in party primary to elect a standard bearer.

    No wonder critical stakeholder’s endorsements flooded his intent and nomination form has been received with cheers in Ogoja, Yala, Obudu, Bekwarra and Obanliku. A poacher like Akpagu is what the APC needs in the fierce competition to wrest the senatorial seat from the umbrella.

    It is imagined that placing the collective destinies of all in Cross River North in him as their representative in the Red Chamber would be a very easy pick if there is a sense of commitment to eschew sentiments.

    Fittingly so, Akpagu’s personality which transcends ethnic bias following his open arms to people with high level of intelligence and skills from all parts of the state and beyond.

    He can propel equitable distribution of sustainable development projects in all parts of Cross River North having had a taste of what it feels like to deliver amidst cheering ovation as stimulus for even higher responsibility on account of performance.

    This can only be achieved if the urbane Nigerian of Cross River North extraction is presented with a golden chance in the hallowed chambers.

    Without doubt,Akpagu can replicate the unical experience in Cross River North for the greatest good of all in the Senatorial District.

    Copyright @Z-Effect Media 2020

  • 2020 World Humanitarian Day: Founder Of GFO Foundation, Hon. Orim Makes Cash Donations To Orphanages And Rehabilitation Homes

    2020 World Humanitarian Day: Founder Of GFO Foundation, Hon. Orim Makes Cash Donations To Orphanages And Rehabilitation Homes

    By Admin

    In commiseration of the 2020 world humanitarian day celebration, the Chief of staff to the Governor of Cross River and Founder of Gabriel Ferdinand Orim (GFO) Foundation, Hon. Martin Orim, wished all the sicks and afflicted in the state quick recovery.

    Hon. Martin Orim, who joined other humanitarian organizations in Nigeria and globally to celebrate the World Humanitarian day, praised Governor Ben Ayade for setting the pace with humanitarian Palliatives ongoing across the state.

    Hon. Orim doled out N250, 000.00 each to the Afokang Rehabilitation Home, Uwanse Orphanage Home and Monaya, Ogoja Orphanage Home, all in Cross River.

    The founder of GFO Foundation said that the amount to each of the above stated Homes is part of his own sacrifice to make his fellow brothers and sisters who are not as fortunate as himself, or are facing one Health challenge or the other to ameliorate their sufferings, and for them to know that he cares for them, just like many do.

    Hon. Orim has always encourage the less-privilleged and the physically challenged through providing for their education, visiting and giving them words of encouragement has great Passion to serve humanity as he personally visits rehabilitation centres in the state to advice inmates on how to live a post rehabilitation life.

    The Obudu born Chief of staff  is a philanteopist and has faithfully remitted the pledges he made to the Ogoja Prison, Calabar Prison and the Orphanage Homes on monthly basis from his monthly salary.

    Gabriel Ferdinand Orim (GFO) Foundation was founded few years back by Hon. Martin Orim in honour of his late father, who himself did great humanitarian work among his people, including encouraging parents to send their children including the girl child to school.

     

  • A communique From A symposium Held On Tuesday, The 4th Of August, 2020 By The New UNICAL Initiative

    A communique From A symposium Held On Tuesday, The 4th Of August, 2020 By The New UNICAL Initiative

    By Admin

    The New UNICAL Initiative represents a group of women and men drawn from town and gown whose primary goal is to work towards rebranding the University of Calabar and put her on a pedestal of excellence and pace setting among Universities across the globe.

    The group’s interest also includes giving UNICAL administration a human face with staff and student’s happiness, hope and progress as priority.

    The group is made up of members covering all the ranks in the academia, from Professors to Graduate Assistants as well as the rank and files in the non-teaching staff of the University. The group also includes well-wishers of the University of Calabar in Nigeria and in diaspora.

    Rising from the group’s 5th symposium which held on Tuesday, the 4th of August, 2020, the group deliberated on subjects such as:

    A. Leadership and academic trajectory in UNICAL since 1975
    B. Gender and leadership in Unical since 1975
    C. University of Calabar advancement and development since 1975
    D. Welfare of staff and students of the University of Calabar and
    E. The appointment/selection of Vice-Chancellors of the University of Calabar since 1975.

