The Lumine News

Category: Metro News

  • One Killed in Alleged Attack on Cocoa Farm in Cross River

    One Killed in Alleged Attack on Cocoa Farm in Cross River

     

    A man has been killed following an alleged armed attack on a cocoa farm in Isibendeghe Community, Boki Local Government Area of Cross River State.

    The incident, which reportedly occurred at about 1:25 p.m. on Wednesday, August 5, 2026, was reported to the Boki Police Division by the owner of the farm, Madam Etta Maria Ado of Onisha Farm, Isibendeghe Community.

    According to the police report, the complainant alleged that three men, identified as Patrick Otu Debang, James Osa G., and another individual popularly known as “Pepsi,” all said to be from Boje Community in Boki LGA, stormed her cocoa farm while three workers were on duty.

    She alleged that the suspects opened fire on the workers, fatally shooting one of them, identified as Joseph Francis Friday. The complainant further claimed that the suspects had repeatedly harassed and threatened her over activities at the farm before the incident.

    Two other workers, Clinton Abang and Amobi Igwe, reportedly escaped the attack and later returned to inform the farm owner of what had happened.

    Police detectives from the Boki Division visited the scene following the report. The body of the deceased was recovered with multiple pellet wounds to the chest and abdomen, injuries said to be consistent with those inflicted by a locally made firearm.

    The remains have been deposited at a mortuary for an autopsy, while police say investigations are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspects.
    Authorities said further updates would be provided as the investigation progresses.

  • Woman Arrested Over Alleged Murder of Boyfriend in Akwa Ibom

    Woman Arrested Over Alleged Murder of Boyfriend in Akwa Ibom

    By Leo Umana

    The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has arrested a woman, identified as Lorretta Anoh, in connection with the alleged murder of her 36-year-old boyfriend, Chikoka Emeka Henry, at his residence in Osongama Estate, Uyo.

    According to the police, Anoh was reportedly the last person seen entering the deceased’s apartment on Tuesday before his lifeless body was discovered.

    During the investigation, detectives traced the suspect and recovered a total of N2,943,250 in cash, which police said she allegedly stole from the deceased. Authorities stated that Anoh confessed to taking the money.

    Police also revealed that before her arrest, the suspect had allegedly begun making arrangements to transfer ownership of the deceased’s black Mercedes-Benz 4Matic, bearing registration number EKY 694 GP, to herself. The vehicle was reportedly removed from the victim’s residence before it was recovered by investigators.

    A preliminary police report indicated that the deceased sustained a deep cut to the head, suggesting he may have been attacked before his death.

    The Commissioner of Police in Akwa Ibom State, Amengheme Andrew, has directed that the case be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Ikot Akpan Abia, for a comprehensive investigation.

    The police commissioner also urged members of the public to exercise caution in their personal relationships and remain vigilant about the company they keep.

    Investigations into the circumstances surrounding the incident are ongoing, and the suspect remains in police custody.

  • Police, C’River Government Appeal for Calm as Obutong Landslide Worsens

    Police, C’River Government Appeal for Calm as Obutong Landslide Worsens

    Thelumine Admin 

    The Cross River State Police Command and officials of the state government have appealed to residents of Obutong Community in Calabar Municipal Local Government Area to remain calm following the worsening landslide at Anansa Junction.

    The affected section, located between WAPI Junction and the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Victory, has raised serious concerns among residents after the erosion, first noticed on Monday, Aug. 3, deteriorated on Tuesday, prompting calls for urgent government intervention.

    Addressing members of the affected community, the Acting Commissioner of Police, Cross River State Command, DCP Godwin Etim Effiong, appealed to residents to remain peaceful and cooperate with authorities as efforts to address the situation continue.

    The police chief visited the community alongside the Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Hon. Pius Arikpo Edet; the Commissioner for Environment, Barr. Mensah Bassey Offiong; the Special Assistant on General Duties; and the Special Assistant on Security Surveillance.

