The Lumine News

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  • Governor Otu Eulogizes Late Abubakar Ewa, Attends Funeral Ceremony

    Governor Otu Eulogizes Late Abubakar Ewa, Attends Funeral Ceremony

     

    The remains of the late Commissioner for Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Hon. (Chief) Abubakar Robert Ewa, were on Saturday committed to mother earth in his hometown of Wula, Boki Local Government Area.

    During the Funeral Mass held at the deceased’s compound in Wula and officiated by St. John the Baptist Parish, Governor Bassey Otu paid tribute to the late commissioner, describing him as a dedicated public servant who served with distinction as a member of the Cross River State Executive Council.

    Represented by his deputy, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, Ph.D., Governor Otu recalled Ewa’s invaluable contributions to the development and promotion of the state’s cultural and tourism sectors, as well as his unwavering commitment to the progress of Cross River State.

    “As a former Chairman of Boki Local Government Area, he worked tirelessly to improve the lives of his people, earning their admiration and respect. He was a dutiful, easy-going, and fine gentleman whose kindness, leadership, and devotion to public service will not be forgotten,” the Governor remarked.

    Governor Otu expressed deep regret over the loss, noting that Ewa’s passing is not only a loss to his family but also to Cross River State and the Boki nation. He urged the family to take pride in the late commissioner’s remarkable achievements and to continue upholding the legacy of excellence he established. The Governor also assured the family of the government’s continued support during this difficult time.

    In his condolence message, the Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem, described the late Ewa as a unifier, bridge-builder, and a friend to all.

    Similarly, the Commissioner for Local Government Affairs and Chairman of the College of Commissioners, Chief Victor Felix Idem, expressed profound grief on behalf of his colleagues, noting the void left in the State Executive Council. He remembered Ewa as a kindhearted, hardworking, and dependable colleague.

    The State Chairman of the All Progressives Party (APC), Alphonsus Eba, Esq., reflected on Ewa’s life, urging the family to find solace in his numerous accomplishments and the widespread friendships he enjoyed across ethnic and religious divide.

    Earlier in his homily, Rev. Fr. Ukwa Emmanuel Wonah encouraged people to emulate the late commissioner’s exemplary life, which was characterized by love, dedication to the welfare of his people, and a strong sense of responsibility.

    The funeral was attended by top government officials, traditional rulers, and stakeholders in the tourism sector. Among the dignitaries present were Senator Eteng Williams, representing Cross River Central Senatorial District, House of Representatives member for Boki/Ikom Federal Constituency, Hon. Victor Abang, Deputy Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Hon. Sylvester Agabi, Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Anthony Owan-Enoh, Chief of Staff to the Governor, Hon. Emmanuel Ironbar, and Ntufam Fidelis Ugbo, Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the UNICROSS Governing Council.

    Other included members of the State House of Assembly, local government council chairmen, State Executive Council members, former House of Representatives member Rt. Hon. Legor Idagbo, former Chief of Staff, Hon. Dr. Martins Orim, Chief Peter Ojie, and State Executive Committee members of the APC, among others.

    Fred Abua, Esq
    Press Secretary to the Deputy Governor

  • This particular judgement of the Supreme Court does not require any analysis or analyst, it was in plain simple English BY MAGNUS ABE

    This particular judgement of the Supreme Court does not require any analysis or analyst, it was in plain simple English BY MAGNUS ABE

    This particular judgement of the Supreme Court does not require any analysis or analyst, it was in plain simple English;

    There can be no further litigation on the status of the Rivers State House of Assembly in any court in Nigeria.

    The issue of defection of the lawmakers was carefully considered by the Supreme Court and the court stated clearly that that argument will not even be considered by the court because by the date of the said defection, Governor Fubara was already acting in violation of the constitution and in contempt of the lawful order of a court of competent jurisdiction by his own admission.

    The Supreme Court was equally clear, not only is the CBN and the Accountant General of the Federation prohibited from releasing money to the state, but that the state government itself is prohibited from spending and making expenditures without a budget duly passed by the Amaewhule led assembly, which is to begin seating immediately and unhindered. The legal road has come to an expected end. The issue is over, finito, finished.

