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  • C’River Northern Senatorial District Councillors Adopts Tinubu, Otu, Jarigbe For 2027

    C’River Northern Senatorial District Councillors Adopts Tinubu, Otu, Jarigbe For 2027

    By Elijah Ugani 

    Councillors representing the 54 political wards of Northern Senatorial District of Cross River State, has passed a vote of confidence and adopted the trio of Sen Jarigbe Agom, Gov Bassey Edet Otu and President Bola Armed Tinubu GCFR, for reelection in 2027.

    The adoption was made on Saturday March 22nd 2026 when the councillors paid Sen Jarigbe Agom a courtesy visit.

    Speaking on behalf of the councillors, the Deputy Leader of Ogoja Legislative Council, Hon Sunday Achang and Councillor representing Mbube East, noted that “The 54 councillors gathered today in your residence to do Two things and what we have come to do is very intentional. First to appreciate God for you and to thank God for returning you to us. We the 54 councillors wholeheartedly received you into the APC.

    “Secondly, to also inform you that we are the grassrooters that knows all the tracks, bushes, streams, old women and everything that you represent at the National Assembly. And for the fact that we know all these things, and that when you want to bring devidends of democracy to our wards, we will be there to speak to what you have been doing.

    “What we are here to do is to do move a vote of confidence on your credibility to consolidate on your political gains and consolidate on the achievement of what you have done for northern Senatorial District.

    “We have come here also to move a motion of confidence on our dear father, Apostle Sen Bassey Edet Otu, we also move a vote of confidence on President Bola Armed Tinubu”.

    The leader of Ogoja Legislative Council, Hon Elizabeth Mbim PhD, called for a motion for the adoption of the trio, and was moved by Hon Lawrence Ishibi, councillor representing Angiaba/Begiaka ward, Obudu Local Government Area and was seconded by Hon Acha Michael Oko, repenting Otukpuru ward, Bekwarra Local Government Area.

    Responding, Sen Jarigbe Agom noted that “I am highly elated, this is actually the highpoint of our activities in the north. It is the melting point because we have come to listen to the voices of the people that represents us at the grassroots. Our politics in a democracy is a bottom to top approach. So it is the highpoint of our activities and I cannot find words to appreciate you all.

    “I want to be part of your endeavours and I will want you to be part of my endeavours. I want to be part of your problems and I want you to be part of my problems.

    “I want us to be a family, once you are open to me, I will be open to you. Your needs are not the kinds that I cannot handle. If I cannot handle, I have friends that will support me.

    “I will convey your message to the governor. I will convey your message to the President, Bola Armed Tinubu GCFR, if I cannot see him, he will watch it on TVC news. That is the television he listens to. You are the first Councillors in Nigeria to adopt the President for 2027, intellectually mobile councillors”.

    Highpoint of the visit was the presentation of yams by the councillors to the senator.

  • City Boy Movement Distributes Food Palliatives to Christians, Muslims in Cross River

    City Boy Movement Distributes Food Palliatives to Christians, Muslims in Cross River

    The City Boy Movement, a youth-focused support group championing the reelection of President Bola Tinubu in 2027 has distributed food items worth millions of naira to both Muslim and Christian communities in Cross River State.

    The event, which took place on Wednesday in Calabar, saw the distribution of over 5,000 boxes of palliatives, packed with essential food items to both Christians and Muslims in the spirit of the holy month.

    State Coordinator of the group, Okon Eyo-Ita while speaking, said the initiative was designed to support the Muslim as they celebrate the Eid-el-Fitr and the Christians are they prepare for Easter.

    He said that the City Boy Movement is not merely an organisation, but a growing platform for youth mobilisation, civic responsibility, and sustained grassroots engagement in support of national development.

    Eyo-Ita said that “the Calabar outreach signals the beginning of a broader agenda, one that positions the City Boy Movement as a unifying force and a catalyst for positive change.”

    Beneficiary, Ekaete Bassey, speaking on behalf of others, noted that “we are truly thankful for the City Boy Movement’s generosity and thoughtfulness. This timely support means a lot to families during these period.”

  • Jarigbe Begins 2027 Re-election Consultations in Obanliku, Seeks Stakeholders’ Support and Prayers

    Jarigbe Begins 2027 Re-election Consultations in Obanliku, Seeks Stakeholders’ Support and Prayers

     

    The Senator representing Cross River North Senatorial District, Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, has commenced consultations ahead of his 2027 re-election bid, beginning with Obanliku Local Government Area.

    The consultation visit, which took place yesterday in Obanliku, included a meeting with members of the Obanliku Traditional Rulers Council as well as key stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the Local Government Area.

