The Lumine News

Author: News

  • Why The Defunct CPC Bloc Must Produce The Next APC Chairman BY OKOI OBONO-OBLA 

     

    The APC is an amalgamate of three political blocks, name ACN, ANPP, CPC, and factions of APGA, and DPP that came together to merge in 2013 to form the Party.
    The first National Chairman was the respected Chief Bisi Akande from 2013 to 2014.
    He came from the defunct ACN bloc.
    The next chairman was Chief John Oyegun.
    He was chairman from 2014 to 2018 and also was of the ACN bloc.

    The next chairman was Comrade Adams Oshiomole from 2018 to 2019.
    He was also from the ACN bloc.
    He was replaced in July 2019 with His Excellency, Mai Mala Buni, as Acting National Chairman of the APC from 2019 to 2022.
    He was also from the ACN bloc.
    He was replaced by Senator Abdullahi Adamu, a defector from the PDP. He was chairman from March 2022 to August 3 2023.
    He was replaced by Dr Abdullahi Umar Danguje ,another defector from PDP, on the 3 August 2023 until now.

    He should resign and leave the seat for somebody from North Central Geopolitical Zone who must be from the old CPC bloc.
    This is the justice of the matter .
    @ Obono-Obla

  • Primary Health Care Needs Urgent Attention To Cater For Vulnerable Nigerians, Says Senator Jarigbe Agom

     

    The Senator representing Cross River North Senatorial District, Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, has called on the Federal government to urgently address the infrastructural deficit in Primary Health Care institutions nationwide.

    The lawmaker made the call yesterday, when he supported a bill sponsored by Distinguished Senator Osita Ngwu (Enugu West) seeking the Establishment of Health Infrastructure Development Agency 2024 (SB.135).

    According to Senator Jarigbe, the Health sector is of great interest to not just the ordinary citizens but to the entire citizenry. He noted that the bill will help to address infrastructural decay in both the primary and secondary health care institutions.

    “It is with profound interest in the health sector, that I stand up to support this bill. We discovered that even in our tertiary health institution, we hardly have equipment, not to talk of the primary health care institutions that take care of the very vulnerable ones in our society”

    “We go to our various communities, the primary health care facilities do not have basic equipment such as thermometers and sphygmomanometers” he added.

    The Bill which was read the second time, seeks to provide a comprehensive framework to guide the planning, financing, construction, maintenance, and regulation of healthcare infrastructure in Nigeria.

    Thereafter, the Bill was put to a voice vote by the Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Jibril Barau, who presided over the session and it was passed and referred to the Senate Committee on Health Institutions for further legislative input.

  • C’River Government Seals Three Schools For None Adherence To Guidelines

    Sen Stephen Odey, Commissioner for Education on Thursday morning led the Quality Assurance Unit in the ministry to seal one school in Obubra Local Government Area and two schools in Yakurr Local Government Area.

    The visit was unannounced, and the schools were closed for not following the Ministry’s guidelines.

    The schools closed are Glorious Vision Academy, Ugep, Yakurr; Dynamic Premiere Academy, Ugep, Yakurr; and Wealth Academy Nursery/Primary School, Apiapum, Obubra.

     

     

  • International Day Of The Boy Child: Matthew Okache Urges Society to Recognize Boy’s Emotional Needs

     

    The Chief Press Secretary to the speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Mr. Matthew Okache has called on society to recognize the emotional needs of the boy child, he made this known today on InternationalDay of the Boy Child, His statement, aimed at acknowledging the often-overlooked struggles of young boys, emphasized their emotional well-being and the importance of recognizing their inherent worth.

    Okache pointed to the societal expectations placed on boys to remain strong and silent, often at the expense of their mental health. He expressed concern over the tendency to overlook the emotional needs of boys, urging society to offer them the same compassion and care given to others.

    “Too often, society expects you to be strong and silent, to bear your burdens without complaint. But the truth is, you are human. You feel pain, you face fears, and you deserve the same care and compassion as anyone else,” Okache stated.

    Okache’s message focuses on the importance of acknowledging boys’ feelings and experiences. He reassured them that their dreams, tears, triumphs, and trials were all significant and worthy of attention.

    “It might feel like the world has forgotten to protect your innocence, to cherish your spirit, but know that you are not alone. Some believe in your worth and are fighting for your right to be heard and loved. You are seen, you are valued, and you are deeply cared for, even when it doesn’t seem that way,” he said.