    I had advised earlier that the Governor should negotiate while there is still time, it may appear that window for negotiation is now very narrow, but it may not be completely closed;

    The Minister of the FCT already hinted at this when he said that he will not advise the house to commence impeachment proceedings against the Governor. That is a narrow window but too much analysis may close it.

    It is time for wisdom to prevail, not empty grandstanding.

    One thing is now settled in Rivers State: OCJ Okocha Esq., SAN, is a proven legal luminary!

    © Sen Magnus Abe

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

  • Senate Holds Public Hearing on Sen Jarigbe Agom’s Federal Medical Centre Ogoja Establishment Bill 2023

    Senate Holds Public Hearing on Sen Jarigbe Agom’s Federal Medical Centre Ogoja Establishment Bill 2023

     

    The Nigerian Senate’s Committee on Health (Secondary and Tertiary) conducted a public hearing on Senator Jarigbe Agom’s Federal Medical Centre Ogoja Establishment Bill 2023 (SB 142) at the National Assembly Complex in Abuja.

    The bill, which has undergone first and second readings at plenary sessions, was referred to the Senate Committee on Health for further public hearing and legislative actions.

    Senator Jarigbe emphasized that the bill aims to establish quality healthcare services by developing necessary infrastructure, ensuring effective, efficient, and affordable healthcare delivery, and implementing a monitoring and evaluation mechanism.

    He added that the proposed medical center is expected to be affiliated with a medical school and academic medical center, providing opportunities for youth to gain professional experience.

    The bill is anticipated to undergo a third reading at plenary and, upon passage, will be forwarded to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for assent.

    TEAM JARI MEDIA

  • Stampede: No Life was Lost, says UNICAL VC

    Stampede: No Life was Lost, says UNICAL VC

    Following the recent stampede that occurred on Tuesday 25th February, 2025 involving students who were scheduled to write examination in the Department of Chemistry, the Vice Chancellor of the University of Calabar, Prof. Florence Banku Obi, has confirmed that contrary to the information in circulation by some news merchants, claiming that two students: ‘a male and a female’ involved in the sad incident died, no student was actually dead.

    The VC made the clarification while responding to concerns raised regarding the incident.

    “Yes, we confirm that the was a stampede when some of our students were scheduled to write CHM 101 in the Department of Chemistry which is a general course for most students in sciences”.

    “This sad and avoidable incident happened when those scheduled to write in the morning were unable to turned up for their examination and thereafter started struggling their ways with those scheduled for afternoon. Officials on ground struggled to manage the situation, but the students were obviously unruly, but none of them lost their lives either in the process or in the hospital. I visited those who were rushed to our medical center and I’ve been following up with every process and all of them have been discharged”, she added.

    On the information making the round on different platforms that two of the students involved were already dead. The VC dismissed the information, adding that it is a handiwork of mischief makers and fake news purveyors while urging the public to disregard such information and contact only the relevant information unit of the university.

    Earlier, the Head of Department, Pure and Applied Chemistry, Prof. Grace Iniama stated that the course is taking by 49 departments and more than 7,000 students registered for it.

    “Everything was going smoothly until it started raining. The examination was scheduled for 8:00am to 6:00Pm. The students who were already writing were unable to come out of the hall and those outside started struggling to enter the hall without following the time they were scheduled for the exam”.

    “This was the reason we employed CBT method which affords students a seamless opportunity to enter the examination hall and write at their scheduled time and leave, but the students became unruly and beyond the control of the officials on ground to handle. Some of them eventually sustained bruises because of the continued pushed and fall, but I thank God for the timely arrival of the university ambulance which conveyed them immediately to the medical facilities”, she said.

    When contacted, the Director of the institution’s Medical Center, Dr. Etta Williams, said he got a call from the VC asking for an immediate dispatch of ambulance to convey the victims to the facility which he did and the students have been discharged from their facilities.

    Dr. Etta however added that it is laughable to read from different social media handles that two of the victims died in their facilities.

