The Lumine News

Author: News

  • Former Governor Ayade Supporters Should Stop Their Expensive Jokes…. BY AGBA JALINGO 

    Former Governor Ayade Supporters Should Stop Their Expensive Jokes…. BY AGBA JALINGO 

     

    Because former Governor Ayade wants to run for Senate in 2027, his minions are digging up AI generated motion pictures to hoodwink the public. For want of what to present as his record of achievements for eight years as governor, they are resurrecting matters that should be buried if they don’t want their master to head to jail.

    One is the British Canadian University BCU Obudu, which was given accreditation by the NUC in June 2023. BCU is one of the 39 privately owned schools that were given accreditation by the National Universities Commission NUC on June 9, 2023 in Abuja. Kingshill Education Limited is the proprietor of BCU.

    It is annoying and injurious enough to remember that Governor Ayade misappropriated the State Universal Basic Education Board SUBEB funds, which are meant for year one to year nine education, into the construction of a university and later unilaterally sold it to private individuals. But it is even more irritating to see his lapdogs continuously flaunting a private school as one of Ayade’s achievements in office.

    A project that Cross Riverians should be on the streets or in courts asking the former Governor to account for how it was transferred from public to private is repeatedly thrown at our faces as a feat?

    No name of a Cross Riverian is reflected in the Board of Trustees of the school. I do not want to talk about the details of what is inside the school or happening in the school because it is now a private concern. I don’t want to offend the new owners. But I will never stop talking about the shady process of how our State funds were used to build a school that is now a private school without due process.

    And for those who think they can pull that veil over our eyes, know that the more you try, the more questions will be asked until one day, the chicken will come to roost.

    (See attached documents.)

    Yours sincerely,
    Citizen Agba Jalingo.

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

  • Let Christ Reign Over You BY SYLVERUS ULEM

    Let Christ Reign Over You BY SYLVERUS ULEM

    LET CHRIST REIGN OVER YOU By Rev Fr Sylverus Ulem

    …. Being a sermon delivered during second Mass (9:00am) at Holy Trinity Parish, Ogboja – Ogoja.

    34th Sunday in Ordinary Time – Year C
    Solemnity of Christ the Universal King

    My dear people of God,
    When we allow Jesus to reign over us, our society becomes a better place. Many times, the stagnation we experience, individually and collectively is because we have not truly allowed Christ to take His rightful place in our hearts.

    From the beginning, God created us with one primary rule, that good be done. The Ten Commandments came later as guidance, but the heart of God for us has always been goodness, love, and obedience.

    Christ the Universal King
    On this 34th Sunday in Ordinary Time, the Church celebrates Christ the Universal King, a feast instituted by Pope Pius XI. This celebration is a public proclamation that Jesus is the King of the universe and, by implication, the King of our lives.

    God created everything out of nothing. Jesus is the center of our being, the foundation on which everything stands. Without Him, everything collapses back into nothingness.

    In David, the people saw a worthy servant. He did not campaign or write manifestos; instead, the people recognized the qualities of leadership in him. When we humble ourselves, God reveals Himself in us. Every true leader carries the “flesh and bone” of the people, he arises from among them and must protect and guide them.

    A king who cannot protect his people has failed in his duty. Today, we see many leaders more concerned with power than service. Political defections, power struggles, and the hunger for influence remind us that many seek authority without embracing responsibility. But Scripture tells us, all power comes from God, and any power not rooted in God will eventually collapse.

    Today we see apostles, evangelists, bishops, prophets, all kinds of titles, yet confusion persists. Some pursue titles more than service; some even fight or kill to protect these positions. But any title without corresponding responsibility is useless.
    Whether priest, bishop, parent, or leader if we carry the name without carrying the corresponding responsibility, we have failed.

    Pilate and the Jews conspired out of ignorance, yet their actions fulfilled God’s plan of salvation. Our celebration today is not a mockery of Christ, but a recognition of His kingship expressed through the cross.

    There are three crosses in life:
    The cross we accept, it serves us.
    The cross we reject, it condemns us.
    The cross we willingly carry, it redeems us.

    Christ’s Kingship vs. Earthly Leadership
    Christ is the model of all kings and leaders. He thinks of His people, loves them, and serves them like a good Shepherd. He treats us as brothers and sisters. Many leaders today make promises they do not keep, feeding on the people rather than feeding the people. But Jesus is the King who feeds His subjects, who gives His life for them.
    He left the riches of heaven to share in our poverty so that we might become rich. Yet today we often see leaders who rise from poverty only to feed on the riches of their people.

