The Lumine News

Category: News

  • Jarigbe Consults Obudu APC Stakeholders, Says People of Obudu Are Not Ethnic Jingoists

    Jarigbe Consults Obudu APC Stakeholders, Says People of Obudu Are Not Ethnic Jingoists

     

    As part of his ongoing consultations with stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) across the Cross River North Senatorial District, Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe yesterday met with members of the Obudu Traditional Rulers Council and the leadership of the party in Obudu Local Government Area.

    During the meeting, the Senator emphasized that the people of Obudu are not driven by ethnic bias. He noted that this was evident in the last election, where he secured victory in five wards despite contesting against an indigene of the area. He further described himself as a proud affiliate of Obudu, having received his early education at St. Charles Primary School and built longstanding relationships with many families due to his upbringing in the area.

    Senator Jarigbe also recalled his role in advocating for a governorship shift to the Northern part of the state, which eventually produced a governor from Obudu. He stressed that, his support among others culminated to the emergence of the highest-ranking political figure from the area at the time and re-election of the Obudu-born governor.

    Appealing for continued support, the Senator urged stakeholders to back his bid for re-election in 2027, not merely on the basis of regional affiliation, but in recognition of his performance and commitment to delivering greater development and improved living standards for the people.

    In their separate remarks, the Paramount Ruler, the Local Government Chairman, and the APC Chapter Chairman commended the Senator for his impactful representation and notable developmental projects across the senatorial district. They highlighted initiatives such as the Amukwong Bridge in Alege/Ubang, Igwo Road, Betukwel Road, and various town hall projects, all aimed at enhancing the welfare of the people. They also pledged their continued support for the Senator to ensure sustained growth and stability in the area.

    Senator Jarigbe was accompanied by stakeholders across the Senatorial District including, the Local Government Chairman, Hon. Chris Agbe, Chief Timmy Tom, Rt. Hon. Peter Igbodor, Hon. Gabriel Edi, Chief Igbe Aruku, Chief Wabily Nyiam, Dr. Dornclaimz Enamhe, Barr. Mike Upan Aniah, Hon. Paddy Uguge, Hon. Martins Orim, Chief Austin Edibe, Hon. Rita Ayim, Rt. Hon. Regina Anyogo, Hon. Cynthia Nkasi, Hon. Thomas Agi, Hon. Pius Ashakia, Princess Otanya, Hon. Gabriel Bravoo Oluohu and many others.

    TEAM JARI MEDIA

  • Ogoja APC Stakeholders Restates Commitment To Support Sen Jarigbe Agom

    Ogoja APC Stakeholders Restates Commitment To Support Sen Jarigbe Agom

     

    Stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ogoja Local Government Area have called on party members across the Cross River North Senatorial District to support the re-election bid of Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe. They also unanimously endorsed the lawmaker, Governor Bassey Edet Otu, and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as their preferred candidates for the 2027 general elections.

    Speaking during a stakeholders’ meeting, traditional rulers and community elders commended Senator Jarigbe for surpassing the expectations of the people through his performance in office. They emphasized that, in the interest of unity and continued development of the senatorial district, he deserves the support of all stakeholders across the five local government areas.

    The leaders also pledged their continued support for Governor Otu, noting that his administration’s infrastructural drive has positively impacted Ogoja and other parts of the state.

    The Chairman of Ogoja Local Government Area, Hon. Chris Agbe, alongside the APC chapter chairman, women leaders, youth leaders, student representatives, and other stakeholders, took turns to commend the senator for his infrastructural projects and human capital development initiatives across the Senatorial District.

    A motion to formally adopt Senator Jarigbe Agom, Governor Bassey Otu, and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as consensus candidates for 2027 was moved by Rt. Hon. Peter Igbodor and seconded by Rt. Hon. Paddy Uguge. The motion was unanimously approved by stakeholders present at the meeting.