    The delegation assured residents that the Cross River State Government is taking the necessary steps to address the landslide and prevent further damage.
    Residents were also advised to avoid the affected area for their safety while intervention measures are being put in place.

    The Cross River State Police Command reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining law and order and working with relevant government agencies and stakeholders to safeguard lives and property throughout the intervention process.

    The appeal was contained in a statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, Cross River State Command, ASP Eitokpah Sunday.

  • UNICAL Orders Students Admitted Irregularly into Law to Return to Original Departments

    UNICAL Orders Students Admitted Irregularly into Law to Return to Original Departments

     

    The University of Calabar (UNICAL) has begun implementing measures to correct admission irregularities in its Faculty of Law, directing affected students to return to the academic programmes through which they were originally admitted by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB).

    The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Offiong Efanga Offiong, made the appeal during a meeting with affected Law students from the 2024/2025 and 2025/2026 academic sessions. He was represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), Prof. Anthony Afam Okiwelu.

    According to the Vice-Chancellor, the exercise is part of the university’s efforts to sanitise its admission process, restore public confidence, and ensure compliance with the regulations of JAMB and the Council of Legal Education.

    Prof. Offiong said the institution had recently faced public scrutiny over admission irregularities and that the current administration was committed to addressing the anomalies to prevent future sanctions.

    He explained that students who were not originally offered admission into the Faculty of Law through JAMB could not be allowed to remain in the programme, warning that such a situation could invalidate their Law degrees and make them ineligible for admission into the Nigerian Law School if discovered by the Council of Legal Education.

    “We advise every student who transferred from the programme to which JAMB originally admitted them into Law to return to their original departments in line with the admission records,” he said.

    The Vice-Chancellor added that failure to correct the irregularities could also lead to sanctions against the university, including the suspension of admissions into the Faculty of Law, thereby affecting future applicants and damaging the institution’s reputation.

    Providing details of the situation, Prof. Offiong disclosed that of the 435 students currently in the second year of the Faculty of Law, only 221 were originally admitted into the programme through JAMB, a development he described as a clear violation of existing admission regulations.

    To ease the impact of the decision, the university has approved the transfer of school fees already paid for the 2025/2026 academic session to the 2026/2027 academic session for students returning to their original departments.

    He also stated that students who choose to discontinue their studies at the university would be eligible for refunds of their school fees upon submitting the required applications, assuring them that due process would be followed in handling all refund requests.

    Prof. Offiong urged the affected students to cooperate with the university, stressing that the corrective measures are intended to protect their academic future while preserving the integrity and accreditation of the Faculty of Law.

    He reaffirmed the university’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and strict adherence to statutory admission guidelines as part of ongoing efforts to restore the credibility and reputation of the University of Calabar.

  • Cross River Approves ₦70bn, US$1.075bn PPP Projects to Drive Industrialisation

    Cross River Approves ₦70bn, US$1.075bn PPP Projects to Drive Industrialisation

    The Cross River State Executive Council (ExCo) has approved sixteen major Public-Private Partnership (PPP) projects valued at over ₦70 billion and US$1.075 billion, marking one of the largest investment packages in the state’s history.

    The projects, which span agriculture, renewable energy, transportation, manufacturing, healthcare, infrastructure and environmental sustainability, are expected to attract significant private-sector investment, create thousands of jobs and accelerate the state’s industrialisation agenda.

    Speaking after the Executive Council meeting, Governor Bassey Otu described the approvals as a defining milestone in his administration’s efforts to reposition Cross River as a leading investment destination in Nigeria.

    According to the governor, the projects represent carefully structured partnerships designed to stimulate industrial growth, expand the state’s revenue base and improve the quality of life of residents.

    “We are deliberately building an economy that is driven by production rather than consumption,” Otu said. “Our vision is to transform Cross River into a competitive hub for agriculture, clean energy, manufacturing, logistics and the blue economy. These partnerships demonstrate growing investor confidence in the future we are building together.”

