The Lumine News

Category: Metro News

  • 100 Days In Office: Jarigbe Agom Spreads 38 Projects Across Northern Senatorial District

     

    Today marks 100 days as Sen Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, DSSRS, took an oath of office as the Senator representing Cross River North Senatorial District in Nigeria’s 10th National Assembly.

    Without doubt, the distinguished Senator is arguably the most outstanding lawmaker and politician in Cross River State today.

    Senator Jarigbe made history during the February 25th general elections by becoming the first candidate to defeat an incumbent State Governor of Cross River State in a Senatorial poll.

    While the parameter of 100 days for the evaluation of performance of political office holders may seem short, it is usually indicative of the direction and value the official brings to bear on the instruments of governance and a pointer to the trajectory of the new helmsman.

    Despite the distraction by the former governor of Cross River State, Sen. Benedict Ayade, who challenged his victory at the Tribunal, Senator Jarigbe has demonstrated his usual focus and determination in continuing to carry out his extensive programs, projects and interventions in the Northern Senatorial District of Cross River State. The subsequent decision of the tribunal to uphold his victory demonstrates the commitment and professionalism that guides every initiative undertaken by the distinguished Senator, from the conduct of his elections to the discharge of his responsibilities to his Constituency.

    Being one of the most sought-after Nigerian lawmakers, Senator Jarigbe was meritoriously appointed Chairman, Senate Committee on Gas, and membership of various Senate committees. Also, the lawmaker has within 100 days in the 10th Senate executed 38 projects, programmes, key releases and interventions which are listed below;

    1). Construction of Six (6) Classrooms Block at Community Primary School Inyie-Ukan, Gakem, Bekwarra LGA.
    (Completed)

    2). Construction of Six (6) Classrooms Block at St Patrick’s Primary School, Ibil, Ogoja LGA.
    (Completed)

    3). Construction of Six (6) Classrooms Block at St. Pius Primary School Nkpakna, Ekajuk 1, Ogoja LGA.
    (Completed)

    4). Construction of Six (6) Classrooms Block at Mbube West Secondary School Ekumtak, Mbube West 1, Ogoja LGA.
    (Completed)

    5). Construction of Six (6) Classrooms Block at Community Secondary School, Uhutu, Bishiri South, Obanliku LGA.
    (Completed)

    6). Construction of Six (6) Classrooms Block at Community Primary School Begiaba, Bendi 11, Obanliku LGA.
    (Completed)

    7). Construction of Six (6) Classrooms Block at Oe’Yi Onwu Secondary Grammar School Yahe, Yala LGA. (Completed)

    😎. Construction of Six (6) Classrooms Block at Primary School Ejakpe Ukutia, Utugwang North, Obudu LGA. (Completed)

    9. Construction and Furnishing of Three Classrooms Block at Migrant Science and Technical College, Okambi, Obudu LGA.

    10). Construction of Three (3) Classrooms Block at Community Primary School Dam Road, Ukwel-Obudu, Obudu LGA. (Completed)

    11. Construction of Three (3) Classrooms Block at Government Primary School, Bugene, Sankwala, Obanliku LGA.
    (Ongoing)