    After several robust deliberations and debates on the above agenda, the group summarized its concerns as follows:

    The University of Calabar, since inception forty-five years ago, has been administered by male Vice-Chancellors. The Vice Chancellors of the University of Calabar from inception up to this moment are:

    1. Professor Emmanuel Ayandele

    2. Professor Isa Mohammed

    3. Professor Adamu Mohammed

    4. Professor Charles Effiong

    5. Professor Solomon Uno

    6. Professor Kelvin Etta

    7. Professor Ivara Esu

    8. Professor Bassey Asuquo

    9. Professor James Ekpoke and

    10. Professor Zana Akpagu

    This gender insensitivity has become a source of worry because there are very qualified and experienced female Professors in the University who can perform creditably and excellently as Vice Chancellors. The fact that Vice-chancellorship has been a patriarchal affair with masculine monotony puts the University of Calabar in a delicate imbalance and backwardness in the scheme of world University advancement.

    The group also observed that the pattern of growth and advancement of the University since 1975 has mainly taken a common dimension and trajectory. There is therefore the need for gender balance in her leadership in order to get various capacities and dexterity in innovation for the wellbeing of both staff and students; the woman flair and touch is required in this regard.

    It is also observed that Unical is lagging behind in many areas such as staff development programmes, staff accommodation, conducive offices for staff, students’ hostels, recreational and social facilities, academic competitiveness, library facilities, operational vehicles for Departments, Faculties, Institutes and Directorates, electricity, Centres of Excellence, ICT, landscaping which are hallmarks of a quality citadel of learning amongst many others.

    It would be recalled that one of the achievements being attributed to the University of Benin is the appointment of a female Vice Chancellor in the person of Dr Grace Alele-Williams. Her appointment as Vice Chancellor brought the University of Benin to limelight and gave her the prestige that attracted collaborations with USAID, FORD FOUNDATION AND UNCF (United Negro College Fund) which the University took advantage of for the growth and development of the Ivory Tower till this day.

    Other female past and present Vice Chancellors of Nigeria Universities (amongst others) who have put their schools on world map are:

    Profs. Sidi Osho

    Peace Babalola

    Eka Ikpi Braids

    Comfort Ekpo

    Rosemond Dienye Grace Osahogulu

    Cordelia Agbebaku

    Maureen Etebu

    Oluwayemisi Obilade

    Fatima Mukhtar

    Adenike Kuka

    Laraba Gambo

    Aize Obayan

    Jaesola Akande

    Lilian Salami

    Olujumoke Olayiwola

    Otete Cecelia

    Ibiyinka Fuwape

    Charity Angya (see Guardian News Paper of 21st November, 2019)

    In the light of the various concerns of the group, the following resolutions were made.

    a. The University of Calabar needs a female Vice Chancellor now! It is long overdue.

    b. Vice Chancellorship of Universities, world over is not exclusive to men.

    c. A female Vice Chancellor will put a human face to the administration of Unical; uphold fairness, justice, equity and prosperity

    d. A female Vice Chancellor will bring about the much needed national and international connections for Unical. A new Unical is possible with a female Vice Chancellor.

    e. A female Professor from the Southern part of Cross River should be the next Vice Chancellor.

    f. We therefore support the aspiration of Professor Stella Effa- Attoe for the position of Vice Chancellor, University of Calabar.

    g. We are impressed with the credentials and experience of Professor Stella Effa- Attoe as a seasoned academic and administrator which will serve as spring board for uncommon and marvelous positive transformation of our dear University of Calabar.

  • Profiling Prof. Stella Effah-Attoe, A Front line Contender For The 11th Unical Vice Chancellorship Position

    Profiling Prof. Stella Effah-Attoe, A Front line Contender For The 11th Unical Vice Chancellorship Position

    By Admin

    Stella Effah-Attoe is an indigene of Cross River State. She hails from Ikun in Biase Local Government Area of the Southern Senatorial District of Cross River State.

