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  • Jarigbe Emerges Consensus Candidate for Cross River North APC

    Jarigbe Emerges Consensus Candidate for Cross River North APC

     

    The Senator representing Cross River North Senatorial District, Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, has emerged as the consensus candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for the 2027 senatorial election in the district following extensive consultations among party stakeholders and aspirants in Bekwarra Local Government Area.

    The decision was reached during a stakeholders’ meeting held at the residence of the Ada Bekwarra II, Hon. Signor Omang Idiege, in Gakem. At the meeting, three senatorial aspirants; Prof. Ochugudu Ipuele, Dr. John Onyi, and Barr. Cecilia Adams officially withdrew from the race and declared their support for Senator Jarigbe Agom ahead of the APC senatorial primary scheduled for Monday, May 18, 2026.

    In their separate remarks, the aspirants described the consensus arrangement as a demonstration of unity, maturity, and commitment to the progress of the party and the development of Cross River North Senatorial District.

    While Prof. Ochugudu Ipuele and Barr. Cecilia Adams personally communicated their decisions to the gathering, Dr. John Onyi, who was absent due to ill health, was represented by Prince Abel Adinya. They unanimously endorsed the reelection bid of Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe and urged him to continue prioritizing the welfare and development of Bekwarra people and the entire Northern Senatorial District if reelected in 2027.

    Stakeholders at the meeting expressed concern over the developmental needs of Bekwarra Local Government Area and stressed the importance of continuity in representation. They assured Senator Jarigbe of their unwavering support and commitment towards ensuring victory for the APC in the forthcoming general election.

    Responding, Senator Jarigbe appreciated the leadership of the party, fellow aspirants, and stakeholders for the confidence reposed in him. He described the consensus decision as a collective victory for the party and the people of Cross River North.

    The lawmaker pledged to remain committed to quality representation and grassroots development while calling on party members to continue supporting the administration of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Governor of Cross River State, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, and all APC candidates across the state.

    He further called for unity among party faithful, emphasizing that collaboration and mutual support remain critical to achieving lasting development and electoral success.

    TEAM JARI MEDIA

  • Three Aspirants From Bekwarra LGA, Ochugudu Ipuele, Cecilia Adams, John Onyi, Withdraws From Senatorial Race In Support Of Jarigbe

    Three Aspirants From Bekwarra LGA, Ochugudu Ipuele, Cecilia Adams, John Onyi, Withdraws From Senatorial Race In Support Of Jarigbe

     

    Three Senatorial aspirants from Bekwarra LGA; Prof. Ochugudu Ipuele, Barr. Cecilia Adams, and Dr. John Onyi, have officially withdrawn from the Cross River North Senatorial APC Primary and declared their support for Distinguished Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe.

    With this development, Senator Jarigbe emerges as the consensus aspirant of the APC for the Cross River North Senatorial seat ahead of the 2027 general elections.

     

  • South Africa: The Future Is Waiting With A Knife… BY AGBA JALINGO 

    South Africa: The Future Is Waiting With A Knife… BY AGBA JALINGO 

     

    Data from the South African Institute of International Affairs SAIIA, clearly states that, from 1960 to 1995, Nigeria alone, spent over $61 billion (about 8.5trillion Naira), to support the end of apartheid in their country. That was more than any other country in the world.

    The SAIIA, headquartered at the Jan Smuts House in the University of Witwatersrand, East Campus in Johannesburg, emphatically claims that, Nigeria unequivocally took over leadership of the anti-apartheid movement worldwide, despite the volatile nature of our country’s politics and the passage of numerous military and civil leaders, affirming also that Nigeria never abandoned its unwavering commitment to the freedom of black South Africans from the shackles of aparthied.

    The SAIIA, recalled that, in 1976, Nigeria set up the Southern Africa Relief Fund (SAFR) aimed at bringing relief to the victims of the apartheid regime in South Africa and provide educational opportunities and general welfare to them.