    Addressing the gathering, Senator Jarigbe stated that the purpose of the visit was to formally share his intention to seek re-election and to solicit the continued support, cooperation, and prayers of the people as political activities gradually intensify across the country.

    He emphasized his commitment to delivering more developmental projects and improving the welfare of his constituents if given another mandate.

    “We are here to interface with you. The good thing is that, after the last election, we did not wait until the next election before we are coming again. We have been coming and we have been working”, the Senator said.

    He further reassured stakeholders of his dedication to sustained grassroots engagement and effective representation.

    In their separate remarks, the Executive Chairman of Obanliku LGA, the Paramount Ruler, and the APC Chapter Chairman warmly received the Senator and his entourage. They commended him for attracting significant infrastructural projects and human capital development initiatives to the local government within a relatively short period.

    The stakeholders also expressed their appreciation for his consistent engagement with the people and pledged their continued support for his leadership.

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

    TEAM JARI MEDIA

  • Nigeria: Far From Change, Nearer To Baits BY AGBA JALINGO 

    Nigeria: Far From Change, Nearer To Baits BY AGBA JALINGO 

     

    After the 2023 elections, very few Nigerians have been an exception in the flurry of complaints about how hard and difficult life has been in all ramifications. The cost of EVERYTHING except oxygen, which is provided free by nature, has skyrocketed. Everyday, people sleep in other people’s inbox and DMs, begging for assistance to survive and race through the maze of life.

    Those who were (s)elected in 2023 to improve the fortunes of the ordinary people have generally lived abysmally below expectations. You will think that, now that elections are approaching, there will be a saturation of bile and anger to vote out the below per officials, but the opposite is our reality.

    The mid term elections are approaching in the US for instance, and it is crystal obvious that the voters desire a shift as a consequence for failed campaign promises. Clearly, some public office holders in that clime are worried and they know their days in public office are numbered. But over here, the energy and verve with which the victims of bad governance are gearing up to return those who have impoverished their lives and left them to complain, is alarming.

    I mean, you live hand-to-mouth and cap-in-hand. You complain about how badly you have been governed. You complain about how horribly you have been abandoned by those you voted, yet you are at the forefront of those running around to reinforce failure and incompetence. You are campaigning for the return of the same people who left you in penury and squalor. How ironical!

    It is clear that what the majority of our country people want isn’t good governance. Because if it was good governance, they will seek and vote for good leaders and defend their votes. They will vote out bad leaders and keep them permanently in retirement or in jails where they belong. It is also clear that what our people prefer are stop gap expediencies and quick baits that guarantee immediate ingratiation. We are far away from change but nearer to cheap baits, and the intrepid power seekers understand this and are fully on the wheels.

    Maybe it is not our fault. Maybe it is because we don’t even know what good governance is, having not experienced it before; because if you have never experienced good governance before, you cannot know what bad governance is. Maybe it is because we have been conditioned to believe that good governance is the distribution of palliatives and handouts from politicians. Maybe, maybe, maybe and just may be! This generation lack the spine to ask for good governance. This generation is in love with their chains and they very well deserve it.

    Albeit, I remain fervently and unrepentantly hopeful that someday, when the shadows are illuminated and when the veils are torn, a generation will rightly rise up and demand for their morsel.

    Yours sincerely,
    Citizen Agba Jalingo.

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

  • Between Jarigbe And Ayade, The Story Of Light And Darkness BY DOMINIC KIDZU

    Between Jarigbe And Ayade, The Story Of Light And Darkness BY DOMINIC KIDZU

     

    Put away the tough talk and bombast, the flash champagne and glitterati. Forget the tokunbo cars and the usual motorcycles for a moment.

    Just place Senator Jarigbe Agom and Senator Ben Ayade on a fair and square scale and tell yourself what you see. Can you not see a community asset and a fast guy? Can you not see a genuine leader and a dramatic gooble the gook?

    Or just imagine for a moment that the universe forces you to make a compulsory choice between Jarigbe and Ayade, and you are blind from birth like a bat. So you run your fingers through their faces and bodice. Who would you chose, because blind eyes can also verily see.

    Some choices are like day and night. Not really difficult to make. Even a thoroughly reformed and rejigged Ben Ayade, will still be Ben Ayade. Fast talk. Big grammar. Tall promises. A new dance style or two. Even a drop of tear or two as well. And the curtain is drawn on the stage.

    All these would be farce. Just melodrama, to hoodwink and to befuddle. By far the biggest apple on the political dinning table is state governorship. If you couldn’t do anything with it, you couldn’t do anything with God’s throne either. Just take a frech leave and stay in bed forever. Because, as Nyesom Wike has taught us, if it didn’t de, it didn’t de.