    In his response, Senator Jarigbe expressed deep appreciation for the endorsement and the continued support of the people. He assured stakeholders of his commitment to do more, while also pledging to work closely with the governor and the president to attract additional development projects to Cross River North Senatorial District.

    The meeting had in attendance, Hon. Egbung Odama, Rt. Hon. Peter Igbodor, Rt. Hon. Paddy Uguge, Rt. Hon. Gabriel Edi, Amb. Akpang Obiodun, Chief Peter Ojie, Chief Wabily Nyiam, High Chief Timmy Tom Udam, Papa Dornclaimz Enamhe, Chief Igbe Aruku, Hon. Jude Ngaji, Hon. Thomas Aruku, Hon. Rita Agbo Ayim, Hon. Charles Abuo, Hon. Cynthia Nkasi, Rt. Hon. Regina Anyogo amongst others.

    TEAM JARI MEDIA

  • Jesus Wept Being A Sermon Delivered By Rev Fr Emmanuel Ebong

    Jesus Wept Being A Sermon Delivered By Rev Fr Emmanuel Ebong

     

    During this season of Lent, we are reminded of the words of Jesus Christ: “Jesus wept” the shortest verse in the Bible, yet full of compassion and meaning. We also remember when He said, “Loose him, and let him go.” Just as Lazarus was set free, every burden, every problem in our lives can be released by His power.

    When Lazarus was sick, Jesus did not come immediately. To many, it may have seemed like delay or neglect. Even today, when people lose loved ones in hospitals, there is often anger and blame. But in the case of Lazarus, it was not neglect, it was for the glory of God, to strengthen the faith of His people. When Jesus finally arrived and saw the people weeping, He wept with them. Then He commanded, “Roll away the stone.” Lazarus came forth, and Jesus said, “Untie him and let him go.”

    This reminds us that we, too, must remove the “grave clothes” in our lives: sin, bitterness, doubt and walk in freedom.

    In this Lenten season, how do we keep our faith? Sometimes we claim to fast, but our actions do not reflect sincerity. True fasting is not just about abstaining from food, it is about transformation of the heart.

    The first and greatest call is love. When God gave the commandments through Moses, they were many and demanding. But Jesus summarized them into two. Love God, Love your neighbor. So we must ask ourselves. Do we truly love our neighbor? Do we care for those in need? Have we visited the sick or those in prison? Have we forgiven those who hurt us?

    Lent calls us to prayer, fasting, and almsgiving, but above all, it calls us to reconciliation. If you have a grudge against someone, Scripture says: leave your gift at the altar, go and be reconciled first.

    This is the season to let go, just as Jesus said, “Loose him and let him go.”

    So today, let your burdens go. Let your anger go. Let your sorrow go. Walk in freedom, love, and faith.

  • You Have Every Right, Like Every Bekwarra Son and Daughter – Ada Bekwarra II Tells Sen Jarigbe Agom

    You Have Every Right, Like Every Bekwarra Son and Daughter – Ada Bekwarra II Tells Sen Jarigbe Agom

     

    The Ada Bekwarra II, Hon. Signor Omang Idiege, has reaffirmed that Senator Jarigbe Agom enjoys the same rights and privileges as every other son and daughter of Bekwarra land, emphasizing unity and inclusiveness within the community.

    Hon. Idiege made this known when Senator Jarigbe Agom, accompanied by his team, paid him a courtesy visit at his country home in Gakem. The visit was part of the Senator’s consultations ahead of the 2027 senatorial election.

    Speaking during the meeting, the elder statesman stressed that Bekwarra’s traditions uphold equality and do not tolerate discrimination among its people.

    “You have every right, just like every other Bekwarra son and daughter. In Bekwarra culture and tradition, we do not discriminate against our own, including our grandchildren,” he stated.

    Hon. Idiege further revealed that stakeholders and elders in Bekwarra have consistently advised the people to embrace issue-based politics, rather than divisive or personality-driven campaigns.