    Among the approved projects are the Kereksuk Limited Rice Value Chain Development Project in Calabar, Odukpani and Ogoja; the Valuefronteira Limited Oil Palm Development Project in Yala; a 100-megawatt Solar Power Project by Tee Pama Limited across Calabar, Ikom and Ogoja; the Calabar Fishing Port and Fisheries Development Project; and the Odukpani Dairy, Livestock and Trawler Fishing Project.

    The investment package also includes an electric vehicle manufacturing project, statewide Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) infrastructure, the State Transport Company PPP, the Creek Town Industrial Park, healthcare diagnostic centres, municipal waste management facilities, rehabilitation of the Adiabo Gas-Fired Power Plant, and a lithium battery assembly plant.

    Also approved was a ₦60 billion investment by Living Curation Real Estate Limited for the redevelopment of the Obudu Cattle Ranch, Utanga Lodge and Bebi Airstrip.

    Governor Otu said the projects were carefully selected for their potential to diversify the state’s economy, strengthen food security, encourage technology transfer and generate sustainable employment opportunities.

    “Our young people deserve opportunities, not promises,” he said. “Every investment approved today is designed to generate employment, stimulate enterprise and create sustainable prosperity across our communities.”

    To ensure effective implementation, the Executive Council approved a governance framework requiring Project Monitoring Committees to be established by all implementing Ministries, Departments and Agencies through the Bureau of Public-Private Partnerships. The committees will submit quarterly performance reports to the State PPP Council.

    The governor stressed that transparency and accountability would remain central to the implementation process, noting that every concession and partnership must deliver measurable public value.

    The Executive Council also authorised the Ministry of Justice to prepare, negotiate and conclude all project agreements, joint venture agreements, concession agreements and other legal instruments required for the execution of the projects.

    Governor Otu reaffirmed that all transactions would be guided by the Cross River State Public-Private Partnership Law and aligned with international best practices to ensure investor confidence and protect the public interest.

    The administration said the approvals form part of its broader economic strategy to leverage private-sector partnerships to drive sustainable development, positioning Cross River as a competitive destination for domestic and foreign investment while promoting innovation, industrialisation and inclusive economic growth.

  • UNICAL Reaffirms Compliance as NUC Begins Post-Matriculation Monitoring Exercise

    UNICAL Reaffirms Compliance as NUC Begins Post-Matriculation Monitoring Exercise

    By Admin 

    The University of Calabar (UNICAL) has reiterated its commitment to maintaining the standards and regulations of the National Universities Commission (NUC) as the Commission commenced its Post-Matriculation Monitoring Exercise at the institution.

    The Vice-Chancellor of the University, Prof. Offiong Efanga Offiong, gave the assurance while receiving members of the NUC Post-Matriculation Monitoring Team during their assessment visit to the university.

    Represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Prof. Ekaette Enang, the Vice-Chancellor described the monitoring exercise as a vital mechanism for ensuring that the University of Calabar remains compliant with the NUC’s guidelines and quality assurance standards.

    He said the university places a high premium on quality assurance and remains committed to upholding best practices in academic administration, admissions, and institutional governance.

    Prof. Offiong assured the monitoring team of the university’s full cooperation throughout the exercise, stating that all relevant documents and records would be made readily available to ensure a smooth, transparent, and successful assessment.

    He also commended the National Universities Commission for its sustained efforts to strengthen quality education in Nigerian universities, noting that the post-matriculation monitoring exercise would further enhance the credibility and integrity of the country’s higher education system.

    Speaking on behalf of the monitoring team, the Chief Legal Officer of the National Universities Commission, Mr. Oriabure Iyayi, expressed appreciation to the university’s management for the warm reception and hospitality extended to the team.

    Mr. Iyayi explained that the purpose of the visit was to conduct the Commission’s Post-Matriculation Monitoring Exercise, a recently introduced initiative aimed at ensuring that universities comply with approved admission regulations and operate within their authorised carrying capacities.

