The Lumine News

Author: The Lumine News

  • Obudu Chairman Meets Kwande and Vandeikya Counterparts, Reaffirms Commitment To Peacebuilding

    Obudu Chairman Meets Kwande and Vandeikya Counterparts, Reaffirms Commitment To Peacebuilding

     

    In a bid to strengthen ties and foster peace between Cross River and Benue States, the Chairman of Obudu Local Government Area, Hon. Peter Akonfe Undiandeye, participated in a strategic meeting alongside the Chairmen of Kwande LGA, Hon. Neji Vitalis, and Vandeikya LGA, Hon. Denis Akura, at the Vandeikya Council Secretariat on Thursday.

    The meeting was convened following the tragic incident of January 5, 2025, in which three indigenes of Obudu traveling to Kwande for business were attacked, resulting in the death of one.

    Addressing journalists after the meeting, Hon. Undiandeye condemned the attack, criticizing the actions of some Kwande residents who, acting on hearsay, resorted to violence without considering the peace currently enjoyed by the neighboring LGAs. He stressed the need for restraint and collaboration to prevent further incidents.

    Speaking during the meeting, Obudu Chairman, Undiandeye Meets Kwande and Vandeikya Counterparts, Reaffirms Commitment to Peacebuilding

    In a bid to strengthen ties and foster peace between Cross River and Benue States, the Chairman of Obudu Local Government Area, Hon. Peter Akonfe Undiandeye, participated in a strategic meeting alongside the Chairmen of Kwande LGA, Hon. Neji Vitalis, and Vandeikya LGA, Hon. Denis Akura, at the Vandeikya Council Secretariat on Thursday.

    The meeting was convened following the tragic incident of January 5, 2025, in which three indigenes of Obudu traveling to Kwande for business were attacked, resulting in the death of one.

    Addressing journalists after the meeting, Hon. Undiandeye condemned the attack, criticizing the actions of some Kwande residents who, acting on hearsay, resorted to violence without considering the peace currently enjoyed by the neighboring LGAs. He stressed the need for restraint and collaboration to prevent further incidents.

    Speaking during the meeting, Undiandeye emphasized the importance of peace as a foundation for socioeconomic development, stating, “Communities can only prosper when harmony prevails.”

    Hon. Neji Vitalis, Chairman of Kwande Local Government Area in Benue State, strongly condemned the heinous act committed by members of his community, describing it as barbaric, inhumane, and criminal. He revealed that a condolence message has been sent to the family of the deceased and confirmed that the perpetrators have been apprehended by the police.

    Similarly, Hon. Denis Akura, Chairman of Vandeikya Local Government Area, echoed these sentiments, urging residents of the affected communities to prioritize dialogue in resolving disputes. He appealed to them to collaborate closely with stakeholders to prevent future occurrences and assured that the perpetrators would face justice following thorough investigations by law enforcement agencies.

    The meeting, attended by paramount rulers of the affected Local Government Areas, critical stakeholders, and government officials, explored the root causes of the conflict on the said day and the circumstances surrounding the attack.

    In a joint communiqué, the chairmen reaffirmed their commitment to peaceful coexistence and pledged to bring the perpetrators of the attack to justice with the assistance of the Nigeria Police Force. As part of the resolutions, a delegation from Kwande, led by Hon. Neji Vitalis, will visit the bereaved family in Obudu to offer condolences and oversee funeral rites.

  • Breaking: Mathias Amunde, Who Killed His Mother, Has Been Apprehended

    Breaking: Mathias Amunde, Who Killed His Mother, Has Been Apprehended

    By TheLumineNews Admin 

    The 29 years old Mathias Amunde Ugwe, who is reportedly alleged to have taken the life of his biological mother, Mrs Justina Amunde, now late in the early hours of Christmas 25th December 2025, has been apprehended and currently cooling his feet at the Obudu Divisional Headquarters of the Nigerian Police Force.

    A combined team of the IPO, SA Security to Obudu Local Government Chairman, Chairman of the National Youth Council of Nigeria, Obudu Chapter, and men of the Nigerian Police Force, Batriko in Eastern Boki Local Government Area, led the arrest of the suspect.

    An anonymous source hinted TheLumineNews that the victim, late Mrs Justina Amunde, was murdered and her hair barbed for rituals. The combined team also apprehended the ritualist who instructed the suspect to barb his mother’s hair and brought to him, they are both in the police custody.

    The person that assisted the suspect to dump the victim’s coprs in the well, is still at large.

    Recall the TheLumineNews, had reported that Mathias Amunde Ugwe, is alleged to have killed his mother and dumped her corps in the well and has been at large since December 25th 2024.

    The two suspects are yet to make statements.

