Category: Metro News

  • C’River PDP Constitutes 20-Member Committee For September Congress

    C’River PDP Constitutes 20-Member Committee For September Congress

    Culled from Weekenders

    The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Cross River State has intensified preparations for its September 27, 2025 State Congress with the unveiling of a 20-member committee to steer the exercise.

    A statement signed by the State Chairman, Barr. Venatius Ikem, said the panel will oversee the planning and coordination of the congress to ensure it is credible, transparent, and rancour-free.

    The committee is chaired by former University of Calabar Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Zana Akpagu, while Chief (Barr.) Helen Bocco serves as Secretary.

    Other prominent members include Prof. Walter Mboto, Prof. Tom Ogar, Rt. Hon. Fred Osim, Barr. Mike Aniah, Barr. Francis Anom, Barr. Victor Edim, and Barr. Paul Ebiala.

    Also named are Dr. Ivon Ettah, Hon. Ina Ibor, Hon. Ayuk Ntui, alongside several respected party leaders representing the state’s 18 Local Government Areas.

    Ikem described the team as “a reputable mix of experience and competence,” noting that its composition underscores the PDP’s commitment to inclusivity and internal democracy. He expressed confidence that the committee would deliver a seamless congress capable of repositioning the party for greater political relevance in the state.

    The congress is expected to attract massive participation from party faithful, as stakeholders gear up for a landmark event that will define the PDP’s leadership and strategic direction in Cross River State.

  • Dr Agbor Champions Education, Culture, and Youth Empowerment at 2025 Umung Cultural Day Festival

    Dr Agbor Champions Education, Culture, and Youth Empowerment at 2025 Umung Cultural Day Festival

     

    The Utugwang community in Obudu Local Government Area came alive on September 7th 2025, with the celebration of the maiden edition of the Umung Cultural Day Festival, a colorful event that showcased tradition, unity, and community spirit.

    This maiden edition focused on education and youth empowerment, thanks to the intervention of Dr. Godwin Agbor, Director of Omega Agbor Clinic and Maternity Ltd, Chairman of the Obudu Health and Anti-Quackery Committee, and a former APC aspirant for the Cross River State House of Assembly.

    As part of the festival highlights, Dr. Agbor awarded bursary to 70 students from Obudu, Bekwarra, and Obanliku Federal Constituency, describing the gesture as his way of supporting the ongoing strides of Governor Sen. (Apostle) Bassey Edet Otu in improving education and infrastructure across the state.

    The day also featured a novelty football match between Utugwang Central and Utugwang South Ward, which ended 1–0 in favor of Utugwang Central. Dr. Agbor donated ₦50,000 to the winning team and ₦20,000 to the runners-up, encouraging sportsmanship and youth engagement.

    Other activities included cultural dances, a new yam harvest competition, cooking contests, and the unveiling of the Utugwang Cultural Attire by the clan heads of Okworogung and Nkirira communities.

    Although Hon. Chief Dr. Emmanuel Ironbar, Chief of Staff to the Governor, could not attend to receive a scheduled Chieftaincy title, organizers assured he would get it at a later date.

    Speaking after the event, community leaders praised Dr. Agbor’s consistency in supporting educational initiatives, cultural preservation, and healthcare delivery. His active role in the festival, they noted, reflects a leadership style rooted in service and a commitment to the future of Obudu and the wider Cross River North region.

    The 2025 Umung Cultural Day Festival did not only celebrated tradition but also highlighted the growing role of leaders like Dr. Agbor in blending culture with development for the benefit of the people.

  • Jarigbe Commissions Seven Solar-Powered Boreholes in Obudu LGA

    Jarigbe Commissions Seven Solar-Powered Boreholes in Obudu LGA

     

    Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, representing Cross River North Senatorial District, has commissioned seven solar-powered boreholes in Obudu Local Government Area of Cross River State.

    This initiative is part of the Senator’s rural water project, aimed at addressing the critical water challenges in the district by providing clean water to constituents.

    Many communities in Cross River North face difficulties accessing basic water services, with families, especially women and children, often walking long distances to fetch water from unclean sources. This project directly addresses these gaps and promotes sustainability through local ownership and inclusive community engagement.

