The Lumine News

Category: Metro News

  • Court Restrains Police, DSS, Cross River Government from Harassing Ogoja Vice Chairman Over Official Vehicle

    Court Restrains Police, DSS, Cross River Government from Harassing Ogoja Vice Chairman Over Official Vehicle

    By Elijah Ugani 

    The High Court of Cross River State sitting in Ogoja has granted an interim injunction restraining the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Cross River State Government, and their agents from inviting, arresting, detaining, or harassing the Vice Chairman of Ogoja Local Government Area, Hon. Emmanuel Idi Yakubu, over an official vehicle attached to his office.

    The order was granted pending the hearing and determination of a substantive suit filed by Yakubu following what his legal team described as attempts to deploy state institutions against him in connection with the vehicle.

    The development comes shortly after the same court delivered judgment on June 15, 2026, nullifying Yakubu’s purported impeachment and removal from office as Vice Chairman of Ogoja Local Government Area.

    In the judgment, the court reportedly declared the impeachment illegal, unconstitutional, null and void, and affirmed that Yakubu remains the lawful and incumbent Vice Chairman of the council.

    The court further held that the office of the Vice Chairman had never been vacant and that Yakubu was entitled to continue enjoying all rights, privileges, benefits, and emoluments attached to the office.

    According to court documents and statements from his legal counsel, the controversy arose after the Cross River State Government allegedly communicated with the DSS, requesting that Yakubu be denied security clearance to contest an election next year on the grounds that he had failed to return an official vehicle assigned to him.

    His lawyers argued that the court’s declaration confirming him as the substantive Vice Chairman also affirmed his entitlement to the official vehicle allocated to the office, noting that the vehicle’s allocation documents bear his name.

    The situation escalated when Yakubu reportedly received a police invitation alleging that he had converted or stolen the vehicle.

    His legal team subsequently approached the High Court seeking protection from what it described as harassment and intimidation.

    Granting the interim injunction, the court restrained the police, DSS, Cross River State Government, and their representatives from taking any action against Yakubu in relation to the vehicle until the substantive matter is determined.

    Reacting to the development, counsel to Yakubu, F. Baba Isa, Esq., called on political leaders, traditional rulers, religious leaders, and other stakeholders in Ogoja to intervene constructively and help bring an end to the dispute.

    He warned against the criminalisation of political disagreements and urged government institutions to uphold constitutional principles, due process, and respect for judicial pronouncements.

    Isa also cautioned the state government against actions that could attract public criticism, referencing the controversial arrest and detention of journalist Agba Jalingo as an example of past events that generated significant public attention.

    He maintained that his legal team would continue to pursue all lawful means to protect the rights, liberty, and dignity of their client while the matter remains before the courts.

  • UNICAL VC Announces Hosting of 2026 NUGA Games, Charges Students to Top Medal Table

    UNICAL VC Announces Hosting of 2026 NUGA Games, Charges Students to Top Medal Table

    By Elijah Ugani 

    The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Calabar (UNICAL), Prof Offiong E. Effiong, has officially announced that the institution will host the 28th edition of the Nigeria Universities Games Association (NUGA) Games from November 14 to 24, 2026.

    Speaking during a press conference at the University Senate Chambers in Calabar, the Vice-Chancellor disclosed that the university is expecting participation from about 50 universities across the country, with over 50,000 athletes, officials, and spectators anticipated to attend the games. A total of 28 sporting events will feature during the competition.

    As part of preparations for the prestigious sporting festival, Prof. Offiong charged students of the University of Calabar to begin intensive preparations with the aim of emerging as overall champions and topping the medal table at the games.

    To strengthen sports development on campus and discover new talents ahead of NUGA 2026, he announced that every Wednesday from the current semester, lectures will be suspended from 2 p.m. to allow students participate in sporting activities.

    “No lecturer is expected to fix lectures during this period. We want to prepare our students adequately and discover talents that will not only excel at the NUGA Games but also represent the university and the nation in future sporting competitions,” he said.

    The Vice-Chancellor expressed confidence in the university’s readiness to host the games, describing the event as an opportunity to showcase UNICAL’s commitment to academic and athletic excellence while promoting unity among Nigerian universities.

    “The University of Calabar is ready and willing to welcome athletes, officials, and spectators from all over Nigeria and beyond. We are committed to delivering an unforgettable experience that reflects the values of fair play, respect, sportsmanship, and excellence that NUGA represents,” he stated.

