The Lumine News

Author: News

  • Witnesses of the Resurrection: A Sermon by Rev Fr Emmanuel Ebong

    Witnesses of the Resurrection: A Sermon by Rev Fr Emmanuel Ebong

     

    I am grateful to God for making me a witness of the Resurrection. I don’t know about you. Dear friends in Christ, Saint Peter preached about the crucified Christ. Everywhere he went, he did good, and even today, Christ continues to do good through His Church.

    Dear friends, Jesus was killed because of His goodness. Yet, He rose from the dead. When Pontius Pilate asked what crime He had committed, they answered that He called Himself the Christ. He was crucified for doing good and for being a good man. Yet He was crucified, died, and after three days, He rose again.

    From the Gospel, the first witness of the resurrection was Mary Magdalene, who went and told the apostles. The disciples ran to the tomb. But Peter went inside; he saw and believed.

    We also remember Thomas the Apostle, who doubted. When Jesus showed him His wounds, he declared, “My Lord and my God.” And Jesus said, “Blessed are those who have not seen and yet believe.”

    Even before His Passion, when Jesus asked His disciples, “Who do people say that I am?” Peter responded, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” And Jesus blessed him, saying, “Upon this rock I will build my Church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.” That is why Peter is regarded as the first Pope, and all Popes succeed him.

    Dear friends in Christ, as we prepare to celebrate Easter, we are among the most fortunate people, we are witnesses of the resurrection. Though we did not see Him physically, we are even more blessed than Thomas because we believe. We are called to be living witnesses of the risen Christ. The empty tomb is a sign, it confirms that Christ is risen. But our lives must also confirm it.

    Our lifestyle has great influence, in our workplaces, in our homes, and in our daily encounters. Our lives must reflect the risen Christ in all that we do. People should see Christ living in us. The Holy Mother Church challenges us today: Are we ready to keep our Lenten promises? Are we ready to embrace a new life? After forty days of fasting and prayer, do we truly want to change, or remain the same?

    In a world threatened by apathy and evil, can we bear true witness to the Resurrection? The truth is, we can no longer live for ourselves. As Paul the Apostle wrote to the Colossians, we must seek the things that are above. We must live in such a way that those who do not know Christ may come to believe in Him through us, that He is truly risen.

    Let us pray for renewal, that our lives may give powerful and convincing testimony to the resurrection. May the peace, joy, and love of the risen Christ fill your hearts. May His light shine upon you wherever you go.
    Peace be with you. Amen

  • Rise And Shine, Jesus Is Alive: Being Easter Sunday Sermon by Rev Fr Felix Ekpe

    Rise And Shine, Jesus Is Alive: Being Easter Sunday Sermon by Rev Fr Felix Ekpe

     

    My dear friends, death is a great teacher, yet many of its students are either too afraid or too distracted to pay attention in its classroom.

    I once attended a funeral. Almost everyone looked frightened. People were eager for the burial to end; they could not wait for the grave to be covered. But after the burial, at the reception, everything changed people were eating, laughing, and celebrating as though nothing had happened. Then I asked myself: Is this how I will be forgotten when I die?

    That day, death taught me a powerful lesson, when we die, life goes on. People mourn, yes but often, they mourn not just the loss, but what they themselves have lost. For example, when parents die, some children cry not only because they loved them, but because they have lost their defenders and supporters.

    In today’s Gospel, even Saint Peter, a close companion of Jesus, denied Him three times. Lent is over, no more fasting, no more intense prayers. Many have already moved on. But not Mary Magdalene. She refused to move on like the others. She could not even sleep. Early in the morning, she went to the tomb in furtherance of the love she had for Jesus. What motivated her? What made her love Jesus so deeply? How Do We Love Jesus Like Mary Magdalene?

    First, we must truly believe that Jesus has risen from the dead. Anyone who does not believe in the Resurrection is simply wasting time in church. Many of us claim to believe, yet we still act as though everything is impossible. But with Jesus, what seems impossible becomes possible. No matter your situation, there is always a turning point.

    If we truly believe in the Resurrection, we should be filled with joy, not fear. Why are we still afraid? We stand before the One who conquered death and there is no need for us to be doubtful about the supremacy of Jesus in handling our situations.

