The Lumine News

Category: Metro News

  • Gov Otu Hails Elevation of Three Cross River Officers to AIG Rank

    Gov Otu Hails Elevation of Three Cross River Officers to AIG Rank

    By Admin

    Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Edet Otu, has congratulated three senior police officers from the state on their promotion to the rank of Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG), describing the development as a proud moment for Cross River and a recognition of excellence, professionalism and dedicated service.

    The newly promoted officers are AIG Nnanghe Itam from Yakurr Local Government Area, AIG Obono Bassey Samuel Ewa from Etung Local Government Area, and AIG Akaninyene Ezima Ifebem from Biase Local Government Area. They were elevated from the rank of Commissioners of Police.

    In a statement issued on Tuesday by the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary and Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Linus Obogo, Governor Otu said the officers’ promotion reflects their decades of commitment, integrity and patriotism in the service of the nation.

    According to the Governor, the elevation of the three officers has once again brought honour to Cross River State and demonstrated that merit, competence and discipline remain the foundations of professional advancement.

    “This well-deserved elevation is far more than a promotion in rank; it is a profound national acknowledgement of your sterling professionalism, unblemished integrity, uncommon courage and steadfast devotion to the security and unity of our great nation,” Otu said.

    He noted that the officers had earned the confidence of the Police High Command through exemplary leadership and unwavering dedication to duty, adding that their achievements would inspire young Cross Riverians to pursue excellence, discipline and selfless service.

    Governor Otu urged the newly promoted AIGs to remain committed to justice, the rule of law and the ideals that had distinguished their careers, while encouraging them to continue strengthening public confidence in the Nigeria Police Force through exemplary leadership.

    He also prayed for divine wisdom, good health and strength for the officers as they assume their new responsibilities.

    On behalf of the government and people of Cross River State, the Governor congratulated the three AIGs on what he described as an exceptional milestone, expressing confidence that they would continue to make the state and the nation proud through

  • Odey Reaffirms Cross River’s Commitment to Partnership with NEMA on Disaster Management

    Odey Reaffirms Cross River’s Commitment to Partnership with NEMA on Disaster Management

    Cross River State Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, has reaffirmed the commitment of the state government to sustaining its partnership with the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to strengthen disaster risk reduction, emergency preparedness and response across the state.

    The Deputy Governor gave the assurance on Tuesday while receiving a delegation from NEMA, led by the Assistant Director of Operations, Abuja/Uyo Operations Office, Mr. Labaran Ahman, during a courtesy visit to Government House, Calabar.

    Odey commended NEMA for its proactive role in disaster management and its sustained collaboration with the Cross River State Emergency Management Agency (CR-SEMA). He described disaster preparedness as a critical component of the state’s efforts to safeguard lives and property, noting that the Governor Bassey Otu-led administration remains committed to building resilient communities through strategic partnerships.

    He assured the delegation of the state’s full support for NEMA’s programmes and activities, emphasizing the government’s readiness to continue working closely with the agency and other development partners to protect lives, preserve livelihoods and strengthen community resilience.

    The Deputy Governor also expressed appreciation to NEMA for choosing Cross River as the venue for key emergency management activities, saying the initiatives would enhance the capacity of emergency responders and improve the state’s preparedness for flood-related emergencies.

    Earlier, the leader of the delegation, Mr. Labaran Ahman, said NEMA was in Cross River on three strategic assignments aimed at deepening collaboration with the state government and enhancing disaster management efforts.

    According to him, the agency has completed an assessment of flood-affected communities in the Southern Senatorial District and has extended the exercise to Abi, Etung, Ikom and Obubra Local Government Areas to evaluate the extent of damage and identify appropriate intervention measures.

    Ahman further disclosed that NEMA, in partnership with CR-SEMA and other stakeholders, will next week conduct a flood disaster response simulation exercise at Marina Beach in Calabar South. He explained that the exercise is intended to test the operational readiness of emergency responders, improve inter-agency coordination and strengthen community preparedness ahead of the peak of the 2026 flood season.

