Category: Metro News

  • Absence of Prosecutor’s Charge Stalls Denis Odama’s Bail Application

    Absence of Prosecutor’s Charge Stalls Denis Odama’s Bail Application

    Culled from Conversee

    The Magistrate Court 1 sitting in Calabar and presided over by Magistrate Mercy Ene on Wednesday, August 19, 2026, further remanded Denis Odama over allegations that he bullied the Governor of Cross River State, Senator Bassey Otu, on social media.

    The development followed the failure of the prosecution to file a formal charge against Odama.

    Odama, a businessman who deals in cars and hails from Bekwarra Local Government Area of Cross River State, appeared before the court at its Moore Road premises, where his counsel sought his release on bail.

    However, Magistrate Ene declined to entertain the bail application, stating that the prosecution must first file the matter before the court before the application could proceed.

    The magistrate consequently adjourned the case until Thursday, August 20, 2026, and ordered that Odama remain at the Afokang Correctional Centre pending the receipt of the suit from the prosecution.

    Odama was reportedly arrested in Lagos by the Nigerian Police and detained for several days before being taken to Calabar and brought before the court.

    At the same Magistrate Court on August 13, the court had ordered his remand for seven days and adjourned the matter until August 19.

    However, at Wednesday’s proceedings, the prosecution had still not filed any formal charge against Odama.

    The absence of a charge prevented the court from proceeding with the bail application and led to the further adjournment of the matter until Thursday.

    Odama will remain in custody pending the next court sitting and any formal charge that may be filed by the prosecution.

  • Cross River Police, PHED Strengthen Security Partnership

    Cross River Police, PHED Strengthen Security Partnership

    The Cross River State Police Command has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting electricity infrastructure and personnel in the state as it strengthens its security partnership with the Port Harcourt Electricity Distribution Company (PHED), Calabar Region.

    The Commissioner of Police, Cross River State Command, CP Ajo Geoffrey Ordue, psc, mnips, mspsp, gave the assurance on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, when he received the management team of PHED Calabar Region at the Command Headquarters in Calabar.

    The PHED delegation was led by the Regional Manager, Engr. Dr. Gabriel Modukpe, and included other members of the company’s management team. Members of the Police Command Management Team were also present at the meeting.

    The engagement focused on enhancing the security of PHED personnel, operational facilities and critical electricity distribution infrastructure across Cross River State, while improving coordination between the electricity company and the Police Command.

    CP Ordue stressed that the protection of critical infrastructure was vital to public safety, economic activities and the effective delivery of essential services. He assured PHED management of the Command’s readiness to work with the company to identify security concerns, strengthen preventive measures and respond promptly to emerging threats.

    The Commissioner also urged PHED personnel to maintain continuous information sharing with the Police, report security threats promptly and sustain closer engagement with relevant Police formations across the state.

    He said the measures were part of the Command’s proactive and intelligence-led policing strategy aimed at preventing threats before they escalate.

    Responding, the PHED Calabar Regional Manager, Engr. Dr. Gabriel Modukpe, thanked the Commissioner for the warm reception and expressed the company’s commitment to deepening its partnership with the Nigeria Police Force.

    Modukpe said the collaboration would help safeguard PHED personnel, facilities and electricity distribution infrastructure across the state.

    The meeting ended with both parties reaffirming their commitment to sustained dialogue, stronger security arrangements and deeper collaboration in the interest of public safety, critical infrastructure protection and the socio-economic development of Cross River State.

  • Obudu Traditional Rulers’ Council Set to Launch ₦300 Million Uti JD Agba Memorial Palace

    Obudu Traditional Rulers’ Council Set to Launch ₦300 Million Uti JD Agba Memorial Palace

    By Elijah Ugani 

    The Obudu Traditional Rulers’ Council is set to launch a ₦300 million memorial palace in honour of the late Paramount Ruler of Obudu, Uti Jeddy-Agba, OON.

    The launch ceremony is scheduled to take place at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, September 4, 2026, with Utsu Felix Okudare, Paramount Ruler of Obudu Local Government Area, serving as Chief Host, while Senator Musa Adede will serve as Chairman of the occasion.

    According to a release made available to The Lumine News and signed by the Chairman and Secretary of the Central Planning Committee, Chief Tony Undiandeye, PhD, and Hon. Emmanuel Akwagiobe, members of the public have been invited to participate in the fundraising and official launch of the memorial palace project.

    The proposed Uti JD Agba Memorial Palace is expected to serve as the official residence of the Paramount Ruler of Obudu and provide accommodation and facilities for members of the Obudu Traditional Rulers’ Council as they carry out their traditional responsibilities.

    The project is being undertaken in memory of the late Uti Jeddy-Agba, whose contributions to the traditional institution and the development of Obudu remain significant.

    The organisers called on indigenes, residents, well-wishers, community leaders and members of the public to support the initiative and attend the ceremony.

    The launch is expected to bring together traditional rulers, government officials, community stakeholders and other dignitaries in support of the memorial project.