    12. Construction of Three (3) Classrooms Block at RCM Primary School Begiaba, Obudu LGA.
    (Ongoing)

    13. Construction of Three (3) Classrooms Block at Community Primary School Ubepa, Bekwarra LGA.
    (Ongoing)

    14. Construction of Three (3) Classrooms Block at Community Primary School Egbe Mbube, Ogoja LGA. (Completed)

    15. Construction of Three (3) Classrooms Block at Community Primary School Ekpogryinya, Ogoja LGA. (Ongoing)

    16. Construction of Three (3) Classrooms Block at St. Mary Primary School Ndok, Ogoja LGA. (Ongoing)

    17. Construction of Three (3) Classrooms Block at St. Charles Primary School Ukpe, Ogoja LGA. (Ongoing)

    18. Construction of Three (3) Classrooms Block at Community Primary School Ishindede, Nkum, Ogoja LGA.
    (Ongoing)

    19. Renovation of Four (4) Classrooms Block at Secred Heart School, Ezekwe/Okpodon, Yala LGA.

    20. Construction of 1.5km Ibil-Abakpa Road “Alladim Section” (Ongoing)

    21. Rehabilitation of Abakpa-Ndok Road in Ogoja LGA (Completed)

    22. Construction of Egbe, Oboso Ojirim Road, Ogoja LGA
    (Completed)

    23. Construction of Olachor Okpoma Ward Road, Yala LGA.
    (Completed)

    24. Construction of Aliforkpa Road, Yala LGA (Ongoing)

    25. Construction of 1.5km Yahe-Ukelle road (Ongoing)

    26. Construction of Ukpagada Bridge, Ogoja LGA. (Ongoing)

    27. Construction of Igwo Road, Obudu LGA. (Ongoing)

    28. Construction of Solar Powered Borehole at Egoja Edim, Ogoja LGA. (Ongoing)

    29. Construction of Solar Powered Borehole at Ohong, Obudu LGA. ( Ongoing)

    30. Construction of Solar Powered Boreholes at Okpaka, Wanokom, Yala LGA. (Ongoing)

    31. Construction of Solar Powered Borehole at Ugbakoko, Becheve, Obanliku LGA. (Ongoing)

    32. Construction of Solar Powered Borehole at Ijegbemi, Mfuma/Nrigom, Yala LGA. (Ongoing)

    33. Construction of Solar Powered Borehole at Sankwala, Obanliku LGA. (Ongoing)

    34. Construction of Solar Powered Borehole at Mfamju Ibil, Ogoja LGA. (Ongoing)

    35. Construction of Solar Powered Borehole at Utanga, Obanliku LGA.(Ongoing)

    36. Construction of Solar Powered Borehole at Belesa, Bishiri North, Obanliku LGA.(Ongoing)

    37. Construction of Solar Powered Borehole at Mbagide, Ogoja LGA.
    (Ongoing)

    38. Donation of 100 Bundles of Roofing Zinc and Cash to Communities Affected by Windstorm in Bekwarra LGA.

    These among others are the reasons why he is nicknamed “Mr. Project” by his constituents and other well-meaning Nigerians.

    Congratulations on your first 100 Days in office, sir.

    TEAM JARI MEDIA.

  • My Administration Will Put An End To The Challenges Within The Judiciary – Otu

    The Executive Governor of Cross River State, Sen. Prince Bassey Otu has assured the Judiciary that this administration will put an end to the challenges within the Judiciary.

    The Governor made this known during official opening of the 2023/2024 Legal Year held today the 18th of September,2023 at St. Bernard Catholic Church, Marian Hill.

    Sen. Prince Bassey Otu, who was able represented by his Deputy, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey said a legal year is a time to recommit and dedicate themselves to the ideals of the Judiciary. He charged them to embrace technology as the collaboration between the legal profession and technological advancement has the potential to revolutionize how the dispensation of justice is approached. He, however called on them to be vigilant in the face of the challenges which these advancement brings because the boundary between the physical and virtual are blurred.

    Governor Otu added that the legal year affords the Judiciary the opportunity to reflect on the state of access to justice in our society. He called on them to ensure that justice is not only available to those who can afford it, but all members of the society. They must strive for a legal system that is not only efficient and fair, but also inclusive and responsive to all individuals regardless of their social or economic background.

    His Excellency further admonished that as they embark on this legal year, let them be guided by the principles of integrity, professionalism and compassion while also embracing peace and inclusion.

    He assured the Judiciary that this administration will collaborate with and equip the Judges with all that is necessary to ensure that they dispatch their duties responsibily.

    Earlier, the Chief Judge of Cross River State, Hon. Justice Akon B. Ikpeme, said it was traditional for her and the Judiciary to begin the legal year in God’s presence. While thanking the Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. Charles Etim (Esq) for the homily, she prayed that God will see to their lives, guide and remind them that one day, they too will stand before the greatest Judge of all. Justice Ikpeme encouraged the judicial officers to go back to the drawing board as the legal year begins and do what they can do with their consciences in place. She appreciated all who left their busy schedules to grace the occasion.

    Present at the event were the officiating priests, the Speaker, His Lordship, the President of the Cross River State Customary Court of Appeal, Their Lordships, Honourable Judges of the Cross River State High Court, The Attorney General of Cross River State, Senior Advocates of Nigeria, The Chief Registrar, Magistrates, The Solicitor General/ Permanent Secretary of the Cross River State Ministry of Justice, The Director of Public Prosecution, Members of the Bar, Counsel of the Cross River State Ministry of Justice, amongst others.

