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  • 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.

  • Jarigbe’s APC Move: Why the Senator Is Being Called “Unstoppable” for 2027 BY PETER AGI

    Jarigbe’s APC Move: Why the Senator Is Being Called “Unstoppable” for 2027 BY PETER AGI

     

    Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe’s recent defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) has sent shockwaves through Cross River politics, with many insiders already branding him the frontrunner—and possibly the unbeatable candidate—for the 2027 senatorial race in Cross River North.

    A Political Heavyweight Takes the Stage
    Jarigbe’s political pedigree is well‑known. He first entered the Senate in 2019, defeating the then‑incumbent and former governor Ben Ayade’s preferred candidate, and his 2023 re‑election victory was hailed as a personal triumph. Since joining the APC, he has been quick to leverage the ruling party’s machinery, aligning himself with President Bola Tinubu, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and other national power‑brokers.

    The “Unbeatable” Narrative
    – Grassroots Reach: Supporters claim his network spans all 5 Local Government Areas in Cross River North, giving the APC a formidable presence that rivals can’t easily penetrate. His ability to mobilize youth, women, and traditional rulers across the three senatorial districts—Yala, Obudu, Ogoja, Bekwarra and Obanliku—has been cited as a key factor in his past victories.
    – Development Record: Jarigbe’s Senate work—particularly his focus on infrastructure, gas development, and constituency projects—has earned him a reputation as a deliverer, a narrative the APC is now amplifying. Projects such as the ongoing road network upgrades in Yala and scholarship programs for indigenes are frequently highlighted in his campaign messaging.
    – Party Strength: With his arrival, the APC’s Senate caucus swelled to 76–77 seats, bolstering the party’s overall clout and giving Jarigbe access to influential decision‑makers. This numerical advantage also translates into committee assignments that could further enhance his influence in securing federal funds for his constituency.
    – Strategic Alliances: His recent high‑profile meetings with national leaders have positioned him as a key player in the APC’s 2027 strategy, prompting some local APC figures to warn that his influence could eclipse long‑standing power structures within the party. Some analysts suggest his alignment with the Tinubu administration could fast-track projects in Cross River North, further cementing his popularity.

    Opposition’s Dilemma:
    The PDP, still reeling from Jarigbe’s exit, now faces the challenge of countering a candidate who has already proven his electoral strength. Analysts note that without a strong, well‑funded challenger, the PDP’s chances in 2027 appear slim, especially given the APC’s current national momentum. The PDP may need to look beyond traditional candidates, possibly considering former governors or youth leaders to mount a credible campaign.

    What’s Next?
    While Jarigbe himself has framed the defection as a move to better serve his constituents—promising more federal projects and accelerated development—the buzz around his candidacy suggests a race that could become a one‑horse contest unless the opposition unites behind a compelling alternative. His recent tour of the senatorial district, accompanied by APC chieftains, signals an early start to his campaign, with rallies, town halls, and media engagements expected in the coming months.

    In the coming months, both the APC and PDP will be watching closely as Jarigbe consolidates his support, builds coalitions, and translates his already impressive track record into an election‑winning campaign.

  • Jarigbe’s Defection: All Chapter Executive Members Of PDP In Ogoja Chapter Resigns, Set To Join APC

    Jarigbe’s Defection: All Chapter Executive Members Of PDP In Ogoja Chapter Resigns, Set To Join APC

     

    The entire chapter structure of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Ogoja Local Government Area has submitted resignation letters, signaling their intent to defect to the All Progressive Congress (APC) in solidarity with Distinguished Sen Jarigbe Agom

    In a letter, made available to TheLumineNews, and signed by the Chapter Chairman Hon. Emmanuel Odidi and all chapter executives.

  • Clearing The Air On The Rift Between The Chapter Chairmen Of APC And The APC State Chairman As It Concerns My Ambition – Jarigbe

    Clearing The Air On The Rift Between The Chapter Chairmen Of APC And The APC State Chairman As It Concerns My Ambition – Jarigbe

     

    My dear leaders, members, and supporters of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Cross River State,

    In the past few days, I have followed, with deep concern, the rising tensions within our great party in the state. As a dedicated stakeholder who recently joined the APC with a vision for a united and progressive Cross River, I feel compelled to address these developments directly.

    It has been brought to my attention that my name has been associated with the current rift, with specific references made to the 2027 elections and perceived differences with the State Chairman. I wish to state in the clearest terms possible that these narratives are not only premature but also a misrepresentation of the facts.

    The current challenges are not about the Cross River North Senatorial District, nor are they a personal conflict between myself and any individual. What we are witnessing is a broader, statewide issue that requires a collective and sober approach from all party leaders.

    I am a new member of this party. I came into the APC with a heart full of hope and a commitment to contribute to its growth and success. My primary desire is for peace, stability, and unity to prevail. As a Senator of the Federal Republic, my focus remains on delivering effective representation to the good people of Cross River North and supporting the developmental agenda of our Governor.

    Let me be unequivocal: I am a loyal party man. I hold His Excellency, Governor Ben Ayade, in high esteem as a former Governor . I am fully committed to supporting whatever the incumbent Governor wants and directs. His vision and leadership are crucial for our collective success, and I pledge to work harmoniously under his guidance to strengthen the APC across all wards and local governments.

    I, therefore, appeal to all party faithful,to sheathe their swords. Let us cease actions and utterances that fuel division and instead, channel our energies into building a formidable front. Let us all defer to the Leader of the Party , H. E. Prince Bassey Otu, instead of running riot.

    Let us remember that our strength lies in our unity. Our common goal should be to position the APC for victory in future elections, and this can only be achieved when we stand together as one.

    Thank you, and may God bless the All Progressives Congress and Cross River State.

    Senator Jarigbe A. Jarigbe
    Senator Representing Cross River North Senatorial District.