The Lumine News

Author: The Lumine News

  • Sandy Onor Calls For Peace As Crisis Rocks PDP Cross State Chapter

    Sandy Onor Calls For Peace As Crisis Rocks PDP Cross State Chapter

    By Elijah Ugani 

    A former governorship candidate of the People’s Democratic Party PDP, in Cross River State for 2023 general election, Sen Sandy Ojang Onor, has had called for peace among party faithfuls.

    TheLumineNews can authoritatively state that some aggrieved members of the party have sought the resignation of the State Chairman, Venatius Ikem Esq.

    Senator Sandy, appealed to party members called on the aggrieved faction to sheath their sword and embrace peace.

    Onor stated that the internal strife will not do the party any good, rather, putting the party on the line against oppositions in the state. Onor averred that division cost the party at the national and in the state in the previous elections.

    The letter reads: “In the last two weeks, I have observed on the Cross River State PDP platform, a resurgence of calls for the resignation of the State Chairman, Barr. VenatiusI kem.

    “I have had the opportunity in the past of meeting with the protagonists of these calls and I have maintained the position that it would be totally injurious to our party at this critical time in our political history, to remove our State Chairman. My position on this matter has not changed and is not likely to change at all.

    “I appeal for constructive compromise between the Chairman and those who seek his ouster. As stakeholders of a political party, we must disagree from time to time but we have no liberty for disagreeableness. It is wanton disagreement more than anything else. that destroyed our party in the last elections for the National to the State levels and we cannot afford to accommodate the same vicious virus, moving forward.

    “Let the falcon hear the falconer. Let all the stakeholders sheath their swords and resolve their differences, or at worse, tolerate themselves since we only have one year left of the tenure of the present state executive committee. Let us all prepare to engineer the changes we want to see in the next state congress which is not far from now.

    “I would continue to pray for God’s favor, wisdom, humility and grace upon all of us. I remain yours truly.”

  • Governor Otu Commends President Tinubu, Assures NELFUND Management Team of Cross River’s Support

    Governor Otu Commends President Tinubu, Assures NELFUND Management Team of Cross River’s Support

     

    The Governor of Cross River State, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, has praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his decisive leadership in establishing the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) and ensuring its successful launch.

    Governor Otu made this commendation on Tuesday, when the Managing Director and CEO of NELFUND, alongside other top officials of the fund, paid him a courtesy call in Government House, Calabar.

    Represented by his deputy, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, Governor Otu stated that his administration views NELFUND as a critical platform created by the Federal Government to provide financial support for students of Cross River State in tertiary institutions nationwide, helping them pursue their education with ease.

    He emphasized that education remains a priority for his administration, reaffirming its unwavering support for the NELFUND management team in fulfilling their mandate, which aims to benefit many students across the state and the nation at large.

    In his remarks, the Managing Director and CEO of NELFUND, Mr. Akintunde Sawyerr, highlighted that the fund was established as part of President Tinubu’s commitment to alleviating the financial challenges faced by students and enhancing their educational experience.

    He commended Governor Otu for implementing policies that contribute to the intellectual and social development of the country.

    Mr. Sawyerr also informed that the disbursement process has begun and encouraged students to take advantage of the federal government’s initiative to ease the financial difficulties they face.

    In attendance at the visit were the Special Adviser to the Governor on General Duties, Barr. Ekpenyong Akiba, Special Assistant to the Governor on Students Affairs, Comr. Kelvin Eyam, President and the Senate President of the National Association of Nigerian Students, among others.

    ©Deputy Governor’s Press Unit, Calabar
    10/09/2024

  • Capt Hart Modey Announces 2024 Bakor Cultural Dance Competition

    Capt Hart Modey Announces 2024 Bakor Cultural Dance Competition

    By Elijah Ugani 

    The President & Founder of Captain Hart Modey Foundation, Chief Captain Hart Modey is set to hold the annual Bakor Cultural Dance Competition, tagged Nkim-Bakor Cultural Dance Competition 2024.

    The event which is scheduled to hold on the 13th September, 2024, at the Ishibori Playground, Ogoja Local Government Area of Cross River State, has Ntol Ama Ngbeje III as the royal father of the day.

    A release made available to TheLumineNews indicates that sons and daughters of Nkim kingdom, Ishiborr, are special guests of honor.