    According to him, the exercise will involve an assessment of the university’s admission records, matriculation register, staff list, physical facilities, and correspondence with relevant professional bodies on admission quotas for academic programmes. He added that the team would also inspect institutional records and interact with staff and students as part of the evaluation process.

    Mr. Iyayi expressed confidence that the exercise would achieve its objectives and commended the University of Calabar’s management for its cooperation and support, describing the institution’s readiness as a positive step towards sustaining quality assurance in higher education.

  • Cross River Police Advocate Stronger Interagency Collaboration at Naval Warfare Course

    Cross River Police Advocate Stronger Interagency Collaboration at Naval Warfare Course

    By Admin 

    The Cross River State Police Command has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening interagency collaboration in maritime security and disaster response with the delivery of a lecture at the ongoing Naval Warfare Course 10 at the Naval War College, Nigeria.

    The lecture, titled “Effective Interagency Collaboration for Enhanced Disaster Response in Cross River State’s Maritime Environment: The Role of the Nigeria Police Force,” was delivered on Tuesday by the Acting Commissioner of Police, DCP Etim Godwin Effanga, on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, AIG Rashid B. Afegbua.

    Speaking during the session, DCP Effanga highlighted the critical role of the Nigeria Police Force in disaster preparedness and response, maritime security, intelligence sharing, community engagement, and coordinated interagency operations. He noted that effective collaboration among security agencies and emergency management organisations is essential to safeguarding lives, property, and critical national assets.

    According to the Police Command, the lecture was part of the Naval War College’s Inter-Agency Cooperation in Maritime Security Operations module, designed to equip participants with practical knowledge and skills for collaborative maritime security operations.

    Naval Warfare Course 10 has 34 participants drawn from the Nigerian Navy, Nigerian Army, Nigerian Air Force, as well as officers from Cameroon, Liberia, and Ghana, reflecting the regional importance of cooperation in addressing maritime security challenges.

    The Cross River State Police Command said it remains committed to fostering strategic partnerships that will enhance maritime security, disaster response, and public safety across the state.

    The Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Eitokpah Sunday, who issued the statement on Wednesday, said the Command would continue to support initiatives that promote effective collaboration among security and emergency response agencies.

  • Amb. Kennedy Nsan, Apexbase Strategy Ltd to Hold Artificial Intelligence (AI) Skills and Monetization Training Programme

    Amb. Kennedy Nsan, Apexbase Strategy Ltd to Hold Artificial Intelligence (AI) Skills and Monetization Training Programme

    By Elijah Ugani 

    The Amb. Kennedy Nsan Support Group, in collaboration with Apexbase Strategy Ltd, has announced a two-day training programme on Artificial Intelligence (AI) skills and monetization, aimed at equipping participants with practical knowledge of emerging AI technologies and income-generating opportunities.

    The training is scheduled to take place on Saturday, 8 August, and Sunday, 9 August, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. each day.

    According to the organisers, the programme is designed to introduce participants to the fundamentals of artificial intelligence, practical AI tools, and strategies for leveraging AI to enhance productivity and create sustainable income opportunities in today’s digital economy.

    Interested participants are required to register by sending their full name and ward via WhatsApp to 0703 536 3179 or 0703 449 3474.

    The organisers encouraged members of the public, particularly young people, students, entrepreneurs, professionals, and anyone interested in digital innovation, to take advantage of the training to acquire valuable AI skills and explore the growing opportunities within the rapidly evolving technology sector.

  • Gov Otu Hails Elevation of Three Cross River Officers to AIG Rank

    Gov Otu Hails Elevation of Three Cross River Officers to AIG Rank

    By Admin

    Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Edet Otu, has congratulated three senior police officers from the state on their promotion to the rank of Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG), describing the development as a proud moment for Cross River and a recognition of excellence, professionalism and dedicated service.

    The newly promoted officers are AIG Nnanghe Itam from Yakurr Local Government Area, AIG Obono Bassey Samuel Ewa from Etung Local Government Area, and AIG Akaninyene Ezima Ifebem from Biase Local Government Area. They were elevated from the rank of Commissioners of Police.