    As the Psalmist says: “I shall not die, but live, and recount the goodness of the Lord.” Today is not a day for long speeches, it is a day for joy, dancing, and celebration. What began in sorrow has ended in victory.

    But what does it truly mean to rise with Christ? Some people mistakenly think that Jesus died to give us a license to sin. No! He took on our flesh so that we might understand how to live rightly. We must rise from evil and shine as the salt of the earth. Jesus taught that evil comes from within. Therefore, we must lift our thoughts from the grave of sin.

    As Scripture says in Colossians 3:2 “Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.” Anyone who refuses to change their thinking has not truly risen with Christ. Living as Witnesses of the Resurrection.

    In today’s first reading, Saint Peter reminds us that we are witnesses to the Resurrection. But if we refuse to change our ways, we are no different from Peter who denied Jesus or Judas who betrayed Him.

    To make our belief real: Prioritize Jesus Christ over wealth. Do not “sell” Jesus for worldly gain, like the thirty pieces of silver. Avoid dishonesty and manipulation. Do not build your faith only on signs and wonders
    Choose righteousness over convenience

    May the God who conquered death on this glorious day dwell in us. May we, as witnesses of the Resurrection, find true peace in Christ our Lord.
    Amen.

    Compiled By Elijah Ugani

  • From Darkness To Light Being Easter vigil Sermon delivered by Rev Fr Felix Ovai Ekpe

    From Darkness To Light Being Easter vigil Sermon delivered by Rev Fr Felix Ovai Ekpe

     

    My dear brothers and sisters in Christ, Today is a very unique and sacred day. The day between Good Friday and Easter Sunday. A day of silence, a day of waiting, a day that carries both the weight of sorrow and the promise of joy.

    We began the Lenten season in a solemn mood through fasting, prayer, and almsgiving. It was a season that demanded sacrifice, discipline, and reflection. But tonight, everything changes. Tonight, we move from sorrow to joy because Christ is risen. At the beginning of this Vigil, we gathered in darkness. And then, a flame was lit. That flame is not just ordinary fire, it represents Christ, the Light of the world. A light that no darkness can overcome.

    As that light spread from one candle to another across the church, it became a powerful reminder: that even the smallest light can overcome great darkness. In our world today, there is darkness, in our leadership, in our communities, in our homes, and sometimes even within our hearts. But the message of tonight is clear: The fire of Easter must not be extinguished.
    That light must continue to burn in our lives, in our families, in our businesses, and in everything we do.

    The Easter candle itself speaks to us: The Flame (Light) Symbolizes Christ as the Light of the World. It represents hope, victory over darkness, and the Resurrection. As the light spreads through the church, it shows how Christ’s light spreads to all believers.

    The Cross on the Candle, represents the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. A reminder that through His death comes our salvation
    The Five Grains of Incense inserted into the candle in the form of a cross represent the five wounds of Christ (hands, feet, and side), which also symbolize His suffering and love for humanity.
    The Alpha and Omega. First and last letters of the Greek alphabet mean that Christ is the beginning and the end of all things.
    The Year Inscribed on the Candle
    Shows that Christ is present today, not just in the past.
    The Wax of the Candle represents the body of Christ as it melts, it symbolizes Christ giving Himself for us.

    Dear friends, no matter what situation you are facing, God always makes a way. We are reminded of the children of Israel at the Red Sea. They were trapped, fearful, confused, and uncertain. Before them was the sea, behind them was danger, but God showed up. Through Moses, He made a way where there was no way. The sea parted, and His people walked through on dry ground.

    If God has done it before, He will do it again. Sometimes in life, things may seem confusing. Sometimes the people around us may not understand us. Sometimes even those who laugh with us may secretly wish for our downfall. But tonight is not a night of fear. It is a night of victory.

    The Scripture tells us: “The stone that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone.” What was rejected has now become essential. What looked like defeat has become victory. So today, we rise with confidence and declare: I shall not die, but live, and proclaim the goodness of the Lord. And you too will live to recount His goodness in your life.

    Tonight, we bless water reminding us of our baptism. We are reminded that just as Christ died, we die to sin. And just as He rose again, we rise to new life. This is not just a ritual it is our identity. The bells ring again. The Alleluia returns.

