The Lumine News

Category: Metro News

  • Northern Stakeholders Back Otu’s Second Term, Demand Bloc Votes for Tinubu

    Northern Stakeholders Back Otu’s Second Term, Demand Bloc Votes for Tinubu

     

    Stakeholders across the five Local Government Areas of Cross River State’s Northern Senatorial District have endorsed Governor Bassey Edet Otu for a second term and pledged to mobilise bloc votes for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Sen. Agom Jarigbe and other APC candidates in the 2027 elections.

    The endorsement was made at a stakeholders’ engagement organised by the Cross River State Consultative Forum at the Ogoja Local Government Council Headquarters.

    The event, which drew political leaders, traditional rulers, youths, women and other stakeholders from Ogoja, Obanliku, Obudu, Yala and Bekwarra, was preceded by a sensitisation walk from Ajegunle Junction to the council headquarters.

    Speaking at the gathering, former Cross River State Governor and Chairman of the Elders Advisory Council, Chief Clement Ebri, said the exercise was primarily aimed at obtaining first-hand information on the performance of the Otu administration.
    Ebri said the team would also engage stakeholders privately to enable them raise concerns that might not be expressed publicly.

    “We are more like a fact-finding team,” he said, explaining that Governor Otu had asked the council to provide honest advice on his administration and was willing to make amends where genuine shortcomings were identified.

    He appealed to the people to remain patient with the administration, citing the infrastructure deficits and other challenges accumulated over the years.

    Ebri also commended Otu for his efforts towards restoring Cross River’s oil-producing status.

    Speaking on the 2027 elections, the former governor urged stakeholders in the Northern Senatorial District to mobilise support for both Otu and Tinubu, stressing that a strong bloc vote for the President would strengthen the governor’s influence and bargaining power at the national level.

    Chairman of the Consultative Forum, Barr. Eyo Nsa Ekpo, described the Ogoja meeting as the forum’s first engagement in the Northern Senatorial District.

    Ekpo said the gathering was not a campaign rally but a platform for stakeholders to assess the administration and deliberate on the future of the state.

    He said the stakeholders’ response amounted to a strong endorsement of Otu’s second-term ambition and urged them to sustain mobilisation for the governor and Tinubu ahead of 2027.

    He also called for constructive and fact-based assessment of government performance, as well as peaceful political engagement.

    The State Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Rt. Hon. Chris Etta, represented by his deputy, Rt. Hon. Ugana Lukpata, urged the party to intensify grassroots mobilisation ahead of the elections.

    Etta said the APC must reach beyond its membership base to secure victory, declaring that “we cannot record anything below five over five” in support of the party’s candidates.

    He highlighted ongoing projects across the Northern Senatorial District and linked the restoration of Cross River’s oil-producing status to the improved relationship between the state and Federal Government.

    According to Etta, Cross River now has 46 oil wells in its coffers, with exploration and exploitation already underway.

    He urged the people to continue supporting Otu and Tinubu to sustain what he described as the gains recorded by the state.

    In a communiqué issued at the end of the meeting, the stakeholders acknowledged ongoing projects and other interventions by the Otu administration.

    They endorsed continuity for both Tinubu and Otu, while calling for the completion of ongoing projects and increased attention to the development needs of the Northern Senatorial District.

    The stakeholders also resolved to intensify grassroots mobilisation, promote peaceful political engagement and sustain consultations with communities and political stakeholders.

    They reaffirmed their support for Tinubu, Otu and other APC candidates at the national, state and local government levels.

    The communiqué , which was read and moved as a motion by Prof. Mike Okom and seconded and strongly supported by Prof. EGAGA Patrick, was unanimously accepted and adopted by the more than 1000 participants and signed byBarr. Eyo Nsa Ekpo; the Forum’s Secretary, Dr Julius Okputu; Chairman of the Drafting Committee, Ntufam (Barr.) Fidelis Ugbo; and Secretary, Prof. Michael Okom.

  • Petroleum Tanker Explodes After Crash in Odukpani

    Petroleum Tanker Explodes After Crash in Odukpani

     

    A petroleum tanker overturned and caught fire on Sunday opposite the Odukpani Local Government Secretariat in Odukpani, Cross River State, with the inferno spreading to nearby shops and buildings.