    In a statement issued on Tuesday by the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary and Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Linus Obogo, Governor Otu said the officers’ promotion reflects their decades of commitment, integrity and patriotism in the service of the nation.

    According to the Governor, the elevation of the three officers has once again brought honour to Cross River State and demonstrated that merit, competence and discipline remain the foundations of professional advancement.

    “This well-deserved elevation is far more than a promotion in rank; it is a profound national acknowledgement of your sterling professionalism, unblemished integrity, uncommon courage and steadfast devotion to the security and unity of our great nation,” Otu said.

    He noted that the officers had earned the confidence of the Police High Command through exemplary leadership and unwavering dedication to duty, adding that their achievements would inspire young Cross Riverians to pursue excellence, discipline and selfless service.

    Governor Otu urged the newly promoted AIGs to remain committed to justice, the rule of law and the ideals that had distinguished their careers, while encouraging them to continue strengthening public confidence in the Nigeria Police Force through exemplary leadership.

    He also prayed for divine wisdom, good health and strength for the officers as they assume their new responsibilities.

    On behalf of the government and people of Cross River State, the Governor congratulated the three AIGs on what he described as an exceptional milestone, expressing confidence that they would continue to make the state and the nation proud through

  • Odey Reaffirms Cross River’s Commitment to Partnership with NEMA on Disaster Management

    Odey Reaffirms Cross River’s Commitment to Partnership with NEMA on Disaster Management

    Cross River State Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, has reaffirmed the commitment of the state government to sustaining its partnership with the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to strengthen disaster risk reduction, emergency preparedness and response across the state.

    The Deputy Governor gave the assurance on Tuesday while receiving a delegation from NEMA, led by the Assistant Director of Operations, Abuja/Uyo Operations Office, Mr. Labaran Ahman, during a courtesy visit to Government House, Calabar.

    Odey commended NEMA for its proactive role in disaster management and its sustained collaboration with the Cross River State Emergency Management Agency (CR-SEMA). He described disaster preparedness as a critical component of the state’s efforts to safeguard lives and property, noting that the Governor Bassey Otu-led administration remains committed to building resilient communities through strategic partnerships.

    He assured the delegation of the state’s full support for NEMA’s programmes and activities, emphasizing the government’s readiness to continue working closely with the agency and other development partners to protect lives, preserve livelihoods and strengthen community resilience.

    The Deputy Governor also expressed appreciation to NEMA for choosing Cross River as the venue for key emergency management activities, saying the initiatives would enhance the capacity of emergency responders and improve the state’s preparedness for flood-related emergencies.

    Earlier, the leader of the delegation, Mr. Labaran Ahman, said NEMA was in Cross River on three strategic assignments aimed at deepening collaboration with the state government and enhancing disaster management efforts.

    According to him, the agency has completed an assessment of flood-affected communities in the Southern Senatorial District and has extended the exercise to Abi, Etung, Ikom and Obubra Local Government Areas to evaluate the extent of damage and identify appropriate intervention measures.

    Ahman further disclosed that NEMA, in partnership with CR-SEMA and other stakeholders, will next week conduct a flood disaster response simulation exercise at Marina Beach in Calabar South. He explained that the exercise is intended to test the operational readiness of emergency responders, improve inter-agency coordination and strengthen community preparedness ahead of the peak of the 2026 flood season.

    He also announced that Cross River State will host the South-South Zonal Workshop on the Review of the National Policy on Relief and Rehabilitation the following week. The workshop, he said, will bring together emergency management stakeholders from across the region to review existing policies, share best practices and strengthen Nigeria’s disaster management framework.

    The NEMA delegation included the Assistant Chief Accountant, NEMA Uyo Operations Office, Mr. Awoji Augustine, and the Director General of the Cross River State Emergency Management Agency (CR-SEMA), Mr. Efa Nyong.