    He also announced that Cross River State will host the South-South Zonal Workshop on the Review of the National Policy on Relief and Rehabilitation the following week. The workshop, he said, will bring together emergency management stakeholders from across the region to review existing policies, share best practices and strengthen Nigeria’s disaster management framework.

    The NEMA delegation included the Assistant Chief Accountant, NEMA Uyo Operations Office, Mr. Awoji Augustine, and the Director General of the Cross River State Emergency Management Agency (CR-SEMA), Mr. Efa Nyong.

  • Jarileaque Coalition Celebrates Six Members on LL.B Graduation from UNICAL

    Jarileaque Coalition Celebrates Six Members on LL.B Graduation from UNICAL

    By Elijah Ugani 

    The Jarileaque Coalition has celebrated six of its members who successfully graduated with Bachelor of Laws (LL.B) degrees from the University of Calabar (UNICAL), in a gathering marked by joy, appreciation, and camaraderie.

    The celebratory event was hosted by the Convener of the Jarileaque Coalition, Prof. Patrick Egaga, who described the occasion as a recognition of the graduates’ resilience, determination, and commitment to academic excellence.

    Speaking during the event, Prof. Egaga said the reception was organized to honour the six graduates for their perseverance in earning their law degrees while also acknowledging their outstanding contributions to the activities and growth of the Jarileaque Coalition.

    He commended the graduates for their dedication and encouraged them to uphold the values of integrity, professionalism, and service as they embark on their legal careers.

    Responding on behalf of the graduates, Dr. Jacob Owan expressed heartfelt appreciation to Senator Jarigbe Agom, whose leadership, he noted, gave birth to the Jarileaque Coalition. He also thanked Prof. Patrick Egaga for organizing the celebration and acknowledged the unwavering support of members of the coalition.

    Dr. Owan further expressed gratitude to everyone who attended the event despite the short notice, describing the outpouring of love and solidarity as deeply encouraging and a testament to the unity that exists within the coalition.

    The event featured moments of celebration, goodwill messages, and photographs as members of the coalition joined the graduates in commemorating the significant academic milestone.

  • UNICROSS ASUU Suspends Strike After Gov Otu’s Intervention

    UNICROSS ASUU Suspends Strike After Gov Otu’s Intervention

    By Elijah Ugani 

    Academic activities are set to resume at the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS) following the suspension of the nearly two-month-old strike by the institution’s branch of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) after the intervention of Governor Bassey Edet Otu.

    The suspension was announced on Monday afternoon by the Chairman of ASUU-UNICROSS, Dr. Patrick Ushie, shortly after a meeting with the state government. He directed lecturers to return to work and asked students to resume academic activities on Tuesday.

    The development brings relief to thousands of students who have been out of classrooms since the union embarked on a total and indefinite strike on May 19, 2026.

    ASUU had declared the strike over 11 demands bordering on lecturers’ welfare, salary arrears, and the implementation of agreements reached with the Federal Government.

    Among the union’s demands were the implementation of the 2025 FG-ASUU renegotiated agreement, payment of Continuous Academic Training Allowance, Earned Academic Allowance and other professional allowances, prompt payment of salaries not later than the third day of every month, improved government funding for the university, payment of arrears arising from the 35 and 25 per cent wage awards dating back to January 2023, outstanding promotion arrears and earned academic allowances from 2011, remittance of ₦11.9 million in check-off dues owed since 2017, payment of ₦69 million in cooperative deductions, and remittance of National Housing Fund deductions withheld since 2018.

    At the onset of the strike, Dr. Ushie said negotiations with the university management had broken down after management attributed its inability to meet the demands to inadequate funding.

    According to him, the university receives about ₦300 million monthly as government subvention but requires an additional ₦200 million to meet its financial obligations to staff.