    The communities that benefited from this initiative include:

    1. Biwhe (Alege/Ubang)

    2. Ohong (Begiading Ward)

    3. Bebuatsuan (Ipong Ward)

    4. Karu (Ukpe Ward)

    5. Ukpada (Utugwang South)

    6. Indiabeb (Urban Ward 1)

    7. Bedia (Angiaba/Begiaka)

    Represented by the Constituency Officer, Mr. Egar Mgbantul, Senator Jarigbe noted that this project is an immediate response to the requests made by these communities. It aligns with his commitment to delivering infrastructural projects to rural areas in the Senatorial District. He reiterated that this initiative is one of several quick-impact projects aimed at contributing to national development by providing safe drinking water and promoting good hygiene to reduce waterborne diseases.

    Leaders and residents of Obudu Local Government Area have expressed their gratitude to the Senator for his kind and proactive gesture. They prayed for his continued success and promised to remain committed to supporting him in delivering more democratic dividends to the people.

    This project underscores the Senator’s dedication to improving the lives of his constituents and addressing their basic needs.

    TEAM JARI MEDIA

  • Jarigbe Hands Over Completed Solar-Powered Boreholes to Five Communities in Obanliku LGA

    Jarigbe Hands Over Completed Solar-Powered Boreholes to Five Communities in Obanliku LGA

     

    The Senator representing Cross River North Senatorial District, Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, has handed over completed solar-powered boreholes to five communities in Obanliku Local Government Area of Cross River State.

    This project is part of the Senator’s rural water initiative, aimed at addressing the challenges of access to potable water in the Senatorial District.

    The communities who benefited from this initiative include:

    Umale Community (Bendi Ward 2)

    Ablasang Community (Bishiri South)

    Busi 4 Community(Busi Ward)

    Besenge Community (Utanga Ward)

    Bebuenkayang Community (Bisu Ward)

    Represented by the Constituency Officer, Mr. Egar Mgbantul, Senator Jarigbe reaffirmed his commitment to providing welfare to his constituents through basic amenities such as healthcare facilities, education, agriculture, water, and more. He emphasized that he is a man of his word and urged constituents to continue supporting him to attract more infrastructural and human capital development to their communities.

    Community Chiefs, women, youths, and residents expressed their heartfelt appreciation to the Lawmaker for always responding to their calls for help. They pledged to continue supporting him and standing by him at all times.

    This gesture underscores the Senator’s dedication to improving the lives of his constituents and addressing their basic needs.

    TEAM JARI MEDI

  • Otu Hands Over Site For The Construction Of Hostel And ICT Center, Commends Clement Udie 

    Otu Hands Over Site For The Construction Of Hostel And ICT Center, Commends Clement Udie 

    By Elijah Ugani 

    The Cross River State Governor, Sen Bassey Otu, has commended Arc Clement Udie for facilitating the construction of Information and Communication Technology ICT Center and a Hostel for the College of Health Sciences Obudu, by the Niger Delta Development Commission NDDC.

    Otu made the commendation during the handing over of ceremony of the site for the construction work on Friday September 5th 2025, at the school premises.

    Represented by the Commissioner for Health, Dr Henry Ayuk, Gov Otu, noted that Arc Clement Udie have proved the essence of public service “I am astonished. I have not heard of this. You have proved to us the essence of public service. You have set a pace and we will follow”.

    Gov Otu used the opportunity and acknowledged the marvelous works of the college provost, Dr Mrs Veronica Undeshi and noted that “The Provost has been nothing short of a performer. She can do a second tenure. And if we want to replace her, we must look for someone who will maintain the tempo she has created”.

    Responding the issue raised by the Obudu Local Government Council Chairman, about Obudu college of Nursing Sciences getting her school bus just like other schools got theirs, Otu noted “Obudu College of Nursing Sciences, will get her bus. By 12th of September, the Ministry of Health will take delivery of Three 18 seater buses and will be distributed to Calabar, Ogoja and Obudu Colleges of Nursing Sciences”.

    He used the opportunity and appealed to the host community not to sell the land allocated for school of Nursing Sciences Obudu.

