The Lumine News

Category: Metro News

  • Gov Otu Lauds Hon Victor Abang ‘Mature’

    By Fred Abua

    The Governor of Cross River State, Senator (Prince) Bassey Otu has congratulated the Member Representing Boki/Ikom Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. (Chief) Victor Bisong Abang, on his election victory and successful commencement of his term at the House.

    Speaking at the Thanksgiving Mass/Reception held at Akwagom, the Governor who was represented by his Deputy, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, described Hon. Victor Abang as an example of a man who loved God. He praised Hon. Abang’s sacrifices for the work of God, particularly the Catholic Church. The Governor disclosed that it was when Hon. Abang stepped down from the APC primaries for the sake of peace that God chose to give it to him. He called on those who were in court to challenge Hon. Abang’s mandate to have a rethink because it was already ordained that he will complete the term. The Governor praised Hon. Abang’s work in the House of Representatives as the work of a man who thinks about the people.

    The Bishop of Ogoja Diocese, Bishop Donatus Etim, who was not physically present sent words of congratulations assuring the Member of Parliament that he will continue to uplift the Member in prayers. In his words, ‘by entrusting you with their votes, the people have expressed their belief in your ability to bring about positive change, uplift their social well being and champion their interests. Do not disappoint them.’

    The Chief of Staff, Hon Emmanuel Ironbar, said Hon. Victor Abang, popularly called ‘Mature’ by his fans and friends, was a man to be emulated to get the kind of results the Member was getting in his life. Ironbar said the man worked for God and God is working for him.

    ‘Mature’ who was moved to tears by the massive support of priests, politicians, community leaders, family and friends, pledged that he will give his people quality representation at the House of Representatives. He said he had already sponsored 2 bills for the siting of federal educational institutions in Okunde and Ikom within only 67 days in office adding that within a short time, the constituency will be heard across the nation.

    Hon. Victor Abang who presented a car to each of the APC Chapter Chairmen of Ikom and Boki also gave several motorcycles to his constituents and led his friends and guests to make donations towards the building of a school within the church premises.

    Dignitaries who attended the ceremony included MP, Rt. Hon. Joseph Bassey, Commissioner for Finance, Mr. Mike Odere, Commissioner for Tourism, Arts & Culture, Hon. Abubakar Ewa, Commissioner for Information, Mr. Erasmus Ekpang, Member Representing Boki 1 in the Cross River State House of Assembly, Hon. Bette Obi, Gen. Moses Obi (Rtd), Prof. Zana Akpagu, amongst others.

  • UNICAL Suspends Dean Faculty Of Law, Prof Cyril Ndifon

     

    The Management of the University of Calabar( Unical) has suspended the Dean, Faculty of Law, Prof. Cyril Ndifon for alleged violation of the provisions of the extant laws and policies of the institution.

    The suspension conveyed in a letter signed by the University Registrar, Mr. Gabriel Egbe takes effect from August 17, 2023.

    According to the letter, the suspension came on the heels of the Dean’s response to a query earlier issued to him by the University Management which the Vice Chancellor was dissatisfied with.

    Dissatisfied with his response, the Vice Chancellor, according to the letter, has relieved Prof. Ndifon of his position as Dean and placed him on suspension while the matter is refered to a panel that will be set-up to investigate the allegations levelled against him.

    The letter reads this; ” Please refer to our letter Ref UC/REG/DISC.45A dated August 14, 2023 on your alleged violation of the provisions of the extant laws and policies of the University and your response to the said letter which was dated 16th August, 2023.

    “The Vice Chancellor has gone through your written representations and is not satisfied with your explanations. She has therefore directed that you should be relieved of your position as Dean, Faculty of Law and placed on suspension while the matter is refered to a panel that will be set-up to investigate these allegations.

    “The relief of position as Dean, Faculty of Law and suspension from official duties takes effect from August 17, 2023. You are to hand over all University property in your possession including all official responsibilities presently handled by you to the Sub-Dean of the Faculty before vacating office.

    “You are to stay away from the University premises except while responding to invitation from the panel investigating these allegations”.

  • Mother Dumps Baby In Refuse In Calabar

    BY Sylvia Akpan – CrossRiverWatch 

    An unknown mother has dumped her infant child in a refuse dump in Calabar, Cross River State.

    In the wee hours of Wednesday,  August 16, an unknown baby was found dead by the dustbin at Palm Street by Atakpa close to Pin Margaret Commercial School, Calabar South LGA.

    The baby whose gender is female was wrapped in an Ankara wrapper with flies perching on her.

    Eyewitnesses said that the baby was still alive before giving up the ghost.

    As of the time of filing this report, details surrounding the woman who dumped her are yet unknown.

