The Lumine News

Category: Metro News

  • Jarigbe Inspects Ongoing Constituency Projects in Ogoja

    Jarigbe Inspects Ongoing Constituency Projects in Ogoja

     

    By Team Jari Media

    The Senator representing Cross River North Senatorial District, Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, has commenced an inspection tour of ongoing constituency projects he facilitated across the district.

    The inspection tour began in Nkum-Irede Ward, Ogoja Local Government Area, where the Senator, represented by his Constituency Officer, Mr. Egar Mgbantul, visited the ongoing construction of the PTDF Technology Centre at Ibil Secondary School and the Recreational Centre in Ibil.

    During the inspection, Mgbantul assessed the progress of work at the project sites and commended the engineers, contractors and workers for the work completed so far.

    He, however, called on the contractors to sustain the pace of work and intensify efforts toward ensuring the timely completion of the projects.

    The Constituency Officer also stressed the importance of strict compliance with the approved project specifications, particularly the provisions of the Bill of Quantities (BoQ), while maintaining the required standards of workmanship and quality.

    According to him, the projects are intended to provide lasting benefits to residents of the benefiting communities. He therefore urged all stakeholders involved in their execution to prioritize quality, durability and value for money.

    Mgbantul further noted that upon completion, the projects are expected to contribute to infrastructure development as well as the social and economic advancement of the benefiting communities.

    The inspection is part of Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe’s ongoing monitoring of constituency projects facilitated under his representation, with the stated objective of ensuring that projects are executed according to approved specifications and delivered for their intended purposes.

  • UNICAL VC Directs Health Centre Board to Submit Comprehensive Report on Challenges

    UNICAL VC Directs Health Centre Board to Submit Comprehensive Report on Challenges

    By Elijah Ugani 

    The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Calabar, Prof. Offiong Efanga Offiong, has directed the Management Board of the University Health Centre to submit a comprehensive report outlining the centre’s challenges, strategic needs and plans for improved healthcare delivery.

    The Vice-Chancellor gave the directive when members of the Health Centre Management Board paid a courtesy visit to the university management.

    Represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Prof. Ekaete Inyang Enang, the Vice-Chancellor welcomed the board members and commended them for supporting the administration’s commitment to the welfare of members of the university community, particularly students.

    He urged the board to prepare and submit a detailed official document outlining the Health Centre’s strategic plans, pressing needs and challenges, noting that the report would enable Management to make informed decisions and effectively address issues affecting the facility.

    The Vice-Chancellor assured the board that Management would continue to explore ways of addressing the challenges confronting the centre, including partnerships with relevant health agencies to strengthen medical services for staff and students.

    He also disclosed that remedial measures would be taken to improve the Health Centre ahead of the forthcoming Nigerian University Games Association (NUGA) games, which the University of Calabar is scheduled to host.

    Earlier, the Chairman of the Medical Board, Dr. Victor Nwagbara, said the visit was aimed at briefing the Vice-Chancellor on the current state of the Health Centre and the challenges affecting its operations.

    Nwagbara explained that the board also came to present its terms of reference, as earlier requested by the Vice-Chancellor, while assuring Management of the board’s commitment to effective service delivery and efficient oversight of the centre.

    He identified inadequate funding as the major challenge facing the facility and appealed to Management to provide the Director of Health Services with adequate impress to enable the centre operate effectively.

    The Medical Board Chairman assured the Vice-Chancellor that the board would submit the requested comprehensive document detailing the needs and challenges of the Health Services.

    He further highlighted several areas requiring urgent attention, including the reintroduction of mandatory medical screening for newly admitted students, upgrading of facilities ahead of the NUGA games, provision of functional medical equipment and appropriate storage facilities.

    Nwagbara also called for proper utilisation of funds from the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) and Tertiary Students Health Insurance Programme (T-SHIP), warning that poor utilisation could jeopardise the continued operation of the schemes.

    Also present during the meeting were the Director of Health Services, Dr. Kaiser Etta, and the Secretary of the Medical Board, Mrs. Agnes Atrogor, Esq.

    The meeting underscored the university management’s focus on strengthening healthcare infrastructure and services as part of efforts to improve the welfare of the university community.