    As the industrial action entered its seventh week, the Cross River State Government initiated fresh negotiations with the union, leading to the establishment of a technical committee to review the issues raised by ASUU and recommend lasting solutions.

    Governor Otu subsequently inaugurated a seven-member Technical Committee chaired by Prof. Uduak Effiong to undertake a comprehensive assessment of staff welfare, governance, and the university’s operating environment.

    On July 14, the Governor met separately with the university management and student leaders, assuring them of his administration’s commitment to improving infrastructure and addressing welfare concerns. He pledged to provide additional operational vehicles for the institution, upgrade the university’s medical centre, and improve the internal road network.

    The UNICROSS dispute had also drawn national attention after the ASUU Calabar Zone threatened to extend industrial action to state-owned universities in Abia, Akwa Ibom, Ebonyi and Cross River states over the failure of state governments to implement the 2025 FG-ASUU agreement.

    The zonal leadership described the welfare situation at UNICROSS as particularly severe, alleging that lecturers had received only half salaries for years and that one member had died amid the prolonged hardship.

    With the suspension of the strike, lecturers are expected to return to classrooms immediately, while students have been directed to resume on Tuesday, bringing an end to nearly two months of disruption to academic activities.

  • C’River Police Command Arrest Alleged Fake Doctor Over Illegal Mobile Clinic, ₦500,000 Employment Scam in Cross River

    C’River Police Command Arrest Alleged Fake Doctor Over Illegal Mobile Clinic, ₦500,000 Employment Scam in Cross River

    The Cross River State Police Command has arrested a 39-year-old man, Udeme Emmanuel Ekpeme, for allegedly impersonating a medical doctor, operating an illegal mobile clinic, and defrauding a resident of ₦500,000 under the guise of securing employment at the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital (UCTH).

    The suspect was arrested by officers attached to the Uwanse Police Division in Calabar South following a complaint filed by Mrs. Edemawan Samuel, 45. She alleged that Ekpeme falsely presented himself as a qualified medical doctor and collected ₦500,000 from her with the promise of securing employment for her children at UCTH.

    According to the police, preliminary investigations revealed that the suspect allegedly used the false representation to deceive the complainant into parting with the money. Investigators also recovered exhibits believed to be connected to the alleged offences during the operation.

    The suspect is currently in police custody while investigations continue.

    Commissioner of Police, Cross River State Command, has directed a comprehensive investigation to establish the full circumstances surrounding the case and determine whether other persons may have fallen victim to the suspect’s alleged activities.

    The police said the command is also conducting a discreet investigation to uncover the full extent of the suspect’s operations, including the possibility of additional victims or accomplices.

    The Command assured members of the public that the suspect would be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations if sufficient evidence is established and pledged to provide further updates as the case progresses.

  • C’River Deputy Governor, Ogoja Council Chairman Commission Kamgba Memorial Hospital

    C’River Deputy Governor, Ogoja Council Chairman Commission Kamgba Memorial Hospital

    By Sonnie Okem

    The Deputy Governor of Cross River State, His Excellency Rt. Hon. Peter Agbe Odey, Ph.D., alongside the Chairman of Ogoja Local Government Council, Chief Hon. Christopher Agbeh, has commissioned the 12-bed Kamgba Memorial Hospital at Idum, Mbube, in Ogoja Local Government Area, describing the facility as a major contribution to quality healthcare delivery in the state.

    Represented at the ceremony by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Food Security and Agricultural Development, Chief Emmanuel Anoh, the Deputy Governor commended the founder, Chief Dr. Joseph Odu Kamgba, for his visionary investment in the health sector, noting that the hospital complements the government’s efforts to provide accessible and quality healthcare services to the people.

    He said the establishment of the facility would ease the burden on government in the provision of essential social services while expanding access to quality healthcare, particularly for residents of rural communities. He described the project as a remarkable act of philanthropy that would reduce the cost and stress associated with travelling to urban centres for medical care.

