The Lumine News

Author: The Lumine News

  • My Birthday Prayer… BY AGBA JALINGO

    My Birthday Prayer… BY AGBA JALINGO

     

    Dear Lord,

    I ask not for more light but for eyes to see the light that already exists.

    I ask not for sweeter songs but for ears to hear the present melodies.

    I ask not for more love but for skill to turn anger into tenderness.

    I ask for no more joy but for how to feel closer to your ineffable presence.

    To give others everything I already have; enthusiasm and courage.

    I ask for no more gifts but for the ability to use the gifts I have already received from you.

    I ask that in my sinful nature, even when I falter like I always do, I should not escape your chastisement, but I beseech thee to chastise me in love and lead me not unto destruction.

    Make me a master of all fears so I can be the friend I want to be.

    To convey the truth I know!

    For me to love purity. To seek the good and with all my power, to raise in every soul that comes in touch with me, a spark of the same fire.

    Thank you for the chance to begin another cycle. Thank you Lord for my friends and foes alike. Thank you for my family. Thank you Lord for thus far, and thank you for where I am headed.

    Thank you also my friends for reading and engaging yours sincerely here all year long and 🙏do have a wonderful year ahead.

    Happy birthday to me!

    Yours sincerely,
    Citizen Agba Jalingo.

  • CRS Commissioner For Special Duties Oden Ewa Donates Building For Party Secretariat, Charges Members On Loyalty, Unity

    CRS Commissioner For Special Duties Oden Ewa Donates Building For Party Secretariat, Charges Members On Loyalty, Unity

     

    Members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Yakurr Local Government Area of Cross River State have been charged to be more dedicated and committed to the party, and ensure that the party continues to increase in visibility and gain more ground.

    This charge was made by the Cross River State Commissioner for Special Duties and Inter Governmental affairs, Mr. Oden Ewa, at the unveiling ceremony of the LGA party secretariat building that he built and donated to the party.

    Mr Ewa described an inherent spirit of public service as his motivation for embarking on the project. He noted that it was of utmost importance for a Local Government area such as Yakurr to have a befitting party secretariat as it was the local government with the largest number of party faithful in Cross River State. For that reason, it was only natural for the local government to have a fully functional secretariat that would enable members congregate at all times.

    Mr. Ewa further tasked members to continue to support the party and ensure that it continues to be at the forefront in the minds of the people, not only in the LGA, but in the state as a whole. He also stressed that that their loyalty would be handsomely rewarded in the coming months with the dividends of democracy as the Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Edet Otu, had approved a series of projects for the LGA, to be implemented by his Ministry as a show of appreciation for the massive support given to the party in the 2023 general elections.

    The secretariat was formally commissioned by the State APC Chairman, Barrister Aiphonsus Ogar Eba, who was represented by Honourable Matthew Ebong. He commended Mr. Ewa for his commitment to the growth of the party in the state, for always showing concern for the welfare of his people, and for donating the building, which he said would be deployed to good use by the party.

    In addition to donating the building, Mr. Ewa also donated the sum of N5 million to the party as a reward for outstanding performance during the Governorship Election of 2023, along with 1,000 bags of rice and other items that were to be shared by party members to celebrate the Yuletide celebration.

    Also In attendance at the colourful event was the Deputy Governor of the State, His Excellency Rt. Hon Peter Odey, who made a donation of N500, 000 to the party.

    Others present were the Honourable Member representing Yakurr I Constituency in the State House of Assembly, Hon. Cyril Omini, Commissioner for Aviation, Captain Eno Inah, Honourable Abubakar Efoli, and other party stalwarts and traditional rulers

     

  • Thanksgiving Ceremony: Godwin Offiono Says His victory Is A Testament To The Omnipotence Of God

    Thanksgiving Ceremony: Godwin Offiono Says His victory Is A Testament To The Omnipotence Of God

     

    Hon. Godwin Offiono, the representative of Ogoja/Yala Federal Constituency, rededicated his electoral victory to God Almighty for His faithfulness during a Thanksgiving mass held at St. Rita’s Catholic Church in Abachor-Igbeku, Yala LGA, Cross River State.

    The Member of Parliament stated that his victory at the poll was a clear demonstration of the omnipresence, omniscience, and omnipotence of God. While acknowledging God, he also commended the political leaders, his family, friends, and constituents who were used by God to actualize His mandate.

    The event gathered the crème de la crème of Cross River North politics, including the House of Representatives Speaker, friends, family members, well-wishers, constituents, etc. They were in attendance to express gratitude to God alongside Hon. Offiono.