    The Cross River State Police Command, in a preliminary incident update, said the tanker was conveying petroleum products when it was involved in a road traffic accident and overturned, resulting in the fire.

    According to the police, the tanker driver, who was reportedly trapped in the fire, was rescued and taken to a hospital for medical attention.

    Police officers from the Odukpani Division were deployed to the scene to secure the area, maintain public safety and prevent further harm, while the Fire Service was alerted to contain and extinguish the blaze.

    As of the time of the police report, no death had been confirmed, although several shops and vehicles were reportedly affected by the fire.

    The police urged residents and other members of the public to stay away from the immediate area and allow emergency responders unhindered access to the scene.

    The Command said further information would be released as verified details become available.

    The preliminary update was signed by ASP Eitokpah Sunday Akata, PPRO, Cross River State Command.

  • Jarigbe Receives Legislative Leadership, Constituency Development Award from Nkum Irede Women

    Jarigbe Receives Legislative Leadership, Constituency Development Award from Nkum Irede Women

     

    The Nkum Irede Women’s Forum has honoured the Senator representing Cross River North Senatorial District, Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, with an Award of Legislative Leadership and Constituency Development.

    The award was presented to the senator following the maiden 2026 Annual Women’s Day Celebration of the forum, which culminated in a grand finale, Thanksgiving and Award Ceremony on September 16, 2026, in Ogoja Local Government Area of Cross River State.

    The Nkum Irede Women’s Forum comprises women from across Nkum Irede Ward and was established to promote unity, community development, women’s participation and collective action for the advancement of the ward and its people.

    Presenting the award on behalf of the forum at Senator Jarigbe’s residence in Calabar, the forum’s Convener and Councillor representing Nkum Irede Ward, Hon. Elizabeth Mbim, alongside Nurse Josephine Bassey, said the recognition was in appreciation of the senator’s commitment to community development, legislative leadership and constituency representation.

    The women said the award was also in recognition of Jarigbe’s contributions to Nkum Irede Ward, Ogoja Local Government Area and the wider Cross River North Senatorial District.
    Nurse Bassey said the forum considered it important to recognise individuals whose efforts had contributed to the development and representation of the people.

    She added that the senator’s legislative engagement and constituency-focused initiatives had earned him the appreciation of the women.

    According to her, the forum also appreciated Senator Jarigbe’s accessibility and continued engagement with constituents, noting that effective representation should be reflected in both legislative activities and tangible development within the constituency.

    Receiving the award, Senator Jarigbe thanked the women of Nkum Irede for the recognition, describing it as an encouragement to continue serving the people of Cross River North.

    He reaffirmed his commitment to effective representation and community development, while expressing appreciation to the women for their support and confidence in his leadership.

  • MAPSI Autos Expands Premium Car Hire Services Across Calabar and Uyo

    MAPSI Autos Expands Premium Car Hire Services Across Calabar and Uyo

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    As business activities, tourism and inter-state travel continue to grow across Cross River and Akwa Ibom states, MAPSI Autos Limited is positioning its car hire services to meet increasing demand for reliable, comfortable and professionally managed transportation.

    The company provides car rental and chauffeur-driven transportation services in Calabar, Cross River State, and Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, catering to corporate travellers, families, tourists, expatriates and groups requiring transportation for both short- and long-distance journeys.

    According to the company, its services are built around three key priorities: safety, comfort and reliability.

    MAPSI Autos operates a range of vehicles intended to serve different categories of customers and travel requirements.

    Its fleet includes executive sedans for business meetings, airport transfers and city transportation, as well as SUVs and 4×4 vehicles for longer journeys and inter-state travel.

    The company also provides buses and multi-passenger vans for group transportation, corporate events, family outings and other large-scale movements.

    MAPSI Autos says its vehicles are subjected to routine maintenance and safety inspections as part of efforts to ensure dependable service for customers.

    Beyond vehicle rentals, the company offers chauffeur-driven transportation through what it describes as professionally trained and vetted drivers.

    MAPSI Autos says its drivers are trained in defensive driving and have knowledge of routes and traffic conditions within Calabar, Uyo and other parts of the region, including Ogoja and Ikot Ekpene.