    “It is not true that two victims of the stampede in UNICAL died. It is even more laughable that it has been reported by some individuals and organizations without any finding. There’s no atom of truth in the news. We intervened immediately and conveyed them to our facilities. Some walked in here by themselves. Some had impending medical conditions which was prompted by the crowd”.

    “One was an epileptic patient; two were referred to Unical Teaching Hospital for X-ray but have been discharged. Most of them got stabilized that day and were discharged, but those with impending medical conditions were kept behind for further examination and have been discharged”, he added.

  • Ambassador Linus Onah Igwe: Celebrating 60 Years of Grace, Resilience, Purpose and Impact

    Ambassador Linus Onah Igwe: Celebrating 60 Years of Grace, Resilience, Purpose and Impact

     

    Yala born Cross River State renowned Nurse and Health Management Consultant, Ambassador Linus Onah Igwe, recently celebrated a major milestone, his 60th birthday in style at the popular Jonag Hotels in Okuku Yala, Cross River State. As he marked six decades of life, love, and legacy, he celebrated with family, friends and well wishers at a Thanksgiving Mass and party to share his inspiring story of resilience, purpose, and passion for making a difference.

    With a warm smile and amiable outlook, Mr Igwe reflected on his remarkable journey, defined by meaningful milestones, challenges overcome, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. From his early days as a young nurse to his rise as a respected health consultant in the grassroots, through his ventures into mentoring, Mr Igwe’s life has been a testament to his strength, courage, and dedication.

    As the paragon of elegance, wisdom, and strength, marked a milestone of six decades on this earth with a resplendent celebration that echoed his indelible impact on the lives of all who know him, he was joined by friends and families who all revered his life of impact.

    It was a gathering of political gladiators, health experts, professionals, royal fathers, families and friends who had stood the test of time. And as the moon shone brightly on the joyous gathering, Mr Igwe, a radiant and graceful man stood at the centre, basking in the warmth of a lifetime of love, laughter, and legacy.

    With a heart full of gratitude and a spirit that continues to inspire, this remarkable and cheerful father embarked on a new chapter in his journey, leaving behind a trail of cherished memories, unwavering resilience, and a legacy that will forever be etched in the hearts of those whose lives he has touched in the health industry and beyond.

    Born and raised in Yala, Cross River State, Mr. Igwe’s educational foundation and passion for learning set the stage for his future successes as the Executive Director, Association of Grassroots Counsellors on Health & Development (AGCOD); one of the most reputable health Management Consultants and Private Sector Leaders in Nigeria. AGCOD which he heads is a non-profit organization focused on promoting health and development at the grassroots level through counseling and community-based initiatives in Nigeria.

    A professional nurse by training and discipline, he worked at the Lutheran Hospital, Yahe, Yala LGA (1989-1993), General Hospital, Ogoja (1993-1998), Presbyterian TBL Hospital , Mbembe Obubra (1998-2004) and General Hospital, Calabar, Cross River State before retiring as a Deputy Director of Nursing in 2007. Upon retirement he got engaged as a Program Officer with the TB Network NIG. and later the Association of Grassroots Counselors On Health & Development (AGCOD) in 2007 where he is Executive Director till date.

    With various national and international awards of excellence, workshops, trainings attended and facilitated to his credit, during the course of his sterling career, he was Counselor Supervisor, Lutheran Hospital, Yahe-Yala 2004 to 2007, Sub- coordinators, CISHAN Cross River State (2011-2017), Member, Cross River State TWG on M & E, Member, Cross River Community Leaders of Change Coordinator,.Vulnerable Children Community Coalition Committee, Ogoja Zone, Mentor Community Child Care Forum, Yala, supported by HWWN/USAID amongst others.

    With specialty in counseling, his thematic areas of experience includes: Prevention/Social and Behavior Change Communication,
    Care & Supports for OVC, PLWHA & PABA, Mentoring, trainings/capacity building, Collaboration & partnership, Community outreach, referrals and linkages, Care and supports for vulnerable groups, GBV, Sexual and reproductive health, Micro enterprise fundamentals & programming for Self Help Groups, Health Systems Strengthening Care and Supports for Physically Challenged, Humanitarian interventions etc.

