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  • Ekpenyong Youth Wing Flags Off Campaign Activities Across Cross River South

    Ekpenyong Youth Wing Flags Off Campaign Activities Across Cross River South

     

    The Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong Youth Wing has commenced campaign activities across the seven Local Government Areas of Cross River South Senatorial District, unveiling a youth-focused agenda centred on education, empowerment, digital inclusion and grassroots engagement.

    The programme, convened by Obong Ekpe Eyo Ita Okon, is expected to take youth engagement to communities and campuses through a series of town-hall meetings where young people will discuss issues relating to governance, education, employment and development.

    Among the initiatives announced at the flag-off are plans to provide free Starlink internet services in tertiary institutions across the senatorial district, expand student bursaries and educational support, and introduce youth empowerment, skills acquisition and entrepreneurship programmes.

    The organisers also pledged sustained engagement with student and youth organisations across the seven LGAs.

    Speaking at the event, Okon said the initiative was designed to give young people more than a platform for political participation, stressing the need to create practical opportunities capable of improving their education, livelihoods and future prospects.

    The flag-off attracted student leaders from tertiary institutions across the district, led by their Students’ Union Government (SUG) presidents, as well as representatives of the National Association of Cross River State Students (NACRISS) Worldwide, Students of Cross River State Origin (SOCRISS), the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Cross River State, and other student organisations.

    Also present were coordinators of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Southern Chapter, All Progressives Congress (APC) youth chapter leaders from across the senatorial district and representatives of various youth support groups.

    Speaking on behalf of APC chapter youth leaders, Effiom Yellow Duke called for greater unity and youth participation in governance, saying young people should play an active role in shaping the future of the district.

    Representing youth support groups, Margaret Effiom commended the initiative and highlighted education, empowerment, entrepreneurship and skills development as key areas for expanding opportunities for young people.

    The SUG President of the University of Calabar, Comrade Vordina Ebong, who spoke on behalf of student leaders, welcomed the proposed provision of free Starlink internet services.

    Ebong described digital connectivity as increasingly important to modern learning, research and access to global opportunities, while calling for sustained engagement with students beyond the launch of the programme.

    Also speaking, the Vice Chairman of NYCN, Southern Senatorial District, Comrade Benjamin Edet, welcomed the initiative and commended the organisers for bringing student leaders and youth organisations together.

    Edet stressed the need to translate youth participation into tangible opportunities and meaningful development across the district.

    In his remarks, the Special Assistant to the Governor on Students Affairs, Comrade Kelvin Joseph Enyiam, described the engagement with students and young people as timely.

    He encouraged student leaders to remain united, constructive and focused on issues that promote the welfare and development of young people in Cross River State.

    The flag-off marks the beginning of a wider youth engagement programme covering Akamkpa, Akpabuyo, Bakassi, Biase, Calabar Municipal, Calabar South and Odukpani Local Government Areas.

    The organisers said the programme would take the announced initiatives and direct engagement with young people to communities and tertiary institutions across Cross River South.

  • Jarigbe Honours Kanu Agabi at 80th Birthday Public Lecture

    Jarigbe Honours Kanu Agabi at 80th Birthday Public Lecture

     

    Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, representing Cross River North Senatorial District, has joined other prominent Nigerians to celebrate former Attorney-General of the Federation and elder statesman, Chief Godwin Kanu Agabi, SAN, CON, on the occasion of his 80th birthday.

    Senator Jarigbe attended a public lecture organised in honour of the legal luminary on Thursday, September 24, 2026, at the Bencher’s Hall, Body of Benchers, Abuja.

    The lecture, themed “Prioritising Ethical Conduct and Anti-Corruption Measures in Governance in Nigeria,” attracted members of the legal profession, political leaders, government officials, family members, friends and other well-wishers.

    Speaking at the event, Senator Jarigbe described Chief Agabi as an accomplished legal practitioner and public servant whose life, according to him, reflects integrity, humility, justice and commitment to public service.

    The senator said Chief Agabi had distinguished himself through his contributions to the legal profession, governance and nation-building, adding that his commitment to service had made him a respected figure beyond the legal community.

    Jarigbe also highlighted Chief Agabi’s relationship with the people of Cross River North, noting that he is highly regarded in the district for his empathy, philanthropy, wisdom and contributions to the advancement of the people.