    For a long time during Lent, we kept silent. But now, the Church bursts into joy: Alleluia! Christ is risen! The women went to the tomb looking for Jesus… But they were told: “He is not here. He is risen.”

    My brothers and sisters, this is the foundation of our faith. The Resurrection is the reason we are here. Without it, there is no Christianity. But because He lives, we have hope. Because He lives, we have victory. Because He lives, we have life.

    As we celebrate this Easter Vigil, let us carry the light of Christ wherever we go. Let us be bearers of truth in a world of falsehood. Let us be light in places of darkness. Let us be hope where there is despair. We are not people of defeat. We are an Alleluia people, people of joy, people of victory, people of the new covenant.

    May the light of Christ shine in your life. May every darkness around you be overcome. May God make a way for you where there seems to be no way.

    And may you win all your battles. In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.
    Amen.

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

  • I Implore All Of Us, Aspirants, To Listen To The Voices Of Our People And Not Live In Denial Of The Obvious. Are The People We Seek To Serve, Willing To vote For Us Or Not? Vox Populi, Vox Dei – Jarigbe Agom

    I Implore All Of Us, Aspirants, To Listen To The Voices Of Our People And Not Live In Denial Of The Obvious. Are The People We Seek To Serve, Willing To vote For Us Or Not? Vox Populi, Vox Dei – Jarigbe Agom

    The senator representing Cross River Northern Senatorial District, Sen Jarigbe Agom, has called on all aspirants for the senate ticket to listen to the voices of electorates and not to live in denial of the obvious truth. He asked the to introspect and see if the people the seek to represent will vote for them as the voice of the people is the voice of God.

    The senator who took to his verified Facebook page, Sen Jarigbe Agom, called on all his supporters to desit from using abusive language to describe or refer to his opponents, former Governor Ben Ayade and Hon Legor Idagbo. He insisted that his campaign will be defined by ideas, not insults.

    Fine full text of his press release:

    “A Piece of My Thoughts.

    “My dear good people of Cross River North,

    “As we embark on this re-election journey, I thank you deeply for your unwavering support, but today, I must speak plainly to you about the path we must take.

    “I am aware that emotions run high. Our opponents, including my brother, former Governor, Senator Ben Ayade, are formidable. I charge you: do not use uncouth words against any aspirant. No insult, no personal attack, no abusive language. We are better than that. Our campaign will be defined by ideas, not insults.

    “Furthermore, I demand that you respect the Seat of Governor, whether serving or former, regardless of who occupies it. Whether you believe the former Governor performed or underperformed, that office commands our collective dignity. No man is infallible. We all have strengths and weaknesses. Let us critique records, not abuse persons.

    “Let us pursue a healthy contest and one that reflects our proper upbringing as sons and daughters of Cross River. Remember: life’s struggles, its cravings, its ambitions, they all amount to vanity at the end. What endures is character, community, and how we treated one another along the way.

    “I only implore all of us, aspirants, to listen to the voices of our people and not live in denial of the obvious. Are the people we seek to serve, willing to vote for us or not? Vox populi, vox Dei.

    “Finally, we remain one united APC family. Even as we further our divergent interests within this primary, we must never forget that after the votes are counted, we will still need each other. No ambition is worth destroying the conviviality we have shared amongst one another.

    “Campaign with passion, but campaign with honour.

    “Thank you, and God bless Cross River North and the entire Cross River State.

    Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe
    Cross River North Senatorial District”.

  • Offiong Charges Graduands To Be Good Ambassadors As UNICAL Inducts 336 Into Nigerian Institute of Science Laboratory Technology

    Offiong Charges Graduands To Be Good Ambassadors As UNICAL Inducts 336 Into Nigerian Institute of Science Laboratory Technology

    By Elijah Ugani 

    The Vice Chancellor of the University of Calabar, Prof Offiong E Offiong, has charged the newly inducted graduates of Science Laboratory Technology to be good ambassadors of the institution as they go into the wider society.

    The VC gave the charge during the second edition induction/oath taking ceremony of 336 graduands by the Nigerian Institute of Science Laboratory Technology, held at the senate Chambers of the university, today March 31st 2026.

