The Lumine News

Category: Metro News

  • Jarigbe Donates 2M For Belegete Humanitarian Medical Outreach

    Jarigbe Donates 2M For Belegete Humanitarian Medical Outreach

    The senator representing Cross River Northern Senatorial District, Sen Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, has donated the sum of 2M towards the Humanitarian Medical Outreach for the Internally displaced Belegete people by the Cameroonian separatists.

    The donation was made known through a release signed by Prof Christopher Iklaki, (Prof of Obstetrics & Gynaecology), who is the Chairman of the Humanitarian Medical Subcommittee of Who Is Who in Northern Cross River State.

    The release commended Sen Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, for donating 2M for the outreach.

    The release further indicates that arrangements are on top gear to run a transparent outreach and report proceedings to the Who Is Who team.

    Who Is Who in Northern Cross River, is a group of concerned citizens in Northern Cross River State who have come together, mobilized and pull resources together to give the displaced people of Belegete a sense of belonging in the face of their current predicament.

    The central committee headed by DC Enamhe, had previously mobilized resources and presented to the displaced Belegete people.

  • Jarigbe Distributes Motorcycles To Traditional Rulers In Northern Senatorial District

    Jarigbe Distributes Motorcycles To Traditional Rulers In Northern Senatorial District

    By Elijah Ugani 

    The senator representing Cross River Northern Senatorial District, Sen Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, has distributed motor cycles to 54 traditional rulers in Northern Senatorial District.

    Presenting the motorcycles to the traditional rulers, Sen Jarigbe who was represented by his Constituency Officer, Mr Egar Mgbantul, stated that “Sen Jarigbe Agom has decided to present these motorcycles to you our traditional rulers to assist you move around in the discharge of your duties in your various communities”.

    The motorcycles were presented to 54 traditional rulers drawn from the 54 political in northern senatorial district.

    Commending the senator, His Highness, Chief Ade Abuo, expressed gratitude to Sen Jarigbe Agom for unraveling the mystery associated with public office.

    In his words “I don’t know what to say to Sen Jarigbe Agom. May God uplift him. He has made us to know and feel what is dividends of democracy in Ogoja in his time. We know know democracy has benefits like this. He will go beyond the senate. That is my prayer, we will have him at the Aso Rock. Aso Rock is for Nigerians. It is not meant for specific ethnic groups”

    When contacted, Sen Jarigbe Agom averred that “Traditional rulers are the custodians of our culture and traditions, we need to honor them. They play very significant roles in resolving conflicts in our communities. They need to be encouraged and supported to enable them discharged their functions effectively”

    In another development, His Royal Highness, Uti Okwor Olenyen, from Utugwang North, in Obudu Local Government Area, expressed appreciation to Sen Jarigbe Agom, when he stated that “Sen Jarigbe Agom is the face of true democracy”

    The royal father noted that “if all political office holders approach leadership with the mindset as exhibited by Sen Jarigbe, we will have had a peaceful society. May God continue to grant his heart desire and give him the platform that will enable him serve the entire country”.

    Speaking further, the lawmaker held that “The roles of traditional rulers in conflict resolution includes reconciling and integrating both parties in conflicts, maintaining law and order in the communities, promoting the use of informal settlements, checks and balances in the society, managing improper communication and interaction breakdowns among their subjects”.

  • CRS Commissioner For Special Duties Oden Ewa Donates Building For Party Secretariat, Charges Members On Loyalty, Unity

    CRS Commissioner For Special Duties Oden Ewa Donates Building For Party Secretariat, Charges Members On Loyalty, Unity

     

    Members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Yakurr Local Government Area of Cross River State have been charged to be more dedicated and committed to the party, and ensure that the party continues to increase in visibility and gain more ground.

    This charge was made by the Cross River State Commissioner for Special Duties and Inter Governmental affairs, Mr. Oden Ewa, at the unveiling ceremony of the LGA party secretariat building that he built and donated to the party.