    In political office, what you really need is genuine desire and passion to assist, to change lives and to impact. If all you genuinely and passionately care about is the enrichment of yourself and your family, then, brother-man, you are at the wrong address. Just keep moving.

    See what difference Governor Bassey Otu has made in just under three years as governor! Not show business, but real, purposeful grinding work at the forge. Dead bodies and tragedies have come back to life. Hope is restored and all his promises are steadily being kept. This is leadership.

    Ayade left a gargantuan behemoth of dead projects behind his unfortunate reign. Broken promises still litter the floor of Cross River State as he faded away from the stage. Governmental systems and conventions were blatantly trampled upon until the locusts left the city.

    What else does Ben Ayade want? By Jove this man has a lot of courage to still be able to do the double-shuffle and show his face around! Is he not the man who shut Cross Riverians out of the stadium for Governor Otu’s inauguration because he felt unsafe? When a leader begins to hide from the people then he has himself passed the verdict on his own reign.

    So what has now changed outside his feeling of deja vu for the bright lights and awe that power brought him which he must now rue in many a lonesome night. All he ever wanted was money and he now should have it. If he wanted relevance then he should have tried to be a better governor. Be careful what you ask for, because you might just get it.

    The people of Cross River North are not daft or ignorant. They will take the cars and bikes with a wry smile and move along, because they know on what side their bread is buttered. Senator Jarigbe Agom is the bread of life that every zone is praying to get a semblance of. He is the real deal. Don’t we know the contenders, pretenders and revisionists?

     

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

  • You Have Every Right, Like Every Bekwarra Son and Daughter – Ada Bekwarra II Tells Sen Jarigbe Agom

    You Have Every Right, Like Every Bekwarra Son and Daughter – Ada Bekwarra II Tells Sen Jarigbe Agom

     

    The Ada Bekwarra II, Hon. Signor Omang Idiege, has reaffirmed that Senator Jarigbe Agom enjoys the same rights and privileges as every other son and daughter of Bekwarra land, emphasizing unity and inclusiveness within the community.

    Hon. Idiege made this known when Senator Jarigbe Agom, accompanied by his team, paid him a courtesy visit at his country home in Gakem. The visit was part of the Senator’s consultations ahead of the 2027 senatorial election.

    Speaking during the meeting, the elder statesman stressed that Bekwarra’s traditions uphold equality and do not tolerate discrimination among its people.

    “You have every right, just like every other Bekwarra son and daughter. In Bekwarra culture and tradition, we do not discriminate against our own, including our grandchildren,” he stated.

    Hon. Idiege further revealed that stakeholders and elders in Bekwarra have consistently advised the people to embrace issue-based politics, rather than divisive or personality-driven campaigns.

    “At the stakeholders’ level, we have been cautioning our people to focus on issues. We are pleased to see that this is gradually becoming the norm in our political engagements,” he added.

    In his response, Senator Jarigbe Agom expressed gratitude to the Ada Bekwarra II for the warm reception and fatherly guidance. He also appreciated the role of elders and opinion leaders in fostering unity, peace, and development within the community.

    The visit, observers note, reflects ongoing efforts by political actors to engage traditional and community leaders as part of broader consultations ahead of the upcoming elections.

    The Lawmaker was accompanied the Executive Chairman of Bekwarra LGA, Hon. Egbung Odama, High Chief Timmy Tom Udam, Chief Wabily Nyiam, Rt. Hon. Peter Igbodor, Chief Igbe Aruku, Papa Dornclaimz Enamhe, Uko Inaku, Princess Otanya, Hon. Charles Eneji, Hon. Kingsley Agabi, Prof. Osha and many others.

    TEAM JARI MEDIA

  • Eid-el-Fitr: Senator Jarigbe Extols Unity, Empathy, Shared Humanity

    Eid-el-Fitr: Senator Jarigbe Extols Unity, Empathy, Shared Humanity

     

    The Senator representing Cross River State Northern Senatorial Zone, Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, has extended warm felicitations to the Muslim Ummah in Cross River State and across Nigeria on the successful completion of the holy month of Ramadan and the joyous celebration of Eid-el-Fitr.

    In his goodwill message, the Senator paid tribute to the resilience, devotion and discipline demonstrated by the faithful throughout the period of fasting, prayer and almsgiving, noting that Ramadan remains a powerful testament to the elevating force of faith and the human capacity for sacrifice in pursuit of divine grace.