    The military administration of General Obasanjo contributed $3.7 million to the fund. Moreover, General Obasanjo made a personal donation of $3,000, while each member of his cabinet also made personal contributions of $1,500 each. All Nigeria’s civil servants and public officers made a 2 percent donation from their monthly salary to the SARF, which was popularly known in Nigeria as “Mandela Tax.” Students in Nigerian schools skipped their lunch to make donations, and in just 6 months, in June 1977, contributions to the fund reached $10.5 million.

    In fact, on the 4th of April 1961, just six months after Nigeria gained independence from the British crown, our very first Prime Minister, Tafawa Balewa, wrote a letter declaring that, “The battle against Apartheid has just begun.” He played his part as promised and successive administrations after him continued the struggle. After the brutal take down and massacre of 700 black students by the white apartheid police during a protest by black students against the decision by the apartheid regime to change their education language to Afrikaans, many black students and ANC leaders made the wanted list of the Botha regime and needed to leave their country to safety.

    A first group of 86 black South African students arrived in Nigeria in 1976 to study for FREE. Hundreds of other black students and exiled ANC leaders followed subsequently, as part of the activities of the Southern Africa Relief Fund.

    Beyond welcoming students and exiles, Nigeria had also welcomed many renowned South Africans like Thabo Mbeki, former South African President, who spent 7 years in Ikoyi, Lagos Nigeria, from 1977 to 1984, before he left our country to the ANC headquarters in Lusaka, Zambia.

    300 Nigerian passports were issued to black South African leaders, who could not travel abroad because the apartheid regime had withdrawn their passports. This was particularly crucial because they needed to travel the world to seek international support and solidarity to end apartheid in their country.

    Along with fellow African countries, Nigeria led the lobby for the creation of the United Nations Special Committee against Apartheid. Again, when the Commonwealth Prime Ministers and Heads of Government, met in Nassen, Switzerland in October 1985, the idea of a Commonwealth Eminent Persons Group (EPG) was birthed by Nigeria and inaugurated, and mandated to discuss and agree with the South African apartheid regime on measures designed to pilot South Africa to a democratic form of government.

    At a time when the US, UK and Israel, were all very staunch supporters and allies of the apartheid regime in South Africa, when the US State Department and the UK Foreign Office, both listed Mandela and other ANC leaders as terrorists, the dismantling of the Botha regime and eradication of apartheid was a cardinal and consistent principle in Nigeria’s foreign policy. The rapport between Nigeria and the South African freedom fighters, ripened into a firm and cordial relationship. And in turn, the Botha regime was angered and locked up 10 Nigerians for our country’s financial support to ANC leaders.

    Therefore, it is not only ironic but somewhat foolish for the people of South Africa, particularly the black people in that country, to wake up today and think that Nigerians are their problem. If Nigerians are committing crimes in South Africa as alleged, methinks that South Africa has a fairly strong enough legal system, even stronger than Nigeria, that can address such concerns via their country’s legal system. Get the so-called criminals arrested and try them fairly in your courts and if found guilty, jail them accordingly. Migration is a human right. People cannot stop migrating, whether it is to South Africa or anywhere else in the world.

    But to stand up with cudgels and weapons to maim, beat and kill other blacks who have not committed any crime, solely because they are from Nigeria, a people who suffered so much with you in your days of adversity, is not only ingratitude of the meanest order, is a mistake that they will live to severely regret in the years to come. Their future is indeed, waiting with a knife!

    Yours sincerely,
    Citizen Agba Jalingo.