    In his words “Let me remind you that you are the ambassadors of this institution. Whatever fruits you yield out there, must be that of reputation. Often, we are asked to give recommendations about our graduates. Please be of conduct wherever you are. Let not the certificate make you feel that you have arrived.

    “Put yourself very much prepare to confront the challenges on the global market. Many of you are looking outside the country. I know some of those who read Laboratory Science studying outside the country.

    “Today the world is confronted with challenges of artificial intelligence. Do not wait to be carried by the challenges. Be at the forefront. This represents another form of knowledge that ensures the fast dynamics of knowledge.

    “We remain your partners even as you start this new beginning. It is symbolic that this is happening just a year after the first edition. We will work with the Institute to ensure that it will be a yearly event and it will show stability on our part and that of the institute.

    “For me today is a new beginning for all of you. A new responsibility. You have a task at hand to prove yourself. The certificate only give you the entrance into the labour market”.

    Prof Offiong reminded the enthusiastic inductees that they are to proof themselves in the society when he said “You are to prove yourself in the society. You are not likely to find that your friend you normally sit together during exams. You will not find that lecturer that use to assist you. In the labour market, you are on your own. You are supposed to take stock of your life. You are the only one who knows your life and the extra skill you need to acquire. You are the only one who knows where you need to prepare for the labour market, and I charge you to prepare and meet that opportunity.

    “We remain your partners even as you start this new beginning. Congratulations and God bless you all”.

    On his part, the Dean, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Prof Chris Ndome, congratulated the inductees and noted that there is significant progress as the maiden edition of the induction/oath last year recorded 210 persons while this second edition has 336 inductees.

    He stated that Science Laboratory Technology has consistently demonstrated innovations and is commited to the growth of the university. He acknowledged staff whose expertise has brought the students this far. “Today we celebrate not only the academic achievements of our students, but the gains of their contributions to the betterment of the society”. Said he.

    Ndome admonished the inductees to be guided by the principle of humanity “As you take the oath, may you be guided by the principle of service to humanity. Don’t fail to collaborate with your peers. Let us embrace this occasion and look forward to the impact the inductees will make in the larger society”. He added.

    The Head of Department, Dr Ivon Ettah, noted that “This induction ceremony symbolises the formal transition of our students from academic training into the noble and highly demanding profession of Science Laboratory Technology.

    “Over the years, our department has remained committed to excellence in teaching, research and practical training. We have consistently produced graduates who are not only academically sound but also professionally competent, ethically grounded, and globally competitive. The class of 2024 has upheld this tradition with distinction”.

    The HOD urged the inductees to uphold the highest standards of integrity, passion and responsibility. “Remember that as Science Laboratory Technologists, you are custodians of scientific accuracy and key contributors to advancement in healthcare, environmental sustainability, industrial development and research innovation. Let me also acknowledge our dedicated staff whose tireless efforts have shaped these graduates.

    “To our esteemed professional and regulatory body, the NISLT, we deeply value your collaboration and guidance in ensuring that our curriculum meets national and global standards. Graduands, as you step out, continue to learn, innovate and contribute meaningfully to society. The future of science and laboratory rests in capable hands such as yours.

    “On behalf of the department of Science Laboratory Technology, Faculty, and the University Management, I congratulate you all and wish you a fulfilling and impactful professional journey”.

    Also speaking, the Deputy Vice Chancellor Academics, Prof Ekaette Enang, congratulated the inductees and held that “This is a stepping stone into your professional journey that demands the  highest level of integrity, responsibility and service to humanity. Today, demand is placed on you that as you go out there, you must continue to learn to enable you meet up the demands out there. The world is fast growing technologically, so you have to keep learning. The university has done it part to provide you with the enablement to get your B.Sc., you are expected to be good ambassadors of the university of Calabar. Please keep the flag flying”.

    Commending the department, Prof Enang noted that “I want to commend the department for this second induction in a row. I want to thank all formators, all teaching and non teaching staff that contribute to this day. We celebrate all parents who have provided for this momentous occasion”.