    She is an Alumnus of the University of Calabar, where she graduated with a B.A. (Hons) Degree in History, 1980, and a Ph.D. African History in 1985.

    Prof. Effah-Attoe started her academic career in the University of Calabar in 1986, in the Department of History and International Studies, Faculty of Arts with an unbroken service of 34 years, till date.

    She was elevated to the rank of Professor in 2010 and served the University at different capacities.

    Prof. Effah-Attoe delivered the 79th Inaugural Lecture of the University of Calabar, on the topic : Gender Mainstreamism in Nigeria’s Political Development: From Hindsight to Foresight on the 18th April, 2018.

    At the University of Calabar she has served as a Teacher and a Researcher; Member of a number of Internal University Committees, Internal Examiner and External Examiner at various Universities, Assessor of Professors and Associate Professors.

    She is a member of the Historical Society of Nigeria and the Nigerian Academy of Letters (NAL).

    In addition to her academic career, Prof. Effah-Attoe has served the nation in various capacities. She has been;

    ✅ Member, National Governing Board of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC). 2013 – 2015

    ✅ Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Voice of Nigeria (VON). 2009 – 2010

    ✅ Member of the Board of Directors of the Federal Housing Authority (FHA). 2005 – 2006

    ✅ Member of the Governing Council of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS). 2000 – 2004:

    ✅ Cross River State Commissioner for Information and Culture and member of the Cross River State Executive Council. 1989 – 1990,

    ✅ Cross River State Commissioner for Education and member of the Cross River State Executive Council. 1987 – 1989:

    ✅ She was also a member of the National Population Census Monitoring Team in Nigeria, in 1991.

    ✅ Member of the National Planning Committee for the Implementation of the 9 Years Compulsory Education Programme for Nigeria, in 1989. This Committee’s Report forms a component part of the National Policy on Education in Nigeria.

    ✅ Executive Director of the Center for Gender Empowerment.

  • UNICAL VC-ship: Prof. Offoing Makes Strongest Push As Selection Process Commences.

    UNICAL VC-ship: Prof. Offoing Makes Strongest Push As Selection Process Commences.

    By Admin

    Indications are high that the Council Meeting heralding the selection of the next Vice Chancellor for the University of Calabar will take place in a few days and a front line contender for the position, Prof. Offiong Effanga Offing has released more facts to prove his argument as “the best, tested, experienced, exposed and a qualified candidate for the job”

    In his seventeen page Curriculum Vitae, supported by a synopsis of his mission statement and vision for the university, as well as testimonials of his work history over the years are among the deliberate packaged materials in the hands of the Selection Council members which has made the strongest impression of his candidacy.

    A source close to council maintained that “Council members are committed to ensuring the selection process and the final outcome would be the best for the university which indeed is what Prof. Offiong represents”.

    Interacting with newsmen recently in Calabar over his aspiration to be the next Vice-Chancellor of the University of Calabar, Prof. Offiong had noted that if given the opportunity he was poised to make UNICAL one of the foremost Institutions of higher learning with global recognition because he is a true scholar.

    His words, “A Vice-Chancellor should provide academic and a purpose driven leadership that us anchored on research, teaching, and community service. This will be of utmost priority under my leadership”, Offiong said.

    Adding, “I will ensure the enabling environment for research and learning”

    When asked how he intends to curb or eradicate social vices such as cultism and systemic corruption/malpractices, Prof. Offiong said, “Counselling and welfare are very important in addition to adequate security infrastructure. We will ensure Counseling is given proper attention and also institutionalize the committee management system at the University”

    He explained that the committee system will be all encompassing within the University system as well give members of the university community a sense of belonging, involvement, and commitment to decisions taken.
    “Before a decision comes to the University Senate, it must have benefited from a robust and quality assessment from the departments concerned”

    Prof. Offiong who is contending for the same position with no fewer than ten other professors, is an astute Academic/ Researcher with over 70 Research articles, publications in peer-review journals cited in high impact databases.

