The Lumine News

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  • Defection Rocks Obanliku APC As Senator Jarigbe Welcomes New Members To The PDP

    Defection Rocks Obanliku APC As Senator Jarigbe Welcomes New Members To The PDP

    In a significant boost to the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Cross River North Senatorial District, a group of prominent stakeholders in Obanliku Local Government Area have formally announced their resignation from the All Progressives Congress (APC) to join the PDP.

    The defectors include Hon. Celestine Abaka, the immediate past chairmanship candidate of the PDP, who had defected to APC some months ago; Mr. Godwin Ashibi, Coordinator for Hon. Peter Akpanke in Bendi 2; Mr. Maurice Ogar, Coordinator in Bishiri South; and Mr. Peter Utase, Special Assistant on Political Affairs to Hon. Akpanke.

    Other notable defectors are Hon. David Iyou, former Leader of Obanliku Legislative Council; Mr. Joseph Ushie, former Chapter Secretary of the PDP; Hon. Paulicap Ugbong, former councilor; and Mr. Ignatius Ekpe, Councillorship candidate. Additionally, Apostle David Kejohu (Bebi Ward), Joseph Ayang (Bisu Ward), and Sly Kejohu have also resigned from the APC.

    During a courtesy visit to Senator Jarigbe Agom’s Abuja residence, Hon. Celestine Abaka, on behalf of the group, declared their support for the Senator due to his proven record of service, accessibility to the people, and visible developmental strides. He cited recent projects and initiatives, including five solar-powered boreholes, 100 students’ bursary beneficiaries, and the newly constructed Busangfong road project, as evidence of Senator Jarigbe’s commitment to the people of Obanliku.

    The group will formally join the PDP in a grand ceremony scheduled to take place in Obanliku, alongside thousands of their loyalists and associates. This event is expected to showcase the growing support for Senator Jarigbe and the PDP in the area.

    Welcoming the defectors, Senator Jarigbe expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support he has received from the people of Obanliku LGA. He assured the new members that they would be fully integrated into the party without discrimination and warned against any form of intimidation. The Senator pledged to deliver more democratic dividends to the Senatorial District.

    The defection ceremony was attended by the Constituency Officer Mr. Egar Mgbantul, Mr. Joseph Agabi, and Pastor John Naku.

    This development is a significant boost to the PDP in Obanliku LGA and demonstrates Senator Jarigbe’s growing influence, popularity and acceptability in Cross River North Senatorial District.

    TEAM JARI MEDIA

  • Otu Hands Over Site For The Construction Of Hostel And ICT Center, Commends Clement Udie 

    By Elijah Ugani 

    The Cross River State Governor, Sen Bassey Otu, has commended Arc Clement Udie for facilitating the construction of Information and Communication Technology ICT Center and a Hostel for the College of Health Sciences Obudu, by the Niger Delta Development Commission NDDC.

    Otu made the commendation during the handing over of ceremony of the site for the construction work on Friday September 5th 2025, at the school premises.

    Represented by the Commissioner for Health, Dr Henry Ayuk, Gov Otu, noted that Arc Clement Udie have proved the essence of public service “I am astonished. I have not heard of this. You have proved to us the essence of public service. You have set a pace and we will follow”.

    Gov Otu used the opportunity and acknowledged the marvelous works of the college provost, Dr Mrs Veronica Undeshi and noted that “The Provost has been nothing short of a performer. She can do a second tenure. And if we want to replace her, we must look for someone who will maintain the tempo she has created”.

    Responding the issue raised by the Obudu Local Government Council Chairman, about Obudu college of Nursing Sciences getting her school bus just like other schools got theirs, Otu noted “Obudu College of Nursing Sciences, will get her bus. By 12th of September, the Ministry of Health will take delivery of Three 18 seater buses and will be distributed to Calabar, Ogoja and Obudu Colleges of Nursing Sciences”.

    He used the opportunity and appealed to the host community not to sell the land allocated for school of Nursing Sciences Obudu.

    On her part, the Provost of the college, Dr Mrs Veronica Undeshi, welcomed guests and noted that the College of Nursing Sciences, Obudu is indeed one of faith, resilience and progress established in March 1980 as initial intake of 65 students for the training of Basic Midwives. Through series of reforms, the school metamorphosed into a college of nursing.

    She noted that “On the 15th of August 2023, by the gracious intervention of the Executive Governor of Cross River State, Sen Bassey Otu, and despite strong opposition from certain quarters, our school was given the rare privilege of transition into a full-fledged College of Nursing Sciences. We got the team from Nursing Council of Nigeria and NBTE, we obtained interim accreditation on the following areas in addition to National Diploma in Nursing. Basic Nursing, Basic Midwifery, Community Midwifery and Post Basic Nursing.

