The Lumine News

Category: Metro News

  • Bekwerra New Yam Festival: We’ll continue To Prioritize The Welfare Of Traditional Rulers – Gov. Otu

    Bekwerra New Yam Festival: We’ll continue To Prioritize The Welfare Of Traditional Rulers – Gov. Otu

     

    Governor of Cross River State, Senator (Prince) Bassey Edet Otu, has pledged government support to traditional rulers across the state’s 18 Local Government Areas, with a focus on improving the socioeconomic well-being of Cross Riverians.

    The Governor, represented by his Deputy, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, gave this assurance during a visit to the Paramount Rulers of the Northern Senatorial District at the Bekwarra Local Government Council Headquarters on Saturday.

    He emphasized the vital role that traditional institutions play in maintaining peace and order and assured that the government remains committed to prioritizing the welfare of chiefs in line with the administration’s “People First” mantra.

    Governor Otu also outlined the government’s interventions in key areas such as road rehabilitation, healthcare, security, education, and agriculture across the five LGAs in the North. He assured the completion of ongoing projects and the initiation of new ones. He further encouraged the people of Bekwarra to embrace the Governor’s agricultural policies, aimed at boosting food production and security.

    Speaking on behalf of the traditional rulers from Northern Cross River, HRM Linus Ogbeche Odey, Paramount Ruler and Chairman of Bekwerra Traditional Rulers Council praised Governor Otu and Deputy Governor Odey for their leadership and foresight in implementing people-centered policies, particularly the ongoing road projects and the provision of farm inputs to farmers not just in the senatorial district but across the state.

    He assured the deputy governor that traditional rulers would continue to support government policies and program which he described as “grassroots and people-oriented”

    In his vote of thanks, the Paramount Ruler and Chairman of Obanliku Traditional Rulers Council, HRM Uchua Amos Uyimulam appealed to the Governor to restore the Northern Festival (Northfest), which serves as a rallying point for the five LGAs, and also to ensure the timely completion of the ongoing road project projects and initiation of new ones for the overall interest of the Northern Senatorial District and the state at large.

    The Deputy Governor was accompanied on the visit by the member representing Boki I in the Cross River State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Hilary Bisong, former House of Representatives member for the Obanliku/Bekwarra/Obudu Federal Constituency, Rt. Hon. Legor Idagbor, Commissioner for Finance, Mr. Michael Odere; and the Chapter Chairmen of the All Progressives Congress (APC) from the five LGAs in the North, among others.

  • Bekwarra Traditional Rulers Council Confers Chieftaincy Tittles On KJay Jedy-Agba, Godwin Nyiam

    Bekwarra Traditional Rulers Council Confers Chieftaincy Tittles On KJay Jedy-Agba, Godwin Nyiam

     

    The duo of reverred Prince KJay Jedy-Agba popularly refered as “Distinguished” by his associates, and Comrade Godwin Nyiam, were yesterday 7th September 2024, honored and conferred with Chieftaincy titles, USHI’ INUNG 1 of Bekwarra, and USHI KPERE 1 by the Bekwarra Traditional Rulers Council.

    Their nomination, selection and conferment of the titles on them was largely due to their commitment to the ideals of the society at large.

    Speaking during the conferment of the Chieftaincy titles, the Paramount Ruler and Chairman of Bekwarra Traditional Rulers Council, HRM, Ushie Ebeshe’ka Akpa, noted that the council refused to politicize the selection process and instead, insisted on the best and those deserving of the titles be given.

    He averred that “We have painstakingly selected only the two of you for these titles. This recognition is a call for you to come to assist us develop Bekwarra nation. From today, you are now part of us. We will sit together, discuss as a family and find lasting solutions to the challenges that face us.

    “We are not giving you these titles to put in your boxes or your libraries. You must be up and doing and ensure that Bekwarra nation benefit from your wealth of experience and contacts that necessitated your selection.

    “Prince K J Jedy-Agba, I know you are fully aware of your responsibility as a member of the traditional ruler’s council, having been a revered prince and son of the immediate past Paramount Ruler of Obudu.

    Responding, Prince K J Jedy-Agba, USHI’ INUNG 1 of Bekwarra, thanked the council for having honored him with such a great tittle, and he remarked “when the committee visited me in Abuja and informed me that the paramount ruler, has a message for me, I couldn’t have opted out because, being the son of the late Obudu Paramount Ruler, I cannot refuse anything demanded of me by the paramount ruler, provided that it is within my powers to do.