    “At the stakeholders’ level, we have been cautioning our people to focus on issues. We are pleased to see that this is gradually becoming the norm in our political engagements,” he added.

    In his response, Senator Jarigbe Agom expressed gratitude to the Ada Bekwarra II for the warm reception and fatherly guidance. He also appreciated the role of elders and opinion leaders in fostering unity, peace, and development within the community.

    The visit, observers note, reflects ongoing efforts by political actors to engage traditional and community leaders as part of broader consultations ahead of the upcoming elections.

    The Lawmaker was accompanied the Executive Chairman of Bekwarra LGA, Hon. Egbung Odama, High Chief Timmy Tom Udam, Chief Wabily Nyiam, Rt. Hon. Peter Igbodor, Chief Igbe Aruku, Papa Dornclaimz Enamhe, Uko Inaku, Princess Otanya, Hon. Charles Eneji, Hon. Kingsley Agabi, Prof. Osha and many others.

    TEAM JARI MEDIA

  • Bishop Akpan Calls On Govt To Partner More Actively In Building Strong Educational Institutions

    Bishop Akpan Calls On Govt To Partner More Actively In Building Strong Educational Institutions

    By Elijah Ugani 

    The Bishop of Ogoja Diocese, the Most Rev Donatus Edet Akpan, has called on the Cross River State government to partner more actively in building strong educational institutions in the state for her people.

    The Bishop made the call on March 17th 2026 during the Diamond Jubilee Celebration of St Patrick’s Technical College Ugep held at the school premises.

    Represented by the Vicar General Administration, Very Rev Fr Peter Obele Abue PhD, the Bishop made the call during homily to declare the celebration open.

    In his words “Our past engagements with the government in the area of education may not have been encouraging. However, this moment calls for renewed collaboration. We urge the government to partner more actively with the church in building strong educational institutions for our people. If such collaboration had been stronger over the past sixty years, this celebration might have been even more glorious.

    Find full text of the homily “Welcome, my brother priests, distinguished alumni, invited guests, and the entire community of Ugep gathered here today. I also warmly acknowledge the Principal, staff and students of this great institution.

    “It gives me immense joy that we have all been called together to celebrate sixty years of faith, knowledge, and technical excellence. This is not just a celebration of time, but of impact, growth, and transformation.

    “I sincerely thank all those who have contributed to building this institution. Your dedication and enduring commitment have ensured that what was started sixty years ago has not only been sustained but strengthened.

    “On behalf of the Bishop of Ogoja, we reaffirm our resolve to continue promoting and strengthening technical education in our diocese.

    “Today, as we celebrate, we cannot fail to remember the inspiring story of Saint Patrick. As a young boy, he was captured from Britain and taken to Ireland as a slave. Yet, in his native land, he later became a priest and eventually a bishop. Because of his earlier experience, he chose to return to Ireland, where he devoted himself to evangelization and education. Through his work and that of his companions, Ireland was transformed.

    “Today, Saint Patrick is celebrated across the world, especially on Saint Patrick’s Day, a day that has become globally recognized. His life teaches us that wherever we find ourselves, we must blossom. Even in a foreign land, he became a champion of faith, learning, and human development.

    “In the same way, we in Cross River State may be considered latecomers in the area of education, but we must not be discouraged. The life of Saint Patrick reminds us that transformation is always possible.

    “I want to commend the Bishop and the Catholic Education Board for the remarkable work being done in the Ogoja Diocese, not only in schools, but also in churches and hospitals. We have seen how this institution has evolved through different stages to what it is today. These stages remind us that growth requires patience, perseverance, and faith.

    “Today, we are not just celebrating success, we are celebrating vision. Education must open our eyes. It must empower us to rise to greater heights and accomplish great things. The Church invites us to encounter Jesus Christ through education, because any true encounter with Christ must bring about transformation.