    Mr Ewa described an inherent spirit of public service as his motivation for embarking on the project. He noted that it was of utmost importance for a Local Government area such as Yakurr to have a befitting party secretariat as it was the local government with the largest number of party faithful in Cross River State. For that reason, it was only natural for the local government to have a fully functional secretariat that would enable members congregate at all times.

    Mr. Ewa further tasked members to continue to support the party and ensure that it continues to be at the forefront in the minds of the people, not only in the LGA, but in the state as a whole. He also stressed that that their loyalty would be handsomely rewarded in the coming months with the dividends of democracy as the Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Edet Otu, had approved a series of projects for the LGA, to be implemented by his Ministry as a show of appreciation for the massive support given to the party in the 2023 general elections.

    The secretariat was formally commissioned by the State APC Chairman, Barrister Aiphonsus Ogar Eba, who was represented by Honourable Matthew Ebong. He commended Mr. Ewa for his commitment to the growth of the party in the state, for always showing concern for the welfare of his people, and for donating the building, which he said would be deployed to good use by the party.

    In addition to donating the building, Mr. Ewa also donated the sum of N5 million to the party as a reward for outstanding performance during the Governorship Election of 2023, along with 1,000 bags of rice and other items that were to be shared by party members to celebrate the Yuletide celebration.

    Also In attendance at the colourful event was the Deputy Governor of the State, His Excellency Rt. Hon Peter Odey, who made a donation of N500, 000 to the party.

    Others present were the Honourable Member representing Yakurr I Constituency in the State House of Assembly, Hon. Cyril Omini, Commissioner for Aviation, Captain Eno Inah, Honourable Abubakar Efoli, and other party stalwarts and traditional rulers

     

  • Thanksgiving Ceremony: Godwin Offiono Says His victory Is A Testament To The Omnipotence Of God

    Thanksgiving Ceremony: Godwin Offiono Says His victory Is A Testament To The Omnipotence Of God

     

    Hon. Godwin Offiono, the representative of Ogoja/Yala Federal Constituency, rededicated his electoral victory to God Almighty for His faithfulness during a Thanksgiving mass held at St. Rita’s Catholic Church in Abachor-Igbeku, Yala LGA, Cross River State.

    The Member of Parliament stated that his victory at the poll was a clear demonstration of the omnipresence, omniscience, and omnipotence of God. While acknowledging God, he also commended the political leaders, his family, friends, and constituents who were used by God to actualize His mandate.

    The event gathered the crème de la crème of Cross River North politics, including the House of Representatives Speaker, friends, family members, well-wishers, constituents, etc. They were in attendance to express gratitude to God alongside Hon. Offiono.

    Hon. Peter Akpanke, the Member representing Obudu/Bekwarra/Obanliku Federal Constituency, adeptly represented the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas. Additionally, the State Chairman, Hon. Barr. Venatius Ikem, represented the Cross River State PDP working committee, Hon. Eze Nwachukwu Eze, member representing Ebonyi and Ohaukwu Federal Constituency of Ebonyi State.
    Also in attendance were Barr. Idi Yakubu, Hon. Matthew Ojugbo, Dr. Ikani Wogar, Rt. Hon. Peter Igbodor, AIG Paul Odama, Hon. Mrs. Beatrice Igwe, commissioner for Housing, Cross River State, Prince Akwaji Offiono aka Akwase, Chief John Joe, Prophet Emmanuel Okpe, Mrs. Talatu Ogborgu, Dr. Paul Ebiala, Amb. Jammy Egbe, Registrar, University of Calabar, Capt. Fred Oko rtd, Chief Ongbinyi, Hon. Egar Mgbantul, Hon. Tom Agi, Hon. Sunday Oko (Otolo), Hon. Charles Omang, member representing Bekwarra State Constituency, Amb. Sunny Omagu, Barr. First Baba Isa, Paramount Rulers of Yala and Ogoja, Chiefs and Elders, and a host of others.