    The release further requests interested participants to obtain forms from Capt Hart Modey Foundation’s main office, opposite Chief Murphy’s Estate, along Catholic Church road, Ishiborr, Ogoja, Cross River State.

    Prices to be won include:
    Winer N100k
    Ist Runner up.   N70k
    2nd Runner up N50k
    3rd Runner up N30k

    For more information and inquiries, please contact:

    08037996562
    09074219208

    The Cultural Dance Competition is an annual event initiated by Chief Capt Hart Modey as part of activities to mark the Bakor New Yam festival.

    The general public is invited to be part of the 2024 dance competition.

  • Boki Councilors Forum Says Next Boki Chairmanship Position Is For Abo Ward

    Boki Councilors Forum Says Next Boki Chairmanship Position Is For Abo Ward

    PRESS RELEASE
    FROM BOKI COUNCILLORS FORUM

    THE NEXT BOKI LOCAL GOVERNMENT CHAIRMANSHIP IS FOR ABO WARD AND CLAN

    It has become necessary that we, the Boki Councillors forum( BCF) speak to the issue of the next Boki local government chairmanship position.

    Boki Councillors forum is a forum that comprises over 120 former councilors who have served in Boki LG council, irrespective of current party affiliation.

    We are a non-governmental organisation registered with relevant government agencies, who seek to contribute our quota to the political and economic emancipation of our people. As senior citizens, we have a duty to speak the truth to help promote unity amongst our people.

    We are conscious of the fact that once an election cycle unfolds , several gladiators and actors will begin to rehearse and present arguments to buttress their position. In doing so the facts are often twisted to favour the side they want to patronize.

    No matter how these facts are twisted, there is always the truth. There is no lie or half-truths that can replace the full truth because truth is imament and therefore inherently indestructible. Therefore it is necessary to examine the facts as follows.

    It is not in contention that:
    1. Boki local government area has two state constituencies: BOKI ONE and BOKI TWO and six traditional clans namely Abo, Boje, Eastern Boki, Irruan, Osokom 1 and Osokom 2.
    2. That zoning of chairmanship of Boki local government area rotates among these six traditional blocks.
    3. That Once it is the turn of a bloc, the ward or wards within that clan which have not produced (are) is identified and the position given to (them) her. Electoral wards have never been used as the basis for zoning of Chairmanship, and when they are used at all, they have to agree with the clan basis, ipso facto, to prevent one clan, like Eastern Boki for instance, from taking three times before Abo or Boje with one ward will take.

    4. Boki people have NEVER used another office as a yardstick to zone the chairmanship slot. Let nobody mislead the leadership of political parties otherwise.
    Agitators for the position of chairmanship have elevated appointments of Vice-chairmen, members of House of Assembly and commissioners into the same cadre of substantive Chairmanship, just to confuse the public and further their selfish agenda.

    As leaders who have served Boki as Honourable councillors, we will not sit idly by and allow these detractors to mislead the government , political parties and innocent members of the public with regard to which zone should produce the next Chairman of Boki local government council.

    FACTS YOU CANNOT WISH AWAY
    1. The Chairmanship of Boki alternates between Boki 1 and Boki 2 and run along the old six clans( blocs).The chairmanship has just left Boki 2 and is now for Boki 1.

    2..In Boki 1. Eastern Boki clan produced Chief Bartholomew Okurishi from Alanku ward who served between 1991-1993.

    3. In Boki 1, Abo clan and ward produced Barrister A. B. Tase, as Chairman under Zero party – 1996 – 1997

    4. Boje clan and ward – produced Hon (Ambassador) Soni O. Abang between 1999 – 2002.

    5. Mrs Bessie Bankong Obi from Eastern Boki clan – 2007- 2010.

    6.Hon. Abubakar Ewa from Eastern Boki clan ( Buentsebe ward ) took the 3rd Eastern Boki slot between 2013/2016

    The position has returned to Boki 1 and it is only natural that Abo clan and ward, which last took its turn as far back as 1996 take now. Those who coral all these appointive and elective positions into the conversation aim to mislead the innocent ones. The argument is simple and straight forward. It is about the substantive chairmanship of Boki, and nothing else.