    A recipient of an Award of Excellence for outstanding performance and contribution to HIV/AIDS programming in Nigeria by the International Center for AIDS Care and Treatment Programs, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, Nigerian Hall of Fame Award in Recognition of selfless service to humanity and the less privilege, Nelson Mandela Life Time Achievements Award, Award of Good Governance for NGOs in Nigeria, amongst others, at 60 he believes firmly that the past is behind, learn from it, the future is ahead, prepare for it, the present is here, live it and be deliberate because movement is medicine and 60 has taught him it doesn’t have to be intense, competitive or a workout.

    It’s hard to describe what Amb. Linus or Doc as many know him by, means to us. A loving kind husband & father; a humanitarian; a visionary; an extraordinarily intelligent man; always seeking knowledge; wise; a blessing; lover of classical music.

    Reflecting on his journey, he said, “As I celebrate my 60th birthday, I reflect on a journey marked by meaningful milestones. My early years were shaped by a strong educational foundation and a passion for learning. My career began with challenges that taught me resilience and fueled my passion.

    “Meeting my life partner and raising a family has been a source of immense joy and growth. Professionally, I’ve had the privilege of working with inspiring colleagues, businessmen and so on. Despite facing challenges, I’ve learned valuable lessons in adaptability and perseverance.

    “Today, I focus on giving back to the community and mentoring young professionals. Looking ahead, I am excited about new opportunities and remain committed to growth and making a positive impact.”

    Amb Linus Onah Igwe at 60 is a milestone that marks a lifetime of incredible experiences, growth, and career. He is a man in his own class, not very many of his species are born. He goes the extra mile, he delivers with enthusiasm and always supportive in his career. And yet, his commitment to making lives better for humanity sake shines just as brightly as the morning star.

    But beyond his many accomplishments, he reiterated that his greatest legacy is the love, kindness, and compassion he has shown to all those around him. His warm smile, gentle touch, and listening ear have been a balm to many souls, and his presence has made a difference in the lives of everyone he has met.

    According to him, “The philosophy that has guided me throughout my life is to embrace challenges as opportunities for growth, to treat others with kindness and empathy, and to live with purpose and gratitude.

    “Others are, follow your passion and stay dedicated; build resilience to overcome challenges; value relationships for support and guidance; stay open-minded and embrace diversity; practice gratitude for a positive mindset; set goals and take consistent action; be kind, empathetic, and respectful; prioritize self-care for overall well-being; believe in yourself and your potential; love, Obedient, humility, and charity.”

  • Hon Yibala Inyang Organizes Skills Acquisition And Empowerment Program For Constituents

    Hon Yibala Inyang Organizes Skills Acquisition And Empowerment Program For Constituents

     

    In a groundbreaking initiative to reduce unemployment and encourage entrepreneurship in Yakurr Local Government Area, the Executive Chairman Hon. Yibala Inyang, has launched a comprehensive skill acquisition training program accompanied by the distribution of empowerment materials to constituents. This program, among other initiatives, is part of his commitment to fostering economic growth and self-reliance within the Local Government.

    In his opening remark, the Chairman noted that the program aims to empower and engage youths in meaningful ventures that will enhance their productivity, make them self-reliant, contribute meaningfully to the economic development of Yakurr, and reduce the impact of unemployment, cultism, drug abuse, and banditry, many of which result from idleness.

    He further emphasized that, in line with the “People’s First” mantra of His Excellency Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, capacity building is a vital component of his administration.

    The Chairman highlighted that participants of the transformative program will have the opportunity to acquire valuable skills in various areas, including:

    ● Fashion designing/upgrading with ICT applications
    ● Solar installation
    ● Professional barbing
    ● Content creation
    ● Logo, flyer, and banner designing
    ● Bulk SMS sending etc

    At the end of the 2-week intensive training, participants will be empowered with starter kits such as sewing machines, solar kits, barbing equipment and tools, mobile phones and devices, thereby leveraging digital technology for legitimate income-generating and for upscaling in their respective skills.