    The Deputy Governor urged the management of the hospital to maintain high standards of professionalism, diligence, and compassionate service in delivering quality healthcare to the people.

    In his keynote address, the Chairman of Ogoja Local Government Council, Chief Hon. Christopher Agbeh, praised Chief Dr. Kamgba for his exemplary leadership, patriotism, and commitment to community development. He described the hospital as a practical response to the question, “What can you do for your government?” stressing that sustainable development is best achieved when citizens partner with government to improve the welfare of society.

    Chief Agbeh reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to quality healthcare, recalling that upon assumption of office, the council engaged medical doctors who provided free medical services across health facilities in the local government area. He pledged the council’s readiness to partner with Kamgba Memorial Hospital to expand access to affordable and quality healthcare for the people.

    Earlier, the founder of the hospital, Chief Dr. Joseph Odu Kamgba, said the vision behind the project was inspired by his determination to reduce preventable deaths in his community. He disclosed that the hospital took seven years to complete at a cost running into billions of naira and is equipped with modern medical facilities, including male and female wards, a standard diagnostic laboratory, and other essential equipment to provide comprehensive healthcare services.

    Also speaking, retired Commissioner of Police Gabriel Omara-Achong and Comrade Abang Anoh commended Chief Dr. Kamgba for his foresight, generosity, and unwavering commitment to improving healthcare delivery. They described the hospital as a landmark achievement that would significantly reduce the burden on rural residents who previously travelled long distances in search of medical care.

    The commissioning ceremony attracted traditional rulers, political leaders, government officials, health professionals, community leaders, and residents, all of whom applauded Chief Dr. Kamgba’s philanthropic gesture and described the hospital as a significant milestone in the advancement of healthcare services in Ogoja Local Government Area.

  • Court Sentences Cleric to Death for Murder of Daughter Accused of Witchcraft in Cross River

    Court Sentences Cleric to Death for Murder of Daughter Accused of Witchcraft in Cross River

    By Admin

    A High Court sitting in Calabar has sentenced Apostle Ubong Bassey Etim to death by hanging for the murder of his 16-year-old daughter, Deborah Bassey, a teenager with Down syndrome who was falsely accused of witchcraft.

    The judgment was delivered on Monday by Justice Blessing Egwu of High Court No. 11, who found the defendant guilty of murder after the conclusion of the trial.

    Deborah’s killing drew widespread condemnation from child rights advocates and human rights organizations, who described the case as a stark reminder of the dangers of witchcraft accusations against children, particularly those living with disabilities.

    Reacting to the judgment, the Basic Rights Counsel Initiative (BRCI) described the conviction as a landmark victory for child protection and the fight against witchcraft branding.

    In a statement signed by its Principal Counsel and Co-Founder, James Ibor, the organization said the ruling sends a strong message that perpetrators of violence arising from false witchcraft accusations will be held accountable under the law.

    According to the organization, the judgment represents not only justice for Deborah but also a significant step in efforts to eradicate harmful traditional practices that expose children to abuse, torture, abandonment and death.

    “The judgment reinforces the fundamental principle that every child has the right to life, dignity and protection,” the statement said.

    The BRCI commended the Nigeria Police Force, the Cross River State Ministry of Justice under the leadership of the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Etubom Ededem Ani, and the judiciary for their commitment to ensuring justice in the case.

    The organization also acknowledged the contributions of the Director of Public Prosecutions, Mr. Okoi Ukam; Patrick Usang, Esq.; Deborah Tom, Esq.; and Dr. David Ushie of the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital (UCTH) for their roles in the successful prosecution.

    It further expressed appreciation to its partners, including Women Arise, Safe Child Africa, Project Alert, Etinosa Yvonne, and members of the Basic Rights Counsel Initiative, for providing financial and psychosocial support to Deborah’s mother and siblings throughout the trial.