    He had no social media account, yet He has the largest followers in history. Many today expose themselves online simply to gain followers and earn small payments, forgetting their dignity.

    There is no protocol to access Jesus. He was like a parish priest whose parishioners could freely approach Him. Sadly, even we priests sometimes fail in this area. When a rich man arrives at the parish house we often rush to welcome him, but when a poor man comes, we sometimes turn him away.
    May God help us to change.

    As we celebrate Christ the Universal King, may He truly reign over our hearts, our families, our communities, and our nation.

    May His peace fill our lives, now and always.
    Through Christ our Lord. Amen.

     

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

  • Elijah Ugani: A Voice For Transformation And Excellence

    Elijah Ugani: A Voice For Transformation And Excellence

    By Elijah Ugani 

    Born in Ukwortung, Utugwang, in Obudu Local Government Area of Cross River State, Nigeria, Elijah Ugani, attended St John’s Primary School, Ukwortung, Government Secondary Obudu, and later Community Secondary School, Utugwang – Obudu, where he proceeded to the foremost University of Calabar and obtained B.Sc. in Applied Chemistry.

    Elijah Ugani has become a dynamic force in communication, leadership, and human development. His life and career embody an unwavering commitment to personal transformation, national development, and global impact.

    A seasoned Communication Consultant and Public/Motivational Speaking Expert, Elijah possesses an extraordinary gift the ability to help people and organizations communicate their ideas with power, clarity, and authenticity. His passion is deeply rooted in empowering speakers, leaders, professionals, corporate organizations, and government institutions to express their thoughts effectively through excellent verbal and non-verbal communication.

    Driven by a deep conviction that communication is leadership, Elijah has dedicated his professional life to helping others find their voice, refine their message, and use their words as instruments of influence. His philosophy is simple yet profound: words build worlds. Through his mentorship, countless individuals have learned to win with words, gain confidence in public expression, and master the art of purposeful communication.

    As a Leadership, Development, and Humanitarian Consultant, Elijah believes that every individual carries a unique potential for leadership. He has developed frameworks and training modules that guide people to discover and develop their leadership abilities, transforming them into effective and visionary leaders capable of making national and global impact. His work focuses on equipping individuals and organizations to lead with character, competence, and compassion.

    Elijah’s expertise extends to Speech Writing, Corporate Training, Media Consulting, and Facilitation. His ability to dissect complex topics and present them in simple, relatable, and captivating ways has earned him the reputation of being a speaker who not only informs but transforms. His sessions are known for their depth, inspiration, and practicality leaving audiences enriched, motivated, and empowered to act.

    He is the Publisher and Editor-in-Chief of The Lumime News (www.thelumimenews.com), an independent platform that amplifies stories of leadership, development, governance, and human impact. Through his writings, Elijah addresses issues that matter peace, unity, justice, education, human rights, and nation building. His words challenge mediocrity, provoke thought, and inspire action.

    An accomplished Administrator, Strategic Decision Maker, and Problem Solver, Elijah’s professional versatility spans across Customer Relations, Civic Engagement, and Conflict Resolution and Management. His rare ability to balance empathy with objectivity makes him a trusted mediator and advisor in both corporate and community settings.

    Elijah believes that true greatness is not measured by material possessions, but by the lives we build, the peace we promote, and the human capacity we nurture. Guided by this philosophy, he has continued to invest his time and resources in developing people, fostering peace, promoting unity, and advancing the causes of justice, equity, and quality education.

    As a Human and Women’s Rights Advocate, Political and Public Affairs Analyst, and Social Change Agent, Elijah’s voice resonates across civic platforms. He champions democracy, good governance, and responsible leadership, urging citizens and leaders alike to act with integrity and accountability.

    His contributions have earned him recognition as a Certified Change Agent and Advocate of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) a role through which he continues to drive conversations and actions toward sustainable growth and inclusive development.

    A proud Mentor and Coach, Elijah supports emerging African entrepreneurs and changemakers, guiding them toward leadership excellence and business sustainability. Beyond his professional engagements, he is also a Farmer and the Team Lead of Limre Integrated Farms, a venture that reflects his belief in agriculture as a cornerstone of economic empowerment and food security.

    In every sphere, Elijah Ugani stands as a beacon of hope, wisdom, and transformation. His message is clear: leadership is service, and communication is the bridge to transformation. Whether addressing a corporate audience, mentoring young leaders, or facilitating a development dialogue, he speaks with passion, clarity, and conviction.