  • Cross River Coordinator Re-opens NYSC Clinic At Secretariat

     

    The State Coordinator of NYSC Cross River State Mr Zemoh Andrew today 14th September 2023 re- opened a newly renovated NYSC Clinic at its Secretariat to commence operations to staff, Corps Members and people living within its environs.

    Opening the Clinic, the State Coordinator said the project was laudable. He used the occasion to inform all that the Scheme has restated its commitment to promoting the medical well-being of members staff, Corps Members and indigent people of the host community of the NYSC office to access free and quality healthcare.

    The NYSC Boss said that the re-opening of the office Clinic was in line with the implementation of the NYSC heath initiatives for rural dwellers (HIRD) programme of the Scheme. According to him, the HIRD programme has since inception benefitted over two millions people from the State through free medical outreaches across the various rural communities.

    He commended the members of Medical and Heath Community Development Service (CDS) group for their initiatives by setting up the Clinic again to serve the entire members of staff, Corps members and its environs.

    In an act of appreciation, Mr Zemoh donated Nextus NX- 65 Refrigerator to the Clinic to provide safe storage for some essential drugs.

    Responding, the CDS president, Pharmacist Okon ldara Effiong with State code CR/ 22C/ 2475 on behalf of the CDS Corps Members said that the CDS was well thought out to address the healthcare of staff. He went on to state that the CDD has a vision to provide smart healthcare services to the staff and vulnerable people within the host community.
    According to him ” As a group , we identify the lack of primary medical services within the State Secretariat, hence the initiative to renovate and re-open the clinic to provide basic medical services ranging from free medical consultations, free medical check-up to the provision of pharmaceutical care to staff members, corps members and members of the neighbouring Community,” he opined.

    He said the clinic will run three (3) times in a week (Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays) from 10am to 2pm. The clinic will be manned by medical doctors, nurses and pharmacists from the medical and health CDS group.

    Highpoint of the event was the presentation of Nexus NX- 65 Refrigerator to the Clinic by the State Coordinator.

  • War Breaks Out Between Ugaga And Igbekurekor Communities In Yala

    By CrossRiverWatch Admin

    Two communities in Yala Local Government Area of northern Cross River State, Ugaga and Igbekurekor are currently at war with each other, information reaching CrossRiverWatch shows.

    The conflict started last weekend, Tim Ugaga Esq, the President of the Ugaga Family Union, says.

    “It is about land and boundaries. It is unfortunate that this is happening,” Mr. Ugaga said.

    Mr. Ugaga said the conflict between both communities has been dormant for a long while and was only triggered by allegations of an incursion into farmland.

    “The problem started with the story that Ugaga people tilled heaps and the Igbekurekor people went to plant on them. I learned there was an attempt at a peace meeting, but that failed, and now they are at war. It is shameful,” Mr. Ugaga explained.

    Ugaga who disclosed that he was at neighboring Okuku community when he was contacted by CrossRiverWatch, said he saw trucks of soldiers heading towards Ugaga which he hopes is to calm the situation.

     

  • Army GOC Expresses Readiness To Combat Crime In Cross River

    By Ukongikwen Adie

    The Cross River State Governor Senator (Prince) Bassey Otu today the 7th September, 2023, received in audience the General Officer Commanding, 82 Division of the Nigerian Army, Major General Hassan T. Dada and his entourage in a courtesy call.

    Speaking during the call, Major General Dada who recently assumed office as GOC, 82 Division, said it was customary to carry out familiarization tour of the states under an officer’s command, and he has therefore come to pay homage to the Governor of Cross River State as the Chief Security Officer of Cross River, one of the 6 states under the division. Major Dada added that it is both nostalgic and gratifying to be in the state having been here years ago as a Commanding Officer, 146 Battalion and also being a Malabite.

    The GOC solicited the co-operation of the state government and other sister agencies to tackle the challenges of kidnapping, piracy, cultism and communal clashes that have plagued the state in recent times. He assured the government that with their cooperation, even though the task ahead is Herculean, the command has the capacity and expertise to deliver.