    Hon. Peter Akpanke, the Member representing Obudu/Bekwarra/Obanliku Federal Constituency, adeptly represented the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas. Additionally, the State Chairman, Hon. Barr. Venatius Ikem, represented the Cross River State PDP working committee, Hon. Eze Nwachukwu Eze, member representing Ebonyi and Ohaukwu Federal Constituency of Ebonyi State.
    Also in attendance were Barr. Idi Yakubu, Hon. Matthew Ojugbo, Dr. Ikani Wogar, Rt. Hon. Peter Igbodor, AIG Paul Odama, Hon. Mrs. Beatrice Igwe, commissioner for Housing, Cross River State, Prince Akwaji Offiono aka Akwase, Chief John Joe, Prophet Emmanuel Okpe, Mrs. Talatu Ogborgu, Dr. Paul Ebiala, Amb. Jammy Egbe, Registrar, University of Calabar, Capt. Fred Oko rtd, Chief Ongbinyi, Hon. Egar Mgbantul, Hon. Tom Agi, Hon. Sunday Oko (Otolo), Hon. Charles Omang, member representing Bekwarra State Constituency, Amb. Sunny Omagu, Barr. First Baba Isa, Paramount Rulers of Yala and Ogoja, Chiefs and Elders, and a host of others.

    Hon. Offiono promised to periodically contribute to the building of a befitting edifice for the church and commenced the project with the sum of Three million Naira (N3,000,000). Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas also sent in his contributions to the church project. Cross River State 10th National Assembly caucus, Prince Akwase Offiono, Senator Jarigbe Agom, Hon. Peter Akpanke, Hon. Barr. Venatius Ikem, Prophet Emmanuel Okpe, Amb. Jammy Egbe, Hon. Mrs. Beatrice Igwe, other respected dignitaries, friends and well wishers, also supported Hon. Offiono in the building of the church.

    Hon. Offiono, addressing constituents at St Joseph’s Primary School field in Okuku, expressed gratitude to party stakeholders, Ogoja/Yala constituents, and well-wishers for unwavering support. He reiterated his commitment to competent representation, emphasizing that the mandate belongs to the people. Despite distractions in court, he focused on securing the people’s mandate and looks forward to remarkable progress henceforth through projects, empowerment, bills, and human capital development.

    In conclusion, Hon. Offiono generously allocated the substantial amount of Thirty-five million naira (N35,000,000) along with Seven Hundred (700) bags of 50kg rice for New Year celebrations within the constituency.

    In his remarks, Hon. Akpanke commended the people of Ogoja/Yala and the entire Cross River North Senatorial District for their support, promising effective representation. “You’ve elected a good man; Hon. Offiono is a good man. We’re friends and brothers working together in the National Assembly, and I’m confident he will not disappoint you.

    The PDP State Chairman, Hon. Barr. Venatius Ikem also appreciated the Party faithfuls and constituents of Ogoja/Yala for standing against underdevelopment during the general election. He reiterated that the choice of Hon. Offiono was a direct fight against underdevelopment, lies and corruption. He encouraged the people to keep supporting PDP to attract more development to the region. The Chairman also commended Hon. Offiono for starting strong despite distractions from the legal tussle, he assured of the party’s fervent support.

    GOFFIO MEDIA.

  • CR’ Deputy Governor Honors Paramount Ruler, Celebrates Nonagenarian, Priest At 35

    CR’ Deputy Governor Honors Paramount Ruler, Celebrates Nonagenarian, Priest At 35

     

    The Deputy Governor of Cross River State, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, made a courtesy call to the Paramount Ruler of Ogoja, HRM, Oti Mathias Odey Abua, on Sunday, December 31, 2023. This visit was part of the Deputy Governor’s New Year activities in his Ogoja hometown.

    The Deputy Governor who took the opportunity to express his appreciation for the Paramount Ruler’s support and leadership, presented some food items and cash to the Paramount Ruler as a gesture of goodwill and solidarity for the New Year celebration.

    The Paramount Ruler, who in turn gave some fat yams to the Deputy Governor, expressed joy and gratitude for having the state’s second-in-command celebrate with him stating that he could have danced if not that such dances were forbidden for kings by tradition. He commended the Deputy Governor for his humility and service to the people of Cross River State while praying that God will protect him and grant success throughout Hon. Odey’s time in government.

    In a separate event, the Deputy Governor celebrated the 90th birthday of Chief Julius Abua Abang, a respected community leader in Mbube, Ogoja Local Government Area and the father of one time Attorney General of the State, Barr. Joe Oshie Abang. The Deputy Governor praised Chief Abang’s reputation and longevity, expressing joy at seeing the nonagenarian surrounded by his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

    Earlier, the Deputy Governor stopped by a Catholic Parish in Odajie, Mbube, where he testified that the Rev. Fr Prof Jake Otonko who has served 35 years in the priesthood, was instrumental in his personal and professional growth. He said it was the priest who supported his post graduate studies at the Catholic University of Leuven, Belgium. In recognition of this early assistance, the Deputy Governor gifted the priest a car and made a donation towards the church building.