    Administering the Oath of allegiance on the inductees, the Acting Director General/Registrar/CEO, Nigerian Institute of Science Laboratory Technology, Prof Peter Adefisoye Oluwafisoye, represented by the Deputy Director, Technology, Dr Adebola Odeseye congratulated the inductees and posited that “Science Laboratory forms a pathway for scientific growth and development. No nation can develop without scientific exposition”.

    He informed the inductees that “You are called to play a role in the development of this country. The role of SLT in technological development, cannot be overemphasized. In Quality assurance. You are expected to ensure that quality is maintained. In Innovation. Your role is to transform theoretical research into practical set. Others include: Environmental protection and policy formulation. Treatment and prevention. You must continue to upgrade your skills in line with global practices through data analysis. The future belongs to you who are technically driven.

    “You must uphold integrity, confidentiality in your data. Respect institutional guidance. Errors or negligence can cause a lot of problems in the society. Nigeria is counting on you. Today’s ceremony is not an end. It is the beginning of your journey into making Nigeria great.

    He listed some core areas of professionalism to include: Integrity, Confidential, Transparent Accountability, Competency limitations, Seek professional advice, Be objective at all times, Respect the dignity of man, Set good examples, Dress well.

    In a goodwill message, the Cross River State Commissioner for Science and Technology, Dr Justin Beshel, who was a lecturer in the department, noted that “We are here to celebrate our children who have done well. What started like a play today is mighty. Thank God that am the commissioner for Science and Technology, whatever innovation you have, bring it. I will connect you to the global world and we will strengthen the collaboration”.

    Highlights of the induction was the administering of oath of allegiance, presentation of licence to the VC by NISLT for onward forwarding to the HOD, presentation of awards of service to the Vice of Chancellor, Prof Offiong E Offiong, Deputy Vice Chancellor Academics, Prof Ekaette Enang, the Acting Director General, NISLT, Prof Peter Adefisoye Oluwafisoye, the keynote speaker, Prof Ani Nkang, best graduating student, Ms Constance Obasi, among others.

     

  • Dr Godwin Agbor Greets OBO Constituents on Palm Sunday

    Dr Godwin Agbor Greets OBO Constituents on Palm Sunday

     

    Frontline aspirant for the Obudu/Bekwarra/Obanliku Federal Constituency, Dr. Godwin Agbor, has extended heartfelt Palm Sunday greetings to constituents across the constituency.

    He described the triumphant entry of Jesus Christ into Jerusalem as a powerful symbol of peace, humility, and hope, values that remain essential in building a united and progressive society. As a Knight of the Roman Catholic Church, he noted that the season ushers in Holy Week, a time for deep reflection and renewed commitment to faith and humanity.

    Dr. Agbor called on the people to put aside differences, promote harmony, and draw inspiration from the sacrifice and resurrection of Christ as a pathway to collective renewal and progress.

  • Dr Godwin Agbor Congratulates APC Elected National Executive Committee

    Dr Godwin Agbor Congratulates APC Elected National Executive Committee

    A front line aspirant for the Bekwarra/Obudu/Obanliku federal constituency, Dr Godwin Agbor has congratulated the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, Prof Yilwatda Nentawe and members of his executive committee, especially Engr Ben Akak, who emerged as the Deputy National Treasurer from Cross River State.

    Dr Agbor used the opportunity to commend President Bola Tinubu, Vice President Alhaji Kasima Shettima, National Assembly members led by Senate President, His Excellency Obot Godswill Akpabio, the Governor of Cross River State Prince Bassey Otu, the convention planning committee and all the delegates for a peaceful “Renewed Hope” 2026 APC National Convention.

    Team Omega Media

  • Martin Orim Visits APC Chapter, Ward Chairmen In OBO Constituency, Charges Them on Service

    Martin Orim Visits APC Chapter, Ward Chairmen In OBO Constituency, Charges Them on Service

     

    The Chairman of the GFO Orim Foundation, Hon. Chief Dr. Martin Orim, has paid a congratulatory visit to the Chapter Chairmen of Obanliku, Mr. Thomas Ashibi, Bekwara, Comrade Thomas Odama, and Obudu, Comrade Joseph Odama, alongside their respective Vice Chairmen, Secretaries, Ward Chairmen, and Ward Secretaries of the All Progressives Congress.

    Speaking during the visit, Hon. Martin Orim said he came to officially congratulate them on their emergence following the successful conduct of the party’s ward and chapter congresses.

    He urged the newly elected party leaders to see their offices as positions of service and responsibility, noting that they hold in trust the confidence of those who elected them. Drawing from his own political journey, Hon. Orim stated that he began politics from the grassroots as a Ward Chairman, and encouraged them to serve diligently, with the reminder that faithful service at that level can open the door to greater opportunities.

    The chapter chairmen, in their separate remarks, expressed appreciation to Hon. Orim for the visit, describing it as a strong source of encouragement and motivation for effective leadership within the party.

    They also used the opportunity to sympathize with him over the passing of his sister, Lady Josephine Ukpong, and wished him strength as he prepares to begin official political consultations in the coming weeks.

    CMO Media

  • JariBurs Alerts Of 100k To 100 Students, 10 Per Ward In Obudu Dropping Already

    JariBurs Alerts Of 100k To 100 Students, 10 Per Ward In Obudu Dropping Already

    Alerts of 100k to 100 students, 10 per ward in Obudu have begun dropping.

    The initiative codenamed “JariBurs” is an ongoing efforts by Sen Jarigbe Agom to provide support to students of tertiary institutions in Cross River Northern Senatorial District.

    The first phase had 500 hundred students drawn from the Five Local Governments that made up Northern Senatorial District and were given #100,000.00 One Hundred Thousand Naira only, totaling #50,000,000.00 Fifty Million Naira only.

    The second phase has commenced and students of Obudu Local Government Area have started receiving alerts.

    The second phase also has #50,000,000.00 Fifty Million Naira to be disbursed to students.

    A release made available to Theluminenews by Mr Jonathan Ugbal, indicates that Obanliku students will get their alerts later today.

  • Jarigbe Consults Obudu APC Stakeholders, Says People of Obudu Are Not Ethnic Jingoists

    Jarigbe Consults Obudu APC Stakeholders, Says People of Obudu Are Not Ethnic Jingoists

     

    As part of his ongoing consultations with stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) across the Cross River North Senatorial District, Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe yesterday met with members of the Obudu Traditional Rulers Council and the leadership of the party in Obudu Local Government Area.

    During the meeting, the Senator emphasized that the people of Obudu are not driven by ethnic bias. He noted that this was evident in the last election, where he secured victory in five wards despite contesting against an indigene of the area. He further described himself as a proud affiliate of Obudu, having received his early education at St. Charles Primary School and built longstanding relationships with many families due to his upbringing in the area.

    Senator Jarigbe also recalled his role in advocating for a governorship shift to the Northern part of the state, which eventually produced a governor from Obudu. He stressed that, his support among others culminated to the emergence of the highest-ranking political figure from the area at the time and re-election of the Obudu-born governor.

    Appealing for continued support, the Senator urged stakeholders to back his bid for re-election in 2027, not merely on the basis of regional affiliation, but in recognition of his performance and commitment to delivering greater development and improved living standards for the people.

    In their separate remarks, the Paramount Ruler, the Local Government Chairman, and the APC Chapter Chairman commended the Senator for his impactful representation and notable developmental projects across the senatorial district. They highlighted initiatives such as the Amukwong Bridge in Alege/Ubang, Igwo Road, Betukwel Road, and various town hall projects, all aimed at enhancing the welfare of the people. They also pledged their continued support for the Senator to ensure sustained growth and stability in the area.

    Senator Jarigbe was accompanied by stakeholders across the Senatorial District including, the Local Government Chairman, Hon. Chris Agbe, Chief Timmy Tom, Rt. Hon. Peter Igbodor, Hon. Gabriel Edi, Chief Igbe Aruku, Chief Wabily Nyiam, Dr. Dornclaimz Enamhe, Barr. Mike Upan Aniah, Hon. Paddy Uguge, Hon. Martins Orim, Chief Austin Edibe, Hon. Rita Ayim, Rt. Hon. Regina Anyogo, Hon. Cynthia Nkasi, Hon. Thomas Agi, Hon. Pius Ashakia, Princess Otanya, Hon. Gabriel Bravoo Oluohu and many others.

    TEAM JARI MEDIA