    He had his B.Sc. (Hon) degree in Chemistry 1984 from the University of Calabar where he graduated with Second Class (Upper Division).

    In 1990 he obtained his Ph.D in Coordination/Inorganic Chemistry from the same department, University of Calabar supported by DAAD in Germany.

    He has so far successfully supervised 7 Masters and 13 Ph.D. theses in the University. He had been Postgraduate/Undergraduate External Examiner in many Universities across the country and has served the University of Calabar in several capacities including; Sub-Dean, Faculty of Science, Dean, Faculty of Science, Dean of Students’ Affairs, Member, Governing Council of the University of Calabar (2000-2004), Chairman and Zonal Coordinator ASUU, National Vice President ASUU among others.

    “Between 2007 and 2015, he served as Commissioner for Education in Cross River State.”

  • CRN bye-election : Unical VC Picks APC Nomination Form, Says He’s Sure Of Victory

    CRN bye-election : Unical VC Picks APC Nomination Form, Says He’s Sure Of Victory

    By Admin

    The Vice Chancellor of the University of Calabar, Prof. Zana Akpagu has picked the All Progressives Congress (APC) Senate nomination form to contest the Cross River North bye-election.

    Akpagu, the leading APC aspirant in the race said that he is sure of victory as he is contesting to win and not to settle for second position.

    Recall that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) recently released time table that fixed October 31st for the bye-election to fill the vacuum created by the demise of late Sen. Rose Oko.

    Speaking shortly after picking his form on Tuesday, August 18 at the party’s national secretariat in Abuja, Akpagu, a former Commissioner for Education in Cross River State said that he is not only ready for the party’s primary but for the main election.

    Lamenting that the Senatorial district has suffered severe underdevelopment occasioned by poor representation, he averred that with him as Senator, things will turnaround in the zone for better.

    While expressing confidence in winning the party’s nomination and the main election, he added that he was not in the race because he feels he’s the richest man but because of the yearnings of the people for positive change.

    According to him, “I’m not in the race because I feel I have the money to buy the people, in fact, I believe that our people are too civilized to be bought over. I’m in the race because I feel the cry of our people to key into the change agenda of our great party, the APC and President Mohammadu Buhari.

    “Cross River North is blessed with vast land for agriculture but why have we not harnessed the potential and properly liaised with the federal government to attract many of the government’s agricultural initiatives to our people?

    From available data, our Senatorial district is lagging behind in terms of federal government jobs when compared to other Senatorial districts. This is because we’ve not sent people who understand the sufferings of our people. There are opportunities there but we just need people with the will power to pursue them for our people. That’s exactly what I’m very convinced that I can and will do as Senator”.

    He added that “I’m not coming with so much promises because I believe that our modest efforts in our previous positions and where I’m now have been speaking for me and my team loudly. I’m not just contesting because we want to come second, but because I’m confident that we can and shall win”.

  • Re: Notice Of Disclaimer From The Commissioner For agriculture And Natural Resources And AADSCHEME Matters, Cross River State

    Re: Notice Of Disclaimer From The Commissioner For agriculture And Natural Resources And AADSCHEME Matters, Cross River State

     

    By Admin

    Our Ref:CRSG/MCS/Vol.2/005
    11th August, 2020.

    It was Emelia Brobbey who said and I quote: “To be great, you have to be willing to be mocked, hated, and misunderstood.”
    Since the day I choose a path in public service I perfectly understood the above aphorism and have since transcended above petty jibes, libel, malicious concoctions, satanic manipulations, falsehood, slander and sentiments of unreasonable proportions. It is expected and will and must come as the conflicts of
    interest plays.