    Prof. Offiong acknowledged the support of the Cross River State Government and called on stakeholders, including the media, corporate organizations, political office holders, and the university’s alumni association, to support the successful hosting of the games.

    He noted that hosting NUGA 2026 would serve as a catalyst for the development of modern and durable sports facilities within the university, creating a lasting legacy for future generations of students and athletes.

    According to him, the institution plans to establish state-of-the-art sports complexes that will continue to benefit both the university community and the wider public long after the games are concluded.

    The Vice-Chancellor also appealed to the NUGA Council for continued cooperation and support, assuring them of the university’s commitment to maintaining the highest standards of integrity, sportsmanship, and organizational excellence throughout the event.

    He concluded by inviting all stakeholders to join the university on the journey towards hosting a memorable and successful NUGA Games in 2026.

    “With enthusiasm, collaboration, and strategic planning, we will be ready to welcome the nation in November 2026 for a celebration of talent, determination, and unity. Together, we will create a lasting legacy for university sports in Nigeria,” he said.


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  • Obanliku Vice Chairman Dismisses Allegations of Irregularities in Market Women Empowerment Programme

    Obanliku Vice Chairman Dismisses Allegations of Irregularities in Market Women Empowerment Programme

    By Elijah Ugani 

    The Vice Chairman of Obanliku Local Government Council, Hon. Glory Awowoh, has dismissed allegations made by a group of Sankwala market women who claimed they were shortchanged during the recent empowerment programme organized for market women by the First Lady of Cross River State, Bishop Mrs. Eyoanwan Otu.

    Responding to the claims, Hon. Awowoh described the allegations as false and misleading, clarifying that the situation arose from misinformation regarding participation in the programme.

    According to her, the empowerment exercise was designed to accommodate only 50 market women from each Local Government Area. However, more than 120 women from Obanliku, including some residents of Calabar, travelled to the venue expecting to participate in the programme.

    She explained that upon realizing that some attendees would not benefit due to the limited allocation, organizers intervened and appealed to beneficiaries to voluntarily share their empowerment items and funds with those who were initially left out.

    “The beneficiaries agreed without hesitation, and as a result, those who initially missed out were also supported. The exercise was concluded peacefully,” she stated.

    Addressing allegations that female politicians and civil servants benefited at the expense of genuine market women, the Vice Chairman described the claims as surprising. She noted that the event was hosted by the First Lady of the state and that the presence of female political leaders was necessary to support the programme, coordinate participants from various LGAs, and ensure its smooth execution.

    Hon. Awowoh stressed that no female political leader from Obanliku received empowerment benefits during the event, insisting that their role was purely supportive and administrative.

    “For the avoidance of doubt, no female political leader from Obanliku was empowered at the programme. Our role was to ensure that our women received their benefits and that the event ended successfully,” she said.

    She also reaffirmed the role of Mrs. Angelina Abaka, coordinator of the Market Women Forum for Greatness in Obanliku, noting that she was duly appointed by the state coordinator and has successfully mobilized women for several programmes organized by the First Lady in Ogoja, Ikom, and Calabar over the past year.

    The Vice Chairman further emphasized that Sankwala Market is not the only market within Obanliku LGA. She pointed out that active markets also exist in Bishiri, Bendi, Bebi, Utanga, and Busi, adding that many women conduct legitimate businesses from their homes, compounds, and communities and are equally deserving of recognition and support.

    Calling for unity and understanding among market women across the local government area, Hon. Awowoh announced plans for a general meeting aimed at addressing concerns, strengthening communication, expanding participation, and ensuring the dissemination of accurate information.

    She urged all market women to remain peaceful and continue supporting initiatives designed to improve their welfare and economic empowerment.

    The empowerment programme was part of ongoing efforts by the First Lady of Cross River State, Bishop Mrs. Eyoanwan Otu, to support women across the state through economic empowerment and capacity-building initiatives.

  • Otu Names DC Enamhe Senior Special Adviser on Think Cross River As He Approves 106 Fresh Appointments

    Otu Names DC Enamhe Senior Special Adviser on Think Cross River As He Approves 106 Fresh Appointments

     

    Prominent advocate of the Think Cross River initiative, Papa Dorncklaimz Enamhe , has been appointed Senior Special Adviser to the Governor on Think Cross River, following the approval of 106 fresh appointments by the Governor of Cross River State, Senator Prince Bassey Otu.

    The appointments were announced in a statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary and Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the Governor, Mr Linus Obogo. According to the statement, the appointments are in furtherance of the administration’s commitment to strengthening the machinery of government and advancing excellence, innovation, efficiency and sustainable development across the state.