  • UNICAL VC: We Are Proud to Associate with Students Living Christ-Like Lives

    UNICAL VC: We Are Proud to Associate with Students Living Christ-Like Lives

     

    The Vice Chancellor of the University of Calabar (UNICAL), Prof. Offiong Efanga Offiong, has expressed the University Administration’s pride in associating with students who are committed to living Christ-like lives.

    Prof. Offiong stated this when members of the Joint Christian Campus Fellowship (JCCF), University of Calabar, paid a courtesy visit to the University Management.

    Represented by the Deputy Vice Chancellor, Administration, Prof. Anthony Afam Okiwelu, the Vice Chancellor commended the Fellowship for what he described as taking “the right steps” in promoting positive values among students.

    He said the University Administration was committed to ensuring that students completed their academic programmes within the stipulated period.

    Prof. Offiong noted that Management frowned at cultism, examination malpractice, grade sorting and other forms of academic misconduct, urging the Fellowship to continue to educate and sensitise students against such practices.

    The University helmsman assured the Fellowship of Management’s full support and encouraged its members to remain steadfast in promoting good morals, academic integrity and responsible conduct among students.

    Earlier, the President of the Fellowship, Mr. Etan Mark Obun, said the visit was aimed at appreciating the University Management, identifying with it, seeking counsel and advice, and soliciting its continued support.

    The Fellowship President also highlighted some of the concerns affecting the organisation and appealed to Management to involve members of the Fellowship in solemn assemblies and student orientation programmes.

    He said that such involvement would enable members of the Fellowship to contribute to mentoring newly admitted students and guiding them away from negative influences.

    Public Relations Unit University of Calabar

  • C’River Police Denies Cultist Cover-Up, Disciplines Officers Over Viral Video Leak

    C’River Police Denies Cultist Cover-Up, Disciplines Officers Over Viral Video Leak

    The Cross River State Police Command has denied allegations that it is shielding suspected cultists linked to a viral video showing sporadic gunfire from a moving vehicle in Calabar.

    The Command, in a statement signed by its Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Eitokpah Sunday Akata, on Sunday, September 20, 2026, said the suspect arrested in connection with the incident remains in police custody and is undergoing investigation.

    The statement was issued in response to allegations published by the social media handle “Portrait Peterson,” which claimed that the police were attempting to cover up the identities of persons allegedly involved in the incident.

    According to the Command, the arrest of the suspect was not a “formality” or an attempt to divert attention from the allegations.

    Police said the suspect would be prosecuted if investigations establish a prima facie case against him.

    The Command also said it was investigating the identities of two masked persons seen inside the vehicle in the viral footage who were alleged to be police officers.

    It said the suspect had not identified the two individuals, adding that investigators were independently working to determine whether they were members of the police force and, if so, establish their identities, roles and circumstances surrounding their presence in the vehicle.

    The police further disclosed that officers involved in an unauthorised video interview with the alleged suspect, which was subsequently leaked online, had been identified and disciplined in line with established police procedures.

    The Command said it would not protect personnel found to have acted improperly or compromised investigations involving suspected offenders.

    It also urged the operator of “Portrait Peterson” and anyone with credible and verifiable evidence identifying the masked persons or others allegedly involved in related cult activities to submit such information to the police to assist the ongoing investigation.

    The Command reiterated its commitment to tackling cultism and violent crime in Cross River State, stressing that anyone found culpable would face the law regardless of status or affiliation.

    Members of the public were advised to report emergencies or provide security-related information through the Command Control Room on 0706 797 7330 or 0705 335 5415.

  • C’River Police Warn Officers Against Extorting Drivers, Riders

    C’River Police Warn Officers Against Extorting Drivers, Riders

     

    The Cross River State Police Command has warned its personnel against demanding or collecting money from commercial drivers and tricycle operators during stop-and-search operations, following allegations of roadside extortion along Calabar Road and adjoining areas.

    The warning came after a recent report by The Punch alleged that commercial drivers and tricycle operators were being extorted along the Calabar Road to Watt Market axis.

    The Command, in response, held a meeting with transport stakeholders at the Atakpa Police Division on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, to address the allegations and strengthen collaboration between the police and transport operators.

    The meeting was held in line with the policing vision of the Commissioner of Police, CP Ajo Geoffrey Ordue, particularly his emphasis on discipline, accountability and community-oriented policing.