    The Chief Press Secretary emphasized the importance of vulnerability, urging boys to embrace their emotions as a source of strength. “Stand tall, embrace your emotions, and know that your strength lies not just in your resilience, but in your vulnerability,” he added.

    Okache concluded his message with an empowering reminder of the boys’ potential to effect positive change in the world. He encouraged them to rise, be kind, and make a difference, assuring them that their journey is important and their story worth telling.

    “You are the future, and the world needs your light. Even when it feels like no one is standing up for you, remember, that you have the power to rise, to be kind, and to make a difference. Your journey is important, and your story is worth telling,” he concluded.

  • If There Is Light… BY AGBA JALINGO

     

    The Economist Magazine estimates that, as at 2019, there were over 100,000 registered tailors in Nigeria. That figure is quite conservative to say the least. There is not much reliable data on the precise number of artisans countrywide. But millions of them, including, barbers, hair dressers, tailors, business center operators, welders, frozen food sellers, carpenters and wood workers, bars and pubs owners, etc, are out of work and finding it extremely difficult to cater for themselves and their families. And the only reason they are out of work is the shameful epileptic supply of electricity in Nigeria.

    Yet, instead of working to improve power supply, in the 2023 national budget, N81.7 billion was allocated to the purchase of solar street lights, surpassing schools and primary health centers, which were allocated N77.9 billion and health centers, which got N3.1 billion. Yet these lights die off after a few months. They can’t power anything. Not even a blender or a clipper to cut your hair or a dryer to dry your hair. I do not know how much of that budget came to my senatorial district but I think we can separate ourselves from the pack.

    What do I think we can do other than the street lights? I do not have any perfect idea. I am sure that elected leaders were trusted by the voters and do have their own solutions, but there are some thoughts racing through my mind which I will share with you. I am deliberately restricting my suggestions in this article to the five LGAs in Cross River North, where I come from. My only desire and goal here is to see how my suggestions may help to revamp the informal sector, check urban migration and drive investment to our place.

    In March 2023, President Buhari signed into law, the constitutional amendment allowing states in the country to licence, generate, transmit, and distribute electricity. Under the Act, states can issue licenses to private investors who can operate mini-grids and power plants within the State. This de-monopolization of Nigeria’s electricity generation, transmission, and distribution empowered states, companies, and individuals to generate, transmit and distribute electricity.

    The best bet for us from Cross River North is to explore the Obudu Dam Resort. The Federal Government on Wednesday 14th August 2012, at a meeting of the Federal Executive Council (FEC) presided over by President Goodluck Jonathan, approved the contract sum of N1.165 billion, awarded to Consolidated Construction Limited, CCL, for the rehabilitation of the dam, which has a storage capacity of 1.25 million cubic meters and was meant to serve the entire northern Cross River, up to Ikom LGA. But the former Minister of Water Resources, Mrs. Stella Ochekpe, was accused of misappropriating the money and she is serving a jail term in Jos.

    Our National Assembly Members from the North need to constitute and support a lean technical committee to immediately determine the encumbrances surrounding the project and the possibility and plausibility of intervening to even make the place work partially.

    Where that is not possible immediately; the technical team can work with experts to identify an artesian well within the proximity of the dam where groundwater can be harnessed for power generation. In the 2025 budget year, our three NASS Members can then deliberately accommodate into their joint constituency project, the development of a small dam and mini grid that can generate between 2-5 megawatt of electricity from that artesian well. Five megawatt can power Cross River North and energize a designated industrial zone within any of the LGAs in the Senatorial district. Experts say, without corruption and padding, N500 million can achieve that.

    The project can be funded from NASS constituency intervention, PPP where citizens will be encouraged to own equity, and private capital. But I do not think that N500million is too much money to raise for such a vital project by our legislators. The generated energy can then be isolated from the national grid and be promptly evacuated to a designated technology hub or economic zone, that will be specially designed and allocated for all those artisans listed in my first paragraph that are currently out of jobs and other private investors who would want to come and utilize the regular power supply for small scale processing of our wasting agricultural produce and other electricity dependent business endeavours.

    Yours sincerely,
    Citizen Agba Jalingo.

  • Jarigbe Pledges Advocacy For Legislation That Supports Female Entrepreneurship

     

    The Senator representing Cross River North Senatorial District, Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, received in audience the Women in Energy Network (WIEN), a non-profit organization, led by the President, Eyono Fatayi-Williams, at the National Assembly Complex, Abuja.

    The visit was basically to pledge their support towards advancing Nigeria’s developmental goals in the energy sector.