    From my student union days as a unionists to my activism in the National Youth Council of Nigeria and political mobilization/awareness as founder and Director General of the largest online and
    offline sociopolitical organization in Cross River State, which is the Cross River State Political Network, CRISPON, for over a decade I have built a tough skin to cheap blackmail and concocted foolery. I am not
    deterred for I am with God and on the side of light and majority! Normally, I won’t respond to the above subject matter but since this touches on my integrity and personality and due to the enormous concern from friends, families that I have received thus far on the said subject via calls, texts, messages and after a conversation with my boss, the Governor I am constrained to make this release.
    Before I provide clarification as regards the above subject matter raised by the Commissioner for Agriculture, Mr. Okon, I wish to make this clear for all and sundry i.e the circumstance surrounding my
    involvement in the Accelerated Agricultural Development Scheme, AADS in Cross River State and our progress and conclusion of the matter therein.

    Firstly, I am Prince Michael Nku Abuo, JP an aide of the Governor of Cross River State serving as the Director General of Migration Control Services of the government of Cross River State, Nigeria and I was mandated directly by my boss the Governor, His Excellency, Sen Prof Ben Ayade to participate in mobilizing support for the effective implementation and execution of the AADScheme in Cross River State.

    This I have been doing with updates sent to the Governor constantly. Let me also make it clear that the Governor has the right to mandate any responsibility of his government to whom so ever he wishes.

    On getting this mandate, the first person I made attempt to see and work with is and was the Commissioner For Agriculture, Mr Okon, I did this by sending SMS, WhatsApp messages and even visited his office and dropped a letter in this regard. I didn’t get any feedback and therefore commenced the execution of my mandate in line with the provided reviewed guidelines of the Central Bank of Nigeria on the said scheme.

    My activities has been transparent and in the open too. After consultation from my
    boss, I started by launching our Local Government Monitoring/Coordinating Team and the Project Management team of which the Commissioner of Agriculture was a member of. This information is in
    public domain.

    In furtherance to deepening the reach of the scheme and for grass root participation letters were sent to all the stakeholders across the 18 LGAs of the state to the political and civil class, house of assembly
    members, paramount rulers, clan heads, community youth leaders, chairmen and executives, legislative reps at the local government level for engagements at their council secretariat to create sensitization
    and get a buy into the scheme in the state.
    So far, aside our engagements with the Central Bank of Nigeria in Calabar and Abuja as well as the Ministry of Agriculture and the Presidential Task force we successfully held this town hall engagements with all the stakeholders outlined above in Bakassi, Akpabuyo, Calabar South, Akamkpa, Abi and Obubra.
    The pictorial, visual/video and written evidence of attendance is in the public domain and anyone can confer with their local government stakeholders to affirm the above.

    In all of our engagement never a
    time did we call out or give CRISPON MPCS account number for people to make payments into, as a matter of fact we haven’t collected a dime from anyone on the Accelerated Agricultural Development
    Scheme as alleged in the write up by the Commissioner. The people in the above named local government areas where we have successfully carried out the sensitization are alive and can be
    contacted for firsthand information.

    I am a youth, coincidentally within the age bracket (18-35 years old) that this scheme is targeted at, I have royal blood and was properly raised to respect elders and even young people, I have never disrespected or malign the personality of the Commissioner and have expressed sincere and genuine desire for us to work together and in our last meeting which he finally accepted to, after he saw our progress.

    I made to work with him as team, for the good of our state and in positive light to the government of Sen Prof Ben Ayade.
    All this scuffle escalated when I discovered that an attendance list of a purported senatorial district town hall meeting from the Ministry of Agriculture, CRS was been sent to people’s home for people to write
    their names and those of their ally as a means of creating a facade that there was a meeting of that sort and it had massive attendance as against our grassroots strides recorded thus far with massive
    participation. This alert I am sure got to the Commissioner and he took it personal hence this maligning publication.

    It was with joy and sheer spirit that I received and read the publication from Mr Okon Nyong Owuna, the Commissioner for Agriculture disclaiming me as a member of the Project Monitoring Committee, a
    government appointee and defrauding people.

    Let me make this clear:
    1. By God’s grace I am an appointee of the Governor, His Excellency, Sen Prof Ben Ayade and a Director General of the Migration Control Services Agency. This is and can’t be contested by the said Commissioner. For further confirmation you can write to the Office of the Secretary to the State Government, CRS.