    The Commissioner was represented by the Divisional Police Officer of Atakpa Police Division, CSP Azenda Peter, whose division has jurisdiction over the area where the alleged extortion was reported.

    Among those present were executives of the Unified Commercial Drivers Association of Cross River State, led by its State Chairman, Nta Henshaw, and representatives of the Tricycle Owners Association of Nigeria, led by the Calabar South/Municipality Chairman, Chief Pastor Ekpenyong Ewa.

    The police command made it clear that no police officer is authorised to demand, solicit or compel motorists or riders to make payments during stop-and-search operations or other lawful police dutie

  • FG Sets Up Panel to Probe Deaths of 37 in NSCDC Custody

    FG Sets Up Panel to Probe Deaths of 37 in NSCDC Custody

     

    The Federal Government has constituted a 10-member independent committee to investigate the reported deaths of 37 people who were in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Niger State.

    The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, announced the constitution of the committee on Saturday, September 19, 2026, following a directive from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a comprehensive, transparent and unhindered investigation into the incident.

    The 37 detainees were reportedly being held on suspicion of illegal mining before their deaths on Thursday, September 17.

    The minister also ordered the suspension of all officers allegedly involved in the incident, pending the outcome of the investigation.

    Tunji-Ojo described the deaths as “deeply disturbing”, saying the government owes the families of the deceased and the Nigerian public a transparent account of what happened.

    According to the statement, the committee will establish the identities of the deceased and investigate the circumstances surrounding their arrest and detention, as well as the cause and circumstances of their deaths.

    It is also expected to determine responsibility, complicity, negligence or misconduct and recommend appropriate action, including compensation where applicable, as well as measures to prevent a recurrence.

    The minister directed the NSCDC leadership and relevant officers to cooperate fully with the committee and ensure that all records and material evidence relating to the incident are preserved and made available to investigators.

    He warned that any attempt to destroy or conceal evidence, intimidate witnesses or obstruct the investigation would be treated as a serious offence.

    The committee is chaired by Jonathan Kure, a retired Deputy Director-General of the Department of State Services, while Prof. Isa Hayatu Chiroma (SAN), former Director-General of the Nigerian Law School, will serve as secretary.

    Other members are retired AIG Hosea Hassan Karma; Prof. Olayinka Buhari, professor of histopathology and former Chief Medical Director of the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital; a representative of the Minna Emirate Council; and a representative of the Niger State Government.

    The committee also includes Alhaji Liman Sulaiman, National Secretary of the Miners Association of Nigeria; lawyer and human rights activist Deji Adeyanju; Blueprint Newspaper’s Zainab Suleiman Okino; and public affairs analyst Dr George Agbakahi.

    The committee has two weeks to complete its assignment and submit its report to the Minister of Interior.

    It may also co-opt relevant experts, access facilities and documents, visit locations connected to the incident and invite memoranda from members of the public.

    In addition to the Niger State Commandant of the NSCDC, the minister announced the suspension of 20 officers linked to the incident.

    They include station guards, arresting and investigating officers, intelligence and investigation personnel, legal officers and officers who were on day, night and guard duties at the facility.

    Those suspended are:
    SC Usman Isah Ndamaka — O/C Station Guard
    ASCI Hassan Mohammed — Station Guard
    CCA Bala Mohammed — Station Guard
    CSC Oluwadare Sunday — Arresting Officer/O/C Investigation
    DCC Obafemi Elvis — Arresting Officer
    CSC Annas Shitto Lamino — Arresting Officer
    DCC Philip Ajayi — HOD INT/INV
    ACC Barr. Stephen Tsado — O/C Legal
    ASCI Alhassan Mohammed — Day/Night Duty Officer
    IC Abdullahi Sale — Guard Duty
    IC Mohammed Sonfada — Guard Duty
    CAI Liman Abubakar — Guard Duty
    CAI Bala Usman — Guard Duty
    IC Mohammed Jiya — Guard Duty
    DSC Isah Suleiman — Guard Duty
    CAI Ahmed Wushishi — Guard Duty
    IC Sale Adamu — Guard Duty
    IC Haruna Mohammed — Guard Duty
    ASCI Aliyu Sallah — Guard Duty
    CAI Isah Sanusi — Guard Duty

    The minister extended his condolences to the families of the deceased and appealed for calm while the investigation is ongoing.