    Governor Otu congratulated all the appointees and urged them to justify the confidence reposed in them through dedication, professionalism, integrity, diligence and unwavering commitment to the service of Cross River State and its people.

    The appointment of Papa Dorn Cklaimz Enamhe has been widely applauded by stakeholders, particularly given his longstanding commitment to community development, advocacy and the promotion of Cross River State’s interests.

    A lecturer in the Department of Social Work at the University of Calabar, Papa Enamhe is a respected scholar whose research interests include Medical Social Work and Community Development. Beyond academia, he has built a reputation as a grassroots mobiliser, public advocate and community leader.

    Hailing from Atibulum in Gakem, Bekwarra Local Government Area, Papa Enamhe has championed numerous causes aimed at improving the welfare and security of communities across Northern Cross River. As Convener of the Who Is Who Platform, he mobilised citizens in support of the rehabilitation and recovery of Belegete communities following attacks by Cameroonian Ambazonian separatists.

    He also played a pivotal role in the successful repatriation of the remains of former Senate President, the late Dr Joseph Wayas, from the United Kingdom after years of delay. Working alongside leaders from Northern Cross River, he helped facilitate the return and eventual burial of the elder statesman in his homeland. The effort earned public commendation from Governor Otu, who had strongly supported the initiative.

    Papa Enamhe has equally been involved in peacebuilding and reconciliation efforts across the state. His interventions contributed significantly to the resolution of disputes between Ugaga and Igbekurikor communities in Yala Local Government Area, while his testimony was instrumental in fostering reconciliation during the crisis involving Ugboro and Ikaptan communities in Ogoja.

    A passionate advocate for security and border protection, he has consistently called for the establishment of permanent military formations along vulnerable boundary corridors between Obudu and Tiv communities, Gakem and Tiv settlements, as well as Ukele and neighbouring communities in Ebonyi State.

    Through storytelling, public engagement and policy advocacy, Papa Enamhe has continued to advance issues of public interest. He is currently among the leading voices advocating for the reclamation of Cross River State’s oil wells under the Think Cross River campaign, “Reclaim Our Wells.”

    A respected traditional title holder, Papa Dorn Cklaimz Enamhe bears several chieftaincy titles, including Papa Ukperi I of Basang Nation. He is also a member and fellow of several professional bodies.

    He is married to Mrs Pamela Enamhe and they are blessed with four children.

    His appointment as Senior Special Adviser on Think Cross River is widely seen as recognition of his years of selfless service, strategic advocacy and unwavering commitment to the development and advancement of Cross River State.

  • Eteng Facilitates Upgrade of Three Secondary Schools to Technical Colleges in Cross River Central

    Eteng Facilitates Upgrade of Three Secondary Schools to Technical Colleges in Cross River Central

     

    The Senator representing Cross River Central Senatorial District, Eteng Jonah Williams, has facilitated the upgrading of St. Brenda Secondary School, Iyamoyong in Obubra Local Government Area, Boki Comprehensive Secondary School (Boki Boys), in Okundi, Boki Local Government Area and Secondary School Mkpani in Yakurr Local Government Area into Government Technical Colleges through the intervention of the Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF).

    The intervention will provide for the construction and installation of modern technical training facilities in the institutions, with the objective of strengthening vocational and technical education within Cross River Central Senatorial District.

    The upgraded technical colleges are expected to offer specialized and practical training designed to equip students with relevant industry skills in areas such as Information and Communication Technology (ICT), healthcare services, automotive technology, culinary arts, and other technical and vocational disciplines.

    The initiative is aimed at improving employability among young people, encouraging self-reliance, and advancing human capital development across the district.

    As part of the implementation process, the three project sites have officially been handed over to the contractors for the commencement of construction works and installation of technical equipment, marking the commencement of the projects.

    Speaking at one of the construction site during an inspection, Senator Eteng Williams emphasized that Job creation, access to opportunity and human capacity development remains at the very core of his priorities for his constituents.

  • 2026 Children’s Day: Fr Peter Abue Charges Government, Parents On Education And Welfare of Children

    2026 Children’s Day: Fr Peter Abue Charges Government, Parents On Education And Welfare of Children

    By Elijah Ugani 

    The founder of CORAfrica Nigeria Rev Fr (Dr) Peter Obele Abue has called on Government, Parents and the general public to be more committed to the ideals of fostering the education and social welfare of children in Nigeria.

    Fr. Abue made this call to commemorate the 2026 Children’s Day celebration. He further extended warm wishes to children and reaffirmed his organisation’s dedication to helping those under his care achieve their aspirations and full potential.