    As at the time of filing this report, efforts to get the Police Public Relations Officer, Irene Ugbo to comment on the development failed as calls to her phone number were not connected.

  • Four Years After, UNICAL Staff Employed By Past Admin Remain At Home BY INYALI PETER 

    Four Years After, UNICAL Staff Employed By Past Admin Remain At Home BY INYALI PETER 

     

    Four years after, majority of the people that were legitimately employed one year to the end of the past administration at the University of Calabar (UNICAL) are still at home as the current management has blatantly refused to allow them work or complete documentation. This is despite the fact that the same administration is being investigated for allegedly inputting names into the payroll.

    It’s sad to see the level of vindictiveness displayed by the current administration, which seems to be targeting the former Vice Chancellor, Prof. Zana Akpagu. But 99.9% of the affected staff are not related to the former VC and are innocent victims. Why not wear a human face and allow them complete documentation and commence work? These people will be paid with government funds not anybody’s personal resources.

    Besides, this administration is winding down already. A new Vice Chancellor will be appointed in the next ten months. Why not bring them now to work after all, if you consider them liabilities, your administration have escaped the liabilities for four years?

    Till date, UNICAL remains the only university in Nigeria with this problem. For those of us who understand the context of the recruitment when the federal government insisted on IPPIS, we will never understand the explanation on why they were stopped from working even though their appointment letters are valid.

    Nevertheless, despite the efforts of the management to get the former governing council to invalidate the appointment letters, the Chairman insisted that such recruitment happened across all universities including Northern universities. Therefore, he couldn’t in good conscience, preside over a session that would take such wicked decision against innocent people. Yet, the management has maintained its stance that these people must remain at home!

    What level of inhumanity is this? It is really unfortunate that this iniquitous action is being meted on innocent Cross Riverians by a fellow Cross Riverian.

    I appeal to the Vice Chancellor or those who have her ears to persuade her to end on a more positive note than she started by inviting these innocent people who are only victims of vendetta to complete their documentation and resume work. Even if payment will be delayed till the end of her tenure, let it be that government’s owing them.

    Similarly, because the majority of those affected are Cross Riverians, I urge Governor Bassey Otu to invite the Vice Chancellor for a discussion with a view to resolving this issue. This is what we see happening n other states. Our leaders should not turn a blind eye to this situation since it is a federal institution. If there’s a breakdown in law and order from this situation now, it’s the state that’ll be the most affected.

    The VC needs all the help now to end her administration in a way that posterity will judge her aright.

    Inyali Peter, Ph.D.

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

  • “We Are Family” – C’River Deputy Governor Tells Council Leaders

    “We Are Family” – C’River Deputy Governor Tells Council Leaders

     

    The Deputy Governor of Cross River State, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, PhD, has called on the 18 Leaders of Councils across the state to foster unity and work together as a family.

    Odey made this call on Tuesday at a meeting with the council leaders at the Glass House, his temporary office in the Government House, Calabar.

    Odey, while assuring the Leaders that their official vehicles would be delivered within the month of January, urged them to always remember their role as “primus inter pares” (first among equals) and to treat their colleagues with respect and decorum.

    Rt. Hon. Odey emphasized the need for collaboration, reminding them of their shared mandate under the All Progressives Congress (APC).

    Drawing from his experience as a former Leader of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Hon. Odey shared insights on effective leadership, advising the council leaders to prioritize the interest of their people above personal interests, stressing that to achieve effective delivery of the dividends of democracy, they was need for sacrifice on their part.

    He also cautioned them against divisive practices such as gossip and hearsay, urging them to maintain a harmonious working relationship with their council chairmen. He intimated that his doors remains open and encouraged them to take advantage should they need his guidance and support.

    In anticipation of upcoming legislative training for all legislators in the 18 Local Government Areas, Rt. Hon. Odey highlighted the importance of building capacity for effective governance.

    In his vote of thanks on behalf of the group, Hon. ThankGod Ekupnse, Leader of the Etung Local Government Council, who commended the Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey for his open-door policy, which facilitated the group’s visit on short notice, also praised the Deputy Governor’s collaboration with the ‘People First’ Governor, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, in prioritizing the welfare of Cross Riverians, particularly the youth.

    The meeting was attended by the Chairman of Yakurr Local Government Council and Chairman of Forum of Council Chairmen in Cross River State, Hon. Yibala Inyang.

    © Deputy Governor’s Press Unit, Calabar

  • C’River Govt Announces Death Of Commissioner For Tourism, Abubakar Ewa

    C’River Govt Announces Death Of Commissioner For Tourism, Abubakar Ewa

    10th January, 2025.

    Ref: CR/MOI/AD/168/VOL.IV/236

    PRESS STATEMENT

    DEATH OF COMMISSIONER FOR TOURISM, ARTS AND CULTURE.