    Reaffirming its commitment to protecting vulnerable children, the BRCI pledged to continue advocating against witchcraft branding and other forms of violence against children while working to ensure that offenders are brought to justice.

    The organization noted that the campaign against witchcraft branding is gathering momentum and vowed to sustain efforts until every child is free from harmful accusations, abuse and violence.

  • Cross River Police Deny Assault Claims, Detain Officers Over Bus Driver Incident

    Cross River Police Deny Assault Claims, Detain Officers Over Bus Driver Incident

    By Elijah Ugani 

    The Cross River State Police Command has denied allegations that its officers assaulted a mini bus driver, Mr. Imor Sam, with a rifle butt during an encounter at a stop-and-search point, stating that preliminary investigations do not support the claims circulating on social media.

    In a statement issued on Saturday by the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Eitokpah Sunday Akata, the Command said the incident occurred on July 18, 2026, after the driver allegedly failed to stop when signaled by officers conducting a stop-and-search operation.

    According to the police, the driver drove off while a Police Special Constabulary (PSC) officer was attempting to stop and search the vehicle. The Command alleged that the officer was dragged for some distance before falling into a gutter, where he sustained injuries to his mouth, including the loss of a tooth, after he was allegedly punched by the driver.

    The Command also refuted claims that the driver sustained his injuries after being struck with a rifle butt by police officers.

    “The driver himself, in a recorded video statement attached to this release, confirmed that he was not struck with a rifle butt,” the statement said.

    Police said preliminary findings indicate that the injury to the driver’s forehead occurred when he fell and hit the concrete edge surrounding a signpost during a struggle near Atakpa Police Station.

    Despite its initial findings, the Cross River State Commissioner of Police has ordered the immediate detention of the officers involved pending the conclusion of a full investigation into the incident.

    The Command emphasized that it does not condone unprofessional conduct or the misuse of force by its personnel, adding that any officer found culpable would face disciplinary action in accordance with the law.

    It also appealed to members of the public to avoid spreading unverified information and to allow the investigation to run its course.

    “The Cross River State Police Command remains committed to professionalism, accountability, and the protection of the rights and dignity of all persons,” the statement added.
    The investigation into the incident is ongoing.

  • Bishop Dunia Ordains 14 Priests in Historic Ceremony for Auchi Diocese AUCHI, Edo State

    Bishop Dunia Ordains 14 Priests in Historic Ceremony for Auchi Diocese AUCHI, Edo State

    By Admin

    The Catholic Bishop of Auchi Diocese, Most Rev. Dr. Gabriel Ghiakhomo Dunia, on Saturday ordained 14 deacons into the Sacred Priesthood, the highest number of priests ever ordained at a single ceremony since the Diocese was established.

    The historic ordination Mass, held at the Immaculate Conception Cathedral in Auchi, drew hundreds of priests, religious, parishioners, family members, friends, and well-wishers from across Nigeria in a celebration described as a milestone in the growth of the Diocese.

    The ceremony marked a significant moment for the local Church, with Church leaders and faithful viewing the record-breaking ordination as evidence of the Diocese’s sustained commitment to nurturing priestly vocations and strengthening its evangelisation mission.
    In his homily, Bishop Dunia reminded the newly ordained priests of the sacred responsibilities that accompany the priesthood, urging them to remain faithful servants of Christ and dedicated ministers of the Gospel.

    He called on the priests to lead lives of humility, holiness, charity, and unwavering commitment to the teachings of the Church, stressing that authentic priestly ministry is rooted in prayer, selfless service, and fidelity to Christ.

    The Bishop further encouraged them to make fruitful use of the grace received through the Sacrament of Holy Orders by shepherding God’s people with compassion, courage, and integrity in a world in need of hope and spiritual renewal.