    He noted that a lot needs to be done to ensure that the underprivileged children in rural Africa who by virtue of where they come from take their proper place to assess education, healthcare services and realise their full potentials.

    Fr. Abue used the opportunity to call on government at all levels, parents, corporate organisations, development partners, and philanthropists to support CORAfrica’s vision of expanding access to quality education and improving the welfare of children in rural communities.

    According to him, collective support and investment in children will help create a brighter future for society and ensure that no child is left behind.

    CORAfrica Nigeria is dedicated to child welfare and education, and is celebrating this 2026 Children’s Day with a renewed commitment to supporting children’s dreams, protecting their rights, and promoting access to quality education.

    Through the John Bosco Academy in Adagom, Ogoja, CORAfrica currently provides free education to more than 600 children, helping to bridge the gap between rural and urban education while preparing students to compete globally. The organisation also operates the John Stilley Schools in Victoria, where over 500 children receive quality education.

    The idea of setting aside a special day for children gained global recognition in 1954 when the United Nations General Assembly and UNICEF encouraged nations around the world to observe Universal Children’s Day as a way of promoting children’s rights and welfare.

    Nigeria officially adopted May 27 as Children’s Day in 1964, creating a platform to highlight challenges affecting children, including discrimination, exploitation, abuse, and limited access to quality education.

    In furtherance of child protection, Nigeria ratified the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child in 1989 and domesticated it through the Child Rights Act of 2003 by former President Olusogun Obasanjo. The Act extends the fundamental human rights provisions contained in Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution to children and outlines the responsibilities of government, families, and relevant authorities in safeguarding children’s welfare.

    On this 2026 Children’s Day celebration, CORAfrica Nigeria calls on parents, caregivers, government, and indeed people from all walks of life to become more committed to supporting children, irrespective of their backgrounds, in order to help them realise their full potential. The organisation stressed that there can be no safe and prosperous tomorrow without properly nurturing, protecting, and positioning children today.

    Happy Children’s Day to all Children in Nigeria.

  • Jarigbe Felicitates Muslims on Eid-ul-Kabir, Prays for Unity, Peace, Doles Out N5.5 Million

    Jarigbe Felicitates Muslims on Eid-ul-Kabir, Prays for Unity, Peace, Doles Out N5.5 Million

    Senator representing the Cross River North Senatorial District, Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, has felicitated with Muslim faithful on the occasion of the 2026 Eid-ul-Kabir celebration, calling on them to uphold the virtues of obedience, sacrifice, love, tolerance, and total submission to the will of Almighty Allah.

    In a goodwill message issued to commemorate the festival, the lawmaker described Eid-ul-Kabir as a sacred celebration that symbolizes faith, devotion, selflessness, and unwavering trust in God, as demonstrated by Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice in obedience to Allah’s command.

    Senator Jarigbe urged Muslims to reflect on the noble lessons of the season and apply them in their daily lives to promote peace, unity, mutual understanding, and sustainable development across Cross River North Senatorial District, Cross River State, and the country at large.

    He stressed the need for religious harmony and peaceful coexistence among Nigerians, irrespective of ethnic or religious differences, noting that national development can only flourish in an atmosphere of unity, tolerance, and collective responsibility.

    The senator also encouraged citizens to continue praying for the peace, stability, and prosperity of Nigeria, while extending love and support to the less privileged during the festive period.
    As part of his support for the Eid-ul-Kabir celebration, Senator Jarigbe donated N5.5 million to Muslim communities across Cross River North Senatorial District to enable them celebrate the festival with joy and dignity.

    He further wished Muslims in Nigeria and across the world a peaceful, joyous, and spiritually fulfilling Eid-ul-Kabir celebration.

    “Eid Mubarak,” the statement concludes.

  • Customs, NUJ Partner to Sensitise Border Communities Against Smuggling in Katsina

    Customs, NUJ Partner to Sensitise Border Communities Against Smuggling in Katsina

     

    The newly elected executives of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Katsina State Council, on Thursday, 21 May 2026, paid a courtesy visit to the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Katsina Area Command, where both organisations reaffirmed their commitment to sensitising border communities on the dangers and consequences of smuggling activities.

    Speaking during the visit, the Customs Area Controller of the Katsina Area Command (CAC), Comptroller Mohd Saidu, congratulated the newly elected NUJ leadership and described the media as a critical partner in promoting national security, public enlightenment, and economic development.