    Hon. Offiono promised to periodically contribute to the building of a befitting edifice for the church and commenced the project with the sum of Three million Naira (N3,000,000). Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas also sent in his contributions to the church project. Cross River State 10th National Assembly caucus, Prince Akwase Offiono, Senator Jarigbe Agom, Hon. Peter Akpanke, Hon. Barr. Venatius Ikem, Prophet Emmanuel Okpe, Amb. Jammy Egbe, Hon. Mrs. Beatrice Igwe, other respected dignitaries, friends and well wishers, also supported Hon. Offiono in the building of the church.

    Hon. Offiono, addressing constituents at St Joseph’s Primary School field in Okuku, expressed gratitude to party stakeholders, Ogoja/Yala constituents, and well-wishers for unwavering support. He reiterated his commitment to competent representation, emphasizing that the mandate belongs to the people. Despite distractions in court, he focused on securing the people’s mandate and looks forward to remarkable progress henceforth through projects, empowerment, bills, and human capital development.

    In conclusion, Hon. Offiono generously allocated the substantial amount of Thirty-five million naira (N35,000,000) along with Seven Hundred (700) bags of 50kg rice for New Year celebrations within the constituency.

    In his remarks, Hon. Akpanke commended the people of Ogoja/Yala and the entire Cross River North Senatorial District for their support, promising effective representation. “You’ve elected a good man; Hon. Offiono is a good man. We’re friends and brothers working together in the National Assembly, and I’m confident he will not disappoint you.

    The PDP State Chairman, Hon. Barr. Venatius Ikem also appreciated the Party faithfuls and constituents of Ogoja/Yala for standing against underdevelopment during the general election. He reiterated that the choice of Hon. Offiono was a direct fight against underdevelopment, lies and corruption. He encouraged the people to keep supporting PDP to attract more development to the region. The Chairman also commended Hon. Offiono for starting strong despite distractions from the legal tussle, he assured of the party’s fervent support.

    GOFFIO MEDIA.

  • CR’ Deputy Governor Honors Paramount Ruler, Celebrates Nonagenarian, Priest At 35

    CR’ Deputy Governor Honors Paramount Ruler, Celebrates Nonagenarian, Priest At 35

     

    The Deputy Governor of Cross River State, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, made a courtesy call to the Paramount Ruler of Ogoja, HRM, Oti Mathias Odey Abua, on Sunday, December 31, 2023. This visit was part of the Deputy Governor’s New Year activities in his Ogoja hometown.

    The Deputy Governor who took the opportunity to express his appreciation for the Paramount Ruler’s support and leadership, presented some food items and cash to the Paramount Ruler as a gesture of goodwill and solidarity for the New Year celebration.

    The Paramount Ruler, who in turn gave some fat yams to the Deputy Governor, expressed joy and gratitude for having the state’s second-in-command celebrate with him stating that he could have danced if not that such dances were forbidden for kings by tradition. He commended the Deputy Governor for his humility and service to the people of Cross River State while praying that God will protect him and grant success throughout Hon. Odey’s time in government.

    In a separate event, the Deputy Governor celebrated the 90th birthday of Chief Julius Abua Abang, a respected community leader in Mbube, Ogoja Local Government Area and the father of one time Attorney General of the State, Barr. Joe Oshie Abang. The Deputy Governor praised Chief Abang’s reputation and longevity, expressing joy at seeing the nonagenarian surrounded by his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

    Earlier, the Deputy Governor stopped by a Catholic Parish in Odajie, Mbube, where he testified that the Rev. Fr Prof Jake Otonko who has served 35 years in the priesthood, was instrumental in his personal and professional growth. He said it was the priest who supported his post graduate studies at the Catholic University of Leuven, Belgium. In recognition of this early assistance, the Deputy Governor gifted the priest a car and made a donation towards the church building.

    The Deputy Governor was accompanied on the visit by his Head of Personal Staff, Dr. Chris Ojikpong, political appointees and some friends.

  • Offiono Doles Out N35m, 700 Bags of Rice To Constituents For New Year Celebration

    Offiono Doles Out N35m, 700 Bags of Rice To Constituents For New Year Celebration

     

    The Member representing Ogoja/Yala Federal Constituency, Hon. Godwin Offiono, today released the sum of Thirty Five Million Naira (N35m) for new year celebration in Ogoja/Yala Federal Constituency.