    The government said the investigation is intended to provide a transparent account of the incident and establish responsibility for the deaths.

  • Jarigbe Flags Off Ugboro-Ukpah Road, Calls for Support for Tinubu, Otu

    Jarigbe Flags Off Ugboro-Ukpah Road, Calls for Support for Tinubu, Otu

    By Elijah Ugani 

    The Senator representing Cross River Northern Senatorial District, Senator Jarigbe Agom, has flagged off the construction of the 1-kilometre Ugboro–Ukpah road in Bekwarra Local Government Area of Cross River State.

    Represented at the ceremony by his Constituency Officer, Mr Egar Mgbantul, Senator Jarigbe said the project had earlier been approved but was delayed due to the non-release of funds.

    “Today, we are here to flag off the construction of the 1KM Ugboro–Ukpah road, and I thank all of you for the support you have given me,” he said.

    He assured residents that the road would be completed, adding that the project was awarded before the state government flagged off work on the same road.

    Addressing concerns from some constituents who described the intervention as a duplication of the state government’s project, Senator Jarigbe said there was no controversy between him and the state governor, Bassey Edet Otu.

    According to him, both interventions were aimed at complementing government services for the benefit of the people.

    “We didn’t move this road to another location because it has been awarded before the state government flagged off the road. And this intervention will not prevent the state government from undertaking the road for the betterment of our people,” he said.

    The senator urged the community to establish a monitoring team comprising engineers and other professionals from the area to ensure proper supervision of the project.

    “I would like to charge the community to set up a team that will monitor this job. Experts should be put together, comprising engineers who are our sons, to ensure thorough monitoring,” he said.

    Senator Jarigbe also appealed to residents whose properties are close to the road to make the necessary adjustments to allow construction work to proceed. He explained that the federal government does not provide compensation for this category of road project.

    He further announced that the Obepa road leading to the palace of the paramount ruler would soon be flagged off.

    The lawmaker said Bekwarra had stood by him and that he considered it his responsibility to continue to address the needs and challenges of the community.

    Senator Jarigbe also called on residents to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Governor Bassey Edet Otu and other candidates of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

    Speaking at the flag-off ceremony, Mr Chris Ojugbo commended Senator Jarigbe for initiating the road project, noting that residents had long experienced the difficulties associated with the condition of the road.

    “We are happy that this project is coming at this time. All of us passed through this road and know what is happening here. We pray God to bless the distinguished senator who is our son,” Ojugbo said.

    Mr Omang Simon described Senator Jarigbe as a “servant leader,” saying the senator had demonstrated commitment to his constituents.

    He expressed support for the lawmaker and prayed for his continued wellbeing.

    Speaking on behalf of the women, Elizabeth Akwaji said the women were pleased with the commencement of the project, particularly because of the challenges the road had posed to pregnant women and other residents.

    Also speaking, Barrister Cecy Adams commended Senator Jarigbe and expressed her support for his continued political career.

    She urged residents to support his re-election, saying his interventions had demonstrated his commitment to the people of the senatorial district.

    Similarly, Mr Paulinus Oshaka described Senator Jarigbe as a leader who understands the needs of his constituents and knows when and how to respond to them.

    “We need people and leaders like Senator Jarigbe. Let us pray and support him. Jarigbe is a signature for the people of the North,” he said.

    The road project is being handled by Ibrotoomuch Construction Company Ltd.

  • Police Arrest Suspected Cult Leader Over Viral Shooting Video in Calabar

    Police Arrest Suspected Cult Leader Over Viral Shooting Video in Calabar

     

    The Cross River State Police Command has arrested a 24-year-old student, Emmanuel Ejim Ejim, in connection with a viral video allegedly showing suspected cult members firing shots from a moving vehicle in Calabar.

    The command, in a statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Eitokpah Sunday Akata, said the incident was believed to have occurred in the early hours of September 17, 2026, following a sign-out activity involving students of the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS).

    According to the police, the arrest followed a directive by the Commissioner of Police, Cross River State Command, CP Ajo Geoffrey Ordue, for the immediate identification and apprehension of those involved in the incident.