  • Ogoja Council Chairman Inaugurates Asset Recovery Committee

    Ogoja Council Chairman Inaugurates Asset Recovery Committee

     

     

    By Sonnie Okem

     

    The Chairman of Ogoja Local Government Council, Hon. Christopher Agbeh, has pledged to recover and secure all movable and immovable government properties under his administration, emphasizing that the era of mismanagement and waste must come to an end.

     

    He made this commitment during the inauguration of the Assets Recovery Committee, urging its members to remain upright and diligent in carrying out their assignment, which he described as a call to service. Hon. Agbeh revealed that numerous council properties are currently unaccounted for, with some allegedly sold or taken away without due process. He assured the committee of his full support in recovering all council assets wrongfully acquired or held by individuals.

     

    Hon. Agbeh stressed that Ogoja Local Government Council possesses sufficient landed properties which, if properly managed, could sustain the administration and alleviate financial constraints. He emphasized that reclaiming and utilizing these properties would enhance productivity, facilitate official assignments, and address the accommodation challenges currently faced by the council.

     

    The Chairman also appealed to the public to cooperate with the committee by providing useful information to aid their efforts.

     

    In his response, the Chairman of the Assets Recovery Committee, Mr. Ishoranne Ayim, pledged to adhere strictly to the committee’s terms of reference and ensure that members prioritize hard work over rhetoric. He urged the Ogoja Local Government Council not to treat the committee’s inauguration as a mere formality but to ensure its effective functioning and the implementation of its final report.

     

    Mr. Ayim criticized the poor management of government properties in the past, stressing that officials should treat public assets with the same care as personal property, as these resources are essential for achieving desired outcomes. He assured that the committee would work diligently to complete its report within the stipulated timeframe.

     

    The committee includes Hon. Julius Abue as Secretary, Chief Austin Egem as Director of Operations, and members such as Dr. Frank Matiki, Hon. Godwin Odey, Boniface Agboje, and the Council’s Legal Adviser, Barr. Leonard Egede.

  • Illicit Mining in Agoi, Yakurr LGA: A Recipe for Chaos BY OKOI OBONO-OBLA

    Illicit Mining in Agoi, Yakurr LGA: A Recipe for Chaos BY OKOI OBONO-OBLA

     

    The recent arrest of scores of illegal gold miners in Agoi Ekpo, Yakurr Local Government Area of Cross River State, after a fierce resistance, highlights the growing concerns surrounding illicit mining in the region . This trend, which has seen thousands of illegal miners from the Sahelian region of West Africa flock to Agoi, bears an eerie resemblance to the 19th-century gold rush in South Africa.

    The Democratic Republic of Congo’s (DRC) experience serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of mismanaging mineral resources. The ongoing conflict between the government and Rwandan-backed M23 rebels is deeply rooted in illegal mining activities in Eastern DRC. Rwanda’s government is accused of backing the insurgency to exploit the DRC’s mineral wealth, perpetuating a cycle of violence, corruption, and instability.

    Similarly, in Agoi, the unregulated mining activities have led to tensions, environmental desolation, and concerns about the nexus between money laundering, corruption, human trafficking, and arms smuggling. To break this cycle of violence and instability, it’s essential to address the root causes of the conflict, including the mismanagement of mineral resources, corruption, and regional tensions.

    The people of Yakurr Local Government Area, known for their farming traditions and rich cultural heritage, are caught in the midst of this chaos. The influx of illegal miners has put a strain on local resources, threatening the very fabric of their communities.

    To mitigate this crisis, the government must take decisive action to:

    – Regulate mining activities: Ensure that mining is carried out in a responsible and sustainable manner, with adequate safeguards for the environment and local communities.

    – Address corruption and regional tensions: Tackle the root causes of the conflict, including corruption, money laundering, and regional tensions, to prevent further instability.
    – Support local communities: Provide adequate support and resources to local communities, ensuring that they benefit from the mineral wealth of their region.

    Only by addressing these underlying issues can we hope to break the cycle of violence and instability in Agoi, Yakurr LGA, and ensure a brighter future for the people of Cross River State.

    @ 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 organization the author works for.