    The Deputy Governor was accompanied on the visit by his Head of Personal Staff, Dr. Chris Ojikpong, political appointees and some friends.

  • Offiono Doles Out N35m, 700 Bags of Rice To Constituents For New Year Celebration

    Offiono Doles Out N35m, 700 Bags of Rice To Constituents For New Year Celebration

     

    The Member representing Ogoja/Yala Federal Constituency, Hon. Godwin Offiono, today released the sum of Thirty Five Million Naira (N35m) for new year celebration in Ogoja/Yala Federal Constituency.

    The Member of Parliament directed the distribution of Five Hundred Thousand (N500,000) to each of the twenty-four (24) wards of Ogoja/Yala, totaling twelve Million Naira (N12m). Additionally, stakeholders across these wards received Fifteen Million Naira (N15m). Non-Indigenous and the JTF group in the constituency were given Five hundred thousand Naira (N500,000), traditional rulers received two million Naira (N2,000,000). Furthermore, constituents from the various wards who attended the MP’s thanksgiving ceremony today, were demobilised with 2.5m, etc. 700 bags of rice was also distributed across the federal Constituency; each of the 24 wards to get 20 bags.

    Hon. Offiono reiterated his dedication to fairly representing the people of Ogoja/Yala with great skill, expressing his readiness to fulfill the mandate graciously bestowed upon him by his constituents, despite facing a challenging legal battle.

    GOFFIO MEDIA.

  • 2024 Presents Another Golden Opportunity To Take Very Demanding Course To Rejig Our Strides For Our Advancement – Akpanke

    2024 Presents Another Golden Opportunity To Take Very Demanding Course To Rejig Our Strides For Our Advancement – Akpanke

    NEW YEAR FELICITATION.

    Year 2023 took a bow a short while ago, ushering in a new year, 2024. It is a golden opportunity for us as a people, to take another golden step in our natural but very demanding course of rejigging our strides for our individual and communal advancement.

    As I wish us a prosperous new year, permit me to charge us to reinvigorate our commitment to our oneness and the pursuit of our desperate desire for development, in order to chart and sustain the course for our development, so that our Constituency could close ranks with and even be placed at par with other constituencies that are glaringly far ahead of us.

    My wish for us is that we allow peace, love, and brotherhood to reign in our Constituency, in order to provide the desired wholesome climate for our meaningful progress.

    Let me conclude by restating my total commitment to providing effective representation that shall attract abundant dividends of democracy to our Constituency. I am confident that with your continued prayers and support, we shall overcome all our developmental tasks.

    HAPPY NEW YEAR.

  • 2024: Be Intentional And Run The Race Of Excellence – Odey

    2024: Be Intentional And Run The Race Of Excellence – Odey

    2024: BE INTENTIONAL AND RUN THE RACE OF EXCELLENCE

    Welcome to 2024 and the truth is there is no time. The year has started. The first day of the year is as important as the last day of the year so start putting things in place to have a smooth flight in 2024. Your destiny is in your hands. Do not procrastinate. What you have to do, do it now. Be very intentional with your plans and purpose for the next twelve months. Run your race with so much passion and EXCELLENCE. Do not try to make excuses. Excuses birth calamity, regret and retrogression. Start now and watch yourself become a high flier in 2024.

    You are what you think of yourself. The global giants you see understand the dynamics of time and that is why they are always in a hurry to succeed. If you have to acquire that certification, do it now. If you have to read those books and make that decision to be a star, do it. Be intentional and work towards becoming the best.

    Your year has just started and the race is on.

    Happy New Year.

    Congratulations

    Rt. Hon. Peter Odey

  • Humanitarian Affairs Commissioner Charges Cross Riverians To Face The Challenges Ahead Of 2024 With Courage And Determination

    Humanitarian Affairs Commissioner Charges Cross Riverians To Face The Challenges Ahead Of 2024 With Courage And Determination

    Dear Cross Riverians,

    It is with great pleasure and profound sense of responsibility that I reach out to you today.

    The past year has been filled with numerous challenges and uncertainties, but it has also showcased the resilience, compassion, and unity of our people. In the face of adversity, you have risen above, extending a helping hand to those in need and demonstrating the true spirit of Humanity.

    As we embark on this new year, let us carry forward the lessons we have learned and the values we hold dear. Let us continue to prioritize the well-being and rights of every individual in our beloved state.

    In the year ahead, our mission remains steadfast – to promote and protect the rights and well-being of all individuals in Cross River State. We will work tirelessly to address the pressing humanitarian issues that affect our communities, and we will strive to create an environment where everyone can thrive and reach their full potential.