    The Cross River State Governor, ably represented by his Deputy, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey welcomed Major General Dada who was also accompanied by the Commander of the 13th Brigade, Nigerian Army, Brigadier Gen. E. I. Okoro and other high ranking officers. Rt. Hon. Odey thanked them particularly for being proactive in the lkang axis of the State by curbing the menace of kidnapping and also still manning the Yala/Benue State border to ensure that enduring peace and security returns to the state, while assuring them of government’s commitment to ensuring that Cross Riverians have the freedom to go about their businesses unhindered.

    Also present during the courtesy call were the Senator representing Cross River State Central Senatorial district, Send. Eteng Jones Williams, Commissioners for Information and Justice, the Chief of Staff to the Governor, the Head of Service, State Security Adviser and other Political Appointees.

  • Akpanke Celebrates Obudu New Yam Festival With Different Unions 

    By Awade Friday 

    The Member Representing Obanliku, Bekwarra and Obudu Federal Constituency, celebrates the Obudu New Yam festival with members of different union at the park in Obudu, Local Government.

    The Representatives of the Different Union from Drivers, Cyclist, Hunters, The Collabo Association, Hair Dressers, Phone Repairers, Technicians, Tailors, Mechanics etc who came out in their Numbers to receive Hon. Peter Akpanke expressed gratitude over his show of Support and interest towards the Celebration of Obudu New Yam.

    In his address, Hon Akpanke thanked the different Union for their support during the Elections and reassured them of his Continuous availability and show of interest towards their Growth and Development as his constituents.

    Hon Akpanke’s continuous participation in the Obudu New Yam festival over the years, Demonstrates his love and respect for the cultural heritage of his people. His willingness to celebrate with the people and support their cultural activities is a clear indication of his leadership style, which is grounded in empathy, humility, and service to the people.

     

  • Nigerian Army Dismisses Musa Adamu For Preaching The Gospel Of Jesus While In Service Uniform On Social Media

     

    A soldier identified as Musa Adamu has been dismissed by the Nigerian army authorities for preaching about Jesus Christ while in service uniform on social media.

    It would be recalled that in July, 2023, Adamu, a Lance Corporal with service number 13NA/70/6100 and attached to Amphibious Training School Personnel (ATSCalabar) unit in Calabar, Cross River State, was locked up for preaching while in the uniform.

    In some videos seen on his page, the soldier with the Facebook name “Aaron Abraham” is heard telling his followers to repent and turn from their evil ways as he prayed for them. It is reported that he was born a Muslim and recently converted to Christianity.

    The Benue state-born soldier is said to have been in detention for over 45 days while his salary was stopped over 6 months ago.

    However, in a video released by Adamu in August 2023, he revealed he had been dismissed from the army.

  • GFO Orim Foundation Empowers 60 Persons In Northern Senatorial District

    By Elijah Ugani 

    A non governmental organization GFO Orim Foundation in partnership with Industrial Training Fund ITF has empowered 60 persons drawn from the 54 political wards of Northern Senatorial District of Cross River State.

    Presenting the started kits to the beneficiaries, the Chairman/Founder of GFO Orim Foundation, Chief Hon Martin Orim, who was the Chief of Staff to the immediate past governor of Cross River State, congratulated the beneficiaries for their their patient through out the period of the training.

    In his words “Let me congratulate those of you who were painstakingly selected by your leaders for this training. You were taken out of your comfort to go to Calabar for this training where I provided accommodation and feeding for all of you for the period you stayed in Calabar. It was not easy that you left the comfort of your homes, some of you left your spouses just to attend this training.

    “This is the second batch of beneficiaries that we are partnering with ITF, the first batch was provided with starter kits here in the local government secretariat and the third batch is currently undergoing training.

    “Initially, we used to do our trainings and provide starter kits for the trainees until, a friend mentioned to me that I can partner with ITF that will train and provide starter kits for the trainees on payment of a counterpart fund.

    “I was shocked when I heard that some beneficiaries in the first batch sold the items they collected. I’m not doing this because I don’t know what to use the money for. To me, my philosophy about wealth is that you use the money you have to better the lives of those around you and not the amount in your bank account. For me, my wealth is all of you sitting here.

