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 John Onyi, have officially withdrawn from the Cross River North Senatorial APC Primary and declared their support for Distinguished Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe.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.
The Senator representing Cross River North Senatorial District, Sen Jarigbe Agom , has facilitated the provision of laboratory equipment to Government Secondary School, Ukende, in Ogoja Local Government Area, as part of efforts to strengthen science education in public schools.
Represented by his Constituency Officer, Mr. Egar Mgbantul , the Senator highlighted the growing importance of science and technology in an increasingly digital world. He noted that meaningful participation in today’s global landscape requires a solid foundation in scientific knowledge, which informed his decision to support the science students of secondary schools across the district.
He further assured that the intervention is part of a broader initiative aimed at equipping public secondary schools with modern and functional laboratory facilities. According to him, this effort will be sustained until schools within the senatorial district are adequately provided with essential tools needed for effective science teaching and learning.
Senator Jarigbe also urged teachers to make optimal use of the equipment, emphasizing the need for practical-based learning that will enhance students’ understanding and performance in science subjects. He encouraged students to take full advantage of the opportunity to build skills that will prepare them for future careers in science and technology.
In response, the school management expressed deep appreciation for the Senator’s support, describing the intervention as timely and impactful. They offered prayers for his continued strength and capacity to extend such developmental initiatives to other schools and communities in Cross River North Senatorial District.
TEAM JARI MEDIA
Earlier today, students of the University of Cross River State took to the streets to protest the tragic death of three of their colleagues in a motor accident, where a truck struck a bus conveying students returning from a friendly female football match in Uyo on Thursday, April 30, 2026, along the Itu-Odukpani Road. The Governor had earlier extended his deepest condolences to the families of the deceased, the students, and the entire university community over this painful and heartbreaking loss.
The Office of the Deputy Governor of Cross River State wishes to correct the public record in the interest of truth, peace, and responsible dialogue.
The protesters first went to the General Hospital, then proceeded to Millennium Park, and later moved to the Governor’s Office. At Millennium Park, they blocked vehicular traffic for an extended period until they were persuaded to reopen the road. At a point during the protest, the situation became rowdy after the leadership structure among the protesters broke down, and some individuals began vandalizing government property. In response, the police used tear gas to disperse the crowd and restore order. No one was shot. This fact must be clearly stated to ensure that misinformation does not distort the facts or unnecessarily inflame public sentiment.
While the concerns raised about healthcare facilities in the state and the completion of the Calabar-Itu Road are duly noted, the government makes it clear that the temporary breakdown of law and order should not be unfairly attributed to the State Government. The administration remains committed to addressing legitimate grievances through peaceful engagement.
Acting swiftly and in the spirit of compassion and dialogue, the Deputy Governor immediately invited ten leaders of the student body to his office, where he personally assured them of the government’s concern and support. This included the use of his personal vehicles and security personnel to assist in evacuating injured accident victims to various hospitals for urgent medical attention.
The Deputy Governor also addressed concerns raised about the General Hospital and the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital (UCTH). He explained that some of the accident victims were redirected from the General Hospital to UCTH not because the General Hospital was ill-equipped, but because it was overwhelmed beyond its capacity at the time. He has further directed the Commissioner for Health to remain fully engaged on the matter to ensure that all victims receive the best possible care, as the government has made full provision for their medical bills. He has also requested a full report on the state of the General Hospital so that any identified gaps can be promptly addressed.
His Excellency urges the public, especially commentators, to avoid misinformation and exaggerated narratives capable of worsening an already painful situation. The government remains open to constructive engagement and continues to work in the interest of all citizens, including students and young people, whose welfare remains a priority.
We once again commiserate with the families of the deceased and the university community, and pray for the repose of the souls of the departed students. May the injured recover swiftly and fully.
Fred Abua, Esq.
Press Secretary to the Deputy Governor
04/05/2026
Jarigbe Inspects Burnt Recreation Centre in Ogoja, Promises New Facility
Senator Jarigbe Agom today inspected the recently burnt recreation centre in Ogoja, hinting at plans to construct a new facility following the extensive damage to the structure.