    “Our past engagements with the government in the area of education may not have been encouraging. However, this moment calls for renewed collaboration. We urge the government to partner more actively in building strong educational institutions for our people. If such collaboration had been stronger over the past sixty years, this celebration might have been even more glorious.

    “I also call on all alumni to rise and support this institution. Across the world today, alumni associations are key drivers of development. If there has been any division in the past, let this be the moment to unite and build a stronger, more effective body for progress.

    “Dear students, make hay while the sun shines. This is your opportunity to grow, to learn, and to prepare for a brighter future.

    “Finally, I invite all of us to commit ourselves to greater effort and faith. Like the disciples in the Gospel, who toiled without success until Christ intervened, we too are called to “cast our nets again.” When they obeyed, they experienced a bountiful catch. May the same be your story. As you go forth, may your efforts yield abundant fruit so much so that you will require others to help you gather the harvest.

    “May the God who has called you bring to completion the good work He has begun in you, through Christ our Lord. Amen”.

  • Anointed: In The Spiritual Realm, To Be Annoited Means To Be Chosen Or Favoured By God To Fulfil A Special Role BY REV FR PETER OBELE ABUE

    Anointed: In The Spiritual Realm, To Be Annoited Means To Be Chosen Or Favoured By God To Fulfil A Special Role BY REV FR PETER OBELE ABUE

     

    In the gospel of John, there is a story of certain man born blind who use to “sit and beg” (9:2). The story goes that when Jesus saw the man, he “spat on the ground and made clay of the spittle and anointed the man’s eye with the clay”. Thereafter he was “sent” to the pool of Siloam, with instructions to “go and wash” and he came back seeing (vss. 6-7). About David, who was the least of the seven sons of Jesse, the scriptures also recount that “Samuel with the horn of oil in hand, anointed him in the midst of his brothers; and from that day on, the spirit of the Lord rushed upon David” (1 Sam. 16:13). What really is this anointing in the bible all about? Why were these two men after anointing SUDDENLY chosen to become “Special”? In the spiritual realm, to be anointed means to be chosen or favoured by God to fulfill a special role.

    According to the above scripture readings, we note the 5 marks of an Anointed person.
    First, an anointed person must be chosen by God. It is God who choses, and he can chose to annoint ANYONE. Human beings may forget you, like Jesse forgot his youngest son, or the blind who was forgotten in the streets, but God cannot forget you because He created you and you are special.

    Second, an anointed person must have a clean or pure heart to be chosen by God, for “God does not judge by appearance… but he looks at the heart” (1 Sam 16: 7).

    Thirdly, God does not anoint a lazy person. David was busy tending the sheep in the fields when he was called to be anointed. The man in the gospel story, though born blind, was always on the road helping himself as a beggar.

    Fourthly, no one is anointed in secret or in private. In other words, anointing is not a self-acclaimed affair. It must be by plebiscite, for one is anointed to serve others not himself or his family alone. David was anointed in the midst of his brothers and the blind man was anointed on the streets.

    Lastly, after being anointed, you must be given a mandate; you must be “sent” on a mission, to fulfill a particular purpose in life. Anointing opens your spiritual eye to a new reality and makes you ask the great questions in life; what is my mission on earth?

    Are you Annointed

  • Dr. Godwin Agbor Extends Christmas Support to Widows, Stakeholders in Utukalu

    Dr. Godwin Agbor Extends Christmas Support to Widows, Stakeholders in Utukalu

     

    In the spirit of the Christmas season and in furtherance of his commitment to humanitarian service, Dr. Godwin Agbor on Tuesday carried out a series of outreach activities across Utukalu in Obudu Local Government Area of Cross River State.

    The outreach spanned the five wards of Utukalu and benefited a total of 500 persons, comprising 300 widows and 200 community stakeholders. The initiative was aimed at enabling widows to celebrate the festive season with dignity, while also appreciating community stakeholders for their contributions toward unity, peace, and development in the area.