    “I want to appeal to all of you to please make good use of these items. We are making efforts to get grants from Bank of Industry for those who are serious about their business.

    “When I started this empowerment under the GFO Orim Foundation, many people said I was doing politics, I don’t know if we are still doing campaign. I want to say that I’m qualified to run any election. When I want to contest election, I will call politicians together and declare my intention to contest. You were all aware that I contested the senate primaries under the APC and won the ticket, and after a wider consultation, I withdrew for my boss. Prior to the primaries, I had said that I was not going to the senate to do motorcycle or Keke empowerment.

    “For me, these empowerment is a legacy for my family, I have told my son that he will take over from me and continue with it in memory of my late father”

    Speaking earlier, the Chairman of the occasion, Chief Spokesman Agogo stated that the program is all encompassing. The originator of this initiative is a humanity, as he congratulated the beneficiaries and held that the empowerment is qualitative.

    On his part, the Area Manager of Industrial Training Fund ITF, Mr Nwigboji Nwafagu, said that ITF is happy to be here. This collaboration started about three years ago. Last year we were here and today we are here are again
    We insisted that this must be done even though people fought against it. If you insist on the right thing, God has a way of lifting you.

    Nwafagu noted that the beneficiaries were trained in Calabar for three months and are ready to start their businesses.
    In his words “Some of these persons were transported from here to Calabar, lodge them in a hotel for three months. They have been trained, they have graduated and they are ready to start business. We are ready to continue this partnership”

    He charged the trainees not to sell the starter kits, and to make efforts to train others.

    In the same light, Mr Odey Adamade Esq, lauded the efforts of the Chairman/Founder of GFO Orim Foundation, Hon Martin Orim for the initiative and stressed the need for the beneficiaries to make good use of the items.

    In his goodwill message, the Chairman, National Youth Council of Nigeria NYCN, Obudu chapter, Mr Linus Abuokwen, thanked the Chairman/Founder of GFO Orim Foundation, Hon Martin Orim, for always thinking about the youths in his intervention. He charged the beneficiaries to make good use of the skills acquired and the items to better their lives.

    One of the beneficiaries Miss Vera Abue, from Mbube in Ogoja Local Government Area, who spoke on behalf of other beneficiaries, thanked Chief Hon Martin Orim for finding them worthy of the gesture and prayed God to grant his heart desire and continue to bless him to enable him reach out to others.

    The event which was held today, September 1st 2023, at Obudu Local Government secretariat had dignitaries at the occasion to  include; Deputy Speaker, Cross River State House of Assembly, Hon Sylvester Agabi, Mr Edu Peter, Dan Urumulam Esq, Engr Tomas Aruku, Mr Thomas Odama, Mr Alpha Ublibli, Mr Noel Ugbong, Mr Eric Akpo among others.

    Highlights of the occasion was presentation of starter kits to beneficiaries and group photographs.

  • Deputy Governor Opens Second Day Of Investment Summit In Calabar

    By Fred Abua

    The Deputy Governor of Cross River State, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, took center stage on the second day of the International Cooperation & Investment Summit (ICIS) held at the prestigious Calabar International Conference Centre from August 30th to 31st, 2023. In his address, Rt. Hon. Odey echoed the state’s unwavering commitment to fostering a business-friendly environment by removing obstacles hindering seamless operations for investors in Cross River State.

    Drawing inspiration from the opening remarks made by the Governor, Sen. Prince Bassey Otu, on the inaugural day, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey reaffirmed the Cross River State Government’s dedication to ensuring the safety and security of investments within the region. He highlighted the tangible demonstration of this commitment through the remarkable presence of high-ranking officials, including the Governor, Deputy Governor, Speaker of the House of Assembly, Secretary to the State Government, all commissioners, and all permanent secretaries, who collectively participated in the summit.

    Rt. Hon. Odey stated emphatically that the government’s pledge to safeguard investor interests was unequivocal and extends beyond mere rhetoric. Hon. Odey said: “This is not a political statement. We will ensure that whatever business you bring to Cross River State will have our protection.”

    The Deputy Governor further underscored the state’s determination to facilitate investor activities by providing security and land with Certificates of Occupancy for the investors. He proudly shared that Cross River State is the proprietor of 50% of Nigeria’s Carbon Credit reserves, boasting abundant forests, arable lands, valuable mineral resources, and an array of prospects spanning various sectors.