    We call on all men of good conscience to rise and defend the truth to protect equity, justice and fairness. Not forgetting that we are all brothers and sisters from the same stock and our shared destiny is bound together in peace, in progress and in love. Let us also not forget that this is not a war but a well thought out strategy used by our forebears to douse tension and promote unity among all of us as children of one family

    The Boki Councillors Forum make bold to state very clearly that the next Boki local government chairmanship belongs to Abo ward in Abo clan in fair regard to equity, justice and fairness. So help us God.

    God bless you all.

    Signed
    Hon Joe Obi Bisong
    Forum Chairman

    Hon Amos Otu
    Forum secretary

    Hon Jacob Etta Ojie
    Osokom 1 Coordinator

    Hon George Ajangson
    Osokom 2 Coordinator

    Hon Ferdinand Ncha
    Irruan Coordinator

    Hon Michael Leku Ayuk
    Abo Coordinator

    Hon Harrison Odudu
    Eastern Boki Coordinator

  • Sen Jarigbe Agom Lits Up Ogon & Sariki Audu Streets In Ogoja LGA

    Sen Jarigbe Agom Lits Up Ogon & Sariki Audu Streets In Ogoja LGA

     

    In a remarkable display of commitment to community development, the Senator representing Cross River North Senatorial District, Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, has illuminated Ogon & Sariki Audu Streets, in Ogoja Local Government Area of Cross River State.

    This electrifying project, executed by the Senator, aims to enhance the quality of life for residents, improve security, and boost economic activities in the area.

    The lawmaker has emphasized his dedication to improving the welfare of his constituents. “As your representative, I am committed to making a positive impact in our communities. This street lighting project is just the beginning of my efforts to transform Cross River North Senatorial District”, Sen. Jarigbe reiterated.

    Community leaders and residents expressed gratitude to the Senator for his unwavering commitment to their well-being.

    “This is a dream come true for us, we can now move freely at night, and our businesses will thrive” they added.

    The initiative is a testament to Senator Jarigbe’s dedication to community development and his promise to deliver meaningful projects to his constituents.

    TEAM JARI MEDIA

  • Odere Empowers 100 Bekwarra Farmers With Soft Grant, Fertilizer, Sewing Machines, Grinding Engines

    Odere Empowers 100 Bekwarra Farmers With Soft Grant, Fertilizer, Sewing Machines, Grinding Engines

    By Elijah Ugani 

    The Cross River State Commissioner for Finance, Mr Mike Odere, has provided soft grant for 100 beneseed (sesame) farmers in Bekwarra Local Government Area.

    Speaking during the presentation of the soft grant on Saturday 7th September 2024 at the ground reception of the 2024 Bekwarra New Yam festival, (Ipem Ihihe), Mr Odere, noted that “I have done this for the past eight years. Beneseed is very expensive outside of the country. Today, we support you with soft grant, fertilizer to enable you cultivate beneseed, when you harvest it, we will buy it off from you. And when you do well, we will add you more grant to enable you expand the farm.

    “We are supporting 100 beneseed farmers drawn from the 10 wards of Bekwarra Local Government Area. In few years from now, I want you to export beneseed. Please I encourage you to make good use of this little resources that we are supporting you with”.

    According to the Coordinator of the initiative, Mr Tom Alims, the 100 beneseed (sesame) farmers got a Two Million Naira only (2M) and 20 bags of fertilizer to assist them in land preparation and cultivation.

    Alims noted “We were very particular about the selection process, as only those interested in beneseed farming were identified and captured. This is so because we don’t want to write names of people that will collect the money and put into other businesses”.

    Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Mrs Odey Veronica Akpana, who hail from Ukpah ward commended Mr Mike Odere for the initiative and for thinking about them. She pledged that the beneficiaries will do everything humanly possible to sustain the gains of the beneseed farming to ensure that his dreams of exporting beneseed from Bekwarra comes true.

    Similarly, Sir Augustine Agbor Odere’s Foundation distributed 10 sewing machines and 20 grinding engines to beneficiaries drawn from the Ten wards of Bekwarra.

    Sir Augustine Agbor Odere Foundation, is an initiative of Mr Mike Odere and his siblings to honor their late father.

  • Dear Minister Ojo, As You Investigate Afokang Prison…. BY AGBA JALINGO 

    Dear Minister Ojo, As You Investigate Afokang Prison…. BY AGBA JALINGO 

     

    Thank you for giving prompt attention to the situation in Afokang Prison in Calabar. As the investigation panel you have set up begins their work, I believe there are problems within the prison system that you already know.