    I encourage each and every one of you to join us in this noble endeavor. Let us extend a helping hand to those who are less fortunate, advocate for the rights of the marginalized, and work towards creating a society that leaves no one behind.

    I also use this opportunity to express my deepest gratitude to all the individuals, organizations, and volunteers who have supported our efforts throughout the year. Your dedication and commitment have been instrumental in our success, and I am truly grateful for your partnership.

    As we step into this new year, let us embrace hope, unity, and resilience. Let us face the challenges ahead with courage and determination, knowing that together, we can overcome any obstacle.

    I wish you all a Happy New Year filled with love, peace, and prosperity. May this year be a time of RENEWED HOPE, SWEETNESS, Abundant Blessings, and positive change for all.

    Warm regards,
    Hon. Mrs Helen Isamoh- Egodo Ph.D
    Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs, CRS.

  • Holy Innocents: The Children Whom Herod Slaughtered In An Attempt To Kill The Baby, Jesus BY PETER OBELE ABUE

    Holy Innocents: The Children Whom Herod Slaughtered In An Attempt To Kill The Baby, Jesus BY PETER OBELE ABUE

    HOLY INNOCENTS

    Every 28th day of December we remember the Holy Innocents: The children whom Herod slaughtered in an attempt to kill the baby, Jesus. Herod had (dubiously) given instructions to the wise men to find out about the child and return the news to him so that he could go and do the child homage. That was a lie. In truth what Herod wanted was to eliminate the child.

    As God would have it, Herod realized that his trick failed when, after two years, the wise men never returned. In a rage, Herod commanded the killing of all the male children two years old and younger, in order to protect his kingship. Herod did not know that Jesus was not an earthly king interested in worldly power.

    Lessons to be learnt:
    1. Evil does not pay. Do not plan evil against your neighbor because it will boomerang on you
    2. Ĺeadership is a bait. Sometimes we leaders can be used by the devil to perpetrate evil. Be careful
    3. Avoid the PHD (pull him down) syndrom in life. Do not be threatened by the success of others to the extent of doing all in your power to pull them down. That’s pettiness
    4. Do not defame the character of other people in the name ‘telling the truth’ Which truth? Defaming people’s character, or blackmailing just to look good will not get you far in life
    5. Children and other vulnerable individuals are innocent and need our support and protection. Do not harm innocent people in order to perpetrate your agenda.

    My conclusion
    The death of the Holy innocents gives us a glimpse of the darkness that filled the earth before Christ brought light to the world. We Christians are reminded especially during this Christmas season that we must show the light not spread darkness and there are many ways we can do this

    As part of my ministry , I have been involved in (among other many apostolates), protecting the lives of innocent children for the past 38 years having been ordained on this day. There is no doubt I have faced many Herods in my ministry; misunderstandings, defamation of my character, temptations as a leader etc. In all, I pray to God for the grace to persevere, to be holy and to be innocent knowing that the God I serve will NEVER LET ME DOWN

    Please pray for me!

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

  • Akpanke Gifts 3M, 800 Bags Of Rice To Widows In OBO Federal Constituency

    Akpanke Gifts 3M, 800 Bags Of Rice To Widows In OBO Federal Constituency

    By Elijah Ugani 

    The member representing Obudu/Bekwarra/Obanliku federal constituency, Hon Peter Akpanke has puts smiles of the faces of 800 widows in Obanliku, Obudu and Bekwarra Local Government Areas.

    The widows who gathered at their various local government areas were elated at the show of benevolence by their MP.

    Addressing the widows, the lawmaker thanked them for their steadfastness during the last general elections and maintained that it was very necessary he identified with them at this period of Christmas.

    Akpanke noted that “It has been in my tradition to visit you before Christmas, but my new office comes with responsibilities that couldn’t allow me the time to come to see you before Christmas, kindly hold me excused.

    “Your prayers and support have us the victory at the polls and I can’t thank you enough. You rejected money, your children also rejected appointments to stand for what is right. I assure you that we will continue to share what we have to ensure that we live as a united community.

    “What is important here is that like I have always reach out to you, the desire to reach out to you the widows is at the increase.

    “Please continue to pray and support us so that we will continue to drive home what legitimately belongs to us”

    Speaking on behalf of the widows, Mrs Cecilia Ushie from Ukwortung community thanked Hon Peter Akpanke for his benevolence and magnanimity.

    She stated that providing for the widows has been a tradition for the lawmaker even before he was elected to represent the federal constituency.

    She prayed that God should continue to provide for the MP and grant him open doors to enable him reach out to the less privileged.

    The widows in the three local government areas prayed for guidance and protection for Hon Akpanke as he undertakes his legislative functions.

    Each of the 800 widows were given a bag of rice, Maggie, salt and a cash support of N3,000.00