    Recalling his instrumental role in the enactment of the Cross River State Enterprise (Privatization) Law during the previous administration, Rt. Hon Peter Odey said this piece of legislation led to the establishment of the Privatization Council which sealed government’s departure from direct involvement in business operations. Odey cited instances of government-owned enterprises that have thrived after privatization, such as Lafarge Africa (formerly CALCEMCO), Flour Mills, and Transcorp Hotels (formerly Metropolitan Hotel). He said these ventures which now generate substantial profits for their owners are contributing taxes to the state, and providing employment opportunities for Cross Riverians, while surpassing their performance under government management.

    Distinguished speakers and luminaries from around the globe participated in the event, engaging in enlightening panel discussions, business-focused sessions, and pivotal business agreements with prospective investors on the sidelines. Notable figures present at the event included His Excellency, Cui Jianchun, Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Nigeria; His Excellency, Kim Young Chae, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Nigeria; Dr. Walter Kazadi Mulombo, Country Representative of WHO; Dr. Iorwa Apera, Country Director of FHI360; Chief Diana Chen Emba, Vice Chairman of the China-Africa Investment Forum; Dr. Herbert Wigwe, Group CEO of Access Holding Plc; Mr. Lamin G. Barrow, Director-General of the African Development Bank, Nigeria Country Department; Dr. O. M. O. Ashimolowo, Vice President of Operations at ECOWAS Bank for Investment & Development; and Mr. Suren Abeywickkrema, Vice President of ARISE Industrial Integrated Platforms, among several other esteemed guests.

    The event was brought to a conclusion with an entertaining dinner and award night attended by the Deputy Governor, international investors, members of the State Executive Council and many other people.

  • Ikom-Obudu Highway: Akpanke Calls On Leophina Construction Limited And Other Companies To Return To Site

    By Awade Friday 

    The Member representing Obanliku/Bekwarra/Obudu Federal Constituency, Chief Hon Peter Akpanke, has drawn the attention of both the federal government and other companies involved to the deplorable state of the Ikom-Obudu highway.

    Hon Akpanke made the call during a thanksgiving Ceremony in his honor held at his hometown, Keting, Obanliku Local Government Area, on Sunday, 27th August, 2023.

    The member of Parliament stressed the importance of the road being the only link between the central and northern part of the state which connects the Obudu Cattle Ranch, that serves as the most attractive tourist destination of Cross River State.

    Akpanke noted that Leophina Construction Limited, a company that belongs to former Gov Ben Ayade, was awarded the contract for the rehabilitation of the road and wondered why the company should abandon the road project considering the importance of the road to the economic development of his constituents.

    Hon. Akpanke averred that “It has become imperative for Leophina Works Limited and other companies that were awarded contracts for the rehabilitation of the road to return to site and work in compliance with the contracts that were awarded to them.

    “The Ikom-Obudu road is a crucial transportation and communication link between the north and south of Nigeria. It plays an important part in the prosperity of commerce, tourism, and social interactions among diverse ethnic and political groups in the Benue-Cross River region of Nigeria”.

    Speaking further, the lawmaker noted that the road has become impassable for motorists which makes commuters traveling from Calabar to Obudu and Obanliku to use Ikom-Ogoja-Obudu-Obanliku road.

    Akpanke noted that traveling through Ogoja to Obudu and back to Obanliku has had very negative effect on his constituents considering the cost of transportation in view of the subsidy removal.

    “Unfortunately, the road has deteriorated to the extent that it has become a death trap to motorists and pedestrians who are constrained by the lack of an alternative route to still use the road. Most often, commuters traveling from Calabar to Obudu and Obanliku, has to use the Ikom-Ogoja-Obudu-Obanliku road which makes them pay almost twice the transport fare they initially were supposed to have paid”. He added.

    Hon. Akpanke assured his constituents that he will leave no stone unturned to ensure that the contractors execute the contract to specification. “If this is the only thing I will do to ensure that we get the contractors back to site and fix the road, I wouldn’t mind. We will continue to call government attention to this project and ensure that the contractors return to site and execute the project to specification”.