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

  • Dr Godwin Agbor Withdraws From House Of Representatives Race, Says Leadership Of The Party Appealed To Him To Step Down For The Incumbent

    Dr Godwin Agbor Withdraws From House Of Representatives Race, Says Leadership Of The Party Appealed To Him To Step Down For The Incumbent

    OFFICIAL STATEMENT ON MY WITHDRAWAL FROM THE APC HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES RACE FOR OBUDU/BEKWARRA/OBANLIKU FEDERAL CONSTITUENCY, 2027

    With a heavy heart but in obedience to the leadership and unity of our great party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), I wish to formally inform my teeming supporters, party stakeholders, friends, and the good people of Obudu/Bekwarra/Obanliku Federal Constituency that I have decided to withdraw from the race for the House of Representatives seat ahead of the 2027 general elections.

    This decision follows consultations and directives from the leadership of our party, who appealed that I step down to allow the incumbent member, Hon. Peter Akpanke, complete a second term in office.
    Without doubt, this is one of the most difficult political decisions I have had to make, considering the enormous sacrifices, energy, time, resources, and commitment I have invested in this journey. It is even more painful knowing the strong desire among our people for renewed hope, purposeful representation, and shared prosperity across OBO Federal Constituency.

    However, as loyal party men and women, we must continue to place party unity, peace, and collective interest above personal ambition. I therefore urge all my supporters across Obudu, Bekwarra, and Obanliku to remain calm, peaceful, and law-abiding. Let us accept this development in good faith and continue to trust God for a brighter tomorrow.

    This will not be the first time I have made sacrifices in the interest of leadership and party harmony. In the 2022 APC primary election for the Obudu State Constituency seat, I stepped down following appeals from party leaders and stakeholders, a process that eventually produced Hon. Sylvester Agabi, now Deputy Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly.

    I remain fully committed to the ideals and progress of our great party, the APC, at the local, state, and national levels. I pledge my continued support and loyalty to the leadership of the party and will work tirelessly for the success of all APC candidates in future elections.

    I deeply appreciate every supporter, stakeholder, youth group, women group, elders, political associates, and well-wishers who stood firmly with me throughout this journey. Your love, sacrifices, encouragement, and confidence in my leadership mean so much to me, and I will never take them for granted.

    Long live APC!
    Long live Cross River State!!
    Long live Apostle Senator Bassey Edet Otu!!!
    Long live President Bola Ahmed Tinubu!!!
    Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria!!!!

    Signed:
    Dr. Godwin Adaje Agbor (KSM)
    APC Aspirant, Obudu/Bekwarra/Obanliku Federal Constituency, 2027

  • Just In: Former Cross River State APC Chairman, Alphonsus Ogar Eba Dumps APC, Returns To PDP

    Just In: Former Cross River State APC Chairman, Alphonsus Ogar Eba Dumps APC, Returns To PDP

     

    I HAVE HEARD YOU.
    I HAVE LISTENED TO MY HEART.
    I HAVE ANSWERED

    ‘’Every generation must out of relative obscurity discover its mission, To fulfill or Betray ‘’- Frantz Fanon

    In obedience to the will of our people and in total submission to my inner heart, guided by the direction of Almighty God, I have reflected and reexamined my mission on earth – a clear mission to fulfill destiny.

    From the cradle , particularly , my days of INFANT ACTIVISM, through my days of YOUTH ACTIVISM coupled with STUDENT ACTIVISM into JUDICIAL ACTIVISM and to my present day POLITICAL ACTIVISM which is rooted in POLITICAL EVANGELISM , I have seen the hands of God in everything I do because my trust has always been in God and God alone.

    My incursion into politics in 1991 in SDP during the 3rd Republic and in 1996 in UNCP in the aborted 4th Republic and in PDP in 1999 in the 4th Republic with a short detour to NDP in 2023, ANPP in 2011 , before my return to PDP in 2012 and later APC in 2021 , points to the incontrovertible fact that political parties are indispensable vehicles to drive the democratic process since the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria does not provide for Independent candidates

    What has however remained fundamentally constant in my political life is the grace of God upon me which is loaded in the superabundant gifts of Hardwork, Humility, Honesty, Courage, Capacity, Competence , Confidence, Contentment, Gratitude and Intrepidity.