    “Today, I have come to acknowledge my second father who is the paramount ruler of Bekwarra. I want to assure you all that I will do my best to ensure that I serve in the capacity for which you have honored me with this tittle. And, I will continue to do good as the title of my recognition entails”.

    The conferment of the titles was part of the activities to mark the 2024 Bekwarra New Yam festival known as Ipem Ihihe 2024

    Dignitaries at the occasion were, the Cross River State Governor, Bassey Otu, represented by the Deputy Governor, Hon. Peter Odey, Hon. Legor Idagbo Esq, former member representing Obudu/Bekwarra/Obanliku federal constituency, Deputy Speaker, Cross River State House of Assembly and member representing Obudu State House of Assembly, Hon. Sylvester Agabi Jr, Member representing Boki ii State Constituency, Hon.Hillary Bisong, Mr Mike Odere, Cross River State Commissioner for Finance, Rev Father Nicodemus Aji, Mr Esidene Akpo, Mr Tony Ulayi, Hon Rose Abua, among many other personalities.

  • Chief John Ugbe Foundation To Hold Grand Finale Football Competition Today

    Chief John Ugbe Foundation To Hold Grand Finale Football Competition Today

    By Elijah Ugani 

    The Chief John Ugbe Foundation is set for the grand finale of her second edition of the football tournament in Obudu Local Government Area of Cross River State.

    The foundation is in honor the late Patriarch and father of Hon Emmanuel Ugbe, former Chairman of Obudu Local Government Council and Mr Patrick Ugbe, CEO & MD, Hit 95 FM, has impacted positively on the lives of the people.

    A release signed by the Chairman of the Local Organizing Committee of the competition, Dr Abu Undiyaundeye indicates that Obudu Urban 1 and Ipong wards are to lock horns during the final match, which is billed for 3pm today September 7th 2024 at the Chief J A Agba memorial stadium, Obudu.

    Speaking to TheLumineNews, Hon Emmanuel Ugbe, noted that as parts of efforts to remember the good legacies of their father, they have decided to come together to impact the people with the view of making lives better.

    He stated that “we decided to initiate the football tournament because football unite people from different backgrounds. He keeps the youth busy and prevents them from indulging in so many illicit behaviors”.

  • Hon Emma Akwagiobe Felicitates Obudu On The Occasion Of The 2024 New Yam Festival

    Hon Emma Akwagiobe Felicitates Obudu On The Occasion Of The 2024 New Yam Festival

    Dear Friends,

    As we celebrate the Bi pam bififeh, I wish you all a joyous and bountiful harvest season. May this occasion bring us closer and remind us of the rich cultural heritage that binds us as one great people.

    As we mark this significant event, I am reminded of the importance of hard work and gratitude we are known for. These values are essential for our collective progress and prosperity as people of Obudu.

    As an aspirant for the Office of Chairman, I am committed to serving our LGA and working tirelessly to ensure that our LGA succeeds. I believe that by working together, we can build a brighter future for ourselves and children.

    Once again, I wish you all a happy New Yam Festival. May it be a time of feasting and merriment.

    Wolololo, wolololo!

    Sincerely,

    Hon. Emma Akwagiobe

  • Beyond Limits FC Beats Central Stars FC To Win Comrade Odey Adamade Football Tournament

    Beyond Limits FC Beats Central Stars FC To Win Comrade Odey Adamade Football Tournament

    By Elijah Ugani 

    There was excitement in Obudu town today September 6th 2024, as Beyond Limits FC of Obudu defeated the Central Stars of Utugwang in the final tournament to win the 2024 and the 11th edition of Comrade Odey Adamade football tournament.

    The tournament which ended in a four goals to one in favor of Beyond Limits FC of Obudu amidst cheers witnessed a large turnout of supporters.

    The tournament had two groups where Beyond Limits FC was rated best team among 12 teams that registered and participated in the tournament and qualified for the final.

    Central Stars FC of Utugwang came first among 10 teams from group 2 and qualified for the final.

    The third place position was played by Adida FC of Obanliku and Achiibi FC Kigbor of Ukpe, in a three goals to nill, that ended in favor of Adida FC.