    The company also highlights punctuality, courtesy and customer service as important components of its chauffeur operations.

    MAPSI Autos offers rental arrangements ranging from short-term bookings to longer-term transportation solutions.

    Daily and hourly rentals are available for customers requiring transportation for meetings, errands, airport transfers and short trips, while weekly and monthly arrangements are offered for corporate projects, expatriates and customers staying in the region for extended periods.

    The company also provides customised inter-state transportation between Cross River, Akwa Ibom and neighbouring areas.

    Airport Transfers and Major Destinations
    In Calabar, MAPSI Autos provides transportation services to locations including Margaret Ekpo International Airport, the Calabar International Convention Centre, Millennium Park and major business districts.

    In Akwa Ibom, its services include transportation to Victor Attah International Airport, Godswill Akpabio International Stadium and commercial centres across Uyo and other parts of the state.

    The company says customers can also arrange full-day vehicle hire for sightseeing, business engagements and other scheduled activities.

    MAPSI Autos Limited says its approach goes beyond providing vehicles, with emphasis placed on dependable transportation and personalised customer support.

    With its operations spanning Calabar, Uyo and inter-state routes, the company is seeking to strengthen its position in the regional car hire and transportation market by combining vehicle availability, chauffeur services and flexible rental arrangements.

    Customers seeking to make bookings, explore available vehicles or arrange customised transportation services can contact MAPSI Autos Limited on 08028460585.

  • ATM Cares Foundation Takes Back-to-School Outreach to Two Rural Schools in Akpabuyo

    ATM Cares Foundation Takes Back-to-School Outreach to Two Rural Schools in Akpabuyo

     

    The ATM Cares Foundation has extended its community development initiatives to rural communities in Akpabuyo Local Government Area of Cross River State, providing school supplies to pupils in two schools as part of its Back-to-School Support Outreach.

    The outreach, led by the foundation’s founder and Chief Executive, Amb. David Ayoka Atim, took the team to Holy Ghost Catholic Primary School, Ikot Edem Odo, and St. Peters Primary & Secondary School, Ikot Offiong Ambai.

    The initiative was aimed at supporting pupils with basic educational materials while encouraging them to remain committed to their education.

    The foundation’s team passed through the historic community of Esuk-Mba before arriving in Ikot Edem Odo, where members paid a courtesy visit to community chiefs as part of the visit.

    At Holy Ghost Catholic Primary School, the team was welcomed by pupils, teachers and community members.

    The foundation engaged the pupils in interactive activities and a sensitisation session focused on education, personal hygiene and the importance of remaining focused on their aspirations. The pupils also received school materials provided by the foundation.

    The outreach continued at St. Peters Primary & Secondary School, Ikot Offiong Ambai, where pupils and teachers similarly welcomed the delegation.

    Across the two schools, hundreds of pupils received essential educational and personal items, including school bags, exercise books, mathematics sets, water bottles and school sandals.

    The distribution was accompanied by interactions with pupils and teachers, with the foundation encouraging the beneficiaries to make effective use of the materials in their studies.

    Speaking during the outreach, Amb. David Ayoka Atim commended teachers at the two schools for their commitment to educating children despite the challenges associated with working in rural communities.

    He urged them to remain dedicated to their profession and continue playing their role in shaping the future of the children.

    > “The joy on the faces of these children is the reason we do what we do. Education is the greatest gift we can give to the next generation, and ATM Cares Foundation will continue to support our children wherever they are, especially in the interior communities that are often forgotten.”

    The foundation described the outreach as part of its broader commitment to supporting underserved communities across Cross River State.

    ATM Cares Foundation, a subsidiary of ATMPress Nigeria Limited, operates as a non-profit organisation with programmes covering healthcare, education, access to clean water, solar street lighting, scholarships and youth empowerment.

    The organisation said its interventions are designed to address some of the basic needs of communities while creating opportunities for children and young people to improve their lives.

    The Akpabuyo outreach is part of the foundation’s efforts to provide educational support to children in rural communities and reinforce the importance of education as a tool for individual and community development.

    For enquiries and sponsorship: 08091446598.

    www.atmpressltd.com
    “Every Child Deserves the Tools to Dream.”