    It is with a profound sense of loss and sorrow in our hearts that the Government of Cross River State mournfully announces the sudden passing on to eternal glory of the State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Honorable Abubakar Robert Ewa, on Wednesday, 8th January, 2025, at about 7:00pm, after the 1st State Executive Council Meeting of the new year. He was 61 years old.

    Until his untimely demise, Hon. Ewa was a Political Scientist, a trailblazer in cultural revival and a driving force behind the ongoing tourism revolution across Cross River State. His passing is indeed a significant setback to the State’s developmental aspirations in this sector.

    As a former Executive Chairman of Boki Local Government Area, Hon. Ewa will be fondly remembered for his invaluable contributions to the development of numerous communities. He was a grassroots politician and a great mobilizer who touched the lives of many during his lifetime.

    His Excellency, our esteemed Governor and Chairman in Council, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, along with all members of the Cross River State Executive Council are in deep shock, traumatized and in disbelief over the sudden loss of their colleague.

    Detailed burial arrangements will be announced later after due consultations with the family.

    May his soul rest in peace.

    Erasmus Ekpang, Ph.D., anipr, ftifuh
    Commissioner for Information

  • Man Chops Off Brother’s Hand In Cross River Over Cocoa Farm Dispute

    Man Chops Off Brother’s Hand In Cross River Over Cocoa Farm Dispute

    Culled From CrossRiverWatch 

    A man identified as Otu William Ajib has allegedly chopped off the wrist and fingers of his brother, Asam William Ajib, over an inherited cocoa farm.

    The incident occurred in Mbeban Community in Akamkpa Local Government Area of Cross River, when the suspect – Otu chased his brother after a protracted disagreement over the farm.

    The victim was rushed to a hospital in the LGA for the hand already dancing on the floor.

    The suspect has however took to his heels.

    Slide photos left below. Note: Viewer’s discretion applies.

  • Mathias Amunde Ugwe, Who Killed His Mother, Still At Large

    Mathias Amunde Ugwe, Who Killed His Mother, Still At Large

    By Lumine Admin 

    A 29 years old Mathias Amunde Ugwe, is alleged to have decided to take the life of his biological mother, Mrs Justina Amunde, now late in the early hours of Christmas 25th December 2024.

    TheLumineNews learnt that the victim, late Mrs Justina Amunde who hails from Ohong in Obudu Local Government Area, attended the Christmas vigil on the 24th December, 2024 and came back very late. She then locked all the doors in the house without any knowledge that her own son had connived with his friend and hid themselves in the store, waiting to commit the crime.

    A source in the family who confided with our reporter disclosed that, “A few hours into the night, the house help who stays with late Mrs Justina Amunde, went to the kitchen to get drinking water, found out that the killer Mathias and his friend were hiding in the store.

    “The house help then raised alarm and the victim came to the rescue of the girl. Unfortunately for her, her own son, Mathias, started hitting her with a heavy hammer, after dispossessing her of cash.

    “When he noticed that his mother was no longer breathing, his friend assisted him to carry the corps and deposited inside the well beside our mum’s room.

    “Having deposited her corps in the well, they ran out of the house with the house help to Boki Local Government Area and threatened her not to disclose the incident to anyone. But the house help escaped to Utanga, Obanliku Local Government Area to meet her parents on the 27th of December, 2024. The girl then narrated her ordeal to her parents, who later contacted us. We then found the corps in the well on the 28th December, 2024”.

    Mathias Amunde Ugwe, is not a popular person. He has no social media accounts or handles. He is from a family of five, and he is the second to the last born.

    Mathias Amunde Ugwe, has a fractured leg that made him deformed after the accident he had a few years ago.

    At the time of writing this report, Mathias is still at large. Anybody with any useful information about him should alert the police.

  • Second Term 2024/2025 Academic Session Begins On Monday, January 6, 2025 – CRS Govt

    Second Term 2024/2025 Academic Session Begins On Monday, January 6, 2025 – CRS Govt

    RESUMPTION OF PUBLIC/PRIVATE SECONDARY/PRIMARY SCHOOLS FOR 2ND TERM, 2024/2025 ACADEMIC SESSION

    The Cross River State Ministry of Education wishes to inform the general public that resumption for the second term 2024/2025 academic session begins on Monday, January 6, 2025.
    Accordingly, the Ministry of Education, enjoins all parents/guardians to release their children/wards to go back to school as classes will commence immediately.

    All teaching/non-teaching staff of primary and secondary schools are hereby advised to return to their duty posts immediately, as Quality Assurance officers have been directed to monitor academic activities in schools across the state.