    Elijah continues to dedicate his life to helping people and institutions find their voice, fulfill their purpose, and achieve their highest potential.

    Contact:
    WhatsApp: 08121032474
    Email: eljahugani4real@gmail.com

  • Jarigbe’s Strategic Move: A Masterstroke of Political Strategy BY PETER AGI 

    Jarigbe’s Strategic Move: A Masterstroke of Political Strategy BY PETER AGI 

     

    Senator Jarigbe’s decision to join the All Progressives Congress (APC) is a masterstroke of political strategy, one that is anchored in the paradigm of surrender and transformation. To truly live, one must first surrender to death, not a physical demise, but a metaphorical one – the death of the ego, the death of limitations, and the death of the familiar. It is in this crucible of transformation that the essence of our being is forged, like gold refined in the furnace of adversity.

    Senator Jarigbe’s decision to join the APC reflects his willingness to adapt and evolve, surrendering his attachment to the past and embracing the unknown, recognizing that true growth and victory lie on the other side of uncertainty. His move is a bold statement of intent, one that signals his willingness to take risks and challenge the status quo. With his deep understanding of the people, his ability to connect with them, and his knack for crafting winning strategies, Senator Jarigbe is poised to make history. His victory is not just a possibility, but a sure bet, as he has aligned himself with the forces of change and the will of the people.

    The APC is a party of winners, with a track record of success in Nigerian politics. Senator Jarigbe’s decision to join the party is a strategic move that gives him access to a wealth of resources, expertise, and networks. The APC has a strong presence in Cross River State, and Senator Jarigbe’s move is likely to boost the party’s chances in the 2027 elections. His popularity and influence in the state make him a valuable asset to the party, and his decision to join is a significant coup.

    Surrender is not a sign of weakness, but a sign of strength. It takes courage to let go of the familiar and embrace the unknown. Senator Jarigbe’s decision to join the APC demonstrates his willingness to take risks and trust in the process of transformation. In politics, surrender is not just a personal journey, but a collective one. It requires a willingness to listen to others, to build coalitions, and to work towards a common goal. Senator Jarigbe’s move shows his ability to build bridges and unite people towards a common purpose.

    Senator Jarigbe’s journey to victory is not just about him, but about the people who support him. He has built a strong connection with the people, and they trust him to deliver on his promises. His decision to join the APC reflects his commitment to serving the people and making a positive impact in their lives. He is a leader who is willing to take risks and challenge the status quo, and his victory is a sure bet.

    In conclusion, Senator Jarigbe’s decision to join the APC is a masterstroke of political strategy, one that is anchored in the paradigm of surrender and transformation. His move reflects his willingness to take risks, trust in the process of transformation, and align himself with the forces of change and the will of the people. Let us, therefore, take a cue from Senator Jarigbe’s playbook and surrender to the fire that forges us. Let us emerge, reborn and renewed, our spirit unshaken, and our will unbroken. For it is in dying to our old selves that we are reborn, and it is in surrendering to the unknown that we discover our true potential. Victory is indeed a sure bet for Senator Jarigbe, and may his tribe increase! What a matchless persona in current political evolution. No one can doubt his capacity to make a fundamental difference and change. Has his entrance rattled the gladiators? One thing is sure, political permutations have been altered and he is leading the pack currently.

    Peter Agi (FCA)
    Writes from Ijegu Yala.

    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/with.

  • Governors And The Senate: A Call for Democratic Balance BY OKOI OBONO-OBLA

    Governors And The Senate: A Call for Democratic Balance BY OKOI OBONO-OBLA

     

    A leading political figure from Imo State confided in me what former President Muhammadu Buhari told him during a visit to Daura after leaving office. Buhari remarked that one of his greatest achievements was blocking former governors who sought to move directly from governorship to the Senate.

    I share this perspective. Recently, the former Governor of Sokoto State, Attahiru Bafarawa, expressed the same view, underscoring the need for fairness and inclusivity in our democratic process. The Senate should not become a retirement chamber for former governors who have already enjoyed the privilege of serving their states for eight years.

    Anyone who has been privileged to serve as Governor for two terms must step aside and allow others the opportunity to contribute their quota to national development. Democracy thrives when diverse voices are heard, when fresh perspectives are allowed to shape policy, and when political offices are not monopolized by a select few.

    The practice of governors transitioning seamlessly into the Senate risks entrenching political dominance, stifling new leadership, and undermining the principle of equal opportunity. Nigeria’s progress depends on widening the space for participation, not narrowing it to a cycle of recycled elites.

    Conclusion:
    The call is simple but profound: let governors who have completed their tenure give way, so that others may rise to serve. This is not just about fairness; it is about strengthening democracy, deepening inclusivity, and ensuring that national development benefits from the contributions of many, not the ambitions of a few.

    @ Okoi Obono-Obla

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

  • Servant Leadership: Christians Are Called To Lead, But Such Leadership Comes At A Cost, For Nothing Truly Good Comes Cheaply BY PETER OBELE ABUE

    Servant Leadership: Christians Are Called To Lead, But Such Leadership Comes At A Cost, For Nothing Truly Good Comes Cheaply BY PETER OBELE ABUE

    Some time ago, CNN posted a picture of Pope Francis holding his own handbag as he walked toward a plane. Someone commented that it was “against protocol” and “unbecoming of a Head of State.” But the real question is: Why would the Pope choose to break protocol in the 21st century?
    The answer is simple: because kingship today is about service, not pomp and pageantry. In that gesture, Pope Francis was pointing us toward a new model of leadership, leadership grounded in humility, simplicity, and a willingness to serve.

    This is the very spirit Jesus demonstrated when He stood before Pontius Pilate and declared, “My kingdom does not belong to this world.” (John 18:36). Jesus wanted Pilate to understand that His kingship was nothing like the worldly leadership built on power, fear, or intimidation.
    Jesus would eventually pay the highest price for this servant leadership, shedding His blood on the cross and being betrayed by His own closest companions. The kingship of God is different from every other kind of kingship because it is built on sacrifice. Christians are called to lead, yes, but such leadership comes at a cost, for nothing truly good comes cheaply.

    Today’s world is in desperate need of leaders after the heart of Jesus Christ, the Universal King. Leaders who may arise from humble conditions but who do not lead from fear. Leaders who are not surrounded by sycophants ready to destroy others on their behalf. Leaders who do not threaten opponents or force their enemies to “lick their dust.” The world needs servant leaders.

    When the tribes of Israel gathered at Hebron and asked David to be their king, they were not looking for an angel to rule over them. They wanted someone who was “their flesh and bone,” someone who understood their struggles. They had grown weary of leaders who were selfish, materialistic, and blind to the hopes of the people. After years of enduring one despotic ruler after another (2 Samuel 5:1–3), God finally sent them a leader—yet even then, many doubted him because he did not fit their expectations.

    The truth remains: authentic servant leadership comes at a great price, and only those who genuinely believe can recognize and embrace it. Such leadership already exists among us, but only those with perceptive eyes can see it. In the words of St. Teresa of Calcutta:
    “Do not wait for leaders; do it alone, person to person.”
    Servant leadership begins not with a title, but with a heart willing to serve.

  • TYMDUAR Global Limited Holds Sensitization, Empowerment, Foundation Launch

    TYMDUAR Global Limited Holds Sensitization, Empowerment, Foundation Launch

     

    A multi-million-naira agro-based company, TYMDUAR Global Limited, recently hosted a Sensitization and Mega Empowerment Program for farmers and emerging agripreneurs at Holy Rosary Nursery/Primary School, Edor, Ikom Local Government Area, from 5th to 8th November 2025. The event also marked the official launch of TYMDuA Foundation, the company’s humanitarian and development arm.

    According to Mr. Felix Ekol, Managing Director/CEO, the event officially commenced on 5th November at Obudu Ranch Resort, where the foundation was formally introduced to stakeholders and community members.

    The four-day program featured sensitization sessions and expert insights on topics such as Soil Management: Eco-friendly Practices for Healthy Farms and Market Linkages: Off-takers and Export Readiness.

    The event also fearured a novelty football match between Flying Angels FC (Edor, Ikom) and AC Milan FC (Abakpa, Ogoja), ended 3-0 in favor of Flying Angels FC. The unveiling of a book authored by the CEO, “The Rich Farmer vs. The Poor Farmer”, offered insights into sustainable agriculture and farmer empowerment.

    Speaking during the launch, Hon. Emmanuel Idi Yakubu, Vice Chairman of Ogoja Local Government Council, commended TYMDUAR Global Ltd for its development initiatives, expressing appreciation and pledging support to the organization in all future endeavors. The newly launched TYMDuA Foundation focuses on Agribusiness, Education, Health, Economic Empowerment, Livelihood Support, Clean Water & Sanitation, and Climate Change initiatives, aiming to improve livelihoods, enhance community resilience, and foster sustainable development.

    TYMDUA Foundation, essential agricultural and empowerment items were distributed to farmers and community members, which includes:

    1. Two motorbikes
    2. ₦150,000 for football farmers
    3. ₦192,000 for publicity farmers
    4. 50 big cutlasses
    5. 20 filling blades
    6. 30 assorted rice and cocoa harvesters
    7. 70 assorted plastic oil containers
    8. 30 assorted plastic cups
    9. 10 rakes/brooms
    10. Two bags of ropes (100 pieces)
    11. Five dozen hand gloves
    12. 200 assorted cocoa bags
    13. 1,000 hybrid cocoa pods for nurseries (100 given immediately, rest for next farm season)
    14. 20,000 plantain/banana suckers to be distributed in the next farming season
    15. 250 bunches of plantains

    The event was graced by notable personalities, including:
    – Ntol Atol Boniface A. Ndome, Clan Head of Abanyom Kingdom & Vice Chairman, Bakor Traditional Council
    – Chief Arop Emmanuel (Nkarasi 1)
    – Chief Felix Ekol (Nkim)
    – Ntol Joseph Osim (Etikpe)
    – Ntol Nkom Cletus (Edor)
    – Hon. Emmanuel Idi Yakubu, Vice Chairman, Ogoja LGA
    – The Elites Club of Abakpa
    – Mr. Moses Ogri (Oleyi Fashion)
    – ⁠Amongst other

    The program combined capacity-building, community engagement, and empowerment, reflecting TYMDUAR Global Ltd’s commitment to transforming agriculture, supporting farmers, and fostering socio-economic development in Cross River State and beyond.

    Highlights of the event was presentation of empowerment items, and group photograph

  • Aiming For Senate After Serving As Governor Is An Abuse Of Privilege BY ATTAHIRU BAFARAWA

    Aiming For Senate After Serving As Governor Is An Abuse Of Privilege BY ATTAHIRU BAFARAWA

    Why would you serve eight years as governor of a state and then you come again and take one part of the state and say you are going to the National Assembly? After serving for eight years, why don’t you allow others to go to the National Assembly? As a former governor, the only thing you can look forward to is the presidency. Anything less than that is an abuse of privilege.

    Out of 200 million people, you are one of the few chosen to become governor, and after two terms, you come back again and say you want to go to the Senate. What are you going to the Senate to do? As a former governor, ask somebody to go and represent the people there. Then you give the person your wisdom.

    Mallam Attahiru Bafarawa, Former Sokoto Governor

     

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

  • UNICROSS Alumni Donates Books To Broadcasting Department

    UNICROSS Alumni Donates Books To Broadcasting Department

    By Inyali Peter

    Yesterday, the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS) Alumni Association donated a collection of valuable books to the Department of Broadcasting, Faculty of Communication and Media Studies.

    The Department, which was recently unbundled from Mass Communication and is headed by Dr. Peace Egbai, National Public Relations Officer of the Association, is experiencing rapid growth under the leadership of the current Vice Chancellor, Prof. Francisca Bassey.

    The books were formally presented on behalf of the National Executive Council by two illustrious alumni, Dr. Victor Ndifon, Head, Department of Mass Communication and Member, 6th Governing Council and Dr. Ofut Ogar, Head, Department of Software Engineering and Pioneer Convocation Representative on the Governing Council

    Though we are still a young association with limited resources, we strongly believe that every little contribution counts. This gesture is our way of supporting the remarkable transformation taking place in the University under the current administration.

    On behalf of the NEC and the entire members of the association, I urge the leadership of the Department and its students to make judicious use of the resources. Doing so will motivate the Association to do even more, not only for Broadcasting but for other departments across the University.

    Inyali Peter, Ph.D.
    National President
    UNICROSS Alumni Association

  • Jarigbe’s Defection: Mass Resignation Trails People’s Democratic Party In Northern Cross River

    Jarigbe’s Defection: Mass Resignation Trails People’s Democratic Party In Northern Cross River

     

    Following the defection of Distinguished Sen Jarigbe Agom to the All Progressives Congress (APC), a wave of resignations has swept through the PDP in Cross River North Senatorial District.

    Ward executives, stakeholders, polling‑unit leaders and other party members in Basang Ward (Obanliku), Busi Ward (Obanliku), Alege/Ubang Ward (Obudu) and Utugwang South Ward (Obudu) have all submitted resignation letters, signaling a major political shift in the Senatorial District.

    These resignations further give credence to the growing disenchantment with the PDP while increasing confidence in the APC under Senator Jarigbe’s leadership.