    The Member of Parliament directed the distribution of Five Hundred Thousand (N500,000) to each of the twenty-four (24) wards of Ogoja/Yala, totaling twelve Million Naira (N12m). Additionally, stakeholders across these wards received Fifteen Million Naira (N15m). Non-Indigenous and the JTF group in the constituency were given Five hundred thousand Naira (N500,000), traditional rulers received two million Naira (N2,000,000). Furthermore, constituents from the various wards who attended the MP’s thanksgiving ceremony today, were demobilised with 2.5m, etc. 700 bags of rice was also distributed across the federal Constituency; each of the 24 wards to get 20 bags.

    Hon. Offiono reiterated his dedication to fairly representing the people of Ogoja/Yala with great skill, expressing his readiness to fulfill the mandate graciously bestowed upon him by his constituents, despite facing a challenging legal battle.

    GOFFIO MEDIA.

  • Akpanke Gifts 3M, 800 Bags Of Rice To Widows In OBO Federal Constituency

    Akpanke Gifts 3M, 800 Bags Of Rice To Widows In OBO Federal Constituency

    By Elijah Ugani 

    The member representing Obudu/Bekwarra/Obanliku federal constituency, Hon Peter Akpanke has puts smiles of the faces of 800 widows in Obanliku, Obudu and Bekwarra Local Government Areas.

    The widows who gathered at their various local government areas were elated at the show of benevolence by their MP.

    Addressing the widows, the lawmaker thanked them for their steadfastness during the last general elections and maintained that it was very necessary he identified with them at this period of Christmas.

    Akpanke noted that “It has been in my tradition to visit you before Christmas, but my new office comes with responsibilities that couldn’t allow me the time to come to see you before Christmas, kindly hold me excused.

    “Your prayers and support have us the victory at the polls and I can’t thank you enough. You rejected money, your children also rejected appointments to stand for what is right. I assure you that we will continue to share what we have to ensure that we live as a united community.

    “What is important here is that like I have always reach out to you, the desire to reach out to you the widows is at the increase.

    “Please continue to pray and support us so that we will continue to drive home what legitimately belongs to us”

    Speaking on behalf of the widows, Mrs Cecilia Ushie from Ukwortung community thanked Hon Peter Akpanke for his benevolence and magnanimity.

    She stated that providing for the widows has been a tradition for the lawmaker even before he was elected to represent the federal constituency.

    She prayed that God should continue to provide for the MP and grant him open doors to enable him reach out to the less privileged.

    The widows in the three local government areas prayed for guidance and protection for Hon Akpanke as he undertakes his legislative functions.

    Each of the 800 widows were given a bag of rice, Maggie, salt and a cash support of N3,000.00

  • Jarigbe Moves To Improve Food Security In Northern Cross River, Distributes Fertilizer To Constituents

    Jarigbe Moves To Improve Food Security In Northern Cross River, Distributes Fertilizer To Constituents

    By Elijah Ugani 

    As part of his deliberate efforts to improve food security in Northern Cross River, the Senator representing Cross River North Senatorial District, Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, DSSRS, has distributed fertilizer to his constituents across the five Local Government Areas.

    Senator Agom averred that food insecurity is one of the major challenges facing the country at the moment and his move to put an end to food insecurity in Northern Senatorial District, can not be overemphasized as his constituents are predominantly peasant farmers.

    The Senator stated this on Tuesday, December 26th 2023 at his constituency office where constituents received fertilizer to boost food security and sustainability.

    Represented by his Constituency Officer, Mr. Egar Mgbantul, the Lawmaker reiterated that, “one of the major challenges facing the country now is food insecurity and there must be a deliberate plan to reverse the trend.

    “Fertilizer is one of the basic ingredients that our farmers need to assist them in their farms. We will continue to do this to assist our farmers in the rural areas to have an improved yield on farm produce”.