    He described the 80th birthday milestone as an opportunity to reflect on Chief Agabi’s years of service and contributions to Nigeria, while commending his influence on younger generations.

    The senator congratulated the elder statesman and wished him renewed strength, good health, peace of mind and many more years of service to humanity and the nation.

    He also prayed that Chief Agabi’s new chapter would be marked by continued wisdom, grace and meaningful contributions to society.

    Chief Godwin Kanu Agabi, SAN, CON, is a former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice and has had a long career in law and public service.

     

  • Otu Pays Tribute to Mother-in-Law of Defence Intelligence Chief

    Otu Pays Tribute to Mother-in-Law of Defence Intelligence Chief

     

    Cross River State Governor, Sen. Prince Bassey Edet Otu, has paid tribute to the late Mrs. Rose Obla Agbenem Orim, mother-in-law of the Chief of Defence Intelligence, Lt. Gen. Emmanuel Akomaye Parker Undiandeye.

    The remains of the 87-year-old deceased were laid to rest on Saturday in Utugwang, Obudu Local Government Area of Cross River State.

    The governor was represented at the funeral by his Deputy, Rt. Hon. Dr. Peter Odey, who led the state government delegation to the burial.

    Odey described the deceased as a virtuous matriarch whose life was marked by faith, discipline, love and sound upbringing.

    He said the positive impact of her life was reflected in the character and achievements of her children, urging the bereaved family to draw strength from the legacy she left behind.

    The Deputy Governor prayed for the repose of her soul and that of some of her deceased children, whom he described as friends during their formative years.

    In his tribute, the Chief of Defence Intelligence, Lt. Gen. EAP Undiandeye, recalled the close relationship he shared with his late mother-in-law.

    He remembered her for her regular prayer sessions, wise counsel and encouragement, saying she treated him as her own son and gave him unwavering support throughout their relationship.

    According to him, her influence on his life and family would remain indelible.

    Also speaking during the funeral Mass, Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe described the deceased as a mother figure and mentor who made significant contributions to his life and the wider Ogoja community.

    Mrs. Orim, a Lady of St. Mulumba, was born in 1939 in Gakem, Bekwarra. Although she had no formal education, she became a successful businesswoman and was also a pilgrim to Jerusalem.

    She is survived by six children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, including Mrs. Jane Ekor Undiandeye, wife of the Chief of Defence Intelligence.

    Among dignitaries who attended the funeral were the Member representing Obanliku/Bekwarra/Obudu Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Chief Hon. Peter Akpanke; Chief of Staff to the Governor, Chief Hon. Emmanuel Ironbar; and the Chairman of Obudu Local Government Area, Hon. Dr. Peter Undaiandeye.
    Senior military officers, government officials, religious leaders, traditional rulers and other distinguished guests also attended the ceremony.

  • Jarigbe Pays Tribute to Late Rose Obla Orim, Donates N10m to Catholic Church Project

    Jarigbe Pays Tribute to Late Rose Obla Orim, Donates N10m to Catholic Church Project

    By Elijah Ugani 

    The senator representing Cross River North Senatorial District, Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, has joined the Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Edet Otu, the Chief of Defence Intelligence, Lieutenant General Emmanuel Akomaye Parker Undiandeye, and other dignitaries to pay tribute to the late Mrs. Rose Obla Orim.

    The funeral Mass was held at St. Matthew’s Catholic Church, Utugwang, in Obudu Local Government Area of Cross River State.

    Mrs. Orim was the mother-in-law of Lieutenant General Undiandeye and was remembered at the ceremony for her contributions to the Ogoja community and her commitment to faith, family and community development.

    Speaking at the funeral, Senator Jarigbe described the deceased as a mother figure and mentor who made a significant impact on his life and the wider Ogoja community.

    He said Mrs. Orim was a woman of strength, wisdom, faith and leadership, adding that her contributions to the development and wellbeing of Cross River North would remain memorable.

    “Everything she heard was about development and the progress of the people. Mama was deeply interested in development. She has left a lasting legacy in her children. She took them to the Lord, and that is the fulcrum of their preservation,” Jarigbe said.

    As part of his tribute, the senator donated N10 million to support the building project of St. Matthew’s Catholic Parish.