    I do not believe that the photos that our news platform, CrossRiverWatch, obtained from Afokang prison are a shock to you or that you are not aware that inmates are going through same and even worse conditions in different prisons across the country.

    A combination of inadequate budgetary provision, corruption and low morale amongst personnel, has exposed inmates to some of the most terrible prison conditions in the whole world.

    As you investigate Sir, my own suggestions on inmates feeding will be that:

    1. Presently, inmates feeding is covered by procurement laws. Because of its nature, and the security implication it poses, inmates feeding should be done directly from the office of the CG of the Correctional Service, under Direct Contract Award, DCA. Should anything go wrong, we know who to hold accountable. This will reduce the pilfering in the present situation where top guns in the service share inmate’s feeding contracts amongst themselves and then resell, while some get kick backs before approving for a contractor.

    2. The current approved cost of inmate ration is N1,125 per inmate, per day. Divide that by three square meals and it amounts to N375 per meal. With the very high cost of food items in the market now, it is common knowledge that N375, cannot afford a good meal in Nigeria today. They has to be supplementary appropriation to capture the rise in food prices.

    3. Most of the ration contractors who supply food to the Correctional facilities are serving and/or retired top officers of the service and their cronies. They decide what to send to the officers heading various prisons who are usually called – “In-charge Stations”, to use for the purchase of inmates’ ration on a monthly basis. Having run stations as In-charges before, these ration contractors know the sharp practices involved and are aware that sometimes, public spirited individuals and organizations donate raw food items for inmates. This has to be corrected.

    4. Out of the N1,125 per meal, per inmate, appropriated, most ration contractors give In-charge stations, a paltry N280 to N300 per meal per inmate.

    5. Morale amongst the service personnel is so low due to low pay. They are poorly paid. Which is one of the reasons they continue to share inmates ration amongst themselves and facilitate trafficking of banned items into prison yards.

    6. Officers are promoted without placement for more than a year. And when they are finally placed, promotional arrears are not paid. No training or course allowances, no transfer allowance. They print their ID cards in business centers. They don’t have uniformed IDs. They buy and sew their uniforms from the open markets.

    7. The only time the service personnel see extra income is when they are made in-charge stations, and are close to retirement. And that becomes an opportunity to amass every available funds to settle themselves knowing that at retirement, their pension is nothing to write home about.

    8. As a long term measure, the Correction Service should begin thinking of putting their various farm centers into maximum use so they can produce food that would be used to feed inmates.

    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 organization the author works for 

  • You Are Not Meant To Remain A Decorator Of Other People For Life; Others Will Also Decorate You And It Is Your God That Says So Not Man BY PETER OBELE ABUE

    You Are Not Meant To Remain A Decorator Of Other People For Life; Others Will Also Decorate You And It Is Your God That Says So Not Man BY PETER OBELE ABUE

    EPHPHATHA!

    By giving full attention to a deaf man and finally commanding that his ears “be open”, Jesus fulfills the prophecy of Isaiah on him through the pronouncement of Ephphatha (which means ‘Open up’). “He took him away by himself, away from the crowd… looked up to heaven and with a groan said: Ephphatha! (Mk 7:33). Here, the old order has passed away; a person long abandoned, who was depressed and dispirited has come back to life. To this very person, the Prophet Isaiah had foretold that “the eyes of the blind will be opened, the ears of the deaf will be unsealed, the lame will leap like a deer and the tongue of the dumb sing for joy” (Is.35: 4-7).

    Today, Ephphatha will be a heavenly pronouncement on you. The period of lack in your life is ended and God will finally bring you into a season of abundance. To you who has been waiting for so long… your era of lack has come to an end. Whether it is that period you have been waiting and no one seem bothered about you, or the period when sickness, joblessness, barrenness and even sin seem to have enveloped and blinded you to the extent that you failed to see God’s light clearly enough to plot a new path for yourself in life, Jesus says “Ephphata” to you! Open up that path that someone is blocking for you in your office, your life’s calling, your family, village or organization; wherever you find yourself.