    He emphasised that combating smuggling requires collective efforts from security agencies, traditional institutions, community leaders, and the media to educate the public, especially residents of border communities, on the negative effects of illegal trade.

    According to him, smuggling poses serious threats to the nation’s economy by undermining government policies, discouraging legitimate trade, and endangering the citizens’ well-being
    He assured the NUJ of the Command’s readiness to sustain collaboration with the media, stating: “Curbing smuggling activities requires collective efforts. Therefore, the Katsina Area Command is ready to partner with the NUJ in sensitising the public on the dangers of smuggling.”

    In his remarks, the Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Katsina State Council, Comrade Aminu Dandagoro, said the visit was aimed at strengthening the existing relationship between the union and the NCS.

    He noted that the newly elected executives are committed to promoting responsible journalism and supporting initiatives that foster peace, security, and national development.

    Also speaking during the visit, the Patron of the NUJ, Comptroller Usman Bello (Rtd), commended the NCS for its sustained efforts in combating smuggling and safeguarding the nation’s borders.

    He urged journalists to use their platforms to promote public awareness campaigns, particularly among border communities, to discourage involvement in illegal trade and other economic crimes.

    Both organisations also discussed strategies for strengthening collaboration in the areas of public sensitisation, national security awareness, and effective information sharing for the overall development of Katsina State.

  • C’River Internal Revenue Service Launches Insurance Cover For Ad-Hoc Staff

    C’River Internal Revenue Service Launches Insurance Cover For Ad-Hoc Staff

    Culled From Negroid Heaven 

    The Cross River Internal Revenue Service has introduced a group life and health insurance scheme for its ad hoc staff as part of efforts to strengthen workers’ welfare and improve productivity within the agency.

    Chairman of the Service, Edwin Okon, disclosed this on Friday in Calabar during the presentation of a ₦1.4 million group life insurance benefit to the widow of a deceased ad hoc staff member, Mr. Charles Ugbe.

    Okon described the initiative as the first of its kind in the agency, explaining that the decision was taken in recognition of the contributions and commitment of ad hoc staff to the revenue drive of the state.

    According to him, the insurance scheme was designed to provide financial assistance and medical support for workers during emergencies while also reducing the burden on families of deceased employees.

    He stated that the Service had also introduced health insurance packages and mid-month transport bonuses to cushion the effects of the current economic realities on staff members.

    The CRIRS chairman noted that the improved welfare measures had significantly boosted workers’ morale and productivity, contributing to the increase in the state’s internally generated revenue from ₦22 billion to ₦57 billion.

    Okon further said the insurance initiative would encourage accountability and discourage corrupt practices by providing workers with a stronger sense of financial security.

    “I urge workers to invest in insurance and savings schemes that can secure their children’s education and future needs,” he said.

    He commended Governor Bassey Edet Otu for supporting reforms aimed at improving workers’ welfare and strengthening the operations of the revenue service.

    The chairman also expressed hope that the welfare initiatives would be institutionalised to ensure continuity beyond the present administration.

    Speaking at the event, the Head of Service, Mr. Orok Okon, represented by Mrs. Lucy Enakirerhi, Permanent Secretary, Career Management Office, praised the extension of welfare packages to ad hoc workers, describing it as a step that would improve workers’ commitment and sense of belonging.

    Also speaking, the Vice Chairman of the Cross River State Planning Commission, Dr. Bong Duke, represented by Mr. Kingsley Eyibio, Permanent Secretary in the commission, described the initiative as timely and beneficial to workers.

    He encouraged civil servants to adopt long-term insurance and investment plans to secure financial stability for their families.

    Responding on behalf of the family, Mrs. Monica Ugbe, widow of the deceased staff member, thanked the CRIRS management for the support and pledged to use the funds judiciously for the welfare of her family.

  • Three Aspirants From Bekwarra LGA, Ochugudu Ipuele, Cecilia Adams, John Onyi, Withdraws From Senatorial Race In Support Of Jarigbe

    Three Aspirants From Bekwarra LGA, Ochugudu Ipuele, Cecilia Adams, John Onyi, Withdraws From Senatorial Race In Support Of Jarigbe

     

    Three Senatorial aspirants from Bekwarra LGA; Prof. Ochugudu Ipuele, Barr. Cecilia Adams, and Dr. John Onyi, have officially withdrawn from the Cross River North Senatorial APC Primary and declared their support for Distinguished Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe.

    With this development, Senator Jarigbe emerges as the consensus aspirant of the APC for the Cross River North Senatorial seat ahead of the 2027 general elections.