    2. I had the mandate of the Governor, my boss to carry out my roles as it relates to AADScheme in the state and he is and was abreast of all of my activities and was adequately briefed.

    3. The allegation of asking people to pay into CRISPON account to be part of the AADScheme is false and totally geared at cheap and pungent blackmail. The LGAs visited and their stakeholders engaged are witness to this fact and can be contacted for authentication of my stance.

    4. I have never defrauded anyone before and will never do so whether with the CRISPON Cooperative or with AADS or in any guise. Nobody has paid or given one Naira to me or our team members as long as this scheme is concerned neither have we given CRISPON MPCS account as we tour on this scheme.

    5. Like seen from our yesterday, Monday, 10th August, 2020. I held AADS sensitization and awareness tour which held successfully at Obubra and Abi tour I am not wanted by the police, it is only the Nigerian Police or other security agents that hold the right to declare someone
    wanted and not an exalted Ministry of Agriculture, CRS and so far I have no such case.

    6. There’s a principle in law that’s states that he who alleges must prove. Let the commissioner provide the video, written documented evidence that I have collected monies from farmers or given CRISPON account for payment in as much as this scheme is concerned during my tours.

    7. It is true that I am part of the CRISPON MPCS LTD but merging my personal venture which provides several kinds of services and my official engagements is truly born out of mischief for
    even as Commissioner of Agriculture you have your personal ventures one of which was used for the Project Appeal engagements in Akamkpa.

    8. For emphasis I have never gotten a dime from any farmer or group of farmers for the AADScheme and this is true and clear.

    9. The AADScheme is completely different from the CBN AGSMEIS Entrepreneurial Development Training; which has a fee attached to its registration and training process directly from the CBN.
    I have never received any monies as regards the AADScheme whether by cash or through the said CRISPON MPCS LTD, Except for the CBN AGSMEIS EDI Facility which is purely justifiable.

    10. Why would he use an official letter head of government to engage in his private pursuit of ego massage, where is it heard and has it ever been done that a government appointee will malign
    another without verifiable fact and due process publicly? Is this not abuse of office?

    11. We have always mentioned that participation in the AADScheme is free in all of our engagements.

    Dear Cross Riverians and my fellow youths this is pure blackmail and witch-hunt. Before now, did we have this level of awareness of the AADScheme in Cross River State? Since 2018 it was launched it was lying fallow until I made this move for the good of all and how far have we faired in similar schemes thus far in the Ministry of Agriculture and Natural Resources, why this interest all of a sudden when there are
    a thousand other opportunities to be explored in this sector? I have nothing personal to gain from this and I wouldn’t have arrogated powers to myself, my pursuit with speed and drive was born out of a sincere desire to empower our people in line with the Governor’s desire. Let us learn and look beyond the veil this is a fight of destinies and of good and evil, light and darkness. In the end light will prevail
    whether now or in the future.

    Due to our lack of push and interface Cross River State has lost out in many such opportunities because we do not have those to follow up for us and also do the right thing in schemes like this. It is because I wanted success knowing the gains of this scheme to our youths that I have had sleepless nights, made
    countless journeys within and outside the state, pursued and exchanged correspondence and mails with or without support. It is this laid back attitude and internal bickers/tussles that has made us losers in opportunities that will benefit our people.

    Let this be on record that it is this drive that made me facilitate the Targeted Credit Facility for our people across the 18 LGAs and saw me accessing over 250 Million Naira for indigenes and residents of our state. I have their records and details.
    I have communicated with my boss and principal His Excellency, Sen Prof Ben Ayade, the Executive Governor of Cross River State the actions of the Commissioner and our progress recorded thus far and I await his actions and feedback. I have also sent the malicious, defamatory and derogatory publication to
    my lawyers for advice for possible legal actions against Mr Okon.