    The newly ordained priests are Rev. Frs. Christian Nwabueze David Ozioko, Matthew Aimiennoghena Osigbemehe, Moses Ubagbo Onolameh, Constantine Gabriel Erhaefo Okpaloafe, Cornelius Chinedu Okeke, Michael Egiethamhe Kadiri, Innocent Amhanesi Idenobe, Pius Elosikhe Eshiesimua, Anthony Chibueze Efobi, Michael Eshioke Ayo, Paschal Oshiopkephai Asekhamhe, Samuel Oti Ahmed-Egbagbe, Jude Uchechukwu Ofoegbu, and Jude Ikemeshimi Omoba.
    Observers described the ordination as a defining moment in the history of the Diocese of Auchi, noting that the unprecedented number of new priests reflects the steady growth of vocations within the Diocese and its expanding role in providing pastoral leadership for the Catholic Church in Nigeria and beyond.

    The ordination concluded with thanksgiving and celebrations by the newly ordained priests, their families, and members of the Catholic faithful, who hailed the occasion as a sign of hope and God’s continued faithfulness to the Diocese.

  • C’River Deputy Governor, CDI, Others Celebrate Mama Adalikwu at 88, Honour Late Husband

    C’River Deputy Governor, CDI, Others Celebrate Mama Adalikwu at 88, Honour Late Husband

     

    The Deputy Governor of Cross River State, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, the Chief of Defence Intelligence (CDI), Lieutenant General Emmanuel Parker Undiandeye, and other prominent personalities on Saturday joined family members and well-wishers to celebrate the 88th birthday of Mrs. Elizabeth Adalikwu while paying tribute to her late husband, Pa Peter Adalikwu, during a thanksgiving and memorial service at St. Charles Catholic Church, Obudu.

    Speaking at the event, Odey described Mrs. Adalikwu as a woman of remarkable faith, resilience, and virtue whose life has positively impacted generations.

    The Deputy Governor said the accomplishments and character of her children were a reflection of the discipline, hard work, and godly values instilled by Mrs. Adalikwu and her late husband. He noted that several of her children were either his classmates or close friends, making the occasion particularly significant to him.
    He described the memorial as a fitting honour for the late Pa Peter Adalikwu, whose legacy, he said, continues to inspire his family, the Obudu community, and many others. Odey also prayed for God’s continued blessings, good health, and long life for the celebrant.

    In his goodwill message, the Chief of Defence Intelligence, Lieutenant General Emmanuel A. Undiandeye, commended Mrs. Adalikwu for her unwavering faith, humility, and devotion to family. He described her as an exemplary mother whose children have continued to distinguish themselves in service to humanity and God, and prayed for God’s continued grace and strength upon her.
    Delivering the family’s tribute and vote of thanks, Dr. Paul Adalikwu, Secretary-General of the Maritime Organisation of West and Central Africa (MOWCA), explained that the gathering was organised to commemorate the memory of their father, Pa Peter Adalikwu, who died in 2006, while celebrating the 88th birthday of their mother.

    Describing Mrs. Adalikwu as the pillar of the family, Dr. Adalikwu paid an emotional tribute to her.

    “For 88 years, you’ve been the heart of our family. Your strength, your faith, and your love built the home we all cherish. I’m so proud to be your son. May the Lord bless you with good health, peace, and joy on your special day and always. We love you,” he said.

    He expressed gratitude to God for preserving their mother and thanked all guests for joining the family to celebrate her life and honour the memory of their late father.

    Also speaking, the Chairman of Obudu Local Government Area, Hon. Dr. Peter Akonfe Undiandeye, KSM, thanked God for Mrs. Adalikwu’s life and prayed for her continued good health and longevity.

    He also described the late Pa Peter Adalikwu as a respected patriarch whose legacy of integrity, love, and service continues to unite and inspire his family and the wider community.

    The thanksgiving and memorial service attracted senior government officials, military officers, clergy, traditional rulers, community leaders, family members, and well-wishers, who gathered to celebrate Mrs. Adalikwu’s milestone birthday and honour the enduring legacy of her late husband.