    Dr. Agbor noted that the gesture was also in support of the people-oriented initiatives and humanitarian efforts of the First Family of Cross River State, Gov. Bassey Edet Otu, whose commitment to social welfare and care for the vulnerable continues to inspire community-based interventions across the state.

    As part of the outreach, Dr. Agbor also paid a compassionate visit to a sick woman, Mrs. Elizabeth Ateb, at Ukpe.

    During the visit, he offered material support and words of encouragement, reaffirming his belief in standing with the vulnerable, especially during periods of health and economic challenges.

    Beneficiaries of the outreach expressed deep appreciation for the kind gesture, describing it as timely and impactful. They offered prayers and goodwill to Dr. Agbor, noting that the intervention reflected the true meaning of Christmas which encompasses love, sharing, and compassion.

    Dr. Agbor reaffirmed his commitment to humanitarian service and inclusive development, assuring the people of Utukalu and Obudu Local Government Area of his continued dedication to initiatives that promote care for the vulnerable and strengthen community well-being.

  • C’River: 18 APC Vice Chairmen, 196 Ward Chairmen Back Call for State Chairman’s Resignation

    C’River: 18 APC Vice Chairmen, 196 Ward Chairmen Back Call for State Chairman’s Resignation

    By Judex Okoro

    The crisis in the Cross River State chapter of the All Progressives Congress has deepened as 18 vice chairmen and 196 ward chairmen have thrown their weight behind the call for the resignation of the state party chairman, Barrister Alphonsus Eba, over alleged financial impropriety.

    The vice chairmen, ward chairmen and the Forum of Chapter Chairmen also unanimously adopted Governor Bassey Otu for a second term ahead of 2027.

    This development comes days after 35 chapter chairmen and secretaries demanded the immediate resignation of the state chairman. In a statement issued after their meeting in Calabar last week, they accused Eba of engaging in actions that undermine the progress and stability of the party.

    During a meeting held at Hogis Royale in Calabar on Tuesday, November 25, 2025, the Forum of Vice Chairmen and ward leaders unanimously resolved to fight for their rights and better welfare for ward executives. The meeting was convened by the Chapter Chairmen Forum to update ward officers on recent developments within the party over the last four months.

    Speaking at the meeting, the Chairman of the Forum of Ward Chairmen, Comrade Frankline Egbai from the Biase Local Government chapter, commended the Forum of Chapter Chairmen for convening the gathering. He also praised Governor Bassey Otu for his achievements in the past two years.

    Egbai expressed deep dissatisfaction with the treatment of ward executives. He said, “I feel sad about the allegations against the state chairman and the poor treatment meted out to ward executives. It is shameful that ward executives are given twenty thousand naira to share among twenty seven members. We are being treated as insignificant by the state chairman. Sometimes, we go home with five hundred naira per person per month as party leaders at the ward level.”

    He added that ward leaders are not benefitting from the Season of Sweetness, insisting that they should be financially empowered as the face of the administration in local communities. According to him, “If a ward chairman cannot buy a bottle of beer for a friend, how can he convince that friend to join the party? We therefore adopt the communique presented to Governor Bassey Otu by the Forum of Chapter Chairmen demanding Eba’s resignation.”

    Also speaking, the Youth Leader of Ward 8 in Calabar South, Bassey Oyo Ekpenyong, commended the Forum of Chapter Chairmen for convening the meeting. He said they reject the vote of confidence passed on the state chairman. “We are not part of it and we stand firmly with the Forum of Chapter Chairmen. We worked tirelessly in 2023 to ensure the party’s victory and now they want to shortchange us.”

    The Vice Chairman of Obubra and Chairman of the Vice Chairmen Forum, Elder William Ovat, also denounced the earlier vote of confidence. He said they were misled into signing the statement. “We were not informed about the purpose of the meeting that led to the signing of the vote of confidence. Based on the allegations of corruption we have seen and heard at the state leadership level, we align with the Forum of Chapter Chairmen in adopting the communique calling for the chairman’s resignation.”