    Armed with the above qualities, I have always viewed my political mission as nothing more than Service to God and humanity.

    The great Philosopher, Socrates once said, ‘’An unexamined life is not worth living’’. I have therefore had to reflect on my last 10 years in public service , first as Director General of Due Process and Price Intelligence Bureau, Cross River State and later as Cross River State Chairman of APC . In both offices, reputedly, I left indelible marks in Governance and the party administration which has been highly acknowledged even by our worst critics.

    I have also reflected on the goodwill I enjoyed from our people across party lines and the unprovoked ill treatment meted to me and several leaders / followers by a system we worked so hard to install.

    But in all of these, our gratitude to God in Heaven , our political godfathers , godsons and all whose prayers, supports and kind wishes saw us through will never be forgotten.

    It is on record that , we decided to let go the unwarranted and unprovoked treatment meted to us and even when i have maintained a stoic and dignified silence, our silence was interpreted as cowardice.

    Even when we overlooked the illegal suspension and expulsion by my colleagues at the State Executive Committee of APC and the desperate dissolution of my leadership at the APC NEC on the 19th of December 2025 , which was just a decoy to remove me from office in flagrant disobedience of a subsisting Order of Court in my favour ; and despite keeping away from every APC activities and the attendant humiliation meted to me and my supporters from the ward to the state level ; even when I have since returned to my private legal practice in Abuja and quietly facing my farm work / other private businesses and having more time with my family, I cannot understand while a system I worked so hard in conjunction with other leaders to install have chosen the wicked path to perpetually silent my voice, completely make me irrelevant and have vowed to retire me from politics even at this young age of 50 when I still have a lot to offer my people, state and Nation.

    The intimidation and attack against me and my people and other persons who are non aligned with the system, has given me serious concerns and cause to worry about our collective future under this present democratic experience in our dear State.

    In the face of the unfolding quandary, I have looked up to God for direction, I have listened to the cries of my sincere supporters , whose loyalty especially in the last six (6) months of my political travails have been unwavering .

    I have had an appraisal over the invitation from the leadership of 3 different opposition political parties requesting us to commune and strengthen opposition political parties in Cross River State with a view to providing alternative platforms or a unified platform that can assist in holding the system to conform to the tenets of democracy and good governance.

    I have also listened to my inner heart and I have no option but to agree with the words of William Shakespeare in Julius Caesar where he stated , ‘’There is a tide in the affairs of men , which taken at the flood , leads on to fortune. Omitted , all the voyage of their life is bound in shallows and miseries; On such a full sea are we now afloat, And we must take the current when it serves ; or lose our ventures ‘’.

    The bible in book of Psalms 37 : 23 says ‘’ ‘’The steps of the righteous are ordered by God’’

    In John 10 : 13 , ‘’Greater Love a man has not than to lay down his life for his friend ; ‘’ his people and his state (emphasis mine).

    While I can no longer maintain my dignified silence in the face of the continuous subjugation and infractions on our Freedom of Expression , Association and Private life , exacerbated by intimidation, oppression and repression of people who hold contrary views against the system; while it is also politically incorrect for me to maintain such silence in the face of public outcry over wanton gluttonous political chicanery and the jiggery pokkery , I decided to withdraw my membership of APC and requested for the delisting of my name from its hard copy and digital register on the 7th May 2026.

    Although my refusal to utter a word or complained in the last 3 years of this system may not be understood by many but it is borne out of tolerance, maturity and loyalty to the system which was flagrantly abused by them but as we commence our new round Political Evangelism to rebuild our new party and the many souls, we hope to win , majority of our people will see how handsomely justifiable this decision is.

    While not everyone is bound to agree with this decision because we majorly play establishments politics in Cross River State.

    Early in life , I was trained to know that extraordinary issues must be treated extraordinarily. I humbly call on our faithful supporters to please align with our vision, join us in this mission, pray for us to succeed in this journey because we have chosen Peace of mind above Pains, Pride over shame, Joy over Agony and Progress over Retrogression for ourselves and the people of our dear communities and Cross River State in general.

    For strategic political reasons, this decision was taken within a very limited consultative compass . I sincerely apologize to all my sincere leaders and followers whom we couldn’t reach before arriving at this decision.

    As a believer, I know that this mission is for our good and the good of our people and at the appropriate time , majority of our people will align to promote a genuine consensus for the liberation of our people from the shackles and manacles of this pestilential and diabolical political practice .

    The real Progressives across political party lines are coming together to redirect the present misdirection in the state .

    The leadership crisis in PDP at the National level has since been resolved by the Supreme Court, the task ahead is to rebuild the party at the state level in all the 3281 poling units , 196 political wards and 18 LGA in Cross River State.

    I have humbly agreed to be one of the beast of burden and prolocutor towards the effectuation of this noble task.

    It is for tasks like this that I was born.

    From dust I came, To dust I shall return.

    From PDP I came , To PDP I have returned .

    May God bless you all.

    Pol. Evg. Alphonsus Ogar Eba, Esq, JP.
    Immediate past APC Chairman CRS.

  • Jarigbe Dissociates From Michael Emaluji, Asks The Public To Hold Him Responsible For His Actions

    Jarigbe Dissociates From Michael Emaluji, Asks The Public To Hold Him Responsible For His Actions

    PRESS RELEASE

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    OFFICE OF SENATOR JARIGBE AGOM JARIGBE
    Representing Cross River North Senatorial District

    PUBLIC NOTICE: DISSOCIATION FROM THE ACTIONS AND INACTIONS OF MR. MICHAEL EMALUJI

    The Office of Distinguished Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe wishes to bring to the attention of the general public, particularly constituents of Cross River North and all Nigerians, the urgent need to clearly distinguish between the Senator and his official activities, and the personal conduct of one Mr. Michael Emaluji.

    It has come to our notice that Mr. Michael Emaluji has, through certain actions, inactions, and statements made both online and in physical interactions, created impressions or expectations that may be incorrectly linked to Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe or his office.

    We hereby state unequivocally that Mr. Michael Emaluji is not a staff, agent, representative, or affiliate of Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, nor does he act on behalf of the Senator’s office in any capacity. The Senator has not authorized him to make any statement, representation, or commitment whether on social media, in public meetings, or in private dealings that would bind or reflect the Senator or his office.

    Consequently:

    1. The general public is hereby advised to hold Mr. Michael Emaluji solely responsible for his own actions and inactions, and to seek redress directly from him for any claims, promises, or obligations arising from his conduct.

    2. Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe and his office are fully and completely dissociated from any activity, transaction, representation, or communication by Mr. Michael Emaluji, whether undertaken online or physically.

    We caution all individuals, groups, and institutions to desist from associating Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe with any matter involving Mr. Michael Emaluji. Any person who feels maligned by his actions, is advised to take lawful actions to seek redress.

    For verification of any person claiming to represent Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, please contact the Senator’s official office via the details below.

    Signed:

    John Agom Agom
    Special Assistant Media

  • Setting the Record Straight on Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong ‘s Empowerment Programme BY OGAR EMMANUEL 

    Setting the Record Straight on Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong ‘s Empowerment Programme BY OGAR EMMANUEL 

     

    In a society where political rivalry often overshadows truth and genuine development efforts, it has become necessary to separate facts from deliberate misinformation. The recent empowerment programme facilitated by Asuquo Ekpenyong Jr. in Calabar has unfortunately become a victim of such politically motivated distortion.

    Yesterday’s event, which saw the distribution of hundreds of mini buses, tricycles, and other empowerment items to beneficiaries across the Cross River South Senatorial District, was widely applauded by many citizens as a bold intervention aimed at alleviating economic hardship and creating opportunities for self-reliance. However, rather than celebrate an initiative capable of improving livelihoods, some political antagonists chose the familiar route of propaganda, falsely alleging that the programme was originally intended for the entire state and was allegedly hijacked by the senator.

    That narrative is not only misleading; it has been officially debunked by the Niger Delta Development Commission itself.

    In the press statement issued by the NDDC Cross River State Office, the Commission categorically described the circulating claims as “misleading and inaccurate.” The statement clearly explained that the empowerment programme was undertaken “pursuant to budgetary provisions facilitated by the Senator representing Cross River South Senatorial District.” That singular clarification destroys the entire propaganda being peddled by critics and merchants of falsities.

    The implication is simple and straightforward: the programme was facilitated through the legislative influence and budgetary efforts of Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong Jr. for his constituency. It was never presented by the Commission as a statewide allocation exclusively designated for all Cross Riverians. The NDDC further clarified that the figures being circulated by mischief makers were speculative and should be disregarded.

    More importantly, the Commission also noted that the programme was being implemented in collaboration with relevant Ministries, Departments, and Agencies and was not an exclusive initiative of the NDDC alone. This further reinforces the fact that due processes and institutional collaborations were followed.

    It is unfortunate that in today’s political climate, even well-intentioned empowerment initiatives are subjected to unnecessary attacks simply because they are associated with a perceived political opponent. Those pushing the false narrative have deliberately ignored the official position of the Commission because their objective is not truth, fairness, or accountability; their objective is political damage.

    One fundamental question critics have failed to answer is this: if Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong Jr. facilitated a constituency-based empowerment programme through legitimate budgetary channels for Cross River South, how exactly does that amount to hijacking a statewide intervention?

    Every elected lawmaker is expected to attract development projects and empowerment opportunities to their constituency. When they fail, they are criticized for being ineffective. When they succeed, they are accused of favoritism. This contradiction exposes the insincerity behind the outrage.

    The truth remains that empowerment programmes are not achieved by social media noise or emotional blackmail. They are outcomes of legislative engagement, negotiation, influence, and strategic representation. Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong Jr., as Chairman of the Senate Committee on the NDDC, leveraged his position to facilitate opportunities for his constituents, just as representatives from other districts are expected to do for theirs.

    Rather than spread divisive propaganda, political actors should focus on how to attract similar interventions to their own constituencies. Development should inspire healthy competition, not bitterness.

    The official NDDC statement has settled the matter. The allegations are false. The empowerment programme was legitimate. The beneficiaries were appropriately targeted. And the attempt to politicize the initiative has failed in the face of verifiable facts.

    In the end, propaganda may trend for a moment, but truth always endures.

    Comr. Ogar Emmanuel Oko
    Public Affairs Analyst, he writes from Calabar Municipality

     

    Disclaimer: The opinion expressed in this article is strictly that of the author, Ogar Emmanuel, and does not represent Theluminenews, its agent or the organisation the author works for/with 

  • Ibil Nation Unveils Ntol-Atol, Ntol Felix Ugbashe Ijanyi Ibu, Launches Palace

    Ibil Nation Unveils Ntol-Atol, Ntol Felix Ugbashe Ijanyi Ibu, Launches Palace

    By Elijah Ugani 

    It was a celebration galore as the Eniiri people of Ibil Kingdom, unveiled the Ntol-Atol of Ibil, His Royal Highness, Ntol Felix Ugbashe Ijanyi Ibu.

    The event which brought together dignitaries from all works of life held today, May 9th 2026 at St Michael’s Primary School, Ibil – Ogoja, also had a launching of a magnificent 50 Million Ntol palace.

    In a welcome address on behalf of the Ibil nation, Chief Austin Edibe, noted that the Chieftaincy institution in Ibil remains a pillar of the community’s identity and authority which has continued to uphold the unity, stability and progress of their people.