  • ARD-UCTH Delegation Visits Honorable Minister Of State for Industry, Sen John Owan Enoh 

    ARD-UCTH Delegation Visits Honorable Minister Of State for Industry, Sen John Owan Enoh 

     

    The 35th President of the Association of Resident Doctors, University of Calabar Teaching Hospital (ARD-UCTH), Dr Ogar Emmanuel Idoko, led a delegation to meet with Senator John Owan Enoh, the Honorable Minister for Industry, Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Investment, in Abuja. This strategic meeting aimed to explore potential partnership areas and inform the minister about Calabar hosting the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors, National Executive Council Meeting in July 2025.

    During the meeting, the association elaborated on the hosting plans, and Senator Owan Enoh pledged his support, demonstrating his commitment to the growth and development of the healthcare sector in Nigeria. As a token of appreciation, the association presented the minister with a congratulatory frame, acknowledging his new role as a minister from Cross River State. They also gifted him a copy of their journal, JOMA (Journal of Medicine in Africa).

    The meeting was attended by notable figures, including the 14th President of the Association of Resident Doctors, Federal Neuropsychiatry Hospital Calabar, Dr. David Bepeh, Past Presidents (33rd Dr. Caleb Ekuri and 34th Dr. Edim Egor) of ARD-UCTH, and delegates from Cross River State who traveled for the Abuja NEC meeting of the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors.

    This meeting marks a significant step towards fostering collaboration and partnership between the Association of Resident Doctors and the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Investment. By working together, they aim to make the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital a more productive institution for healthcare delivery, ultimately benefiting the people of Nigeria.

    Dr Ofem Ofem
    General Secretary, ARD-UCTH
    3:02:2025

  • Cross River PDP Frowns at the Cross River Local Government Amendment Bill 2025

    Cross River PDP Frowns at the Cross River Local Government Amendment Bill 2025

    Press Release

    Cross River PDP Frowns at the Cross River Local Government Amendment Bill 2025

    The Cross River State Chapter of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) has expressed utter displeasure and dis-affection with the Cross River State House of Assembly (CRSHA) for the hasty passage of the Local Government Amendment Bill 2025. The party condemns this legislative ambush, describing it as a direct contradiction of the Supreme Court’s judgment on Local Government Autonomy and an orchestrated scheme to arm-twist, emasculate, and misappropriate local government resources.

    Despite widespread public condemnation, the House proceeded with the bill, defending her actions by wrongly relying on Section 7 of the 1999 Constitution, which merely empowers states to enact laws for local government administration, but not to undermine their autonomy or divert their funds.

    The PDP identifies several draconian and exploitative provisions within the bill, which place an unbearable financial burden on the 18 Local Government Areas (LGAs) of Cross River State. These include:

    Expansion of statutory political appointees under each Local Government Chairman from 25 to 50 persons, thereby increasing the financial strain on already underfunded councils.

    – Unauthorized monthly deduction of 1% for House of Assembly “oversight functions.”

    – 0.5% deduction for the State Community and Social Development Agency

    – 1% deduction for funding the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS), despite the state government’s primary responsibility for higher education funding

    – 0.5% deduction for the Office of the State Auditor General, ₦1 million mandatory monthly contribution from each LGA to the Cross River State Reserve Fund

    – 4% deduction for the Cross River State Road Maintenance Agency, a responsibility that should be handled by the state government, not the local councils.

    The People’s Democratic Party sees this law as an evil plot by the Otu-led APC administration to plunder resources meant for grassroots development. The party categorically states that:

    The financial autonomy of LGAs is sacrosanct and must not be subjected to the manipulative whims of the state government.

    The hasty passage and signing of this law reveal a desperate attempt to siphon local government funds for political patronage ahead of the 2025 local government elections.

    The people of Cross River State must resist this oppressive, anti-development, and unconstitutional law through all legal and democratic means.

    The PDP, therefore, alerts the good people of Cross River State and the entire nation to this daylight robbery of local government funds under the guise of legislative amendments.

    The party remains committed to protecting democracy, defending local government autonomy, and ensuring that public resources are used for grassroots development rather than political enrichment.

    Signed:

    Prince Mike Ojisi
    Publicity Secretary