  • MARCO Alumni Global Association Announces Death Of The First And Oldest Non Teaching Staff

    Pa Moses Njadani , aka Pa Moz Passes On

    Marco Alumni Global Association is deeply saddened to announce the death of Mr Moses Njadani, aka Pa Moz, the first and oldest non-teaching staff of Mary Knoll College, Okuku-Yala.

    Pa Moses, who was Marco Chief Cook passed on at the early hours of today 31st July, 2023.

    Joining Mary Knoll College in 1953, he carved a niche for himself and was recognized as a legendary cook. He was a treasured and beloved staff, colleague and friend to so very many who crossed his paths at Mary Knoll College.

    As Chief Cook, no one prayed to miss his charming, sumptuous and most delicious meals at the refectory. He fed the students beginning from 1953 till when he left the services of our Alma Mata due to old age.

    Burial arrangements will be announced by the immediate family.

    He will be greatly missed.

    May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace, Amen.

    Ogar Solomon Ogar
    National Publicity Secretary.
    Marco Alumni Global Association

  • Alifokpa, Yache Road Facilitated By Sen Jarigbe Agom Reaches Advance Stage

     

    Progress report on the ongoing construction of Alifokpa, Yache road in Yala LGA, Cross River State, facilitated by senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, DSSRS, has reached advance stage.

    The lawmaker who is poised to see that the project is completed within the time frame insists that the job must be done according to specifications.

  • Akpanke Calls For End To Conflict Arising From OBO Federal Constituency Election

    By Elijah Ugani 

    The member representing Obudu/Bekwarra/Obanliku federal constituency, Hon Peter Akpanke has called on both his supporters and that of his friend, Hon Legor Idagbo, his predecessor to let go the conflict that arose from the election that gave him the opportunity to serve.

    Akpanke made the call during a thanksgiving mass organized by the Idagbo family at St Patrick’s Catholic Church, Ikot Ansa, Calabar, the Cross River State capital.

    Speaking during the event, Akpanke noted that
    “Legor has always been there for me, even when I call him at midnight, he still takes my calls and puts me through. If you are my Supporter and you are having issues with Legor or his supporters I will advise that you let it go because I and Legor are not quarrelling. On the other hand, if you are Legor’s supporter and you have issues with me or any of my supporters, please let it die because me and Legor are not fighting, we are brothers, and party affiliation will not separate us”

    Akpanke expressed deep admiration for his predecessor, Hon Legor Idagbo, and lauded him for his maturity and display of affection.

    He extolled Idagbo’s noteworthy contributions to the political landscape of Cross River State, and recounted unprecedented approach he brought to politics. “My friend graciously called to congratulate me after the election results were announced, pledging not to pursue legal action, a promise he kept”.

    Akpanke used the opportunity to express appreciation for Idagbo’s unwavering support since assumption of office as the new Member of Parliament for the Federal Constituency, noting that Legor Idagbo has consistently offered guidance and assistance whenever needed.

    On his part, Hon Legor Idagbo, reflected on his political journey, and expressed gratitude to God having provided him with numerous opportunities to serve the people. The Idagbo’s used the thanksgiving to acknowledge God’s blessings for his younger brother, who marks 18th priestly anniversary in the Lord’s vineyard.

    The homilist, Rev. Father Bob Emmanuel urged the congregation to practice forgiveness, as God continually forgives their own trespasses.

  • We Will Double Efforts To Ensure Prof Ekanem’s Release – Odey

    By Fred Abua, Press Secretary to Deputy Governor 

    The Deputy Governor of Cross River State, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, has provided reassurance to members of the Nigerian Medical Association that the government is fully committed to securing the release of Prof. Ekanen Philip-Ephraim from her abductors. Rt. Hon. Odey expressed the Governor’s and the security agencies’ unwavering dedication since the news of the abduction emerged, acknowledging the pain and psychological trauma experienced by the kidnapped doctor’s family.

    In response to the concerns raised by the Nigerian Medical Association, the Deputy Governor pleaded for patience, assuring them that the government is exerting every effort to ensure the safe return of the victim. He emphasized that security holds a prominent position in the administration’s agenda, as highlighted in the Governor’s inaugural address.

    The Chairman of the Cross River State Chapter of the Nigerian Medical Association, Dr. Felix Archibong, who led the delegation to express their deep concern over the abduction of their colleague appreciated the Governor and Deputy Governor’s prompt response to the association. Dr. Archibong also expressed worry that it had been over 72 hours since the doctor’s kidnapping and appealed to the government to expedite the response of the state’s security agencies to secure Prof. Ekanem’s swift release.

    Brig. Gen. E. I. Okoro, Commander of the 13th Brigade of the Nigerian Army, urged the doctors to reconsider their plan to proceed on strike. He highlighted that Dr. Archibong had already acknowledged the government’s proactive approach to security. Brig. Gen. Okoro emphasized that a strike would only embolden criminals and make doctors vulnerable targets in the future.