    Speaking on the preparedness of the Ntol-Atol of Ibil, Ntol Felix Ugbashe Ijanyi Ibu, Chief Austin Edibe noted that “He began his career as a classroom teacher, and later distinguished himself in banking, education administration and management. In retirement, he devoted himself to service in the church, Rotary Club and the wider community. These experiences have prepared him for the responsibility he now assumes”.

    Chief Austin Edibe, congratulated the Ntol-Atol for accepting the responsibility. “Your Royal Highness, we congratulate you on accepting this sacred responsibility. Leadership at this level calls for vision, discipline and commitment to service. We are confident in your capacity to guide this stewardship. We urge you to lead with integrity and fairness. Listen to your people and respond with wisdom. Preserve our traditions while remaining open to ideas that will advance the progress of our people. A leader who walks with the people never walks alone.

    “Today’s gathering reflects our hope for a united and prosperous Ibil. It also reminds us of our duty to uphold moral and cultural values that will guide the next generation, especially our youth facing changing and challenging world. We reaffirm our loyalty and support to your leadership in the pursuit of peace, unity and sustainable development”.

    Speaking during the palace launch, the Chief launcher, Chief John George, Chairman and Chief Executive of Sub-Sea 9, noted that “This day is not just about bricks and mortar. It is about legacy, about the enduring strength of our culture, and about the vision of a leader whose life has been dedicated to the service of his people. Ntol Felix embodies wisdom, courage and the spirit of unity. His reign has been marked by peace, progress, and an unwavering commitment to the welfare of Ibil.

    “I must acknowledge the robust relationship we share with Distinguished Sen Jarigbe and other persons who have consistently stood by Ibil. Their presence here today underscores the importance of this project and the unity of purpose that binds us together. For me, as one deeply connected to this land and its people, it is not just a duty but a privilege to be involved in anything connecting Ibil.

    “But let me be clear; such a monumental project cannot be carried out by one man alone. It requires the collective strength of all of us. I therefore urge each an everyone of you to contribute handsomely to this noble cause. Let your giving be a tastement to your love for Ibil, your respect for Ntol Felix, and your commitment to the future of our community”.

    Chief John George made a donation of 10 Million Naira towards the building of the palace of Ntol Ibil.

    Speaking with Theluminenews, the Ntol-Atol of Ibil, Ntol Felix Ugbashe Ijanyi Ibu, noted that “There have been a lot of skepticism when it comes to chieftaincy and because of the rituals involved. The last traditional ruler of Ibil Ntol Gregory Adima, who also served as the Clan Head of Nkum and later paramount Ruler of Ogoja. He transited to the great beyond on the 25th December, 2017, so since then this community has not been able to get a traditional ruler”.

    The Ntol-Atol of Ibil, noted that he was among those who were at the forefront of searching for a traditional ruler for Ibil and never knew that his people wanted him to serve them. “I was
    on a hunt for a traditional ruler and didn’t know that I was gamed. Being in the forefront to advocate for a traditional ruler for Ibil, I couldn’t decline when my people unanimously agreed that I should be the one to serve them now”. He stated.

    Speaking on how he intends to bridge the gap between most of the traditions and practices in most communities that are variance with known laws of the country, the Ntol-Atol of Ibil, noted that “When I was coronated, some some of the youths came to me and said that now that I have been appointed to lead them, they are sure that most of their challenges will be resolved. But I told them that we will collectively be involved in running the affairs of Ibil.

    “I told them that I will consult with the youths, elders, women. I have started consultation. And I charged them to come up with a way forward to move the community. Both the youths and the women came up with useful suggestions and that will take us forward”.

    When asked on the importance of the unveiling, the Ntol-Atol of Ibil noted that “Since my coronation, I have been confined to my house, I haven’t gone passed the church. And I have not performed the functions of a traditional ruler. The unveiling now gives me the mandate to perform the functions of a traditional ruler and allows me to move freely while discharging my duties”.