    Going forward, my team and I are therefore suspending activities for now as it has to do with the Accelerated Agricultural Development Scheme, AADS in Cross River State until further directive from my
    boss the Governor and conflicting interest on the side of the Commissioner of Agriculture is sorted. I want to assure my friends, families and well-wishers that I am okay and will never do anything to drag
    my name, the elevated profile of the Abuo Achong dynasty into any form of disrepute.

    I also thank you for your support, prayers and encouragement.
    To members of our LGA Coordinators on this scheme thank you and keep the structures we have built right to the grassroots level across the 196 wards intact as I will continue to source for other
    opportunities beyond AADS to empower our people as of course this AADS and other opportunity will not pass us by anymore. Know that you were part of executing an intervention program in a manner that it has never been done before; we took it to the grassroots as against the compilation of a few. I want to thank His Excellency, Sen Prof Ben Ayade, the Executive Governor of Cross River State for the confidence reposted on not just me but other youths he has given a voice to make a difference in our state. God bless Cross River State!

    PRINCE MICHAEL NKU ABUO, JP
    DIRECTOR GENERAL, MIGRATION CONTROL SERVICES AGENCY
    12/08/20

  • CR-Northern District: Joe Agi SAN Hereby Appeals To Your Conscience

    CR-Northern District: Joe Agi SAN Hereby Appeals To Your Conscience

    By Admin

    The recent announcement by INEC on the date for the conduct of the senatorial election has inspired progressives across the senatorial district to run for office. It’s incredibly exciting, but also requires a well thought out plan. Launching a campaign is a huge decision and the Joe Agi SAN campaign organization is prepared to ensure our campaign has a strong start indeed a strong foundation.

    Recall that upon the death of our “ beloveth late most distinguished Senator Rose Oko” (may her soul Rest In Peace) we had indicated interest to inspire an endearing and enduring perspective to legislation while pursuing the agenda of attracting development to our district. We had embarked upon consultations and consciously created an awareness about the promises of assured development that Joe Agi SAN can attract to our district. We examined the prospect and indicated the possibility of utilizing such realistic capability to make CR-Northern District great again.

    We concluded that Joe Agi SAN, by all standards, is a valuable asset to the people of the Northern Senatorial District and should so be appreciated. He is a man with enviable track records, ranging from his selflessness towards protecting the vulnerable assets of the state, at a time when others refused to do so; to his unbelievable leadership exploits in his professional career as a lawyer, who rose up to the enviable status of “Senior Advocate of Nigeria”, up to and inclusive of his strides into politics and the pursuit of liberation for our people.

    Joe Agi SAN has shown compassionate leadership and empathetic disposition towards humanity in all that he has done. His desire to grow young lawyers through mentoring is a reflection of an unquestionable generosity of intent to improve this generation. What about the avalanche of scholarships and sponsorship of lawyers, most of whom were unable to pay for their law school? I can go on and on, but the idea before us, that makes us to constantly classify him as the ideal candidate, is the fact that Joe Agi SAN is the next best thing for CRS-Northern District. He possesses an impressive resume particularly on legal jurisprudence and constitutional matters.

    An evaluation of his personality is a reflection of his strength. We know Joe Agi SAN as an influential personage and respected across both aisle within the Nigerian conclave. His capacity is reflected on his legal background. He is a strong lobbyist and a strong negotiator. Joe is an erudite legal luminary who knows the law and the law knows him. The senate is a familiar territory and I must say Joe will be the eye of both APC, Cross River Northern District and indeed Nigeria. I dare to say that, in the current political dispensation, Joe Agi SAN, when elected Senator shall be the only SAN in the red chambers. How else can I explain the difference between him and other senators . He shall be a reference point and indeed a converging platform for law making and interpretation for other people within the Senate. Let’s not allow sentimental judgements detrimental to our growth to mislead us.

    The dice has been cast, the announcement for the election has been made by INEC. This heralds the beginning of intensive campaign ahead. While we shall strategize to boost our capacity to convince you to get inspired to join this victory train, let me state that we know about your excitement, that at last we have a good hand to lead us to the promised land. We know you are going to get involved. The right time is now. Don’t hesitate, don’t salivate, get involved, get serious and move the train with us. We come to you because you have a greater stake in this project. We trust you, know that we desire the best and that’s Joe Agi SAN.