    The novelty foot ball match was played by ex-students of Government Secondary School, Obudu of 1994 and 1995 set code named G’95 and G’94, that ended a goalless draw.

    The event was chaired by a former Obudu Local Government Council Chairman, Hon Emmanuel Ugbe, who used the opportunity to commend the organizer of the tournament, Comrade Odey Adamade, for the initiative and tasked the winners and other teams that participated in the tournament to see their involvement as a stepping stone in the football career.

    The following awards were presented to deserving players and teams.

    Best goalkeeper – Joe Heart
    Second Best goalkeeper – Abraham Adamade
    Best Referee – Elias Adie
    Highest Goal scorer – Bobo Jude (16 goals)
    Second highest scorer – Christian Ekunke (11 goals)

    Third runner-up – Achibi FC Kigbor of Ukpe, medals, trophy and a cash of #200,000.00 (Two Hundred Thousand Naira) only.

    Second runner-up – Adidas FC of Obanliku, medals, trophy and cash of #300,000.00 (Three Hundred Thousand Naira) only.

    First runner-up – Central Stars of Utugwang, medals, trophy and a cash of #500,000.00 (Five Hundred Thousand Naira) only.

    Winer – Beyond Limits FC of Obudu, medals, trophy and a cash of #600,000.00 (Six Hundred Thousand Naira) only.

    Speaking to TheLumineNews, the Chairman of the Local Organizing Committee, Mr David Undeshi, expressed satisfaction with the conduct of over 22 teams that registered and participated in the 11th edition of the tournament and pledged a better outing in the next edition. He commended the cooperation and support of members of the local organizing committee.

    He used the opportunity to restate the commitment of the organizer, Comrade Odey Adamade, to harnessing the potentials of the youths of Obudu using football.
    He thanked the contribution of the G’95 class of Government Secondary School, Obudu for their outstanding support and wished everyone a happy 2024 Obudu new yam festival.

     

  • Excitement In Obanliku As Senator Jarigbe Initiates Busangfong Road Project

    Excitement In Obanliku As Senator Jarigbe Initiates Busangfong Road Project

     

    In a move to revitalize rural communities, Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, representing Cross River North Senatorial District, has kickstarted the Busangfong-Ikom Road Project in Obanliku LGA by handing it over to the Contractor.

    At the handover ceremony, the Constituency Officer Mr. Egar Mgbantul, representing the Senator, emphasized that the project fulfills the lawmaker’s commitment to enhancing living conditions through infrastructural development. He expressed gratitude to the people of Busangfong for their patience, support and cooperation, highlighting that the project aims to facilitate easy access of farm produce to major markets in Cross River North and Central Senatorial Districts.

    “Senator Jarigbe had promised to rebuild roads across the Senatorial District, and the Busangfong-Ikom road is one of them,” Egar explained to the enthusiastic community.

    Community Chiefs, Elders and Constituents hailed the project as a symbol of progress, a testament to Senator Jarigbe’s dedication to infrastructural development, and a beacon of hope for a brighter future in Cross River North Senatorial District.

    TEAM JARI MEDIA

  • 2024 WHD: Humanitarian Affairs Commissioner, Helen Isamoh Hosts Public Symposium In Calabar

    2024 WHD: Humanitarian Affairs Commissioner, Helen Isamoh Hosts Public Symposium In Calabar

     

    In a continued drive to create a world where every individual lives with dignity and true sense brotherhood through selfless services and humanitarian acts, the Cross River State Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation led by the Honourable Commissioner Dr. Mrs. Helen Isamoh Egodo in collaboration with the wife of the Executive Governor of Cross River State Rev. Mrs Eyoanwan Bassey Otu celebrates all distinguished humanitarian workers in the state and around the world in the 2024 World Humanitarian Day Symposium held in the Conference Hall of Dannic Hotels, Ekorinim, Calabar, today, 29th August, 2024.

    This august event was part of the 2024 World Humanitarian Day celebration to commemorate the 15th anniversary of the disastrous bomb attack on the United Nations headquarters in Baghdad, Iraq, that claimed the life of 22 humanitarian champions. It also reminded us of the strength and selflessness of those who risk their lives in their attempts to help and support others, and our unwavering commitment to care for internally displaced individuals, people with disabilities, and the destitute. It also demonstrated our collective resolve to join the global campaign against the unnecessary attack on humanitarian workers in both developing and developed nations of the world.