    “Today, I am proud to announce that our students population has risen to 1000. Indeed it has been a difficult journey, but a worthy one”.

    Mrs Undeshi noted that ” the remarkable transformation in the school is the approval by the former Gov Ben Ayade for 100% retention of funds and subsequent sustenance by this administration. The construction of additional classrooms, administrative offices, rehabilitation and extension of buildings at annex, provision of laboratory equipment, classroom furniture, renting of additional hostels, construction of boreholes and employment of casual staff to augment the limited government workforce”.

    She thanked the paramount ruler of Obudu Local Government Area, His Royal Magesty, Utsu Felix Ukudare and Obudu community for the 7.2 hectares of land and that the land is duly surveyed.

    Speaking further she said “Today, we also celebrate the benevolence and influence of one of our Obudu sons, Arc Clement Udie, whose intervention, following the passionate appeal from one Director of Medical Services, Sir Mcfrank Abu (KSM). The Two outstanding projects – an ICT Center and an ultramodern Hotel. These facilities will not only enhance students training but also place us in an advantageous position to secure permanent accreditation from NBTE for our ND program and interim accreditation for HND, which are now the major programs nationwide as Basic Nursing and Midwifery gradually phase out. We appreciate you Arc Clement Udie, History will not forget this massive contribution through you to the college and community”.

    Commenting on the project, the project facilitator and Director of Planning, NDDC Arc Clement Udie, commended the zeal and steadfastness of the provost, the Cross River State government, the community for keeping hope with the training of nurses in Obudu and noted “I’m here to ask of a unity of action and purpose. Those who are going to make this project realizable that all hands must be on desk.
    I require collaboration and support. I’m not here as a representative of NDDC, but I’m here as a stakeholder.

    “I have put over 3 decades in public service and I asked myself what will I tell my people when I retire? I approached my Chairman and made a plea and my Chairman graciously considered my request even when there was no budgetary provision, this project came under emergency provision and I assure you that it will be completed to specification.

    “You have spoken well about the contribution of Girl’s Secondary School Obudu, please just be informed that we also construct a hostel at Girl’s Secondary School Obudu”.

    On his part, the Chairman of Obudu Local Government Area, Hon Peter Akonfe Undiandeye, commended the provost for the good work from when she took over, and noted that “Everything about the college has changed. The passion she has to see that the college progresses to the height it deserves is top-notch”.

    Commended the governor, the commissioner and all those in the health sector for the support to improve the facility.

    Thank all leaders of Obudu particularly the Chiefs, for the land donated willfully so that the school meets accreditation requirements.

    Undiandeye thanked Arch Clement Udie for facilitating an ICT hub and hotel in the college from the NDDC.

    SA Nursing, Koko Bassey, commended the community for handing over land for development. The project will not only provide the training for the students but will also enhance their employability. He commended the provost and council members for the development in this college.

    Mr Udie Mike used the opportunity to encourage Obudu community to ask their sons who have the opportunity to hold government positions to account for their stewardship as they prepare for the next election circle.

    Highlight of the event was the handing over of the construction site, commissioning of projects undertaken by the provost: The construction of additional classrooms, administrative offices and conference room.

  • Jarigbe Hands Over Completed Solar-Powered Borehole to Ikaptang Community

     

    The Senator representing Cross River North Senatorial District, Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, has fulfilled his promise to the Ikaptang community in Ogoja by handing over a newly constructed solar-powered borehole to them.

    Jarigbe had previously called on communities lacking access to clean and affordable water to register their complaints with the constituency office. In response, the Ikaptang community reached out, and within just a few months, they now have access to good drinking water.

    At the handing over ceremony, Senator Jarigbe, represented by Constituency Officer Mr. Egar Mgbantul , emphasized that he does not make empty promises. Egar noted that the Ikaptang community had requested a road, which the Senator constructed, and now, they have also been provided with clean water alongside other infrastructures and empower initiatives. This, he said, is why the Senator is trusted and effective in representing them at the National Assembly.

    Clan head of Ikaptang community, Chief Charles Igogo, in appreciation, described Senator Jarigbe as a symbol of trust and reliability, noting that the Senator’s words are taken to heart by his constituents. He prayed that God would continue to grant the Senator success and the ability to keep serving the community. Elder Itakpo Alada, a resident of Ikaptang, also expressed gratitude to the Senator for alleviating the water burden faced by the community and pledged the community’s unwavering support.

    This gesture underscores the Senator’s commitment to providing essential amenities to his constituents.

    TEAM JARI MEDIA

  • Offiono Performs Groundbreaking For Police Post At Okuku &  Quarters At Okpoma

     

    The Member representing Ogoja/Yala Federal Constituency, Hon. Godwin Offiono, who doubles as the deputy Chairman, House committee on Police Institutions, yesterday performed groundbreaking ceremonies for the construction of a permanent Police Post at Okuku and additional structure at the ongoing Yala divisional Police Headquarters project at Okpoma,Yala LGA.