    The meeting was attended by Commissioner of Police, CP Gyonon Grimah, Director of the Department of State Services (DSS), Mr. John Sokoya, and the State Security Adviser, Maj. Gen. Okoi Ubi Obono (Rtd).

  • Earthwheel Group Set To Mine Lithium In Cross River State

     

    The Governor of Cross River State, Senator (Prince) Bassey Otu, has assured the Earthwheel Group from China of Security and an enabling environment to conduct their mining and manufacturing business in Cross River State. The Governor who was represented by the Deputy Governor when the Earth Will Group paid him a visit on Monday, 17th July, 2023, told the group that Cross River State was happy to have them in the state and assured them of support while praising the group for making Corporate Social Responsibility a prominent part of their business plan. The Governor said the administration was very keen on the development of Cross River State, which was why the group received the Governor’s attention even on short notice.

    Addressing the Governor earlier, the leader of the Earthwheel delegation, Dr. Otu Archibong, said their group, which was already working in Tanzania, had been issued a license by the Federal Government to mine lithium in Cross River State. He assured the Governor that Earthwheel was not only interested in mining but in manufacturing and so the group was ready to set up a battery making factory in the state.

    Speaking later to Government House Press, the Regional Head of Earthwheel Group, Evangelist Ezekiel Usonguyo, said the group was going to produce batteries for phones, cars, computers and electric cars which were the future of automobile in Nigeria. He said the company was going to employ 90% of its workers from the host community and provide social amenities like roads and water for the people. He sued that insecurity has sent investors out of many regions and called on the Government to continue to keep the state safe for investors. He assured the State Government that their group will not engage in illegality by mining other products that they are not licensed to.

  • Deputy Governor Pledges Youth Inclusion In Government

    By Fred Abua

    The Deputy Governor of Cross River State, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, has assured members of the National Youth Council of Nigeria, NYCN, of the administration’s commitment to youth inclusion in governance. During the visit which held in his office on Wednesday, July 12th, 2023, Hon. Odey emphasized that although the administration might not appoint a large number of individuals to office, its agricultural programs would positively impact a significant portion of the state’s population.

    Hon. Odey expressed the view that young people should position themselves for leadership as a good number of youths will take up key positions in the Government, stating that young people like Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong and Dr. Betta Edu who both hold national positions were propelled into the limelight when they distinguished themselves while holding executive positions in Cross River State as youths.

    Expressing his commitment to the group, the Deputy Governor assured them that their constituency would receive due attention during the current administration. He also lamented the prevalence of election petitions and shared his personal experiences of facing defeat in previous elections. Each setback, he emphasized, became an opportunity to regroup and re-strategize.

    Hon. Odey revealed to the group that he gave early support for the “Back-To-South” campaign unaware at the time that he would eventually be chosen as the Deputy Governor. He assured the youths of his intention to extend similar support to other zones when their time comes.

    Speaking earlier, the State Chairman of the National Youth Council of Nigeria, Comrade Dan Obo, who led the delegation reiterated the support of his group, stating that the youths had supported the “Back to South” agenda and were now poised to support the “Back to Us” agenda which aims to place more young individuals in prominent government positions

    The Speaker of the Youth Parliament, Rt. Hon. Victor Kijuo, and the Chairman of the State Advisory Council, Comrade Ndiyo Ndiyo, expressed their satisfaction with having a youth serving as the Deputy Governor of Cross River State. They expressed their gratitude and pledged to continue seeking the Deputy Governor’s guidance. They emphasized that while election success is significant, the true measure of achievement lies in the actions and accomplishments during the government’s tenure.

    The event, which was attended by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Youths and Skills Acquisition, Dr. Sam Egbala, featured the singing of the solidarity song “Aluta” and the presentation of an award by the National Youth Council of Nigeria.

  • Hope Returns To Ukelle As Abandoned Road Facilitated By Jarigbe Reaches Advance Level

     

    There was joy on the faces of the rural dwellers as the North Ukelle Road construction reaches advance level, courtesy of the Senator representing Cross River North Senatorial District, Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, DSSRS.

    Senator Jarigbe took this steps in fulfilling his promise made to the good people of Ukelle North on the 13th of January, 2023 where he announced to residents of the affected communities that the sum of N10 billiion has been approved for the road construction in the 2022 Supplimentary budget.

    The lawmaker has expressed optimism that when all the roads under construction are fully completed, there would be greater access to the agrarian treasures of the Senatorial District and more opportunities would be open thereafter.

    He further noted that, his time in office is symbolically opening the entire Senatorial District for accelerated growth and development, as the road connects both Cross River and Benue States.

    TEAM JARI MEDIA