    On her part, the Provost of the college, Dr Mrs Veronica Undeshi, welcomed guests and noted that the College of Nursing Sciences, Obudu is indeed one of faith, resilience and progress established in March 1980 as initial intake of 65 students for the training of Basic Midwives. Through series of reforms, the school metamorphosed into a college of nursing.

    She noted that “On the 15th of August 2023, by the gracious intervention of the Executive Governor of Cross River State, Sen Bassey Otu, and despite strong opposition from certain quarters, our school was given the rare privilege of transition into a full-fledged College of Nursing Sciences. We got the team from Nursing Council of Nigeria and NBTE, we obtained interim accreditation on the following areas in addition to National Diploma in Nursing. Basic Nursing, Basic Midwifery, Community Midwifery and Post Basic Nursing.

    “Today, I am proud to announce that our students population has risen to 1000. Indeed it has been a difficult journey, but a worthy one”.

    Mrs Undeshi noted that ” the remarkable transformation in the school is the approval by the former Gov Ben Ayade for 100% retention of funds and subsequent sustenance by this administration. The construction of additional classrooms, administrative offices, rehabilitation and extension of buildings at annex, provision of laboratory equipment, classroom furniture, renting of additional hostels, construction of boreholes and employment of casual staff to augment the limited government workforce”.

    She thanked the paramount ruler of Obudu Local Government Area, His Royal Magesty, Utsu Felix Ukudare and Obudu community for the 7.2 hectares of land and that the land is duly surveyed.

    Speaking further she said “Today, we also celebrate the benevolence and influence of one of our Obudu sons, Arc Clement Udie, whose intervention, following the passionate appeal from one Director of Medical Services, Sir Mcfrank Abu (KSM). The Two outstanding projects – an ICT Center and an ultramodern Hotel. These facilities will not only enhance students training but also place us in an advantageous position to secure permanent accreditation from NBTE for our ND program and interim accreditation for HND, which are now the major programs nationwide as Basic Nursing and Midwifery gradually phase out. We appreciate you Arc Clement Udie, History will not forget this massive contribution through you to the college and community”.

    Commenting on the project, the project facilitator and Director of Planning, NDDC Arc Clement Udie, commended the zeal and steadfastness of the provost, the Cross River State government, the community for keeping hope with the training of nurses in Obudu and noted “I’m here to ask of a unity of action and purpose. Those who are going to make this project realizable that all hands must be on desk.
    I require collaboration and support. I’m not here as a representative of NDDC, but I’m here as a stakeholder.

    “I have put over 3 decades in public service and I asked myself what will I tell my people when I retire? I approached my Chairman and made a plea and my Chairman graciously considered my request even when there was no budgetary provision, this project came under emergency provision and I assure you that it will be completed to specification.

    “You have spoken well about the contribution of Girl’s Secondary School Obudu, please just be informed that we also construct a hostel at Girl’s Secondary School Obudu”.

    On his part, the Chairman of Obudu Local Government Area, Hon Peter Akonfe Undiandeye, commended the provost for the good work from when she took over, and noted that “Everything about the college has changed. The passion she has to see that the college progresses to the height it deserves is top-notch”.

    Commended the governor, the commissioner and all those in the health sector for the support to improve the facility.

    Thank all leaders of Obudu particularly the Chiefs, for the land donated willfully so that the school meets accreditation requirements.

    Undiandeye thanked Arch Clement Udie for facilitating an ICT hub and hotel in the college from the NDDC.

    SA Nursing, Koko Bassey, commended the community for handing over land for development. The project will not only provide the training for the students but will also enhance their employability. He commended the provost and council members for the development in this college.

    Mr Udie Mike used the opportunity to encourage Obudu community to ask their sons who have the opportunity to hold government positions to account for their stewardship as they prepare for the next election circle.

    Highlight of the event was the handing over of the construction site, commissioning of projects undertaken by the provost: The construction of additional classrooms, administrative offices and conference room.