    Jarigbe said the donation was intended not only as a gesture of condolence but also as a contribution to the values of faith, community and service which, according to him, Mrs. Orim exemplified during her lifetime.

    The lawmaker had earlier made a donation of Two cows through his Constituency Officer, Hon Egar Mgbantul to the Orim’s family to enable them host guests who comes to mourn the departure of them matriarch.

    Jarigbe extended his condolences to the Orim and Undiandeye families, praying that God would grant them the strength to bear the loss and preserve the legacy of their late mother and matriarch.

    The funeral Mass was attended by family members, political leaders, traditional and community leaders, friends, associates and well-wishers who gathered to honour the memory of Mrs. Rose Obla Orim.
    She is survived by her children and other members of her family.

  • Petrostuff/Global Dimensions Alumni Condole With Mentor Over Mother’s Death

    Petrostuff/Global Dimensions Alumni Condole With Mentor Over Mother’s Death

    By Elijah Ugani 

    Members of the Petrostuff/Global Dimensions Alumni have paid a condolence visit to their mentor and former boss, Mr Emma Orim, following the death of his mother in his country home at Ukpirinyi Utugwang.

    The alumni members, represented by Mr. Lawrence Ogar, and Mr. Cosmos Okiri, visited Mr. Orim, at his family compound, Ukpirinyi, Utugwang in Obudu Local Government Area of Cross River State, during the funeral ceremony to identify with him and his family and express their appreciation for his contributions to their lives and careers in the oil & gas industry.

    Speaking on behalf of the group, Okiri said it was only appropriate for the alumni to stand by their mentor at a moment of grief, noting that Mr. Orim had played a significant role in helping many of them gain entry into the oil and gas industry.

    The group acknowledged his contributions to their personal and professional development, describing his efforts in assisting people across the Niger Delta especially Northern Cross River State as significant.

    They urged Mr. Orim to take solace in the fact that his mother lived a worthy life and had gone to rest with the Lord.

    Okiri also used the occasion to inform their mentor that the alumni would, at the appropriate time, organise a special celebration in his honour to appreciate him for his contributions to their lives, separate from the funeral activities.

    Responding, Mr. Orim thanked the alumni, whom he described as his mentees, for their thoughtfulness and show of solidarity. He expressed his appreciation for their support and prayed that God would replenish them.

    The items presented to the bereaved family included five cows, 20 creates of assorted beer, kola nut, palm wine, and a cash donation.

    Speaking with Theluminenews, the Coordinator of the Petrostuff/Global Dimensions Alumni, Dr. Oli Oli Olowhu, an Energy Expert explained that the association comprises people whom Mr. Orim had assisted to secure employment opportunities in the oil & gas industry. It is on record that Mr. Orim secured the entry positions for about 80% of the oil & gas professionals of Cross River State origin today using his company Petrostuff/Global Dimensions.

    According to Dr. Olowhu, the decision to come together was driven by a desire to show gratitude to their mentor for the opportunities and guidance he had provided over the years. He described Mr. Orim as the Obi Cubana of Cross River State and urged those who are in position to help as Mr. Orim did to empower the younger generations.

    “I don’t know what my life would have been if not for Mr Emma Orim, who showed me the way to the oil & gas sector,” Dr. Olowhu said.

    He added that the alumni would continue to appreciate and identify with their mentor, particularly in recognition of the impact he had made in the lives of its members.

    Among those that Mr Emma Orim facilitated their entry into the oil and gas, who made donation to the visit are, Engr Sunday Nchor, Engr Abang, Engr James Akwaji, Engr Liberty Nkpung, Dr. Peter Undiandeye, and numerous others from Northern Cross River State.

  • An Epistle of Honour To Chief Tony Undiandeye at Birthday BY ELIJAH UGANI

    An Epistle of Honour To Chief Tony Undiandeye at Birthday BY ELIJAH UGANI

     

    To a Custodian of Heritage, A Man of Many Gifts, and A Bridge Builder.

    Today, we pause to celebrate not merely the passing of another year, but the remarkable life and contributions of a man whose presence continues to enrich his community and inspire those privileged to know him.

    Chief Tony Undiandeye is, in many respects, a rare convergence of intellect, tradition, eloquence, humanity, and service.