    The projects are part of his efforts to strengthen security within Yala Local Government Area.The Police Post at Okuku will be situated inside University of Cross River State (UNICROSS), Okuku Campus, as part of his intervention project to arrest security challenges within the varsity, Okuku community and surrounding communities. As a man of peace and order, the lawmaker prioritizes security.

    He charged residents of the LGA to protect and guard the assets jealousy upon completion.

    Royal fathers, Dr Raphael Oko, Comr. Brown Odey, Alhaji Hussaini, and other illustrious sons of Okpoma, took turns to speak at the event, thanked the lawmaker for the laudable project in their community alongside his school and water projects within Okpoma. They urged the youths to continue guarding the security infrastructure and other government assets in the community.

    At the groundbreaking event at Okuku, the Dean of UNICROSS Faculty of Basic medical science and Head of Okuku campus, Dr Ujong Peter, who represented the Vice Chancellor of UNICROSS, thanked the lawmaker for siting the project in the school premises and his quality representation.

    Dignitaries at the event include; Area Commander Ogoja, OC Works Cross River State Command, Acting DPO Yala Division, OC Okuku police station, Prince Akwaji Offiono, Chief Ogbuole Agi, Dean of UNICROSS Okuku Campus, Chief Austin Edibe, Hon Emmanuel Odidi, High Chief John Alaga and others.

    GOFFIO MEDIA

  • Balance, Fairness Key To APC’s Renewed Push in C’River North BY INYALI PETER

     

    The Deputy Governor of Cross River State, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, Ph.D. has taken some commendable steps to strengthen the All Progressives Congress, APC in Cross River North, acting on behalf of Governor Bassey Otu. His efforts are the vital spark the party has needed, as I noted in a recent article. Odey’s work is breathing new life into the APC’s presence in the senatorial district.

    He has once again shown why he’s the party’s most valuable asset in the senatorial district, not merely through the prestige of his office but through his conduct and commitment. While some leaders in the North dismiss others as less important, he’s always the first to reach out to aggrieved members and sustains his engagement, regardless the person’s status to keep them in the fold. When a prominent APC member recently defected to the PDP, Odey went to great lengths, even contacting the smallest intermediaries, to persuade him to stay. Even though it could not the change the politician’s mind but his commitment was undeniable, but he cannot do things alone.

    The government and the leaders of the APC in the North need to bring some balance to political offices and development sharing equation to help him maintain the momentum. Currently, the imbalance in the projects and political office patronage among the local governments in the North is one of the issues that if not urgently addressed may explode and undermine the gains of all his efforts. Cross River North comprises five local government areas, LGAs. Even though political appointments and projects have never been evenly distributed, with larger and stronger LGAs getting more, the gap has never been as wide as it’s been in the last ten years.

    The administration of former Governor Ben Ayade widened this gap greatly. When voices like mine called for fairness, we were blacklisted rather than heeded. During Ayade’s tenure, I advocated for fair representation across the LGAs, particularly during the APC state congress, arguing that Ogoja which the government had just tried to deny the Senate seat should not be left empty. I feared that, if APC fail to patronize Ogoja, it I’ll become a fertile ground for the opposition to feast on. My agitation was not out of disdain for Yala or doubt in its candidates but a conscious and strategic thought to prevent Ogoja from becoming an opposition stronghold. Mischief makers twisted my stance, but my warnings proved prescient.

    Ignored, Ogoja became the opposition’s hub in the North. This marginalization became evident when Ayade sought a Senate seat. When people tried to fight the nomination of Odey as the Deputy governorship candidate, Ayade rightly questioned what he could campaign on in Ogoja without it. My earlier position, which caused me trouble in some quarters, was vindicated during the governorship elections, where APC performed strongly in Ogoja, largely due to the decision to pick a running mate from there. For the Senate, it was too late because the people had made up their minds against Ayade and asked why they should go for one when they can actually have the two.

    Like a stubborn child who never learns, the APC seems to be repeating same mistakes. Since assuming office on the 29th of May, 2023, key appointments from the North have disproportionately favoured Yala. For instance, Yala holds three commissioners, while some LGAs have only one. The LGA has the highest number of federal and state appointments. The two last federal commissioners and the only ones to have come from the North went to the LGA. Even the focus on projects mirrors this imbalance.

    This opinion is not a call to strip Yala of its gains, as political patronage is fought for, not given. It is a plea for deliberate inclusivity across all LGAs. To achieve this, the party needs the support of Yala’s leaders, who must act as their brothers keepers, as Galatians 6:2 urges, “Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.” In politics, it’s tempting to echo Cain’s defiance in Genesis 4:9, “Am I my brother’s keeper?” Yet, for the party’s unity and progress, Yala’s leaders should embody the love described in 1 John 4:20-21, which teaches that one cannot claim to love God without loving their brothers.