Addressing newsmen at the site, Senator Jarigbe said he had not initially realized the full scale of the destruction, describing it as severe.
He added that instead of carrying out repairs, a completely new structure would be built and properly equipped for the benefit of the people.
“Fortunately, provision has been made for a new recreation centre in the 2025 budget. We will demolish what is left of this structure and erect a new recreation centre for our people,” he stated.
The lawmaker was accompanied by Rt. Hon. Peter Igbodor, Hon. Martins Orim, Hon. Agnes Atsu, Hon. Beatrice Igwe, Hon. Regina Anyogo, Mr. Egbede Jarigbe, among others.
TEAM JARI MEDIA
The Senator representing Cross River North Senatorial District, Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, earlier today inspected the ongoing Ukpagada Bridge construction project facilitated through his efforts, reaffirming his commitment to infrastructural development across the district.
The bridge, currently under construction, is situated along the critical Abakpa–Ibil–Yahe corridor, which links Cross River State to Ebonyi State. Historically, the route has posed significant challenges to commuters, as a previous bridge at the site was destroyed during the Nigerian Civil War. Upon completion, the new structure is expected to provide a durable and safe crossing point for residents, motorists, and traders, especially during the rainy season when access has often been severely limited.
Speaking at the project site, Senator Jarigbe commended the host community for providing a peaceful and enabling environment that has allowed engineers and construction workers to carry out their duties without hindrance. He emphasized that community cooperation remains a vital ingredient in the successful delivery of public infrastructure.
The lawmaker also acknowledged the support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, noting that the project is being funded by the Federal Government and would not have progressed without such backing. He further expressed appreciation to the Executive Governor of Cross River State, H. E Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, for his continued support and the numerous developmental projects being executed across the senatorial district.
Senator Jarigbe used the opportunity to call on constituents to remain united and continue supporting his administration, as well as that of the governor and the President, particularly as the 2027 general elections approach. He stressed that sustained collaboration between leaders and the people is essential for attracting more development to the region.
In their separate remarks, community leaders, including former member of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Peter Igbodor, alongside traditional rulers and residents, expressed deep gratitude to the Senator for facilitating the project. They described the bridge as a long-awaited intervention that would significantly boost economic activities and improve the quality of life in the area.
As a show of appreciation, the community presented the Senator with gifts, including a live ram and tubers of yam, symbolizing their gratitude and cultural respect. They also pledged their continued support for Senator Jarigbe, Governor Otu, and President Tinubu, citing the positive impact of their leadership and projects within the community.
The inspection visit was attended by several dignitaries, including the Honourable Commissioner for Sports, Hon. Agnes Atsu; Commissioner for Housing, Hon. Beatrice Igwe; Hon. Paddy Egbede; Hon. Regina Anyogo; Chief Thomas Odu; Mr. Sunday Igbaji; Mr. Egar Mgbantul; Mr. Joe Ulom, JP; and other stakeholders.
The Ukpagada Bridge project stands as a significant milestone in ongoing efforts to improve connectivity and stimulate socio-economic development in Cross River North, reinforcing the importance of strategic infrastructure in regional growth.
TEAM JARI MEDIA
PROGRAM OF ACTIVITIES FOR SENATOR JARIGBE’s VISIT TO CROSS RIVER NORTH SENATORIAL DISTRICT
The Senator representing Cross River North Senatorial District, Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, is scheduled to visit the Senatorial District, with the following programme of activities outlined below:
1. Inspection of On-going Ukpagada Bridge: 30th of April, 2026
Time: 9 am
2. Inspection of Burnt Down Recreational Center, Ogoja
30th April, 2026
Time: 10am
3. Consultation with the Senatorial Leadership of Cross River North Senatorial District:
Date: 30th April, 2026
Venue: Ogoja Council Secretariat
Time: 12 noon prompt.
4. Meeting with Support Groups
Venue: Senator’s Residence
Date: 30th April, 2026
Time: 1pm
5. Visit to the Leper Colony, Moniaya
Date: 30th April, 2026
Time: 2pm
6. Visit to Divine Providence ORPHANAGE
Date: 30th April, 2026
TIME: 2.30 pm
The lawmaker reassures constituents, stakeholders, and the general public of his commitment to continue serving with integrity and dedication, while advancing sustainable development through both infrastructural projects and human capital development.
Signed: John Agom Agom
SA MEDIA
By Elijah Ugani
In a massively attended rally held in honour of an illustrious son of Bakor, Sen Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, the senator representing Cross River Northern Senatorial District, a sociopolitical group, The Bakor Political Forum In Collaboration with Bakor communities led Traditional Rulers of Bakor, endorsed Sen Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, Gov Bassey Edet Otu and Sen Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, for another term comes 2027.
The endorsement which held at Aladim Nkum Iborr ward, Ogoja Local Government Area, on Monday April 27th 2026, had traditional rulers, women, youths, elders and all political gladiators of Bakor extraction in attendance.
The event which commenced with the pouring of libation by elder Mr Immandi Uboh, invoked the spirits of their ancestors to solidify their unity and go ahead of them as they project their star and project oriented son, distinguished Sen Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, as he goes about his reelection bid.
Leaders took turns and exrayed the sterling performance of Sen Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe and the need for them to come together and unite formidably to support the reelection of their son. They noted that with the sterling performance of Sen Jarigbe Agom, it becomes very easy to sell his aspiration to other persons.
The endorsement motion for the reelection of Sen Ahmed Bola Tinubu, His Excellency, Apostle Sen Bassey Edet Otu, and Sen Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, for a second term was moved by Rt. Hon. Gabriel Edi, former member of the House of Representatives, for Ogoja/Yala federal constituency.
The motion which was seconded by Rt Hon Paddy Uguge, was adopted by the Bakor nation following a voice note.
Some of the Bakor Political Elites present at the endorsement rally include but not limited to, Rt Hon Peter Igbodor, Hon Gabe Edi, Chief Igbe Aruku, High Chief Timmy Tom, Hon Chief Rita Agbo Ayim, Rt. Hon Paddy Uguge, Hon. Thomas Aruku, Hon. Paddy Egbede, Mr. Uko Inaku, Mr Jimmy Aninege, Hon Emmanuel Ishabor, Chief Austin Edibe, Engr Sunny Magma, and all stakeholders of the APC from Bakor.
Some of the community elders who spoke to Theluminenews, expressed satisfaction with the representation of Sen Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, and vowed to invoke the spirits of their ancestors on any Bakor son or daughter who tries to fight their God sent son. They averred that they have never seen or had a leader who is selfless like Sen Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe. They maintained that Sen Jarigbe Agom, does not have a hotel or any known business address to his name, rather he is always thinking about the major of his constituents.
They pointed the road and said “That road you see here, was done by Sen Jarigbe Agom. We see that we all came out in solidarity with him. As he leads, we will follow. Whatever he says we should do, we will do. For now, he is our leader. He is God sent and we will not joke with this opposite”.
The endorsement featured traditional dances from various groups.
A sociopolitical group known as the Bakor Political Forum, in collaboration with the Bakor communities, is set to host an Endorsement Rally in support of the Senator representing Cross River North Senatorial District, Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe; the Executive Governor of Cross River State, His Excellency Senator Prince Bassey Otu; and the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
In a release made available to Theluminenews, indicates that the event is scheduled to hold as follows:
Date: Monday, 27th April 2026
Time: 2:00 PM
Venue: Primary School Field, Aladim, Nkum Iborr, Ogoja LGA
The release further indicates that all sons and daughters of Bakor, as well as friends and associates, are cordially invited to attend this important rally. The event is expected to bring together political leaders, stakeholders, and supporters from across Bakor to demonstrate their support and solidarity for Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, His Excellency Senator Prince Bassey Otu, and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ahead of the 2027 re-election.
By Elijah Ugani
Staff under the Ogoja Zonal Directorate of Education, their counterparts in the Five Local Governments Education Authority in Northern Senatorial District as well as heads of public primary and secondary schools went to God in thanksgiving.
The thanksgiving mass was held at Holy Trinity Parish Ogboja-Ogoja, today April 26th 2026.
During the mass the Chief Celebrant and parish priest, the Very Rev Fr Felix Ovai Ekpe, charged teachers to be up and doing to save the educational system from collapse.
Speaking on the theme of his reflection, Fr Ekpe noted that “As teachers, parents and leaders, you too are shepherds. The good shepherd shows and leads the way. You have to be resilient in your pursuit of the ideals.
“I know there are times when you want to discipline or correct some of your pupils and students, some parents will want to come to your schools to confront you.
“The rate at which most children and students alike have taken to drugs, alcohol (ice) and Yahoo Yohoo calls for concern.
“Continue to be steadfast in whatever you are doing that is right. Be focused, at the end of the day, the society will be a better place for all of us”.
He commended them for the efforts made in the past and wished them a happy celebration.
Speaking during the thanksgiving mass, the Ogoja Zonal Coordinating Supervisory Directorator, Mrs Felicia Eweh, noted that “We have come here to mark our 2026 annual thanksgiving. We are grateful to God for keeping us alive and for all the things he has done for us.
“On our part, we will continue to provide the leadership that is demanded of us. We cannot mould the children the way we desire without the help and support of their parents. We urge parents to rise to the occasion so that we can build a better society as the children we are training today will tomorrow be the ones to lead and direct our affairs”.
Speaking with Theluminenews, the Principal of Government Technical College, Abakpa, Mr John Mobu, commended the CSD for her leadership style when he said “As the Chief host of this event, I happy that everyone is satisfied with the hosting as compared to what we had last year, where there were lots of complians. You can see that people ate and there is food left over.
“When we started this planning, a lot of people doubted the capacity of the CSD. We raised funds, the CDS asked the various committees to bring their proposals and once that is done, she appropriates money and everything went seemlessly”.
When asked what he will want the government to do to ease their job, Mr Mobu noted that “As the tenue of the CSD, Mrs Eweh comes to an end, we expect government to give us another CSD that will lead us with the fear of God in the footprint that Mrs Eweh has built”.
Highlight of the thanksgiving was group photograph and reception held at Government Technical College, Abakpa Assembly Hall.
By Elijah Ugani
The Cross River State Governor, Sen Bassey Edet Otu, has announced his readiness to establish a Medical School in Ogoja to provide the training of the manpower needed to provide medical services for the citizens.
Otu made the disclosure on Friday 17th April 2026, during the 2nd Matriculation and mass Capping ceremony of 620 students by the College of Nursing Sciences Obudu, held at the Sport Arena.
Represented by the Commissioner for Health, Dr Henry Ayuk, at the matriculation ceremony, he disclosed that “The governor is interested in establishing a medical school at Ogoja. We hope to ensure that a comprehensive design of a college system in the medical school that we desire to enable the training of the manpower needed to run an effective healthcare system. We expect cooperation from all of you”.
Speaking further, he averred that “The governor wants the best for you. A couple things that will be said here has to do with your future. You are here to learn so that you can come out best both in character and learning. The state needs you more than Britain and America.
“Out of the 100 nurses we employed in the last recruitment, 60 of them are graduates from your colleges. We want to encourage you so that when you graduate, you don’t move around the streets looking for job.
“The governor approval for doctors is still open. If you have a brother that is a medical doctor and is open to work with the state government, let him come and we will employ him. The governor is ready to employ staff in the four clinical areas. Even those who have retired and are still young and energetic and are willing to work, we will engage them on contract.
“Let me appreciate the Provost, very strong and very vibrant. She is phenomenal and a daughter of the soil. She is ready to step on any individual that is wants to sit on the progress of this institution.
“When you go across the road, you see the land that the Provost negotiated with the community and got for the school. I will like the next Provost to continue from where she will stop. Government appreciates you. We are determined to ensure that the nurses training follows the required regulations”.
Reacting to the appeal by the Paramount Ruler, on the need for a coaster bus, Ayuk noted that “We want to assure you that the efforts to distribute buses to colleges of nursing was not deliberate to undermine Obudu. The need to address that will be done. We will go beyond the small bus to a bigger one. We are sure that we will move this school forward. When we see a high number of people admitted. We are looking at a high IGR. As you showcase your strength, you are expected to showcase the management of the resources”.
Earlier, the Chairman of the occasion, High Chief Tony Undiandeye, thanked the governor, Bassey Edet Otu, for allowing Obudu to host this college. The elites and traditional rulers appreciate him for all the efforts made to ensure that this school was established.
Undiandeye noted that “The growth of this college has been phenomenal because of the support and cooperation the Provost has enjoyed from the governor. I also thank the commissioner for the interest in Obudu. Just few weeks ago, he reopened the General hospital.
“Matriculation is a beautiful day for all the celebrants. We are aware of the vices of the society. Some of them come here with pure minds and get corrupted. My advice is that they should come here and get the certification and leave and become better in the society. If you join the bad group, you will end your life and future.
“To parents, please keep your eyes on your children and guide them appropriately. I congratulate you for this feet, as you have entered the college, the goal is to graduate with distinction. There is a high demand for nurses all of the world. I want to congratulate you and charge you to work hard.
“I congratulate the Provost of the college for all the work going on here. And I call on the commissioner to pay close attention to this college. We will add our voices to ensure that students have a conducive environment for learning”.
On her part, the Provost of the college, Dr Mrs Victoria Undeshi, acknowledged and appreciated the unwavering commitment to the development of nursing education in Cross River State, especially his remarkable financial intervention during the last accreditation by the National Board for Technical Education which play pivotal role in the successful outcome recorded.
Undeshi noted that “Today marks a significant milestone not only in the lives of our students who are formally being admitted into this noble profession, but also in the continued growth and transformation of our institution”.
The Provost mentioned that the college has secured accreditation for programmes that meets national standards for excellence in nursing education which reinforces the college’s commitment to produce competent, compassionate, and globally competitive nurses.
She listed infrastructural development experienced during her leadership to include: Enhanced learning environment, better-equipped facilities, improved staff remuneration, promote continuous professional development through in service tranings to building an institution that supports both academic excellence and professional training.
Speaking further, the Provost noted that “We are deeply grateful for the invaluable support received from the Obudu community and development partners such as the Niger Delta Development Commission and the World Health Organization. Their interventions and collaborations have greatly enhanced our capacity in training, service delivery, and institutional development. Another area of significant progress is the steady increase in the students enrollment, a tastement to the growing confidence in our institution as a centre of excellence in nursing education.
“Dear matriculating students, today you take a solemn step into a profession that demands discipline, compassion, integrity, and excellence. You are not just students, you are future caregivers, leaders and change agents in the healthcare system. I urge you to remain focused, uphold the values of this noble profession, and strive for academic and moral excellence”.
The Head of Service, Mr Orok Bassey Oko Esq, congratulated the students and noted that “with this number of students, the shortage in the medical profession will be a thing of the past. Parents keep an eye on your children and guide them. I know some of them will leave this country. I enjoined you to be circumspect and take your studies seriously.
The Special Assistant to the governor on Nursing, Coco Bassey, noted that “Today we do not just celebrate uniforms and caps. We celebrate commitment. We celebrate the choice these young men and women have made to stand at the frontline of human care. The lamp you receive today is more than a symbol. It is a charge to light the darkest places of sickness with skill, compassion, and integrity.
“Let me, on behalf of the nursing family, acknowledge His Excellency’s decisive role in transforming nursing education in our state. He has sustained and prioritized budgetary allocation to the Colleges of Nursing Sciences in Obudu, Calabar, Ogoja, and Itigidi. This has ensured stable operations, staff welfare, and improved learning conditions across board.”
Under his administration, this college has witnessed tangible growth. New lecture halls, demonstration rooms, e-libraries, and hostel facilities are testaments to a government that believes infrastructure must match our ambition for world-class nurses”.
The Governor has also approved and released critical funds for the accreditation and re-accreditation of our nursing and midwifery programs with the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria. Because of this, our graduates are fully recognized, employable, and globally competitive”.
His Excellency did not just fund buildings. He gave us a system. By granting collegiate status, he elevated nursing education from a school-based model to a college-based academic structure. This strengthens governance, curriculum delivery, and career progression for staff and students.
“With the Governor’s backing, the State has deepened collaboration with the World Health Organization and other health-focused NGOs. These partnerships bring technical support, training, and equipment that directly benefit our colleges and, ultimately, our communities.
“Beyond capital projects, His Excellency ensured the regular payment of subvention to support academic programs, research, student welfare, and clinical postings. This consistent support is the lifeline that keeps the collegiate system functional and progressive.
“To our matriculating students: You are the first beneficiaries of this new era. To whom much is given, much is expected. Wear your caps with pride, but wear responsibility even more. Cross River State is investing in you because we believe you will give back through excellence and empathy at the bedside.
“To the Provost and faculty, Thank you for translating the Governor’s vision into daily discipline, lectures, and clinical mentorship. Continue to hold the standard high.
The Paramount Ruler of Obudu Local Government Area, His Royal Majesty, Utsu Felix Ukudari, noted that “We thank the governor for the good work not only in the college, but the entire Obudu. He has made this environment conducive for learning. A few years, we were yearning to have this school. Years ago, he approved this college to be among the colleges in the state. The students gathered here are not just from cross River State, you have them from other states and the Cameroon. It means that Obudu is central in the world.
“We thank the commissioner for health for all the sacrifices. To the Provost, you deserve a special award from Obudu for your sacrifices and proactivines. We pray God to guide you. In the near future, we will train even masters degrees.
“To the students, many of you gather here, a few years from now, you should be in abroad. I can see many of you America, Japan. You are the future and safety of our wives and children, do well to make us proud”.
The South South Zonal Director, National Board for Technical Education, Mr Cyril Mbong, noted that “This landmark event signifies not only the formal admission of the 2nd cohort of students but also the beginning of a promising journey towards excellence in nursing science education and healthcare service delivery. The migration of the then School of Nursing to a College is a commendable initiative that aligns with national efforts to strengthen human capacity in the health sector. The approval granted to commence HND programmes after a thorough resource inspection and approval visitation last year is a testament to the college’s commitment to quality education and institutional development.
“To the matriculating students, you carry the unique responsibility of maintaining the pace and standards for which this college is known. Your conduct, academic performance, and professional discipline will define the image and reputation of this college. I therefore urge you to remain focused, deligent, and commited to excellence at all times.
“Beyond academic knowledge, your attitude to care, empathy for patients, and adherence to professional ethics will distinguished you in the field. I commend the management and staff for their foresight, resilience, and dedication in bringing this vision to reality. Your commitment to maintain high standards in training and character development of your students is highly appreciated and worthy of emulation”.
Mbong used the opportunity to appeal to the Cross River State Government to grant this college and other colleges in the state full autonomy and privileges obtained in other colleges and tertiary institutions nationwide.
He reiterated the ban on the operation of satellite campuses, study and outreach centres, and affiliations has not been lifted by the federal government yet, and appealed to the state government to allow the state colleges of nursing sciences that have received approval to commence HND programmes just last year to mature and to graduate some batches of HND students before initiating the idea of affiliation.
Mbong listed the implications of illegal affiliation to include: Lost of already obtained National Diploma (ND) accreditation, stoppage of Higher National Diploma (HND) approval to commence, and delisting of the programmes and Institutions from JAMB portal.
Highlights of the event was the administering of matriculation oath, capping of the students and presentation of awards to deserving principal officers of the college.