  • Police Arrest Murder Suspect, Launch Manhunt After Attack on Ekori Division

    Police Arrest Murder Suspect, Launch Manhunt After Attack on Ekori Division

     

    The Cross River State Police Command has arrested a 42-year-old man, Ebino Mbang Ikpi, in connection with the alleged murder of another man following a dispute over ₦500 in Ajere, Yakurr Local Government Area of the state.

    The police said the incident occurred at about 1:00 a.m. on September 27, 2026, at Kekoti, Ajere, where Ayei Ekpe Ibor, also 42, was allegedly stabbed during a fight with Ikpi.

    According to a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Eitokpah Sunday Akata, Ibor, a resident of Okonobngha, Ajere, was confirmed dead after the incident.

    The police said the suspect fled the scene but was arrested at about 8:40 a.m. at a hideout in the Ajere-Ekori area following efforts by operatives to locate him.

    Ikpi was subsequently taken to the Yakurr Police Division for detention and further investigation.

    However, shortly after his arrest, a group of sympathisers and other persons allegedly mobilised and attacked the Ekori Police Division, demanding the suspect’s release.

    The police said the group, after discovering that Ikpi was no longer at the station, allegedly attacked the facility with stones, damaging seven windows, the DPO/DCO office door, six plastic chairs, a wall mirror, part of the roofing and the passenger-side glass of the DPO’s official vehicle.

    The residence of the Ajere Youth Leader, Omini Jacob, was also reportedly attacked over allegations that he had assisted the police.

    Police operatives subsequently dispersed the crowd and restored order, while the Ekori Division was reinforced by the ACPOL Ugep and the Violent Crimes Response Unit (VCRU), Ugep.

    The Commissioner of Police, Cross River State Command, CP Ajo Geoffrey Ordue, directed that the murder suspect be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for further investigation.

    He also ordered intensified efforts to identify and arrest those allegedly involved in the attack on the police division and destruction of public and private property.

    The police command urged residents to remain calm and law-abiding, warning that attacks on police formations, destruction of property and attempts to obstruct criminal investigations would be dealt with in accordance with the law.

    The command said further developments would be communicated as the investigation progresses.

  • Petrostuff/Global Dimensions Alumni Condole With Mentor Over Mother’s Death

    Petrostuff/Global Dimensions Alumni Condole With Mentor Over Mother’s Death

    By Elijah Ugani 

    Members of the Petrostuff/Global Dimensions Alumni have paid a condolence visit to their mentor and former boss, Mr Emma Orim, following the death of his mother in his country home at Ukpirinyi Utugwang.

    The alumni members, represented by Mr. Lawrence Ogar, and Mr. Cosmos Okiri, visited Mr. Orim, at his family compound, Ukpirinyi, Utugwang in Obudu Local Government Area of Cross River State, during the funeral ceremony to identify with him and his family and express their appreciation for his contributions to their lives and careers in the oil & gas industry.

    Speaking on behalf of the group, Okiri said it was only appropriate for the alumni to stand by their mentor at a moment of grief, noting that Mr. Orim had played a significant role in helping many of them gain entry into the oil and gas industry.

    The group acknowledged his contributions to their personal and professional development, describing his efforts in assisting people across the Niger Delta especially Northern Cross River State as significant.

    They urged Mr. Orim to take solace in the fact that his mother lived a worthy life and had gone to rest with the Lord.

    Okiri also used the occasion to inform their mentor that the alumni would, at the appropriate time, organise a special celebration in his honour to appreciate him for his contributions to their lives, separate from the funeral activities.

    Responding, Mr. Orim thanked the alumni, whom he described as his mentees, for their thoughtfulness and show of solidarity. He expressed his appreciation for their support and prayed that God would replenish them.

    The items presented to the bereaved family included five cows, 20 creates of assorted beer, kola nut, palm wine, and a cash donation.

    Speaking with Theluminenews, the Coordinator of the Petrostuff/Global Dimensions Alumni, Dr. Oli Oli Olowhu, an Energy Expert explained that the association comprises people whom Mr. Orim had assisted to secure employment opportunities in the oil & gas industry. It is on record that Mr. Orim secured the entry positions for about 80% of the oil & gas professionals of Cross River State origin today using his company Petrostuff/Global Dimensions.