  • Jarigbe Hands Over Completed Solar-Powered Borehole to Ikaptang Community

    Jarigbe Hands Over Completed Solar-Powered Borehole to Ikaptang Community

     

    The Senator representing Cross River North Senatorial District, Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, has fulfilled his promise to the Ikaptang community in Ogoja by handing over a newly constructed solar-powered borehole to them.

    Jarigbe had previously called on communities lacking access to clean and affordable water to register their complaints with the constituency office. In response, the Ikaptang community reached out, and within just a few months, they now have access to good drinking water.

    At the handing over ceremony, Senator Jarigbe, represented by Constituency Officer Mr. Egar Mgbantul , emphasized that he does not make empty promises. Egar noted that the Ikaptang community had requested a road, which the Senator constructed, and now, they have also been provided with clean water alongside other infrastructures and empower initiatives. This, he said, is why the Senator is trusted and effective in representing them at the National Assembly.

    Clan head of Ikaptang community, Chief Charles Igogo, in appreciation, described Senator Jarigbe as a symbol of trust and reliability, noting that the Senator’s words are taken to heart by his constituents. He prayed that God would continue to grant the Senator success and the ability to keep serving the community. Elder Itakpo Alada, a resident of Ikaptang, also expressed gratitude to the Senator for alleviating the water burden faced by the community and pledged the community’s unwavering support.

    This gesture underscores the Senator’s commitment to providing essential amenities to his constituents.

    TEAM JARI MEDIA

  • Offiono Performs Groundbreaking For Police Post At Okuku &  Quarters At Okpoma

    Offiono Performs Groundbreaking For Police Post At Okuku &  Quarters At Okpoma

     

    The Member representing Ogoja/Yala Federal Constituency, Hon. Godwin Offiono, who doubles as the deputy Chairman, House committee on Police Institutions, yesterday performed groundbreaking ceremonies for the construction of a permanent Police Post at Okuku and additional structure at the ongoing Yala divisional Police Headquarters project at Okpoma,Yala LGA.

    The projects are part of his efforts to strengthen security within Yala Local Government Area.The Police Post at Okuku will be situated inside University of Cross River State (UNICROSS), Okuku Campus, as part of his intervention project to arrest security challenges within the varsity, Okuku community and surrounding communities. As a man of peace and order, the lawmaker prioritizes security.

    He charged residents of the LGA to protect and guard the assets jealousy upon completion.

    Royal fathers, Dr Raphael Oko, Comr. Brown Odey, Alhaji Hussaini, and other illustrious sons of Okpoma, took turns to speak at the event, thanked the lawmaker for the laudable project in their community alongside his school and water projects within Okpoma. They urged the youths to continue guarding the security infrastructure and other government assets in the community.

    At the groundbreaking event at Okuku, the Dean of UNICROSS Faculty of Basic medical science and Head of Okuku campus, Dr Ujong Peter, who represented the Vice Chancellor of UNICROSS, thanked the lawmaker for siting the project in the school premises and his quality representation.

    Dignitaries at the event include; Area Commander Ogoja, OC Works Cross River State Command, Acting DPO Yala Division, OC Okuku police station, Prince Akwaji Offiono, Chief Ogbuole Agi, Dean of UNICROSS Okuku Campus, Chief Austin Edibe, Hon Emmanuel Odidi, High Chief John Alaga and others.

    GOFFIO MEDIA

  • Jarigbe Facilitates Construction of Egbe Road in Mbube, Ogoja LGA

    Jarigbe Facilitates Construction of Egbe Road in Mbube, Ogoja LGA

     

    The Senator representing Cross River North Senatorial District, Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, has facilitated the construction of Egbe Mbube road in Ogoja Local Government Area of Cross River State.

    The road stretching from Egbe to Ogbudu and other communities, which had long been in a deplorable state, is now witnessing significant transformation.

    The construction project has advanced, with engineers commencing the laying of stone base work, a crucial step toward ensuring a durable and long-lasting road.

    Inspecting the project on behalf of Senator Jarigbe, the Constituency Officer, Mr. Egar Mgbantul, commended the contractor for the commendable work done so far. He charged the contractor to maintain the tempo and ensure that the quality of work is durable enough to stand the test of time. This, he noted, is essential for promoting economic growth and development not just in the benefiting communities but in the entire Mbube and Ogoja LGA.