    As a custodian of Obudu traditions, he carries within him a profound appreciation of the heritage, values, customs, and identity of his people. In an age when cultural memory can easily fade beneath the pressures of modernity, men such as Chief Tony stand as living repositories of tradition, preserving the wisdom of yesterday while engaging confidently with the realities of today. Yet, his intellectual journey tells another compelling story.

    A physicist by training, Chief Tony represents that beautiful intersection between scientific reasoning and cultural wisdom. Physics may have trained his mind to interrogate the forces and principles that govern the physical universe, but life has given him an even broader field of inquiry: people, society, culture, relationships, and the human condition.

    Chief Tony is a man who understands the power of words. He does not merely speak; he communicates. His words can illuminate an issue, provoke thought, clarify confusion, and, at times, bring people together. As a Public Affairs Analyst and Commentator, he has continued to deploy this gift in examining matters of public interest and contributing meaningfully to conversations that shape society. His versatility is, indeed, one of his distinguishing qualities.

    He is multitalented, with interests and abilities that extend beyond the boundaries of any single profession or calling. His enthusiasm for hospitality management speaks to yet another dimension of his personality, the understanding that human beings desire not only places to stay or things to consume, but experiences that make them feel welcomed, valued, and remembered.

    Perhaps most remarkable, however, is his identity as a reconciliator. In a world where disagreements can quickly become divisions and differences can become permanent walls, the ability to reconcile people is a precious gift. A reconciliator listens beyond the noise, sees beyond the disagreement, and searches for the humanity that remains common to all sides.

    Chief Tony Undiandeye, your life reflects a fascinating blend of tradition and modernity, science and society, intellect and humanity, eloquence and diplomacy.

    You are a man whose journey reminds us that one need not be confined to a single definition. You can be a physicist and a cultural custodian; an analyst and an orator; a hospitality enthusiast and a reconciliator. You can inhabit many worlds without losing the essence of who you are.

    On this special occasion of your birthday, we celebrate the man, the mind, the voice, the heritage bearer, the bridge builder, and the many gifts that you bring to your community and beyond.

    May this new chapter bring you renewed strength, sound health, deeper wisdom, greater fulfilment, and abundant opportunities to continue making a difference. May your voice continue to command attention when truth needs expression. May your knowledge continue to illuminate. May your love for culture continue to preserve what must never be forgotten. May your gift of reconciliation continue to mend relationships and build bridges.

    And may the years ahead reward you with the peace, honour, friendship, and happiness that a life of meaningful contribution deserves.

    Today, we do not simply count your years. We celebrate your journey, honour your contributions, salute your versatility, and give thanks for the gift of your presence.

    May you continue to age with grace, lead with wisdom, speak with courage, serve with humility, and leave footprints worthy of remembrance.

    Happy birthday to an intellectual, an orator, a custodian of heritage, a public affairs voice, a hospitality enthusiast, a multi-talented gentleman, and, above all, a reconciler of people and hearts.

    Long life and greater accomplishments, Chief!

    Elijah Ugani

     

  • C’River Youths Invited to Apply for Plantain Chips, Peanut Processing Equipment

    C’River Youths Invited to Apply for Plantain Chips, Peanut Processing Equipment

    By Elijah Ugani 

    The Cross River State Youth Empowerment Scheme has invited young people across the state who are interested in plantain chips and peanut production to apply for equipment under the forthcoming People’s First Mass Empowerment Programme.

    The initiative is aimed at supporting young Cross Riverians who are already involved in the businesses or have a genuine interest in starting or expanding enterprises in the sector.

    According to the Chairman of the Cross River State Youth Empowerment Scheme, Dr. Kalita Joseph Aruku, selected beneficiaries will receive equipment to enable them to start or upscale their businesses.

    Interested applicants have been advised to provide their name, desired trade, ward and Local Government Area (LGA) when applying. They are also encouraged to attach supporting evidence demonstrating their involvement or interest in the requested trade.

    Dr. Aruku said the information would assist the scheme in ensuring a fair distribution of the empowerment items across communities and promoting inclusiveness in the selection process.

    He, however, stressed that applying does not guarantee selection, as beneficiaries will be chosen based on the programme’s criteria and available resources.

    The scheme also cautioned individuals who have previously been shortlisted to receive an empowerment item against applying for the programme.

    The initiative is part of efforts under the People’s First Mass Empowerment Programme to provide young people with practical support and opportunities to establish or strengthen small businesses across Cross River State.