    Jarigbe observed that “Eid-el-Fitr is not merely a festivity, but a solemn reminder of the enduring virtues that bind humanity together, compassion, generosity, tolerance and love.” He urged the Muslim faithful to carry forward the moral and spiritual lessons of Ramadan into everyday life, allowing them to shape interactions, deepen empathy and strengthen communal bonds.

    He emphasized that “the occasion presents a timely opportunity for Nigerians, irrespective of religious or ethnic differences, to reaffirm their commitment to peaceful coexistence, mutual respect and national cohesion,” noting that “the true essence of Eid lies in our ability to extend kindness beyond familiar circles and to build bridges of understanding in a diverse society such as ours.”

    While reflecting on the broader national context, the Senator reiterated the need for collective responsibility in nurturing a just, inclusive and harmonious society where every citizen is accorded dignity and opportunity, regardless of background or belief.

    Jarigbe therefore enjoins the Muslim faithful to celebrate with gratitude, moderation and a deep sense of social responsibility, praying that the blessings of Eid usher in peace, renewed hope and abiding prosperity for Cross River State and Nigeria at large.

    TEAM JARI MEDIA

  • Jarigbe Pays Courtesy Visit to Obudu LGA Chairman, Hon Peter Undiandeye Ahead Of Consultation

    Jarigbe Pays Courtesy Visit to Obudu LGA Chairman, Hon Peter Undiandeye Ahead Of Consultation

     

    The Senator representing Cross River North Senatorial District, Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, paid a courtesy visit to the Executive Chairman of Obudu Local Government Area, Peter Akonfe Undiandeye, at his residence upon arriving in Obudu ahead of his scheduled consultation visits.

    Senator Jarigbe, who was accompanied by key stakeholders from across the senatorial district, stated that his visit to Obudu marks the beginning of his consultations. He emphasized the importance of paying homage to the council chairman as part of his engagements.

    While receiving the senator and his delegation, Chief Tony Undiandeye expressed appreciation for Senator Jarigbe’s continued support for the Governor of Cross River State and the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria since joining the All Progressives Congress (APC). He noted that the senator’s presence in Obudu reflects the growing strength and momentum of his political aspirations among stakeholders, party leaders, and constituents.

    Also speaking, former member of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Gabriel Edi, highlighted the significance of the senator’s visit and the gathering of stakeholders in Obudu. He described Cross River North as fortunate to have Senator Jarigbe as its representative and called for collective support to ensure his reelection. According to him, this would enable the senator to continue his work in synergy with the Governor of Cross River State, Bassey Otu, and the President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    Some of the stakeholders include, Hon. Chief Timmy Tom, Chief Igbe Aruku, Hon. Martins Orim, Dr. Dornclaimz Enamhe, Hon. Paddy Uguge, Wabily Nyiam, Hon. Chris Agbe, Hon. Thomas Agi, Uko Inaku, Hon. Bravo Gabriel Oluohu amongst others.

    TEAM JARI MEDIA

  • Bishop Akpan Calls On Govt To Partner More Actively In Building Strong Educational Institutions

    Bishop Akpan Calls On Govt To Partner More Actively In Building Strong Educational Institutions

    By Elijah Ugani 

    The Bishop of Ogoja Diocese, the Most Rev Donatus Edet Akpan, has called on the Cross River State government to partner more actively in building strong educational institutions in the state for her people.

    The Bishop made the call on March 17th 2026 during the Diamond Jubilee Celebration of St Patrick’s Technical College Ugep held at the school premises.

    Represented by the Vicar General Administration, Very Rev Fr Peter Obele Abue PhD, the Bishop made the call during homily to declare the celebration open.

    In his words “Our past engagements with the government in the area of education may not have been encouraging. However, this moment calls for renewed collaboration. We urge the government to partner more actively with the church in building strong educational institutions for our people. If such collaboration had been stronger over the past sixty years, this celebration might have been even more glorious.

    Find full text of the homily “Welcome, my brother priests, distinguished alumni, invited guests, and the entire community of Ugep gathered here today. I also warmly acknowledge the Principal, staff and students of this great institution.

    “It gives me immense joy that we have all been called together to celebrate sixty years of faith, knowledge, and technical excellence. This is not just a celebration of time, but of impact, growth, and transformation.

    “I sincerely thank all those who have contributed to building this institution. Your dedication and enduring commitment have ensured that what was started sixty years ago has not only been sustained but strengthened.

    “On behalf of the Bishop of Ogoja, we reaffirm our resolve to continue promoting and strengthening technical education in our diocese.

    “Today, as we celebrate, we cannot fail to remember the inspiring story of Saint Patrick. As a young boy, he was captured from Britain and taken to Ireland as a slave. Yet, in his native land, he later became a priest and eventually a bishop. Because of his earlier experience, he chose to return to Ireland, where he devoted himself to evangelization and education. Through his work and that of his companions, Ireland was transformed.

    “Today, Saint Patrick is celebrated across the world, especially on Saint Patrick’s Day, a day that has become globally recognized. His life teaches us that wherever we find ourselves, we must blossom. Even in a foreign land, he became a champion of faith, learning, and human development.

    “In the same way, we in Cross River State may be considered latecomers in the area of education, but we must not be discouraged. The life of Saint Patrick reminds us that transformation is always possible.

    “I want to commend the Bishop and the Catholic Education Board for the remarkable work being done in the Ogoja Diocese, not only in schools, but also in churches and hospitals. We have seen how this institution has evolved through different stages to what it is today. These stages remind us that growth requires patience, perseverance, and faith.

    “Today, we are not just celebrating success, we are celebrating vision. Education must open our eyes. It must empower us to rise to greater heights and accomplish great things. The Church invites us to encounter Jesus Christ through education, because any true encounter with Christ must bring about transformation.

    “Our past engagements with the government in the area of education may not have been encouraging. However, this moment calls for renewed collaboration. We urge the government to partner more actively in building strong educational institutions for our people. If such collaboration had been stronger over the past sixty years, this celebration might have been even more glorious.

    “I also call on all alumni to rise and support this institution. Across the world today, alumni associations are key drivers of development. If there has been any division in the past, let this be the moment to unite and build a stronger, more effective body for progress.

    “Dear students, make hay while the sun shines. This is your opportunity to grow, to learn, and to prepare for a brighter future.

    “Finally, I invite all of us to commit ourselves to greater effort and faith. Like the disciples in the Gospel, who toiled without success until Christ intervened, we too are called to “cast our nets again.” When they obeyed, they experienced a bountiful catch. May the same be your story. As you go forth, may your efforts yield abundant fruit so much so that you will require others to help you gather the harvest.

    “May the God who has called you bring to completion the good work He has begun in you, through Christ our Lord. Amen”.

  • APC National Convention: Chief Okoi Obono-Obla Declares Interest For Publicity Secretary

    APC National Convention: Chief Okoi Obono-Obla Declares Interest For Publicity Secretary

    Ready to Serve as APC Voice –

    On 16 March 2026, the Party announced that it will retain the zoning formula used in 2022 as the basis for its 2026 zoning arrangement.

    I have always been a loyal Party man, and therefore I will align my aspiration with the decision of the Party. Accordingly, I intend to aspire to the position of National Publicity Secretary, or alternatively, the National Vice Chairman (South-South), subject to the agreement of our leaders.

    Undoubtedly, I will function seamlessly as a credible publicity anchor for the Party. My institutional memory is deep: I served as National Deputy Secretary, Secretary of the defunct Congress for Progressives Change (CPC), and Co‑Secretary of the Joint Inter‑Party Merger Committee that negotiated the formation of the APC in 2013. This experience is vital to advancing the Renewed Hope Agenda of our administration.

    Beyond this, I bring 35 years of legal practice and extensive government service, including roles as Special Assistant to the President on Prosecution, Special Assistant to the Attorney General of the Federation, Chairman of the Special Presidential Investigation Panel, and Acting Secretary of the Administration of Criminal Justice Monitoring Committee. Coupled with my media exposure as a commentator on governance, human rights, and international affairs, I have consistently defended and promoted the Party and Government in both traditional and new media.

    In addition, I have served as a Traditional Ruler in my community in Cross River State since 2009, on a throne that is over 500 years old. My experience as a judge, mediator, reconciliator, and administrator of justice and favors has enriched my capacity to manage people and resolve disputes. This background will bear directly on my work as a Party bureaucrat, particularly in strengthening its internal conflict resolution mechanisms.

    I was also the Chief Spokesman of the APC in Cross River State during the 2023 electioneering campaign, where I performed creditably in projecting, driving, and promoting the Party’s manifesto and campaign. This effort contributed to the Party’s victory in the State across both the executive and legislative branches of government.

    I am also a writer and author with deep knowledge of national and international affairs, which I will harness to shape and drive the Party’s narrative. Over the years, I have consistently defended and promoted the Party and Government in a positive light, ensuring that their vision is projected with clarity and conviction.

    In conclusion, the office of the National Publicity Secretary of the APC—the governing Party in Nigeria—requires loyalty, institutional memory, professional competence, media dexterity, and conflict resolution skills. These qualities I possess in abundance, and I stand ready to serve the Party with dedication and distinction.

    Obol Okoi Obono-Obla
    17 March 2026

    Obol Okoi Obono-Obla