    Earlier, the Chairman of the Forum of Chapter Chairmen, Chief Kelvin Njong, read the communique again, accusing Eba of high handedness, insolence, underestimating party leaders and adopting a transactional style of leadership. He also accused him of instigating party officials at the chapter and ward levels against their leaders.

    Njong said, “We convened this meeting to carry everyone along and ensure that ward leaders understand the issues at stake. We have presented the matter to the Governor and we believe he will address it dispassionately. The state chairman can no longer lead us and we will occupy the secretariat until he resigns. We appeal to all party leaders to understand that we are fighting for justice.”

    The Forum of Vice Chairmen and Ward Chairmen unanimously adopted Governor Bassey Otu for a second term ahead of 2027 and announced a boycott of further meetings with the state chairman until all issues raised in the communique are addressed.

     

    Forum of Chapter Chairmen Communique

    The 35 APC chapter chairmen and secretaries had earlier accused the state chairman of failing to remit funds meant for local government areas and wards from the sale of forms during the 2023 general elections.

    According to the communique, “While the local government areas and wards, comprising 5,778 party officials, received only nine point two million naira, the state executive with just thirty six members took forty million naira. This is gross injustice and typical of the chairman. There are also other remittances from the national secretariat that are unaccounted for.”

    They further demanded the immediate payment of all outstanding stipends owed to local government and ward officials. They also recommended that future stipends should be deducted at source and paid directly to chapter chairmen who lead the party at the local government level.

    They advocated a review of the sharing formula for party funds, proposing a seventy to thirty percent ratio in favour of local government and ward officials as against the state officials.

    The communique concluded that, in the interest of unity and progress, the state chairman should resign honourably due to his actions which they described as anti progressive and harmful to the party.

  • Elijah Ugani: A Voice For Transformation And Excellence

    Elijah Ugani: A Voice For Transformation And Excellence

    By Elijah Ugani 

    Born in Ukwortung, Utugwang, in Obudu Local Government Area of Cross River State, Nigeria, Elijah Ugani, attended St John’s Primary School, Ukwortung, Government Secondary Obudu, and later Community Secondary School, Utugwang – Obudu, where he proceeded to the foremost University of Calabar and obtained B.Sc. in Applied Chemistry.

    Elijah Ugani has become a dynamic force in communication, leadership, and human development. His life and career embody an unwavering commitment to personal transformation, national development, and global impact.

    A seasoned Communication Consultant and Public/Motivational Speaking Expert, Elijah possesses an extraordinary gift the ability to help people and organizations communicate their ideas with power, clarity, and authenticity. His passion is deeply rooted in empowering speakers, leaders, professionals, corporate organizations, and government institutions to express their thoughts effectively through excellent verbal and non-verbal communication.

    Driven by a deep conviction that communication is leadership, Elijah has dedicated his professional life to helping others find their voice, refine their message, and use their words as instruments of influence. His philosophy is simple yet profound: words build worlds. Through his mentorship, countless individuals have learned to win with words, gain confidence in public expression, and master the art of purposeful communication.

    As a Leadership, Development, and Humanitarian Consultant, Elijah believes that every individual carries a unique potential for leadership. He has developed frameworks and training modules that guide people to discover and develop their leadership abilities, transforming them into effective and visionary leaders capable of making national and global impact. His work focuses on equipping individuals and organizations to lead with character, competence, and compassion.

    Elijah’s expertise extends to Speech Writing, Corporate Training, Media Consulting, and Facilitation. His ability to dissect complex topics and present them in simple, relatable, and captivating ways has earned him the reputation of being a speaker who not only informs but transforms. His sessions are known for their depth, inspiration, and practicality leaving audiences enriched, motivated, and empowered to act.

    He is the Publisher and Editor-in-Chief of The Lumime News (www.thelumimenews.com), an independent platform that amplifies stories of leadership, development, governance, and human impact. Through his writings, Elijah addresses issues that matter peace, unity, justice, education, human rights, and nation building. His words challenge mediocrity, provoke thought, and inspire action.