  • 13 Teams Set to Participate in 13th Edition of Adamade Annual Football Tournament

    13 Teams Set to Participate in 13th Edition of Adamade Annual Football Tournament

    By Elijah Ugani 

     

     

     

     

    No fewer than 13 teams have indicated their interest in participating in the 13th edition of the Comrade Adamade Annual Football Tournament, an event aimed at bringing together talented youths and promoting grassroots football

     

    According to a release signed by the tournament’s Coordinator, Mr. David Undeshi, popularly known as Mayor, the annual competition is once again providing a platform for young footballers to showcase their exceptional talents and skills.

    The tournament officially commenced on August 14, with the opening fixture featuring Adida FC of Obanliku and Ukor Rangers FC.

    The competition is expected to provide an avenue for participating teams to compete for honours while also fostering unity, sportsmanship and youth development within the community.

    The organisers have scheduled the grand finale for September 4 at the J.A. Agba Memorial Stadium, Obudu, where the eventual winner of the 13th edition will be crowned.

    The Comrade Adamade Annual Football Tournament has continued to attract youths and football enthusiasts, contributing to the development of grassroots football and the discovery of emerging talent

  • C’River CP Warns Officers Against Human Rights Violations, Unprofessional Conduct

    C’River CP Warns Officers Against Human Rights Violations, Unprofessional Conduct

    By Admin

    The Commissioner of Police in Cross River State, CP Ajo Geoffrey Ordue, has warned police officers in the state against abuse of power, unprofessional conduct and violations of the fundamental human rights of citizens.

    Ordue, who assumed office on August 10, 2026, gave the warning during his maiden lecture at the Cross River State Police Command headquarters in Calabar, where he addressed senior police officers, Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers (DPOs), and heads of investigative and tactical units.

    The Commissioner expressed concern over what he described as an increase in human rights-related suits and complaints against personnel of the Command.

    He said the complaints included allegations of gross violations of citizens’ rights, unlawful and prolonged detention, abuse of police powers and other forms of professional misconduct.

    Ordue directed Area Commanders, DPOs and heads of units to strengthen supervision and ensure that officers under their command operate within the law, existing police regulations and professional standards.

    He warned that officers found culpable of human rights violations or other misconduct would face appropriate disciplinary action in line with extant laws and regulations.

    The Commissioner also held supervisors accountable for lapses resulting from poor supervision, stressing that effective oversight was essential to maintaining professionalism and discipline within the Force.

    Ordue said his administration would be guided by the D-C-I-I-D-D-T policing framework, which stands for Discipline, Community Policing, Inter-Agency Collaboration, Intelligence-Led Proactive Policing, Discreet Investigation, Diligent Prosecution and Teamwork.

    He stressed that professionalism, discipline and respect for human dignity were central to effective policing and critical to rebuilding public trust in the Police.

    The Commissioner reiterated his commitment to protecting citizens’ rights and strengthening public confidence in the Force. He urged police personnel to conduct themselves in accordance with the law and the ethics of the Nigeria Police Force.

    He also encouraged members of the public to report genuine cases of police misconduct through appropriate channels, assuring that legitimate complaints would receive necessary attention and be handled in accordance with the law.

    The statement was signed by the Command’s Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Eitokpah Sunday Akata, on behalf of the Commissioner of Police.

  • Limre Social Development Initiative Empowers Young Entrepreneur with Popcorn Machine

    Limre Social Development Initiative Empowers Young Entrepreneur with Popcorn Machine

    By Admin

    The Limre Social Development Initiative has supported a young entrepreneur, Mr. Anthony Abubang, with a popcorn machine and other accessories as part of its Livelihood and Economic Empowerment programme.

    Mr. Abubang had earlier reached out to the organisation seeking support to establish a small popcorn business within the school environment in Calabar following the completion of his National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) programme.

    In his appeal, he explained that starting the business required about ₦190,000 to purchase essential equipment, including a gas cylinder, showcase, plastic table, chair and popcorn machine. Through his personal savings, he had raised ₦80,000 but required additional support to acquire the remaining equipment.

    Responding to the request, the Limre Social Development Initiative provided a popcorn machine and associated accessories to enable him to commence the business and establish a sustainable source of livelihood.

    Presenting the equipment, the President and Founder of Limre Social Development Initiative, Elijah Ugani, encouraged Mr. Abubang to make good use of the machine and remain committed to the business, noting that supporting his aspiration to become self-reliant was the reason for the intervention.

    Represented by the Secretary of the Board of Trustees, Comr. Ogar Emmanuel, expressed delight over the initiative’s intervention and reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to its motto of “Empowering People, Sustaining Communities and Transforming Lives.”

    He noted that the intervention was part of the organisation’s broader commitment to providing opportunities for deserving individuals to become economically empowered and improve their standard of living.

    Comr. Ogar further stated that Limre Social Development Initiative remains open to partnerships with organisations, philanthropists and individuals who share its vision of making a positive difference in the lives of people in need.

    The organisation urged Mr. Abubang to maximise the opportunity and use the equipment responsibly to build a viable business that can provide him with sustainable income and, in the future, create opportunities for others.

    The intervention underscores the importance of livelihood support in helping young people turn their skills, determination and business ideas into sustainable sources

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

    One Killed in Alleged Attack on Cocoa Farm in Cross River

     

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  • Woman Arrested Over Alleged Murder of Boyfriend in Akwa Ibom

    Woman Arrested Over Alleged Murder of Boyfriend in Akwa Ibom

    By Leo Umana

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Thelumine Admin 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

     

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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