    Commending the lawmaker, some constituents who described the gesture as timely and crucial particularly with the current economic hardship associated with the hike in pump price of fuel that placed ordinary people in a difficult condition which prevent many farmers the opportunity to purchase fertilizers from the market, adding that God should always bless the Senator for them.

    Speaking to TheLumineNews, the lawmaker stated that he prioritized agriculture in his empowerment programmes with the view that the right people will be targeted.

    He further disclosed that, “I am enthused to put an end to food insecurity in Northern Cross River. I presume you should be aware of my previous empowerment programmes in agriculture sector. We have distributed over 150 power hand tillers, tractor, herbicides among other things to boost crop production with the view to ensure food security, as well as organized capacity building trainings for my constituents in agriculture value chain”.

    Speaking further, senator Agom, noted that “Food security is the availability of food in a country and the ability of individuals within that country to access, afford, and source adequate foodstuff. It is our deliberate intention that food should be available for all class, gender or region which entails food security”

  • Police Arrest Kidnapers Of Car Dealer’s Wife In Calabar

    Police Arrest Kidnapers Of Car Dealer’s Wife In Calabar

    By Frank Ulom, Converseer

    Two persons have been arrested by the police in Cross River over the abduction of the wife of a car dealer, Mrs. Aliu in Calabar.

    CONVERSEER reports that Mrs. Aliu was kidnapped in October by the gang who collected a ransom from her husband before being released.

    However, the kidnappers met their waterloo after the officers of the Anti Cultism and Kidnapping Squad aka Dragon Squad led by SP Chukwuma Ogini tracked them via the account number they used in receiving the ransom.

    SP Irene Igbo, police spokesperson in the state while confirming the development said the Dragon Squad, a tactical unit of the police, had been on the trail of the owner of the account used for the transaction and arrested him.

    She said, “The victim is the wife of a popular car dealer in Calabar who was kidnapped on 27 October 2023, and they used an unsuspecting individual account to receive the ransom.

    “The suspects didn’t know that they were being trailed by the Dragon Squad. We are happy that two out of four of them have been apprehended.

    “Locally made pistols, ammunition, phones and other valuable items were recovered from them.

    “They have also made confessional statements on their involvement in the abduction of the woman. They will be charged to court as soon as we conclude the investigation.”

    SP Ugbo advised members of the public to be mindful of who they give their private information, especially bank details, as it might land them in trouble when used to commit a crime.

  • Gunmen Kills Youth Leader, Abducts Four Others In C’River Assembly Speaker’s Village

    Gunmen Kills Youth Leader, Abducts Four Others In C’River Assembly Speaker’s Village

     

    Richard Ndoma, Leadership Newspaper

    Tragedy struck the Nde Three Corners Community in Cross River State on Christmas Day as gunmen killed a youth leader, Mr. Akpang Ayambem, and abducted four others.

    The incident occurred in the hometown of the Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Honorable Elvert Ayambem, in Ikom Local Government Area.

    Nde Three Corners has become notorious for kidnappings and other violent crimes in recent months.

    Travelers on the Ikom Ogoja/Katsina-Ala Highway have also been frequent targets of kidnappers over the past month.

    Mr. Awor Takim, a resident of the community, reported that the gunmen struck in the evening, shooting an unidentified man and dragging his body into the bush.

    They then proceeded to operate for 30-60 minutes, shooting and wounding two other residents who were returning from their farms. One of the wounded victims sustained a gunshot injury to his hand and is receiving medical attention.

    Soldiers from a nearby battalion and police anti-robbery squad reportedly arrived after the gunmen fled.

    As of the time of filling this report, Irene Ugbo, the Cross River State Police Public Relations Officer, confirmed that her office had not yet received a report of the incident but promised to investigate the matter.

    The recent surge in criminal activity in Nde Three Corners is deeply concerning.

    Last month, a medical practitioner was reportedly shot dead, and the All Progressive Congress (APC) Ikom Ward Chairman, Matthew Egomo, was kidnapped along with his son. Egomo paid a N5 million ransom before being released.

    Efforts to reach Speaker Ayambem for comment were unsuccessful as his phone remained switched off.