    The statement said operatives of the Violence Crime Response Unit (VCRU), led by the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Operations, launched an intelligence-led operation at about 11:30 p.m. on September 17.

    The operation reportedly led to the identification and tracking of the vehicle seen in the viral footage. The driver was arrested, and information obtained during the operation allegedly helped the police trace Ejim to a hotel in Calabar, where he was subsequently arrested.

    Police said preliminary investigations identified Ejim as a student of UNICROSS and that he allegedly identified himself during questioning as a leader of the Vikings Confraternity.

    The suspect also allegedly admitted to being the person seen firing the shots in the viral video, according to the police.

    The command further alleged that Ejim told investigators he had participated in a sign-out activity on the day of the incident and that another suspected member of the group handed him the pistol allegedly used in the shooting.

    The police said efforts had been intensified to identify and arrest other individuals allegedly connected to the incident.

    The circumstances surrounding the possession of the firearm and the movement of the vehicle, the command added, remain under investigation.

    The Commissioner of Police directed that the investigation be conducted professionally and comprehensively, with anyone found to have participated in or facilitated the alleged act brought before the law.

    The command also warned against the unlawful discharge of firearms in public places, describing such acts as a serious security concern.
    It urged members of the public to report suspicious movements, illegal possession of firearms and cult-related activities to the police.

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

  • Jarigbe to Perform Groundbreaking Ceremony for Ugboro–Ukpah Road

    Jarigbe to Perform Groundbreaking Ceremony for Ugboro–Ukpah Road

     

    The Senator representing Cross River North Senatorial District, Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, is set to perform the groundbreaking ceremony for the Ugboro–Ukpah Road, commencing from Ugboro Junction, on Saturday, September 19, 2026, at 11:00 a.m.

    Meanwhile, construction work has resumed on the ongoing Ibiaragidi–Anyikang Road project in Bekwarra Local Government Area, with engineers and other technical personnel already on site.

    Constituents, party members, community leaders, stakeholders, and members of the general public are cordially invited to witness these important developments.

  • Nkum-Irede Women Make Bold Statement at Maiden Women’s Day

    Nkum-Irede Women Make Bold Statement at Maiden Women’s Day

    By Elijah Ugani

    Women of Nkum-Irede have celebrated their maiden Annual Women’s Day with a colourful display of culture, talent, enterprise, and unity, as women from communities across the area converged at St. Gregory Primary School, Ndoh, for the grand finale of the historic celebration.

    The event, which was marked by traditional dances, cultural displays, and other activities, brought together women from the 10 communities of Nkum-Irede in a celebration designed to honour their contributions to family and community development while promoting their empowerment and self-reliance.

    A major highlight of the activities preceding the grand finale was a football tournament, where Narrow Gate FC of Aburumbede emerged champions after defeating Target FC of Ishi-Aya 3–1 in the final to lift the 2026 trophy.

    The week-long activities also featured the maiden General Assembly of Nkum-Irede women, a medical outreach, and skills-acquisition training focused on the production of hypo, bar soap, and liquid soap.

    The women later showcased products produced during the training, demonstrating the practical impact of the empowerment initiative and their determination to develop skills that can translate into sustainable livelihoods.

    The Nkum-Irede Women’s Day was established to recognise and honour the resilience, industry, cultural heritage, and contributions of women to the growth and development of their families and communities.

    Beyond celebration, the organisers said the initiative was conceived as a platform to encourage Nkum-Irede women to take their rightful place in the digital age and participate actively in all spheres of human endeavour. These include education, business, agriculture, politics, leadership, technology, sports, and other professional fields.

    The celebration further seeks to promote unity, awareness, education, empowerment, self-reliance, and active participation among women, while encouraging them to overcome barriers that have historically limited their advancement.

    It also provides an avenue for women to discover and harness their potential, support one another, and play a more meaningful role in the socio-economic development of Nkum-Irede.

    The colourful event attracted prominent personalities and community leaders, including Rt. Hon. Paddy Uguge, Mr. Jimmy Aninege, and His Royal Majesty Ntol Atol Felix Ibu, who joined the women in marking the landmark occasion.

    With the successful maiden edition, the Nkum-Irede Women’s Day has set the stage for an annual celebration aimed at strengthening unity among women, promoting their empowerment, and inspiring greater participation in the development of Nkum-Irede.