    According to Dr. Olowhu, the decision to come together was driven by a desire to show gratitude to their mentor for the opportunities and guidance he had provided over the years. He described Mr. Orim as the Obi Cubana of Cross River State and urged those who are in position to help as Mr. Orim did to empower the younger generations.

    “I don’t know what my life would have been if not for Mr Emma Orim, who showed me the way to the oil & gas sector,” Dr. Olowhu said.

    He added that the alumni would continue to appreciate and identify with their mentor, particularly in recognition of the impact he had made in the lives of its members.

    Among those that Mr Emma Orim facilitated their entry into the oil and gas, who made donation to the visit are, Engr Sunday Nchor, Engr Abang, Engr James Akwaji, Engr Liberty Nkpung, Dr. Peter Undiandeye, and numerous others from Northern Cross River State.

  • C’River Youths Invited to Apply for Plantain Chips, Peanut Processing Equipment

    C’River Youths Invited to Apply for Plantain Chips, Peanut Processing Equipment

    By Elijah Ugani 

    The Cross River State Youth Empowerment Scheme has invited young people across the state who are interested in plantain chips and peanut production to apply for equipment under the forthcoming People’s First Mass Empowerment Programme.

    The initiative is aimed at supporting young Cross Riverians who are already involved in the businesses or have a genuine interest in starting or expanding enterprises in the sector.

    According to the Chairman of the Cross River State Youth Empowerment Scheme, Dr. Kalita Joseph Aruku, selected beneficiaries will receive equipment to enable them to start or upscale their businesses.

    Interested applicants have been advised to provide their name, desired trade, ward and Local Government Area (LGA) when applying. They are also encouraged to attach supporting evidence demonstrating their involvement or interest in the requested trade.

    Dr. Aruku said the information would assist the scheme in ensuring a fair distribution of the empowerment items across communities and promoting inclusiveness in the selection process.

    He, however, stressed that applying does not guarantee selection, as beneficiaries will be chosen based on the programme’s criteria and available resources.

    The scheme also cautioned individuals who have previously been shortlisted to receive an empowerment item against applying for the programme.

    The initiative is part of efforts under the People’s First Mass Empowerment Programme to provide young people with practical support and opportunities to establish or strengthen small businesses across Cross River State.

  • NARD 46th AGM: Odey Reaffirms Otu Administration’s Commitment to Healthcare

    NARD 46th AGM: Odey Reaffirms Otu Administration’s Commitment to Healthcare

     

    Cross River State Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Dr Peter Odey, has reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to improving healthcare delivery and enhancing the welfare of medical professionals across the state.

    Odey spoke on Tuesday when he received a delegation of the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD), led by its outgoing National President, Dr Mohammad Usman Suleiman, at the Deputy Governor’s Conference Room, Government House, Calabar.

    The Deputy Governor said the administration of Governor Bassey Edet Otu had prioritised healthcare as a key component of its People First agenda, noting that the government would continue to implement policies aimed at improving access to quality healthcare services.

    He assured resident doctors and other health professionals that the administration would continue to create an enabling environment for medical practitioners to work, develop their careers and contribute to the state’s healthcare system.

    According to him, the government is also focused on improving conditions of service, strengthening healthcare institutions and addressing factors contributing to the migration of medical professionals, popularly known as “Japa”.

    Odey said such measures were necessary to retain skilled doctors and other healthcare professionals in the state and ensure continuity in the delivery of quality medical services.

    He also commended NARD for choosing Cross River State to host its 46th Annual General Meeting, describing the event as an opportunity for professional exchange, knowledge sharing and discussions on the future of healthcare delivery in Nigeria.

    Earlier, the outgoing NARD National President, Dr Mohammad Usman Suleiman, commended the Cross River State Government for what he described as its commitment to the welfare of citizens and healthcare workers.
    Suleiman highlighted several interventions by the Otu administration in the health sector, including the reported 100 per cent implementation of the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS).

    He said the implementation had contributed to improving the welfare and working conditions of medical doctors and other health professionals in the state.

    The NARD leader also commended the government for upgrading Primary Healthcare Centres, strengthening the Hospital Management Board, enacting the Medical Quackery Prohibition Law and establishing the Drug Management Agency.