    Take Bekwerra, for example. Despite most of its political heavyweights aligning with APC, the opposition consistently wins elections there. The reason is simple; APC has not given Bekwerra’s leaders enough to campaign with. The same applies to Utukalu, the lesser served half of Obudu, which has two political blocs. While one bloc enjoys fair representation, Utukalu is left wanting.

    The people of Cross River North are more politically aware than ever and are embracing a “support who supports you” mentality. If elections were held today, Bekwerra and Utukalu would be the battlegrounds. While APC and PDP could perform well in Yala, Ogoja, Obanliku, and Obudu’s Bette bloc, the opposition retains a firm grip in Bekwerra and Utukalu; not out of loyalty to the opposition but because APC has not provided compelling reasons to win their support.

    Therefore, as the Deputy Governor continues his mission to endear APC to the North, the APC government should pay attention to Bekwerra and Utukalu. Without deliberate efforts to ensure government presence is felt in these areas, the party’s recent gains may be undone, like water poured into a leaky basket. Fairness in appointments and projects across all LGAs is not just a necessity but key to sustaining the party in the North.

    Inyali Peter, Ph.D.

     

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

  • Governor Otu’s Administration’ll Continue to Prioritize the People’s Welfare, Odey Assures

     

    …as Obudu Council Chairman lauds Gov. Otu for progress on Obudu Airport.

    The Deputy Governor of Cross River State, Rt. Hon Peter Odey, has assured citizens that the administration of Governor Bassey Otu remains fully committed to placing the welfare of the people at the heart of governance in line with the ‘People First’ mantra

    Odey gave this assurance during a stakeholders’ engagement session in Obudu Local Government Area on Sunday, as part of his ongoing Northern Senatorial District tour. He emphasized that every policy, project, and program under the Otu-led administration is designed to uplift lives across both urban centers and the most rural communities in the state.

    He emphasized that despite economic challenges and inadequate allocations due to the state’s exclusion from the 13% derivation benefits as a littoral state, the government has consistently ensured the progression of the Obudu Cargo and Passenger Airport project. Additionally, investments in healthcare, education, infrastructure, efforts to enhance agricultural productivity, support for local economies, and ongoing rehabilitation of rural roads under the RAMP initiative have been prioritized, with Cross River State fulfilling its obligations by providing the counterpart funding.

    Addressing concerns raised by stakeholders, including women, youth, and traditional rulers regarding road infrastructure, youth unemployment, and border security, Odey assured the populace, particularly in the Northern Senatorial district, that Governor Otu’s administration will remain accountable and responsive to their concerns. The administration will continue to engage with relevant authorities and partners to improve the socioeconomic status of its people.

    He commended the Obudu community for their pivotal role in supporting the current administration and encouraged them to maintain their support for a government that has their best interests at heart now and in the future.

    Earlier in his remarks, the Executive Chairman of the Obudu Local Government Area, Hon. (Amb.) Peter Akonfe Undiandeye, KSM, praised Governor Otu for the significant progress made at the Obudu Cargo and Passenger Airport, the government’s efforts in resolving long-standing boundary disputes with neighboring Benue State and other areas, and other infrastructural projects undertaken by the Governor Otu-led administration.

    He commended Rt. Hon. Peter Odey for initiating the senatorial tour, which coincides with the New Yam Festival celebrated across the LGAs in the North, highlighting several pressing concerns about the poor state of the Bekwarra-Obudu, Utugwang-Mbube East Road, rising youth unemployment, and persistent insecurity stemming from unresolved boundary disputes between Obudu and Vandeikya in Benue State

    In separate remarks, Member representing Obanliku/Bekwarra/Obudu in the House of Representatives, Hon. Peter Akpanke, Deputy Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Hon. Sylvester Agabi, Chairman of Utukalu, PJ Ekunke, Community Leader Chief Dr. Tony Undiandeye, the Paramount Ruler of Obudu, as well as Women and youth representatives among others, expressed satisfaction with the inclusive and people-oriented leadership style of Governor Otu.

    Furthermore, they also praised Rt. Hon. Peter Odey for his hands-on approach to governance and for bringing the government closer to the grassroots through the ongoing senatorial tour. They described engagement as a strategic and inclusive model that fosters direct communication between the government and the people.

    The high point of the event was the donation of N30 million by the Deputy Governor, part of which was in support of the upcoming New Yam Festival scheduled for September 6, and a portion designated for women farmers to acquire agricultural inputs and boost local food production.

    Deputy Governor’s Press Unit,
    Government House, Calabar.

  • 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.