    You are not meant to remain a decorator of other people for life; others will also decorate you and it is your God that says so not man. You are that very special case in God’s hands; the one Jesus would “take off by himself away from the crowd… look up to heaven and with a groan say: Ephphatha!. All you need is trust in the saving power of God, go on your knees and put your doubts aside . Remember, it is not by power or might, nor is it by your wisdom or influence. God is in total control of your life, so “Be strong. Do not be afraid…your God is coming to save you” (Is. 35: 4).

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

  • Cross River Gov’t Initiates Technical Tender To Privatize Four State-owned Industrial Assets

    Cross River Gov’t Initiates Technical Tender To Privatize Four State-owned Industrial Assets

     

    In a move to stimulate economic rejuvenation and employment opportunities, the government of Cross River State has opened bidding for the privatization of four state-owned industrial assets that have been moribund for years now.

    These assets include the Boki and Nsadop Oil Palm Estates, Fish Hatchery in Ugboro, Bekwarra Local Government Area, Durafoam Industries in Ikom Local Government Area, and Ibonda Fish Hatchery in Odukpani Local Government Area.

    All the aforementioned assets are solely owned by the State Government without any liabilities, the State Privatisation Council has disclosed.

    The technical bidding session was conducted at the Cross River Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) office, where investors expressed satisfaction with the bidding procedures.

    During the event, Chief Bassey Okon, Chairman of the Cross River State Privatization Council, underscored the council’s dedication to meticulous evaluation of bids received.

    “We will carefully assess your technical expertise and capability to efficiently manage the companies to achieve the objectives of this privatization initiative,” he stated.

    The Privatization Council Chairman informed that after the bid evaluation, successful bidders will be invited to inspect the companies they are interested in and subsequently submit their financial proposals.

    Okon reassured participants that the process is designed to be transparent and adhere to due process, essential for upholding trust in the privatization exercise.

    Highlighting the government’s broader vision, Okon emphasized that the state is committed to creating a conducive environment for investors.

    “The privatization aims to enhance operational efficiency, create employment opportunities, and boost the state’s revenue base.

    “We are confident that the communities hosting these assets will benefit significantly in terms of employment and infrastructure development once the privatization is completed,” he remarked.

    He commended the state governor, Sen. Bassey Otu, for approving the privatization the moribund industries and noted that previous administrations had attempted but failed to privatize these assets.

    Mr. Sunday Ekeke, Chief Executive Officer of Sunfil Goldenroll Nigeria Ltd, a bidding company, commended the council for its transparency throughout the technical bidding process. He expressed confidence in the council’s commitment to transparency throughout the bidding process.

    As the open competitive bidding process progresses, the Cross River State Government remains committed to ensuring that the privatization of these dormant assets leads to sustainable economic growth and enhances the quality of life for its residents.

    Nsa Gill
    Chief Press Secretary to the Governor
    08/09/2024

  • C’River Deputy Governor Odey Condoles With Godwin Iyala Over Mother’s Death

    C’River Deputy Governor Odey Condoles With Godwin Iyala Over Mother’s Death

     

    The Deputy Governor of Cross River State, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, on Friday, at Forté David in Ushara-Gakem, Bekwerra Local Government Area, offered his condolences to Mr. Godwin Iyala, Director General of the State Health Insurance Scheme, on the loss of his beloved mother, Late Mother Theresa Okpele-Iyala.

    The late Mother Okpele-Iyala, known for her strong business acumen, generosity, and nurturing spirit, passed away on July 12th, 2024, at the age of 84.

    In a condolence message to the Director General of State Health Insurance Scheme, Sir Godwin Iyala, KSJi, JP, the Deputy Governor said: “Your mother was a woman of exceptional character, a devout Catholic whose faith was the cornerstone of her life. As a chef and home builder, she not only nourished bodies but also nurtured hearts, creating a home filled with love, warmth, and peace. Her simplicity and contentment were testaments to a life well-lived, grounded in values that many aspired to but few truly embodied.

    “Madam Okpele-Iyala’s legacy as a peace-loving woman and a firm yet loving disciplinarian will continue to live on in the lives of those who she touched”

    Odey further stated that, “though her time on this earth was shorter than wished, we must take comfort in knowing that the value of life is not measured by its length but by the profound impact one makes during their time”

    He encouraged the Iyala family to find comfort in the knowledge that their mother lived a fulfilling life, dedicated to spreading love, compassion, and kindness to her family and community.

    Deputy Governor’s Press Unit, Calabar