  • NARD 46th AGM: Odey Reaffirms Otu Administration’s Commitment to Healthcare

    NARD 46th AGM: Odey Reaffirms Otu Administration’s Commitment to Healthcare

     

    Cross River State Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Dr Peter Odey, has reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to improving healthcare delivery and enhancing the welfare of medical professionals across the state.

    Odey spoke on Tuesday when he received a delegation of the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD), led by its outgoing National President, Dr Mohammad Usman Suleiman, at the Deputy Governor’s Conference Room, Government House, Calabar.

    The Deputy Governor said the administration of Governor Bassey Edet Otu had prioritised healthcare as a key component of its People First agenda, noting that the government would continue to implement policies aimed at improving access to quality healthcare services.

    He assured resident doctors and other health professionals that the administration would continue to create an enabling environment for medical practitioners to work, develop their careers and contribute to the state’s healthcare system.

    According to him, the government is also focused on improving conditions of service, strengthening healthcare institutions and addressing factors contributing to the migration of medical professionals, popularly known as “Japa”.

    Odey said such measures were necessary to retain skilled doctors and other healthcare professionals in the state and ensure continuity in the delivery of quality medical services.

    He also commended NARD for choosing Cross River State to host its 46th Annual General Meeting, describing the event as an opportunity for professional exchange, knowledge sharing and discussions on the future of healthcare delivery in Nigeria.

    Earlier, the outgoing NARD National President, Dr Mohammad Usman Suleiman, commended the Cross River State Government for what he described as its commitment to the welfare of citizens and healthcare workers.
    Suleiman highlighted several interventions by the Otu administration in the health sector, including the reported 100 per cent implementation of the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS).

    He said the implementation had contributed to improving the welfare and working conditions of medical doctors and other health professionals in the state.

    The NARD leader also commended the government for upgrading Primary Healthcare Centres, strengthening the Hospital Management Board, enacting the Medical Quackery Prohibition Law and establishing the Drug Management Agency.

    He said the measures would help strengthen healthcare administration and improve service delivery across the state.

    Suleiman further cited the extension of the retirement age for health workers to 65 years and the lifting of the employment embargo, including the recruitment of medical specialists, as measures capable of strengthening the state’s healthcare workforce.

    He expressed appreciation to the Otu administration for creating what he described as an environment that supports the professional development and welfare of healthcare workers while improving healthcare services for residents.

    Suleiman disclosed that the delegation’s visit was part of activities leading to the 46th NARD Annual General Meeting and the inauguration of the association’s incoming National President, Dr Ogar Emmanuel Idoko.

    The conference is scheduled to hold in Calabar, with the opening ceremony slated for Thursday and the inauguration of the new national president and executive members scheduled for Friday.

  • Advice to Upcoming Aides BY SAM AMADI 

    Advice to Upcoming Aides BY SAM AMADI 

     

    When you work for principals, maintain respect, responsibility and trust when you leave them for whatever reasons.

    I can advise because I have worked with many principals I have course to disagree on many issues, from Gani Fawehinmi, Olisa Agbakoba, Ken Nnamani, Ojo Maduekwe, President Jonathan, etc.

    Never once did I say anything wrong about them when I left. I kept the trust and the respect, and the reciprocated. They continue to love and respect me till date or death.

    Gani wrote me a reference to Harvard and described me as the smartest and most honest person he has met, despite that I left his office in some controversy. Until his death, Gani continued to give me complimentary copies of his Nigerian weekly law report. When I wanted to join Ken Nnamani as Special Adviser, I went to Gani to seek counsel and he encouraged me. He said, “Sam, do not let anyone rubbish your reputation. Act like your former Dean. If they do not accept your advice resign”. I continue to love Gani.

    I cannot talk less about my relationship with my former boss, Olisa Agbakoba. We had small disagreement when I left to US for graduate student. But we made up. I returned back to his law firm. Last week we had a great conversation on Nigerian politics. No matter how we disagree in the future I cannot imagine myself hitting at Olisa. Never. He is my oga for life.

    Ojo Maduekwe continued to consult me for official work (even taking me along for President Yaradua’s state visit to the US as official adviser) despite that I resigned as SA on ground of disagreement. I never speak ill of him. When I left him, I went back with 5 pastors to apologise for leaving him and assure him I would continue to look out for his best interest. I told him it was my fault we could not work well together. Until his death we remained good friends and he would always seek my opinion on any issue with the salutation: ‘great Sam’.

    Till date, I am Ken Nnamani’s PA even as I disagreeded with his membership of APC. As NERC chairman, I was still writing speeches for my oga. Oga is Oga, whether I leave his service or not. Loyalty and trust should count for something.

    I cannot talk about GEJ. He is oga for life. He continues to like and respect me. And I never speak ill of him, even as I can hold critical views of his governance. When I left NERC and people were attacking him for whatever fail of the power sector, I issued a statement to say, “hold me responsible for any failure, not President Jonathan”.

    If you quarrel with your principals and you cannot restrain from abusing them, do not praise yourself, rather mourn for yourself and pray for healing.n

    You are not smart or courageous. You are plain foolish. And you can change. Take this as a friendly advice.

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

  • First-Class Graduate Appeals for Review of Akwa Ibom Civil Service Recruitment Shortlist

    First-Class Graduate Appeals for Review of Akwa Ibom Civil Service Recruitment Shortlist

    By Admin 

    A First-Class Mathematics graduate of the University of Uyo, Emmanuel Udo, has appealed to the Akwa Ibom State Government to review his exclusion from the final shortlist in the ongoing civil service recruitment exercise, citing what he described as concerns over fairness and transparency in the process.

    Udo, who graduated with First Class Honours in Mathematics in 2023, said he scored 81.67 per cent in the Computer-Based Test (CBT) and also participated in the oral interview for the position of Scientific Officer II (GL 08).

    In an appeal addressed to relevant authorities, including the Head of Civil Service and the Chairman of the Akwa Ibom State Civil Service Commission, Udo requested a review of his recruitment records and clarification on why he was not shortlisted despite his performance in the selection exercise.

    According to him, during the oral interview, he was asked to state Newton’s First Law and provide two real-life examples.

    He said he answered the question correctly and was “openly applauded and commended” by members of the interview panel.

    Udo also dismissed any suggestion that his exclusion could have been linked to his age, saying his date of birth is consistent across his official documents.

    He stated that he completed his primary education in 2008 and secondary education in 2014 before proceeding to the University of Uyo, where he obtained a First Class degree in Mathematics in 2023. He subsequently completed his National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) programme in 2024.

    On his qualification for the position, Udo said the recruitment advertisement listed a Bachelor’s degree in a Natural or Applied Science as one of the requirements for the position of Scientific Officer II.

    He argued that Mathematics falls within the relevant scientific discipline and therefore requested clarification on the basis for his exclusion from the final shortlist.

    “What makes the situation particularly concerning to me is when I see someone getting the recruitment email with a CBT score of 52,” Udo said.

    He, however, stressed that his appeal was not intended to discredit other candidates or seek preferential treatment.

    “I am not raising this issue to discredit any candidate or to demand preferential treatment. Rather, I am simply appealing for fairness, transparency and accountability in a recruitment process that directly affects me,” he said.

    Udo also appealed to the state government to review the relevant recruitment records, including his CBT result, academic qualifications, interview performance and the criteria applied in determining the final shortlist.

    He acknowledged that Governor Umo Eno might not have direct knowledge of the individual circumstances surrounding every stage of the recruitment exercise, but appealed for his case to be examined by the appropriate authorities.

    “I am not a social media influencer, nor am I seeking unnecessary publicity. I am simply a young graduate who worked hard, met the stated requirements, scored 81.67 per cent in the CBT, appeared before the interview panel and gave my best during the process,” he said.

    Udo described the situation as painful, particularly because, according to him, he has not received an explanation for his exclusion.

    “I am not asking for favour. I am asking for fairness, transparency and an opportunity to have my case properly reviewed, if an error or omission occurred,” he said.

    He said his CBT result and other relevant documents were available for verification by the appropriate authorities.

    As of the time of filing this report, there was no response from the Akwa Ibom State Civil Service Commission or the Head of Civil Service addressing Udo’s specific concerns. The claims regarding the selection process and the comparative CBT scores could not independently be verified from the information provided.

    Udo’s appeal now puts the spotlight on the recruitment process and his request for the relevant authorities to clarify the criteria used in arriving at the final shortlist.