    Just as this year’s theme: “Act For Humanity” suggests, there is no better time than now for us to stand up and “act for humanity” by condemning the incessant and unnecessary attacks on humanitarian champions even in conflict or war zones. It is undoubtedly a solemn invitation to join voices with international organizations and development partners such as the World Health Organization (WHO), International Red Cross Society, CUSO International, United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), the Excellent Community Education Welfare Scheme( ECEWS). Her Excellency Rev Mrs Eyoanwan Otu’s Humanity Without Borders Empowerment Initiative (HWBEI), and other dependable humanitarian activists and Rights defenders around the world in celebrating these icons of humanity and encouraging
    well-meaning individuals to continue this noble task while demanding that government at all levels should ensure the safety of all people on life-saving missions.

    The high point of the Symposium was educating and motivating humanitarian workers through paper presentations on: “Strengthening Humanitarian Efforts: the Need for Collaboration”, “Innovative Approaches to Humanitarian Aids in Crisis Zones”, “Mainstreaming Gender Based Violence and Sexual Reproductive Health/Rights in Delivering Humanitarian Services”, “How Humanitarian Workers Can Act For Humanity in Line with Humanitarian Principles”, and the lead paper where Prof Robito Ekanem of the Department of Guidance and Counselling, UNICROSS, demonstrated her teaching ingenuity on “Mental Health Support for Humanitarian Workers: Addressing Burnout and Stress”. The session also had an awareness campaign/ presentation on the emerging Monkey Pox epidemic and its mounting concerns for global health by Dr. Ima Obong Ekanem of World Health Organization.

    The Cross River State Governor, His Excellency Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, in his heartwarming address, declared that there is power in collective action and collaborative partnership to save lives which is a demonstration of our shared purpose to build a society where everybody thrives and lives with dignity. The State Governor who was ably represented by the Honourable Commissioner for Establishments, Training and Pensions Mrs Lawrencia Ita, reiterated the people-first administration’s commitment to defending the rights of refugees and the vulnerable individuals in the state, and encouraged both humanitarian workers and all Cross Riverians to stand up against injustice and act for humanity.

    In her special message and warm greetings, the wife of the Governor of Cross River State and founder of Humanity Without Borders Empowerment Initiatives, Her Excellency Rev. Mrs Eyoanwan Bassey Otu expressed her gratitude to all humanitarian activists and partners while encouraging them to continue to raise more awareness to the public on our roles in showing solidarity to victims of humanitarian crisis. Her Excellency, who was represented by her Special Assistant on Programmes, Apostle Mrs Queen Eton, also stressed the need to reach out to people in need everywhere in the state and restated her unwavering commitment to strategic partnership and collaboration through her Humanity Without Borders Empowerment Initiatives.

    The Honourable Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation Dr Mrs Helen Isamoh Egodo extended her deepest gratitude to all the humanitarian workers who have dedicated their lives to helping others. “Thank you for the sacrifices you make, for the risks you take, and for the unwavering dedication you show everyday”, she expressed. “Your work saves lives, restores dignity, and offers a lifeline to those who have nowhere else to turn to”, Dr Egodo continued. The Honourable Commissioner also noted that the CRSG recognises the critical role humanitarian workers play and the need to take the lead in coordinating and providing humanitarian services, hence, the Cross River State Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation was created in 2023 by His Excellency Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu to serve as the government’s coordinating institution for all humanitarian responses and interventions in the state.

    In the historic event and first of its kind in Cross River State which was well attended and catered for, she expressed her positive thoughts on all development partners, government functionaries, volunteers, participants, speakers, the refugees, people with special needs, the cultural group, civil society organizations, the media, and staff of her ministry for their contributions towards making the 2024 World Humanitarian Day Symposium a huge success.

    Media Unit
    Office of the Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, CRS.2024

  • HOLGA Inaugurates Ten Rooms Corps Lodge In Calabar

    HOLGA Inaugurates Ten Rooms Corps Lodge In Calabar

    By Ogban Ogban

    The Head of Local Government Administration (HOLGA) for Calabar Municipality Council, Mrs Ekanem Ansa Henshaw, has inaugurated a newly built 10 room Lodge for corps members serving in the local government council.

    Mrs Henshaw stated that the lodge was constructed to enable corps members serving in the council settle down comfortably and discharge their duties judiciously as this can only happen in a good and serene environment.

    In her words “Recall that most corps members serving in calabar municipal council were living in an un-condusive two rooms apartment with more than four persons in a room with a convenience and kitchen which caused a lot of chaos amongst them”.

    The HOLGA said the cost of high transportation for corps members coming to work in the council prompted government to embark on the consideration of the lodge to accommodate more corps members serving in the council.

    She said the young generation who are the future of tomorrow needs conducive environment to develop their potentials in order to contribute meaningfully towards nation building.

    The HOLGA urged corps members to handle the accommodation with utmost care to enable subsequent corps members who would also be posted to the council to enjoy the facility.

    Responding, the state Coordinator, Mrs Oyenuga Joke, commended the HOLGA for the kind gesture as the corps members have yearned for a befitting accommodation.

    Mrs Oyenuga noted that NYSC is a tripartite arrangement where the federal, state and local government have roles to play.

    She assured that NYSC management will continue collaboration with the council to achieve their goal.

    Oyenuga used the opportunity and appealed to other local government council to emulate municipal council and think about the welfare of corps members.

  • Cross River Police Command Orders Arrest Of Suspect Flogging A Lady Half Naked In Viral Video

    Cross River Police Command Orders Arrest Of Suspect Flogging A Lady Half Naked In Viral Video

    Culled From CrossRiverWatch 

    In response to public uproar, the Cross River State Command of the Nigeria Police Force, has ordered immediate arrest of suspected ladies flogging a lady half-naked in a viral video.

    The State Commissioner of Police, CP Gyogon Grimah gave the directive through the Command’s Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) SP Irene Ugbo on Thursday afternoon.

    The Victim, identified as Miss Queen, is seen in the viral video subjected to physical assault by a group of girls while in a hotel room. Queen is visibly half-naked in the video, and flogged profusely for reasons that are under investigation by the police.

    CP Grimah who has directed immediate arrest and thorough investigation said the aim is to uncover the circumstances surrounding the disturbing incident and bring the perpetrators to justice.

    The Police Boss enjoins those in the hospitality industry to be vigilant and take proactive measures in profiling and conducting background checks on their guests. The step, he said, is crucial in preventing such disturbing incidents from occurring within their premises.

    The Police disclosed that the victim is currently undergoing medical treatment in an undisclosed hospital. Watch the video below:

    “The Cross River State Police Command assures the public that the outcome of the investigation will be communicated promptly. We remain committed to ensuring the safety and security of all residents and upholding justice in our society.”

  • Odukpani Local Government Council Provides Bungalow As Corps Members’ Lodge

    Odukpani Local Government Council Provides Bungalow As Corps Members’ Lodge

     

    The Corps Members serving in Odukpani Local Government Area of Cross River State, today, were thrown into jubilation following the official handing over of a newly constructed 3 Bedroom Lodge by the Local Government Admin. to them.

    Speaking while cutting the ribbon to unveil the lodge, the Head of Local Government Administration (HOLGA), Hon. Ntufan Felix Eyimon, appreciated the management of NYSC for it’s effort in using the Corps Members for National Integration and repositioning their mindset for economic development.

    He asserted that the Governor of Cross River State, Sen. Prince Bassey Otu and his Government would continue, as Youth Friendly Governor, to provide an enabling environment for the Corps Members posted to the state. He described the Corps Members Lodge as one of the ways of replicating ‘Sweet Prince Bassey Otu’s kind gesture to the Scheme in the state.

    Hon. Ntufan further maintained that the Corps Members would also be provided with ( as it has always been) adequate security to ensure that they are well protected, as they also continue to collect monthly allowance from the Local Government.

    In his reaction, the NYSC Coordinator, Mrs Oyenuga Mojisola Joke, applauded the HOLGA for extending the magnanimous nature of the state government to the NYSC.

    Mrs Oyenuga, who was represented by the Assistant Director Information and Public Relations, Mr. Peter Enuma, said that NYSC is a Tripartite arrangement, from the Federal to the Local Government, noting that Odukpani Local Government and the likes had not reneged to that arrangement.

    She however assured the management of the NYSC continues collaboration with them, just as she equally admonished the Corps members to also continue to maintain their good ambassadorship of the Scheme.