    Community leaders and constituents have expressed their profound gratitude to Senator Jarigbe for his effective service delivery, particularly through infrastructural development and human capital empowerment in Cross River North Senatorial District. They prayed that God would continue to strengthen the Senator and grant him the enablement to do more for the good people of Cross River North Senatorial District.

    TEAM JARI MEDIA

  • Jarigbe Receives Defectors As He Visits Engr Thomas Odu To Celebrate Mbube New Yam Festival At Idum-Mbube

    Jarigbe Receives Defectors As He Visits Engr Thomas Odu To Celebrate Mbube New Yam Festival At Idum-Mbube

     

    The Senator representing Cross River North Senatorial District, Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, paid a courtesy visit to Engineer Thomas Odu at his residence in Idum-Mbube on the occasion of the Mbube New Yam Festival.

    The visit was a significant gesture of goodwill and solidarity, highlighting the Senator’s commitment to building strong relationships with leaders and stakeholders in Cross River North Senatorial District.

    The visit aimed to felicitate Engr. Odu on the Mbube New Yam Festival, a significant cultural event that promotes unity and thanksgiving among the community.

    The lawmaker was accompanied by the Member representing Ogoja/Yala Federal Constituency, Hon. Godwin Offiono, Hon. Vena Ikem, Chief Igbe Aruku, Chief John George, Dr. Doncklaimz Enamhe, and others, showcasing the party’s commitment to reaching out to its committed members.

    Engr. Thomas Odu expressed his honor and privilege in hosting the Senator and his entourage, despite the impromptu nature of the visit.

    During the visit, the lawmakers, alongside the State Party Chairman and other stakeholders, received over 200 defectors from the APC, Labour Party, and other political parties led by John Apiko. The defectors cited the massive infrastructural overhaul being done by the PDP lawmakers in Cross River North as their reason for joining the party as they were formally received by Hon. Vena Ikem, who promised them the party’s commitment to the welfare and growth of its members.

    TEAM JARI MEDIA

  • Gov Otu Condemns Brutality, Orders arrest of Police Personnel Over death of 23-Year-old man

    Gov Otu Condemns Brutality, Orders arrest of Police Personnel Over death of 23-Year-old man

     

    The Cross River State Government has strongly condemned what it described as a “brazen act of lawlessness and abuse of authority” following the tragic death of 23-year-old Onyekachi Moses in Calabar.

    In a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information, Dr. Erasmus Ekpang, the government lamented that the young man, who sustained grievous injuries allegedly from the reckless actions of a police officer, died after several days of battling for his life in hospital. Governor Otu, the statement disclosed, has directed the immediate arrest and investigation of the officer involved.

    “His Excellency, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, has mandated the Commissioner of Police to effect the immediate arrest of the implicated officer and ensure a thorough investigation into this grievous misconduct,” the statement read. “Impunity has no sanctuary under this administration.”

    The government described the incident as a violation not only of human dignity but also of the core principles of justice and security that form the bedrock of civil order. “Those entrusted with protecting lives cannot become purveyors of fear and tragedy,” the release stressed.

    Governor Otu, according to the statement, warned that any officer who betrays the sacred duty of protection and public trust would face the full weight of the law. “Let it be known unequivocally: this government will not shield any agent of the state who undermines justice,” he affirmed.

    To the bereaved family, the government extended deep condolences, assuring them of justice. “Our hearts are with the family of late Onyekachi in this painful hour. The Cross River State Government stands firmly with you and assures that justice will not be delayed nor denied,” the statement conveyed.

    The release further called on citizens to remain calm and law-abiding, emphasizing that the government is determined to pursue accountability with transparency. “We urge our people to remain peaceful and confident in our collective resolve to seek truth and enforce justice,” it added.

    It pledged that the administration would not rest until the memory of the deceased was honoured with firm and transparent accountability. “This government shall not relent until the assurance is clear that such impunity will never again be tolerated on our soil,” the statement declared.

    Governor reaffirmed his government’s commitment to the sanctity of life, the rule of law, and the people-first philosophy that underpins his administration.