    During the occasion, the Lawmaker reiterated his commitment to advocating for legislation that supports female entrepreneurship, combats discrimination and creates an enabling environment for women to excel in all sectors.

    He assured that, as a Senator, he will continue to support the vision of Women-in-Energy group because it aligns with the nation’s goals of economic development, sustainability and social equity so that Nigeria can be lighted, not just with electricity, but with brilliance of empowered women leading the charge.

    Senator Jarigbe, who is the Chairman, Senate Committee on Gas also noted that, the group’s efforts to advocate for greater inclusion of women in energy are not just about gender equality; but to enhance the overall capacity and innovation in the energy sector.

    “It is through your leadership and mentorship that we can nurture the next generation of female engineers, scientists and leaders in the energy sector”, he reiterated.

    Speaking earlier, the WIEN President, Mrs. Eyono Fatayi-Williams, stated that, they seek to achieve gender diversity and inclusion, a supportive environment where women can thrive and contribute significantly to the Energy Industry.

    Other members of the group also emphasized that they are keenly interested in the incredible work undertaken by the current administration with a shared commitment to diversify and include the energy industry, adding that there are valuable opportunities for collaboration.

    Also with the President were; Asanimo Omeze, Rita Kwentoh and Bassey Adie.

  • Hon Peter Akpanke: The Wonder Of Simplified Leadership BY THE ROCK MEDIA

     

    In the ever-changing landscape of political leadership, it is rare to find a representative who is truly dedicated to serving the people. However, Hon Peter Akpanke has proven himself to be one amongst exceptional leaders. As he approaches his one-year anniversary in office, it is evident that his commitment to effective representation and simplified leadership has made a significant impact on his constituents.

    Hon Peter Akpanke Akpanke, a member of the People’s Democratic party, was elected as the representative for Obanliku, Bekwarra and Obudu Federal Constituency in 2023.
    From the moment he took office, he has been working endlessly for the better representation. Recognizing the challenges and aspirations of the people he represents, Akpanke embarked on a journey to streamline and simplify the process of governance.

    One of the first things Hon Peter Akpanke did was establish an open-door policy. He made himself accessible and available to his constituents, ensuring that their concerns and needs were heard. This approach not only made the people feel valued and represented, but it also allowed for a direct and efficient communication channel between the representative and his constituents.

    In addition to his open minded Policy, Hon Peter Akpanke introduced regular Constituency Visits where he interacts and get feedback from his Constituents.

    Perhaps one of the key highlights of Hon Peter Akpanke’s tenure has been his emphasis on youth engagement and job facilitations. This concerted effort has not only helped reduce unemployment but has also created a pool of skilled workers within the community.

    As we prepare for his one year of effective representation, Hon Peter Akpanke is receiving accolades from both his constituents and fellow political leaders. His simplified leadership style has brought about tangible changes and improved the lives of the people he serves. It is no wonder that he is regarded as a role model for aspiring politicians who wish to make a real difference in their communities.

    As Hon Peter Akpanke looks towards the future, he remains committed to continuing his efforts to serve the people of OBO Federal Constituency. With his simplified leadership approach and dedication to effective representation, there is no doubt that he will continue to bring wonders and positive change to his constituency.

    The Rock Media

  • C’River Humanitarian Affairs Commissioner Presents Food Items And Relief Materials To Inmates Of Nigerian Correctional Service In Calabar

     

    In her continuous quest to extend the Season of Sweetness to all Cross Riverians and in line with His Excellency Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu’s People First Agenda, the Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Mrs. Helen Isamoh Egodo Ph.D, presented food items and other relief materials to Ogoja inmates of the Nigerian Correctional Service, Cross River State.

    The Commissioner who conveyed the Governor’s compassion towards the inmates assured the inmates and staff of the Nigerian Correctional Service, CRS, of the State government’s determination to provide the needed support and assistance to the Nigerian Correctional Service in their determined attempt to rehabilitating the inmates.

    She encouraged the Controller, Cc. Kupan Amos to call on the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs for necessary assistance anytime the need arises.

    IDr. Egodo prayed God to give the inmates a new beginning, and enjoined them to keep making good choices now regardless of the past as their choices today determines their destiny.

    Responding, the State Controller of Correctional Service Cc. Kupan D. Amos Ph.D, mni, who received the gifts on behalf of the inmates at the Cross River State Headquarters of the Nigerian Correctional Service in Calabar expressed appreciation to the Cross River State Governor Senator Bassey Edet Otu, for his regular support for inmates in the State and his drive towards ameliorating the suffering of his people.

    Dr Amos also commended the efforts of the Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr Helen Isamoh Egodo, for always showing great sympathy for people with special needs.

    He applauded Dr Egodo for working tirelessly to ensure that the Governor delivers on his mandate and campaign promises in order to rebuild the Paradise City.

  • LOAN CRS Chapter Embarks On Indefinite Strike

    Culled from CrossRiverWatch

    The Law Officers Association of Nigeria (LOAN) Cross River State chapter has embarked on an Indefinite Strike on Monday May 13th.

    LOAN said the action is due to the State Government’s inability to meet their demands for the implementation of the existing approval for parity between Law Officers and Magistrates, in the 50% Salary increment for Magistrates since June, 2022, without a corresponding increase for law officers.

    The association had embarked on a warning strike on March 27, 2024 to April 2, 2024 over the demand, however there appears to be no solution to their plea.

    LOAN Chairman Ewonah Araghe, Esq. and Chairman Action Committee C . Adama had signed a notice made available to CrossRiverWatch in Calabar saying the government has a, “deliberate refusal to implement the existing approval for parity.

    “The notice reads in parts: “LOAN in its executive meeting held on the 9” day of May resolved to embark on an indefinite strike to press home their demands. This is because there is no credible reason or explanation as to why they refused to implement the 50 % increment for Law Officers in the first place.

    “This singular act has plunged members of (LOAN) Cross River State Chapter into indescribable hardship. Much worse, it defies logic to try to subject members of this profession to discriminatory treatment. In the light of this, we are constrained by this bulletin to direct all Law Officers working in all Government Ministries and agencies to proceed on an indefinite strike, commencing from Monday the 13” day of May, 2024.

    “We advise the government not to take for granted the maturity of this Association by trying to coerce or victimize its members as the association will resist such threats. The time for empty promises and excuses has passed; the time for action is now.”

  • Ike Ekwermadu: My Friend And The Global Leader At 62 BY OSITA CHIDOKA

     

    We met in 199; you came to pick me up in your Peugeot 505 Salon car. At that time, you were a Local Government Chairman, and I was Personal Assistant to Chief Okete, Minister of State Works and Housing.

    Our friendship was on and off as you climbed the ladder of leadership. I saw you as Chief of Staff to the Governor, Secretary to the State Government and Senator.

    In 2008, our friendship was renewed, made possible by Olisa Metuh, your classmate. The friendship, this time, blossomed.

    You were there when my mother came back from her first cancer surgery.

    You were there when I turned 40. You were there in Obosi when my father turned 90.

    You were there by 7 am for the surprise praise and worship session when my wife turned 40.

    You came to Obosi to see the Thomas Chidoka ICT Centre before its launch in 2016.

    Your wife Nwanneka was always by your side and heartily entertained us with that Abacha that I insist she must get a patent for. I particularly respect Anukata etinye ego (as Olisa and I fondly call her) for focusing on her job as a civil servant while you held sway in the Senate—a remarkable woman.

    I was there at your birthday events. The picture of you, your wife and myself was your 2019 birthday.

    I witnessed your intellectual curiosity never wane, even as you dedicated yourself to public service. Your pursuit of knowledge and your passion for debate, all while maintaining your duties, are traits to be emulated. I escorted you to receive your PhD certificate from the University of Abuja.

    You are a loyal friend, a good husband and a great father. I am proud of you, grateful to know you and happy that you prioritised fatherhood.

    You live your love of family and pay the price for love.

    Today, you mark 62 years. We would have been at your house eating and laughing. We will eat today, but we will not laugh. We will drink, but we will not be raucous because……

    To all friends and admirers: Ike and Nwanneka are in good spirits. They know that ….this, too, shall come to pass. Their back may be bent, but their spirits are not broken.

    Your legacies are etched in our hearts – those you’ve touched. Though the burdens may weigh heavy, your spirit remains unyielding.

    In the face of adversity, you stand tall, a living testament of hope and inspiration to all who know you. Your commitment to family, community, and service is a soulful reminder of and tribute to the power of love and sacrifice.

    Your resilience and calm confidence whenever I see you are an enduring testament to your character and doggedness.

    Next year in Enugu, with God keeping us, we shall sing the Lord’s song not in a strange land but on the soil ordained by God.

    We will celebrate again a friend, a leader, a father and a man whose community and friends acknowledge with one voice as a global leader.

    Happy birthday, Ikeoha, okala madu, and husband of Nwanneka.

    Osita Chidoka
    12 May 2024

     

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