    In a goodwill message, Sen Jarigbe Agom who hails from Ibil noted that “With a grateful heart and a deep sense of pride, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to His Royal Highness, Ntol Felix Ugbashe Ijanyi Ibu, Ntol-Atol of Ibil, traditional rulers and the good people of Ibil Kingdom on the occasion of the unveiling ceremony of His Royal Highness of Ibil.

    “This is a moment of great joy not only for Ibil Kingdom, but for the entire Bakor. The unveiling ceremony is a tastement to the strength of faith, family values, and communal support that our community embodies. It is truly a blessing to witness this call to the service of sacred service of humanity.

    “I commend the traditional rulers for nurturing the spirit of vocation and pray that this milestone inspires many more youth to pursue lives of purpose, disciples and service”.

    Highlights of the occasion was the presentation of  a Toyota Highlander to the Ntol-Atol of Ibil, by Sen Jarigbe Agom, represented by Chief Austin Edibe, launching of the Ntol palace, traditional dances, community/group greetings and pledges of allegiance to the Ntol-Atol.

     

  • Sen Jarigbe Agom Possesses The Wisdom To See People From An Equal Perspective, Valuing Them Beyond Material Wealth, And Communicating Effectively With The Current Generational Language Trend BY KOKO DAN

    Sen Jarigbe Agom Possesses The Wisdom To See People From An Equal Perspective, Valuing Them Beyond Material Wealth, And Communicating Effectively With The Current Generational Language Trend BY KOKO DAN

    In today’s world, exceptional talent and proficiency are highly sought after in all areas of human endeavor. An individual with outstanding abilities is highly competitive in all sectors, particularly in politics.

    Given that politics is a primary source of leadership, it requires someone with the expertise to understand the times, relate to the people, and build sustainable benefits for both themselves and their constituents.

    Over time, Sen Jarigbe Agom has consistently demonstrated the skills required for this role.

    It is unimaginable that a former senator and governor would lack the ability to garner organic support from the people he represented and governed, as this would be a misuse of their experience and knowledge.

    Politics, however, is not a career path suited to everyone, although some individuals seem to stumble into it, as seen in the case of Mr. Liyel Imoke. You identified Ayade.

    The state of Kogi illustrates this point well, where the entire state structure threatened to sue former Governor Yahaya Bello unless he ran for senate, simply because he was held in high esteem by the people led. “Even with accusation of theft and embezzlement ”

    Sen Jarigbe Agom possesses the wisdom to see people from an equal perspective, valuing them beyond material wealth, and communicating effectively with the current generational language trend. ” Oboy how far” You deh so? He doesn’t fake it !

    These qualities make him the ideal candidate, offering hope and leadership to the people. While every talent has value, the world currently seeks academics of high repute. If Professor Ayade wishes to benefit the global population with his knowledge, perhaps he should consider teaching at a university rather than pursuing politics, which is no longer solely about luck.

    Haba, Me koko Governor for 8 years? I swear na president go deh beg me!
    My brother go teach chemistry for crutech I beg ,The world is in need of that knowledge transfer.
    Whilst we thank God for giving us a leader in Sen.Jarigbe, May God sustain him to continue to make impact in our lives .
    Amen.

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

  • Prince KJ Jeddy Agba Resigns From APC

    Prince KJ Jeddy Agba Resigns From APC

    A frontline aspirant for the House of Representatives for Bekwarra/Obudu/Obanliku federal constituency, Prince KJ Jeddy-Agba, has announced his resignation from the All Progressive Congress APC.

    In a letter dated 6th May 2026, and addressed to the Ward Chairmen, All Progressive Congress, Utugwang Central, Prince KJ noted that “I am writing to formally resign my membership of the All Progressive Congress (APC) effective immediately”.

    The former APC chieftain noted that “While my time with the party has been brief, recent political developments and strategic considerations has necessitated this decision. I believe this step is essential to align with a broader vision for effective political participation at such a time as now”.

    KJ Jeddy-Agba asked the APC to regularize his resignation by effecting same on their official documents, both (online and manual) registers as required by law.