    All public and private schools must comply with this directives as contain in the Ministry’s earlier publication. The Commissioner for Education is wishing all and sundry a productive second term, and a very happy new year 2025.

    Signed:

    Amos, Okama Ubi (Mrs)
    Director of Schools
    For: Commissioner for Education

  • Yuletide: Bendi Development Association Presents Award To Hon Peter Akpanke

    Yuletide: Bendi Development Association Presents Award To Hon Peter Akpanke

    By Elijah Ugani 

    As part of activities to mark the 2024 Christmas celebration, the Bendi Development Association BDA, has presented award of honor to Hon Peter Akpanke, member representing Obudu/Bekwarra/Obanliku federal constituency.

    The award was presented at the member of parliament’s residence, Keting – Bendi, in Obanliku Local Government Area.

    The association used the opportunity to express gratitude to the MP for his numerous empowerment programmes as well as his people-centered representation, which have significant impact on the constituents.

    Presenting the award on behalf of the association, Chief Izabi, recognized Akpanke’s unwavering commitment to enhancing the lives of his constituents, particularly through the provision of essential and accessible social amenities.

    Responding, Akpanke expressed gratitude for their support for him as one of the community members. He welcomed members of the Bendi Development Association (BDA) to his hometown, and expressed fulfillment having the association visit him for the celebration

    He reaffirmed his dedication to maintaining an open-door policy, and pledged to be accessible to his constituents and will respond promptly where he can to the plight of his people.

    Sideline of the visit was the presentation of bags of rice to the Bendi Development Association BDA, by Hon Akpanke.

  • Gov Otu, Donald Duke, Akpanke, Others Grace AJFIAJ Maiden Symposium, Lauds Initiative

    Gov Otu, Donald Duke, Akpanke, Others Grace AJFIAJ Maiden Symposium, Lauds Initiative

     

    By Godwin Otang, CrossRiverWatch

    Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Otu, Former Governor Donald Duke, Honorable Peter Akpanke and among other dignitaries have welcomed the establishment of the Agba Jalingo Foundation for Investigative and Accountability Journalism (AJFIAJ).

    The dignitaries drawn from both private, and public sectors converged in Transcorp Hotel Calabar, Cross River, the venue of a one-day maiden symposium of (AJFIAJ), cum birthday anniversary of Human Rights Activist Citizen Agba Jalingo.

    The symposium had the theme, “Journalism and Crossing the Cyber Crimes and Legal Huddles”.

    Governor Bassey Otu, re-emphasized his administration’s commitment to journalism, media and information dissemination as a tool for development.

    The Governor represented by Commissioner for Science and Technology, Hon. Beshel Justine, acknowledged the critical role journalism plays in a society.

    In an evolving world of information dissemination, he said Journalists must adopt modern cutting edge technologies for proper information dissemination.

    “All we try to do in Cross River State is to make public all our government practices, projects and programs public, inline with the roles of journalism. Today, journalism must pave a new way for information dissemination. The theme of this event has become very apt at this time. Journalist must also adopt cutting edge practices to fit into the present technologically advanced world.

    In an address during the event, ex-Cross River State Governor, Mr. Donald Duke encouraged media practitioners and Journalists to trade on correct and accurate information, noting that information disseminated attracts degrees of consequences – positive or negative which they must brace up for.

    He said “the rapidity in which the world is changing, even office spaces are changing. I can not comprehend what the world will look like in the next ten years, in terms of information communication technology (ICT). But, they’re consequences, you must be ready to face the consequences of whatever information we put out there.”

    “My message to all of us is; as we go into a new year, let’s take responsibility for all we do. Speak the truth and know that they’re consequences even for speaking the truth. For government officers here, do not get shy or upset when people call you. Don’t get too irritated when you get calls from people you don’t know because you’re a servant , the day you begin to feel very irritated, you’re no longer serving,” he said.

    The Member representing Obudu/Obanliku/Bekwarra Federal Constituency, Honorable Peter Akpanke, represented by his media aid, Awade Friday, commended the character of Mr. Agba Jalingo, noting that his activism has attracted positive results of public relevance and interest.

    “Jalingo is my constituent, your activism has produced good results. The theme of this symposium is timely considering the important role of Journalists in society,”Akpanke remarked.

    In his remarks, Citizen Jalingo Agba who is the Editor-In-Chief of CrossRiverWatch, reaffirmed his commitment to journalism practice, holding the government accountable and advocating for the voiceless in the society.

    Jalingo lauded Governor Otu for granting pardon to 45 inmates from Afokang correctional facility a few days ago, calling the action a good one.

    Other dignitaries in the event include wife of the immediate past Governor Ben Ayade; the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Bassey Otu Mr. Gill Nsa, lawyers, Journalists, government functionary and university students.

    Slide left for photos: