The Lumine News

Author: News

  • Jarigbe Facilitates Construction of Ibil–Ekwaro Road in Ogoja LGA

    Jarigbe Facilitates Construction of Ibil–Ekwaro Road in Ogoja LGA

     

    The Senator representing Cross River North Senatorial District, Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, has facilitated the construction of the Ibil–Ekwaro Road in Ogoja Local Government Area.

    The project was officially handed over to JRB Construction, the firm awarded the contract, by the Constituency Officer, Mr. Egar Mgbantul, on behalf of the Senator.

    Speaking during the handover ceremony, Mgbantul charged the contractor to ensure the delivery of a high-quality and durable project capable of standing the test of time. He emphasized the importance of adhering to specifications and completing the project within the stipulated timeframe.

    The Ibil–Ekwaro Road serves as a vital link between the Ibil and Ekajuk communities. Upon completion, it is expected to significantly improve access and mobility for residents, most of whom are engaged in agriculture. The road will enhance the transportation of farm produce to markets, stimulate local economic activities, and improve overall socio-economic development in the area.

    Constituents have expressed appreciation to the lawmaker for facilitating the project, offering prayers for continued wisdom, strength, and success in his service to the people.

    TEAM JARI MEDIA

  • Freedom Of Choice: When God Created Man And Endowed Him With Freedom, He Meant That We Should Use That Freedom Towards Enhancing The Created Order BY PETER OBELE ABUE

    Freedom Of Choice: When God Created Man And Endowed Him With Freedom, He Meant That We Should Use That Freedom Towards Enhancing The Created Order BY PETER OBELE ABUE

    Being A sermon by Rev Fr Peter Obele Abue PhD.

    So good we are talking about freedom of choice, right after Valentine’s day.

    The book of Sirach 15:15-20, especially verses 17-20 clearly spells out the fact that God has given us humans, freedom to choose what we desire. “Before everyone are life and death, whichever they choose will be given them. Immense is the wisdom of the Lord; mighty in power, He sees all things. The eyes of God behold his works, and he understands every human deed. He never commands anyone to sin, nor shows leniency toward deceivers.” This same God commanded us in the scriptures “You shall not kill, you shall not commit adultery (cf. Ex 20).”

    In America today, for example, there is this great divide between those who say they are “Pro-choice” and others who refer to themselves as “Pro-life”. The argument gets hot each year in January as both parties fight over the famous Roe vs Wade controversy. But let’s think about it for a while; what really does it mean to be Pro-choice and Pro-life?

    Those who argue that freedom of choice permits them to choose to do whatever they like (with their bodies), say that no one can impose judgment on what they choose to do.
    The question is: does that freedom make your action(s) reasonable before God?, since you also claim you believe in God. Read your bible and notice how Jesus differentiates the old and new understanding of these injunctions versus your right to choose to do what you like. He clearly says he has not come to wipe out or water down these injunctions, but to re-enforce them (Mt 5: 17).
    Jesus shocked his listeners by saying that even the mere contemplation of these acts is sin (Mt 5: 17-37). Why then would anyone argue that he or she is free to interpret these laws according to their own whims?

    When God created man and endowed him with freedom, he meant that we should use that freedom towards enhancing the created order, not to re-create our own universe through erroneous thinking, causing more confusion.

    Today, we circumvents all these commandments with the excuse of freedom of choice, in order to create caveats that will permit us to do “whatever we like”. Today, we have all kinds of disjointed ‘freedom’ fighters: gay right activists, animal right activists, etc without a thought on what appeals to common sense of to the law of God. The truth remains thus: You cannot choose to do wrong and call it freedom of choice.

    The arguments will continue but the truth will always prevail and truth needs no defense.

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

  • Freedom Of Choice: Being A Sermon Delivered During 6:00am Mass At Holy Trinity Parish Ogboja-Ogoja BY REV FR FELIX EKPE 

    Freedom Of Choice: Being A Sermon Delivered During 6:00am Mass At Holy Trinity Parish Ogboja-Ogoja BY REV FR FELIX EKPE 

     

    Sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A.
    15th February, 2026.

    Freedom of choice is central to our human existence. Every aspect of our lives has to do with choosing. Even when you refuse to choose, you have already made a choice. There is something beautiful about God: He gives us free will. He respects our freedom. He does not force us. But for every choice we make, there is a corresponding consequence.

    In the First Reading, we are reminded: “If you will, you can keep the commandments, and they will save you.” When you keep the commandments that guide marriage, family life, work, and every aspect of your life, they will serve you and you shall live.

    God has placed before you fire and water. Stretch forth your hand and take what you want.
    Before a person dies physically, he first dies inside. You hear people say, “I cannot make it.” The moment you accept defeat within, the battle is already lost. But I once heard of a woman who refused to die. She had a fighting spirit.

    God says: I place before you good and evil. You can choose to be: A good Christian, a faithful wife or husband, an obedient child, a responsible civil servant, a good neighbour, or you can choose the opposite. Just know this, whatever you choose carries consequences.

    You can choose to serve God in His house. Some say they have no time, not for the choir, not for the charismatic group, not for any service. But choosing not to serve is also a choice. So, choose wisely.

    As a counsellor, I have seen marriages crumble within months. Why Because some people married simply because their friends were getting married. Marriage is not competition. You can choose to make your marriage work.

    Greatness does not happen overnight. To become somebody tomorrow is not the product of waking up one day and becoming great. It is the product of daily choices, small, consistent, disciplined choices.
    You can choose to live recklessly, drinking everything you see, living carelessly. But at 35, when health problems begin, you will face the consequences of yesterday’s choices.
    Marriage should build your faith and make you think responsibly about your family.

    I remember when I was much younger, driving from Abuja to Apiapum in Obubra Local Government Area. I picked up a man on the road. We were driving very fast. When we reached Makurdi, he said, “Father, I want to stop here.” I asked why. He said, “Father, I have a wife and four children.”

    At that moment, I understood the value he placed on his life and his family. For the rest of the journey, we drove like a snail.

    When you place value on yourself, others will value you. Some of you are always present at every friend’s occasion, but when it is your turn, they do not show up. Learn to value yourself. Stop forcing yourself where you are not valued.

    When you come to the house of God, do not hide. Serve. Let people talk about you. When people talk about you, it means you matter.
    The eyes of the Lord are upon those who fear Him. When you choose, He knows. So choose good. Choose to forgive your spouse. Choose peace over quarrels and fights.

    Jesus says, “If you are offering your gift at the altar and remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there. Go and reconcile first, then come back and offer your gift.”

    Some of you carry people in your heart like tenants who refuse to pay rent. You keep grudges. You think you are hurting them, but you are only hurting yourself, causing yourself high blood pressure. Some even keep records, long notes of every wrong their spouse has done from January to December. Yet many have not gone for the Sacrament of Reconciliation all year.

    When you choose wisely: The blessings of God will come upon you. The favour of God will rest on you. Peace will dwell in your home.

    Today, God still places before you life and death, good and evil, fire and water.

    Stretch forth your hand and choose life.

    Compiled By Elijah Ugani

  • A Tribute Of Gratitude, And Radiant Impact To Senator Professor Sandy Ojang Onor @ 60 BY DAVE IMBUA

    A Tribute Of Gratitude, And Radiant Impact To Senator Professor Sandy Ojang Onor @ 60 BY DAVE IMBUA

     

    When I arrived at the Department of History and International Studies, University of Calabar as a young undergraduate, Dr. Sandy Onor – as he was then known – was not physically present. Yet his name filled the air. He had left to serve as Executive Chairman of Etung Local Government Area, but in the classrooms and corridors, he remained a standard. Lecturers invoked him as a model of brilliance, discipline, integrity, and academic distinction. Even in absence, he reigned supreme.

    Years later (in 2012 to be precise), destiny granted me the rare privilege of meeting him in person. He was then Commissioner for Environment in Cross River State; I was Lecturer II in the University of Calabar. Through his late bosom friend, Dr. James Ewah, he invited me to see him. That meeting changed my life.

    He told me he had heard of my discipline, dedication, and scholarly commitment – and that he wanted us to collaborate in research. These were the very virtues for which he himself was known. I accepted the offer without hesitation. When I informed my revered mentor, Ambassador Prof. Okon Edet Uya, he welcomed the idea but expressed a fatherly concern: that Sandy Onor might eventually draw me into politics. His fear was that those meant to preserve academic excellence often depart, while those who should leave remain.

    What followed was not a loss to scholarship, but an expansion of purpose. Our collaboration enriched my intellectual life and strengthened my professional journey in ways too numerous to recount. It made resources available for me to conduct research and publish in ways that would have been difficult otherwise.

    Then came 2019. Against formidable odds, Sandy Onor was elected Senator. In a move that reflected rare courage and clarity, he appointed me his Senior Legislative Aide – the highest position among his aides – despite our being from different senatorial districts. In a political climate where geography and ethnicity often dictate opportunity, he chose conviction over convenience. That decision alone speaks volumes about his character. By God’s grace, we left meaningful footprints in the Senate.

    To me, my encounter with Senator Professor Sandy Onor is divine benevolence. God brought him into my life as a pillar – one man doing for me what many may not receive from a multitude in a lifetime. His generosity is instinctive, not calculated. He sees nothing as too great to do where friendship, loyalty and merit are concerned. He has opened to me the vastness of his heart and resources, ensuring that I never lack the means to pursue any noble cause. He embraces my family as his own, relating with my wife and children with warmth and dignity.

    Yet beyond personal benevolence stands something even more compelling: his seamless fusion of scholarship and statesmanship. He is proof that intellect need not be abandoned in public office, and that politics, when guided by ideas, can be noble. He bridges the academy and politics, thought and action, reflection and reform.

    At 60, Senator Professor Sandy Ojang Onor is not merely older – he is deeper, stronger, and more luminous. Sixty years of learning. Sixty years of service. Sixty years of lifting others. Sixty years of courage.

    Today in Abuja, we do not merely mark time; we celebrate impact. We raise our glasses in sixty resounding cheers – to a scholar of distinction, a statesman of conviction, a mentor of rare generosity, and a friend of steadfast loyalty.

    May the God who ordered our paths to cross grant him many more fruitful decades. May his wisdom expand, his strength be renewed, and his influence multiply. May the years ahead surpass the years behind in grace and accomplishment.

    Happy 60th Birthday, Distinguished Senator Professor Sandy Ojang Onor.

    The name that once reigned supreme in absence now shines even brighter in presence – and in the grateful hearts of those whose lives he has transformed.

     

  • Odey Applauds Councillors’ Support, Calls for Continued Collaboration with Council Chairmen

    Odey Applauds Councillors’ Support, Calls for Continued Collaboration with Council Chairmen

     

    The Deputy Governor of Cross River State, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, PhD, has commended local government legislators (councillors) for their steadfast support of the Senator Prince Bassey Otu-led administration.

    Dr. Odey gave the commendation on Tuesday while receiving in audience leaders of the Local Government Legislative Assemblies at the Deputy Governor’s Conference Room, Government House, Calabar.

    Rt. Hon. Odey called on them to continue supporting and praying for the Governor, while encouraging strong collaboration with their respective council chairmen to ensure effective governance at the local government and ward level.

    He reassured the leaders of the state government’s continued collaboration with local government councils to guarantee efficient service delivery and the successful implementation of the administration’s people first agenda.

    He also advised political office holders to remain humble and mindful of the transient nature of power. “When you are at the top, do not become carried away, because the table can turn,” he cautioned, stressing the importance of humility, respect for others, and responsible leadership across all levels.

    Earlier in his remarks, the Councillor representing Utugwang North and Leader of the Forum, Hon. Eneji Sam Ashibi, expressed appreciation to the Deputy Governor for the audience granted to them.

    Eneji, who also serves as Leader of the Obudu Legislative Assembly, reaffirmed the unwavering loyalty of the legislative leaders to the present administration and pledged their continued support in advancing the policies and programmes of the state government at the grassroots level. He noted that the forum remains committed to promoting unity, stability, and effective legislative oversight within their respective councils.

    In their separate remarks, the leaders of the Biase, Etung, and Ogoja Legislative Assemblies, Hon. Egwu Egeh Umet, Hon. ThankGod Ekupnse Ojong, and Hon. Dr. Elizabeth Mbim, respectively commended Governor Bassey Otu for embarking on grassroots-driven projects across the state. They also applauded the Deputy Governor for his leadership and supervisory role over local government affairs.

    The legislators, however, appealed for improved welfare packages for councillors, including the provision of mobility to enhance their effectiveness. They noted that the lack of adequate resources has limited their ability to execute constituency projects and called for greater support to strengthen legislative functions at the grassroots level.

    A highlight of the visit was the observance of a minute’s silence in honour of their departed colleagues and the presentation of a commemorative portrait to the Deputy Governor.

    Deputy Governor’s Press Unit, Government House, Calabar

  • Cross River State Governor Launches 2025 WASH Policy, Calls For Collective Action To Deliver Safe Water And Sanitation For All

    Cross River State Governor Launches 2025 WASH Policy, Calls For Collective Action To Deliver Safe Water And Sanitation For All

     

    By TheInvestigator

    His Excellency, Senator Bassey Edet Otu, Governor of Cross River State, officially launched the State Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) Policy 2025 at a well-attended ceremony held at Channel View Hotel, Calabar.

    The event brought together government officials, legislators, development partners, civil society organisations, private sector representatives, and community leaders to mark a major milestone in the state’s drive toward universal access to safe water, dignified sanitation, and improved hygiene.

    In his keynote address, Governor Otu described the launch as more than a ceremonial unveiling of a document. “Today is not just a ceremonial unveiling of a policy document; it is a celebration of shared vision, collective effort, and renewed commitment to improving the quality of life and health outcomes of our people,” he declared.

    The governor highlighted the inclusive and transformative process behind the policy, noting that over the past year, stakeholders. “From the visioning workshop held in August 2024 to the final stakeholder validation in August 2025, the entire process reflected our collective determination to build a policy that responds to present realities while preparing for future challenges,” he said.
    Governor Otu expressed profound gratitude to key contributors, particularly the State Executive Council, for providing the political will under the “People First” administration to prioritise WASH as an essential driver of human development.

    Represented by the Commissioner for Water Resources, Barrister Bassey Mensah, commended Self Help Africa (SHA) for its technical and financial support through the WASH Systems for Health Programme, which ensured the policy aligned with global best practices while remaining locally relevant.
    Emphasising that the policy’s true value lies in its implementation and impact, the governor stated: “This document represents a collective promise to our communities, to ensure safer water, dignified sanitation, improved hygiene practices and healthier lives.”

    He urged all stakeholders to sustain the spirit of collaboration: “I enjoin all stakeholders in this sector to sustain this spirit of collaboration as we work together to translate the policy into practice to achieve long-term and sustainable benefits for every citizen of Cross River State.”

    Concluding on an optimistic note, Governor Otu thanked everyone for their shared commitment and congratulated all present: “Thank you for your shared commitment, as I congratulate everyone of us for this great milestone.”
    The country director, Self Help Africa (SHA), Dr Joy Adelere, commended the state government for launching the WASH policy, reiterating that it is a significant step.

    “This policy is an inclusive and forward-looking framework that aligns with national and international standards,” she said. Aderele added that, “Good WASH governance involves making the right decisions and implementing them effectively by leveraging partnerships for sustainable change within the sector.”

    The 2025 WASH Policy establishes clear institutional reforms, including an independent WASH Regulatory Commission, commercialisation of the Cross River State Water Board Limited (CRSWBL), creation of a Small Towns Water and Sanitation Agency (STOWA), and strengthened rural systems under RUWATSSA. It sets minimum service standards (30-20 litres per capita per day depending on settlement type), mandates safety plans for water and sanitation, promotes inclusive financing through the “3Ts + R” model, and emphasises innovation, gender equity, disability inclusion, and real-time monitoring via a public WASH dashboard.

    The launch concluded with a symbolic handover of the policy document to selected stakeholders, signalling the start of decentralised implementation.
    Cross River is positioning itself as a frontrunner in Nigeria’s efforts to achieve Sustainable Development Goal 6 by 2030, ensuring safe, managed water and sanitation for all, leaving no one behind.

  • Practical Religion: God Is Interested In Practical  Works Of Mercy And Love And That Was The Light He Wanted To See Shining On His People BY PETER OBELE ABUE

    Practical Religion: God Is Interested In Practical  Works Of Mercy And Love And That Was The Light He Wanted To See Shining On His People BY PETER OBELE ABUE

    Christianity or the whole idea of RELIGION is being challenged today by a demand for practical results bordering on satisfaction of basic human needs. Those who emphasize this practical religion insist that Christ did not just come to teach us how to pray and worship, he also came to teach us how to take care of the poor and needy. Although this mentality smacks of secularism and denial of the sacred, at the same token, it is not something we should ignore outrightly especially in our clime, where majority of the people are in need of basic necessities.

    Jesus himself reminded us that we are “salt of the earth and light of the works” ( Matt 5:12-16). That It is to the extent we are able to show practical religion, that determines how we become salt and light. The people of Israel thought they were a Light in the world, because of their grand solemn ceremonies in the temple; they were wrong. God is interested in practical  works of mercy and love and that was the light he wanted to see shining on his people.

    The Prophet Isaiah commands the people thus: share your bread with the hungry, bring the homeless poor into your house, cloth the naked, be your own brother or sisters keeper, stop pointing the accusing finger, speaking wickedness and increasing the yoke of pain and suffering for others (Isaiah 58: 7-10). These are the things that fail to make our light shine and our prayers heard (verse 9). Christianity is not just about going to church or attending grand religious ceremonies, but also about coming to the aid of those who truly need us. Unfortunately, many deceive themselves that they are religious, when all they do is fuel trouble in their families, congregations or communities; knocking heads together, causing anxiety among peoples, and heightening the problems of poor people by their half-educated principles.

    If your worship of God or church attendance is not followed up with concrete acts of charity, or worse still, by wicked acts, you are a church goer who also doubles as a trouble shooter. As someone once said, No religion in the world is greater than kindness. No scripture is deeper than compassion. No ritual is holier than love.  Your beliefs may guide you, your traditions may shape you, but what truly defines you is how you treat others. Don’t just preach your religion – live its essence.  Don’t just quote verses – embody their meaning. Don’t just identify with a label – let your humanity speak louder than words. St Paul warns us that our faith should not rest on “human wisdom, but on the power of God” (1 Cor 2: 1-5). Human wisdom is when we are always rationalising, condemning and judging others at the slightest provocation; when we confuse people with our education, oratory and privileged positions. It is better to use the power of God in life because human wisdom can disappoint us.

    Disclaimer: The opinion expressed in this article is strictly that of the author, Peter Obele Abue, and does not represent Theluminenews, its agent or the organisation the author works for/With

  • UNICROSS Vice Chancellor Raises Concerns Over Absence of Campus Fencing

    UNICROSS Vice Chancellor Raises Concerns Over Absence of Campus Fencing

     

    The Vice Chancellor of the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS), Professor Francisca Bassey, has raised concerns over the absence of perimeter fencing to effectively secure the University’s campuses.

    Professor Bassey raised the concerns when the Director of the Homeland Security and Safety Agency (South), Chief Michael Nsan, and his team paid a courtesy visit to her office.

    Receiving the team, the Vice Chancellor explained that the lack of fencing has exposed the Calabar, Ogoja, and Okuku campuses to various security challenges, including vandalisation of properties, theft, attacks on students, flooding, and land encroachment.

    She noted that the University continues to lose critical infrastructure such as windows, doors, electrical installations, air-condition and cables.

    Prof. Bassey cited the University’s new auditorium, Okuku campus Store, the Faculty of Engineering, the Faculty of Education, and the Staff School as facilities that have recently suffered vandalisation of valuable property.

    She added that offices of some Lecturers had also been ransacked by thieves.
    According to her, “It is painful that as we fix facilities, they are vandalized again. This cycle is unsustainable and poses risks to both our students and staff.”

    The Vice Chancellor further identified inadequate remuneration of outsourced security personnel, insufficient patrol vehicles, and the absence of modern surveillance systems as additional factors limiting efforts to effectively secure the three campuses of UNICROSS.

    She described the visit of the Homeland Security and Safety Agency as timely and appealed for assistance in addressing the challenges.

    Earlier in his address, Chief Michael Nsan, explained that the visit was in line with the Agency’s mandate to assess government-owned facilities and recommend practical ways of enhancing safety.

    He stated: “Our Governor takes security very seriously. We are here to understand the University’s specific challenges and work with Management to identify solutions that will strengthen its security architecture. We want to ensure that in the event of any emergency, the university and the state security architecture can work in sync to guarantee safety.”

    Also speaking, the Chief Security Officer of UNICROSS, Mr. Iwara Ibiang, called for stronger and more sustainable approaches to preventing criminal activities on campus. He emphasized that beyond routine security checks, there must be arrests and prosecution of offenders, adding that the development of a comprehensive security database would further help to deter criminal activities.

    The visit concluded with assurances of collaboration between UNICROSS and the Homeland Security and Safety Agency to ensure a safer and more conducive environment for teaching and learning across the University.

    The Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration), Professor Thomas Ojikpong; Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic), Professor Stella Maris-Okey; the Registrar, Dr. Catherine Osai; the University Librarian, Dr. Victoria Iyishu; the Bursar, Mr. Wilson Aniyom; the Chief Security Officer, Mr. Iwara Ibiang; and the Public Relations Officer, Mr. Onen Ebri Onen, joined the Vice Chancellor in receiving the Homeland Security and Safety Agency team.

  • The Christian Vocation Of Salt And Light. Being A Sermon Delivered By Rev Fr Felix Ekpe, Parish Priest, Holy Trinity Parish Ogboja-Ogoja

    The Christian Vocation Of Salt And Light. Being A Sermon Delivered By Rev Fr Felix Ekpe, Parish Priest, Holy Trinity Parish Ogboja-Ogoja

    By Elijah Ugani 

     

    Vocation is what God has entrusted to you. The Christian vocation God has entrusted to us is to be salt and light, to add value wherever we find ourselves. Salt gives taste. Light gives direction. Wherever a Christian is found, life should become sweeter and brighter.

    The Call to Add Value
    From the prophecy of Isaiah, we hear God’s call clearly: “Share your bread with the hungry… then your light shall break forth like the dawn. Your righteousness shall go before you; when you call, the Lord will answer.”

    Our vocation is to add value, to make life better for others. This is what it means to be sweet.

    Imagine a newly married couple. The wife cooks a meal, but there is no salt in the food. The food may look good, but it will not be sweet. In the same way, when our lives lack value, our presence becomes tasteless. Being sweet in Marriage.

    Wherever you are, let your life be sweet. If you are a husband, be a sweet and intentional husband. A tasteless husband runs away from responsibility. He is always absent, physically or emotionally. Be a sweet wife. A tasteless wife is one who nags endlessly. When a wife is constantly quarrelling, the husband will avoid home and only return when she has gone to bed. A sweet wife knows when to keep quiet and when to speak, waiting until emotions have settled so peace can return.

    Men, sometimes, are like babies. When you pamper a man, he opens his heart. When you respect him, he becomes generous with love and care. Not every woman a man raises his hand against, the value you bring influences how you are treated. Be a sweet wife so your husband will be happy to come home and relax. When there are issues, discuss them together in love. A tasteless husband allows outsiders to define his family.

    Be a sweet husband. When you are sweet, your light will shine. Let Your Light Shine Everywhere Jesus said, “Let your light shine.” That includes the house of God. When you come to church and you want to dance, dance well. Some people come to the house of God without adding value. To be sweet in God’s house, you must contribute, through worship, service, and attitude.

    Remember your position, you are a child of God. When you enter the house of God, leave pride and worldly titles outside. Until you appreciate yourself and what God has placed inside you, others will not appreciate you.

    Take your place in your Father’s house. Add value to yourself, and people will value you. The vocation God has given you must be seen in your conduct. If no one sees what you are doing, how will they know your light is shining?

    You were created to shine, so shine, and shine again. Do not neglect yourself. Let your life shine. Some husbands are ashamed to hold their wives’ hands in public. When last did you joke with your wife? When you tell her, “I am lucky to have married you,” she will laugh like a child.

    Valentine is coming, love is not only about buying boxers for men. Buy something meaningful. Be intentional. There was a couple who were quarreling. Their daughter joined in and supported her mother against the father. The mother slapped the child. Why? Because marriage issues must be handled wisely, with maturity and respect.

    Make your marriage sweet. Be intentional about your vocation. Add value wherever God has placed you, and you will be happy, fulfilled, and shining as salt and light.

     

  • Bishop Akpan Takes Over Jennifer Etuh Hospital, Tasks Alesi, Ochon Communities To Lay Down Arms

    Bishop Akpan Takes Over Jennifer Etuh Hospital, Tasks Alesi, Ochon Communities To Lay Down Arms

    By Elijah Ugani

    The Bishop of Ogoja Diocese, the Most Rev Donatus Edet Akpan has tasked the wearing communities of Ochon and Alesi to lay down theirs arms and embrace peace as there cannot be meaningful development without peace.

    The Bishop made the call on Friday February 6th 2026, at Ochon while delivering his sermon at the mass to mark the blessing and taking over the management of Jennifer Etuh Hospital.

    Find text of the Bishop’s sermon “Today is a very special day for us in this community and its environs. God has officially visited you today and has brought you the gift of peace.

    “When Jesus sent out His disciples, He instructed them: “Wherever you enter a house, say, ‘Peace be with this house.’ If a person of peace lives there, your peace will rest on him.” As I stepped into this land today, I proclaim: may the peace of Christ be with you all.

    “God knows what you are lacking. He knows your needs, and He will give you what you truly need. What this community needs now is peace. And so, I plead with God to grant you peace.

    “Our royal fathers are all present here today. Though I may not have the opportunity to meet each of you personally, God has asked me to speak to you. He has been watching as human lives, His own creation, has been toyed with. Like Herod, who even listened to a woman demanding a human head, God says He is tired of bloodshed.

    “He gave you this land so that you may cultivate it, eat from it, and pass it on to your children and your children’s children. God is calling you to rethink.

    “If your brother does wrong, go and speak with him privately. If he listens, you have won him over. If he does not, take another brother along. If he still refuses, bring the matter before the Church.

    “God is using this occasion, the blessing of this health facility to speak to everyone. He wants you to rethink your ways.

    “You cannot continue to toy with human life, killing and shedding blood and expect the land to prosper. When blood is spilled on the land, it becomes unproductive.

    “When you keep God’s commandments, as King David did, you will live securely in your land. But when you defile the land, the sword will eventually devour you.

    “This call is timely. God has been watching. He does not take pleasure in the death of a sinner. Though He remained silent amid atrocities, killing your brothers and stealing from them, today He makes a clarion call: come out of these crimes and become your brother’s keeper.

    “We no longer have pagans among us. We know the Scriptures, whoever hates his brother is a murderer, and no murderer will inherit the Kingdom of God.

    “When we destroy, we cannot progress. Let us give peace a chance in this community, and we will see that we will be happier.

    “I thank God for the generous family who donated this land for this health facility, especially their wife, Jennifer, whose vision made this possible. It brings me great joy to see a family think beyond themselves and care for the lives of others.

    “In memory of their wife and mother, they built this facility and entrusted it to the Church. You are all witnesses as it is handed over to the Catholic Diocese of Ogoja, so that it may be managed for the benefit of everyone.

    “This Mass marks the beginning of the operation of this facility, so that what God desires for us may come to pass.

    “We pray that God bless the donors, all who come here seeking medical attention, the administrators, and everyone who will work in this place.

    “I charge you all to preserve this facility. If you destroy what belongs to God, there will be no peace. Protect this gift given to this community. Since my appointment as Bishop, it has been my desire to establish a hospital in Obubra. Though I did not have the means, God heard my groaning and made this possible. Let us put our hands together so that the donors may feel fulfilled.

    “May all who come here sick return home alive and healthy. Do not be like Herod, who heard of the power at work in Jesus but refused to submit to it, choosing instead the path of evil, leading to the beheading of John the Baptist.

    “What Jesus asks us to do, let us strive to do it, so that His power may abide in us. And what He tells us to avoid, let us avoid, so that we may live in peace”.

    On his part, the Chairman of Jennifer Etuh Foundation, Mr Thomas Etuh, represented by Mr Joseph Otu and Hon Nicholas Ahiwa, commended the Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Ogoja, the Most Rev Donatus Akpan, for the disposition to take over the health facility. He acknowledged the commitment of Rev Joemarcus Ogan and Rev Fr Anthony Ogah who made selfless commitment to ensure that the hospital is fully operational.

    He noted that even when the hospital was already been managed by the church, more development were underway as solar panels were mounted to generate light. He assured the bishop of the Jennifer Etuh Foundation’s commitment to sustain the hospital for the benefit of the rural communities.

    On his part, Hon Nicholas Ahiwa, noted that “When the late Mrs Jennifer Etuh was sick, she called her husband and told him that they are wealthy and can afford medication but that they are other people who cannot afford medication. She asked her husband to go to any rural community and build a hospital for the people.

    “When this hospital was completed, we needed to hand it over to a private organisation to manage it and the Catholic Diocese of Ogoja readily comes to mind. We are very pleased with the work the church is doing in hospital management and we comfortable that intention for which this hospital was built will be fulfilled”.

    In a vote of thanks, the Hospital Administrator, Rev Fr Anthony Ogah, thanked the Bishop for the support and encouragement and especially, for providing material and financial support for the Two day medical outreach which recorded 24 free surgeries.
    He thanked his predecessor, Rev Fr Joemarcus Ogan, for the work he started. He acknowledged the support of all priests who left their pastoral schedules to identify with him.

    Fr Anthony acknowledged the commitment of his staff and that of the Chiefs and community leaders who are always disposed to offer the needed support.
    He assured that the hospital will be opened 24 hours daily “Let me appeal to those who were not attended to during the outreach. Please come, I’m here for you. This is the apostolate that God has given to me and I am willing and ready to discharge my duties. Whenever you’re here even at midnight, call Fr Tony and I will come and attend to you”.

    Highlights of the event was the visiting and presenting gifts to patients by the bishop, laying of foundation stone for staff quarters and interactive session with Chiefs and leaders of Ochon community.