    There’s a brand identity for “Joe Agi SAN”. Reality check has proven that the brand is the ideal one whose time has come. Do you want to be left out? I don’t think so, because we are all in this same page. We need the future that’s assured for our kids. Only Joe Agi SAN is the man with the Midas touch. Join him to make CR-North great. Vote him as the APC Candidate in the ensuing election. Let your conscience lead you.
    Joe Agi Media Team.

  • Ayade Is In A Hurry To Change The Unsung Narrative Of Etung People….DG, BORDERCOMM

    Ayade Is In A Hurry To Change The Unsung Narrative Of Etung People….DG, BORDERCOMM

    By Admin

    The people of Etung LGA of Cross River state have been described as unsung heroes that the administration of Sen. Prof. Ben Ayade is in a hurry to change their narrative and position.

    Director General, Cross River State Border Communities Development Commission {BORDERCOM}, Noel Ugbong who stated this at Effraya, Etung on Wednesday while in Etung on a Baseline Survey/Needs Assessment exercise for border communities of the Local government said that the essence of the survey is to ensure that the LGA and the people are accorded their rightful place, position and recognition.

    Mr. Ugbong explained that the administration of Ayade draws this strength and conclusion from the empirical evident which indicates that the LGA has huge revenue generation capacity from cocoa and commerce across the international border, bearing in mind also that Etung has one of the most peaceful international border in Nigeria.

    The DG of BORDERCOMM revealed that the governor has high regards for the people of Etung and has equally extend his deep appreciation to the people for the support they gave him during his reelection and their continuous support for his administration and development projects and programmes.

    He disclosed that at the inception of taking charge of the leadership of BORDERCOMM, the governor indicated very clearly to them that he is particularly concerned about the people of the state living around the fringes of the state, our external borderlines and that he want to bring succor and economic prosperity to them.

    Mr. Ugbong asserted that it is a known fact that mans history is a history of a people in constant state of flux which often results in positive commerce and social coexistence, while on the negative side, it leads to crises which often also result in loss of lives and property and at some point, annexation of territories, explaining that it is for this reason that Ayade leadership is consciously stamping the states signature across our borderlines.

    The DG asked the Chairman to liaise with the Mfum Community for the acquisition of land for the construction of a modern Skills Acquisition Centre for Women and Youths.

    He explained that this measure is not only to stamp the states signature across the borderlines but to also give our border communities a sense of belonging and to also let them know that they are not at the fringes but at the heart and centre of the state, adding that it is based on this premise and other vital considerations that His Excellency sent them to come and interact with the people taking into cognizant the baseline to assist them calibrate with the sole aim to ensure that the states budget process is not only up-to-date but also captures the interest of the people.

    The DG of BORDERCOM maintained that the needs of the people changes over time as the needs of a particular community in the last 5-10 years are certainly not the same today, and that it is based on this reality that they are in Etung to carry out the first phase of Baseline Survey and Needs Assessment exercise.

    He said that they came with some research instruments ahead of Planning, Research and Statistics tailored towards extracting primary data and that after analyzing the data they will now carry out physical visitation these communities to ascertained and to make sure of their actual needs in order of priority.

    Mr. Ugbong assured that this is not going to be an exercise in futility or a purposeless one but that the governor is committed towards making life bearable for all border communities in Cross River state, while thanking the Chairman, Vice Chairman, the Leader of the Legislative Council, Chiefs and the people of Etung for their cooperation and large turnout.

    In his welcome speech, the Chairman of Etung Local Government Area, Hon. John Nkom, expressed deep appreciation to Governor Ayade for having sincere concern for his people, the border communities in particular and the people of the state in general, and assured that his people will give the BORDERCOMM team a full support to extract the information they need, while calling on the Chiefs of the border communities and their subjects to deliberate and list the projects they need to the BORDERCOMM team.