    He said the measures would help strengthen healthcare administration and improve service delivery across the state.

    Suleiman further cited the extension of the retirement age for health workers to 65 years and the lifting of the employment embargo, including the recruitment of medical specialists, as measures capable of strengthening the state’s healthcare workforce.

    He expressed appreciation to the Otu administration for creating what he described as an environment that supports the professional development and welfare of healthcare workers while improving healthcare services for residents.

    Suleiman disclosed that the delegation’s visit was part of activities leading to the 46th NARD Annual General Meeting and the inauguration of the association’s incoming National President, Dr Ogar Emmanuel Idoko.

    The conference is scheduled to hold in Calabar, with the opening ceremony slated for Thursday and the inauguration of the new national president and executive members scheduled for Friday.

  • First-Class Graduate Appeals for Review of Akwa Ibom Civil Service Recruitment Shortlist

    First-Class Graduate Appeals for Review of Akwa Ibom Civil Service Recruitment Shortlist

    By Admin 

    A First-Class Mathematics graduate of the University of Uyo, Emmanuel Udo, has appealed to the Akwa Ibom State Government to review his exclusion from the final shortlist in the ongoing civil service recruitment exercise, citing what he described as concerns over fairness and transparency in the process.

    Udo, who graduated with First Class Honours in Mathematics in 2023, said he scored 81.67 per cent in the Computer-Based Test (CBT) and also participated in the oral interview for the position of Scientific Officer II (GL 08).

    In an appeal addressed to relevant authorities, including the Head of Civil Service and the Chairman of the Akwa Ibom State Civil Service Commission, Udo requested a review of his recruitment records and clarification on why he was not shortlisted despite his performance in the selection exercise.

    According to him, during the oral interview, he was asked to state Newton’s First Law and provide two real-life examples.

    He said he answered the question correctly and was “openly applauded and commended” by members of the interview panel.

    Udo also dismissed any suggestion that his exclusion could have been linked to his age, saying his date of birth is consistent across his official documents.

    He stated that he completed his primary education in 2008 and secondary education in 2014 before proceeding to the University of Uyo, where he obtained a First Class degree in Mathematics in 2023. He subsequently completed his National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) programme in 2024.

    On his qualification for the position, Udo said the recruitment advertisement listed a Bachelor’s degree in a Natural or Applied Science as one of the requirements for the position of Scientific Officer II.

    He argued that Mathematics falls within the relevant scientific discipline and therefore requested clarification on the basis for his exclusion from the final shortlist.

    “What makes the situation particularly concerning to me is when I see someone getting the recruitment email with a CBT score of 52,” Udo said.

    He, however, stressed that his appeal was not intended to discredit other candidates or seek preferential treatment.

    “I am not raising this issue to discredit any candidate or to demand preferential treatment. Rather, I am simply appealing for fairness, transparency and accountability in a recruitment process that directly affects me,” he said.

    Udo also appealed to the state government to review the relevant recruitment records, including his CBT result, academic qualifications, interview performance and the criteria applied in determining the final shortlist.

    He acknowledged that Governor Umo Eno might not have direct knowledge of the individual circumstances surrounding every stage of the recruitment exercise, but appealed for his case to be examined by the appropriate authorities.

    “I am not a social media influencer, nor am I seeking unnecessary publicity. I am simply a young graduate who worked hard, met the stated requirements, scored 81.67 per cent in the CBT, appeared before the interview panel and gave my best during the process,” he said.

    Udo described the situation as painful, particularly because, according to him, he has not received an explanation for his exclusion.

    “I am not asking for favour. I am asking for fairness, transparency and an opportunity to have my case properly reviewed, if an error or omission occurred,” he said.

    He said his CBT result and other relevant documents were available for verification by the appropriate authorities.

    As of the time of filing this report, there was no response from the Akwa Ibom State Civil Service Commission or the Head of Civil Service addressing Udo’s specific concerns. The claims regarding the selection process and the comparative CBT scores could not independently be verified from the information provided.

    Udo’s appeal now puts the spotlight on the recruitment process and his request for the relevant authorities to clarify the criteria used in arriving at the final shortlist.