    An accomplished Administrator, Strategic Decision Maker, and Problem Solver, Elijah’s professional versatility spans across Customer Relations, Civic Engagement, and Conflict Resolution and Management. His rare ability to balance empathy with objectivity makes him a trusted mediator and advisor in both corporate and community settings.

    Elijah believes that true greatness is not measured by material possessions, but by the lives we build, the peace we promote, and the human capacity we nurture. Guided by this philosophy, he has continued to invest his time and resources in developing people, fostering peace, promoting unity, and advancing the causes of justice, equity, and quality education.

    As a Human and Women’s Rights Advocate, Political and Public Affairs Analyst, and Social Change Agent, Elijah’s voice resonates across civic platforms. He champions democracy, good governance, and responsible leadership, urging citizens and leaders alike to act with integrity and accountability.

    His contributions have earned him recognition as a Certified Change Agent and Advocate of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) a role through which he continues to drive conversations and actions toward sustainable growth and inclusive development.

    A proud Mentor and Coach, Elijah supports emerging African entrepreneurs and changemakers, guiding them toward leadership excellence and business sustainability. Beyond his professional engagements, he is also a Farmer and the Team Lead of Limre Integrated Farms, a venture that reflects his belief in agriculture as a cornerstone of economic empowerment and food security.

    In every sphere, Elijah Ugani stands as a beacon of hope, wisdom, and transformation. His message is clear: leadership is service, and communication is the bridge to transformation. Whether addressing a corporate audience, mentoring young leaders, or facilitating a development dialogue, he speaks with passion, clarity, and conviction.

    Elijah continues to dedicate his life to helping people and institutions find their voice, fulfill their purpose, and achieve their highest potential.

    Contact:
    WhatsApp: 08121032474
    Email: eljahugani4real@gmail.com

  • Jarigbe’s APC Move: Why the Senator Is Being Called “Unstoppable” for 2027 BY PETER AGI

    Jarigbe’s APC Move: Why the Senator Is Being Called “Unstoppable” for 2027 BY PETER AGI

     

    Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe’s recent defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) has sent shockwaves through Cross River politics, with many insiders already branding him the frontrunner—and possibly the unbeatable candidate—for the 2027 senatorial race in Cross River North.

    A Political Heavyweight Takes the Stage
    Jarigbe’s political pedigree is well‑known. He first entered the Senate in 2019, defeating the then‑incumbent and former governor Ben Ayade’s preferred candidate, and his 2023 re‑election victory was hailed as a personal triumph. Since joining the APC, he has been quick to leverage the ruling party’s machinery, aligning himself with President Bola Tinubu, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and other national power‑brokers.

    The “Unbeatable” Narrative
    – Grassroots Reach: Supporters claim his network spans all 5 Local Government Areas in Cross River North, giving the APC a formidable presence that rivals can’t easily penetrate. His ability to mobilize youth, women, and traditional rulers across the three senatorial districts—Yala, Obudu, Ogoja, Bekwarra and Obanliku—has been cited as a key factor in his past victories.
    – Development Record: Jarigbe’s Senate work—particularly his focus on infrastructure, gas development, and constituency projects—has earned him a reputation as a deliverer, a narrative the APC is now amplifying. Projects such as the ongoing road network upgrades in Yala and scholarship programs for indigenes are frequently highlighted in his campaign messaging.
    – Party Strength: With his arrival, the APC’s Senate caucus swelled to 76–77 seats, bolstering the party’s overall clout and giving Jarigbe access to influential decision‑makers. This numerical advantage also translates into committee assignments that could further enhance his influence in securing federal funds for his constituency.
    – Strategic Alliances: His recent high‑profile meetings with national leaders have positioned him as a key player in the APC’s 2027 strategy, prompting some local APC figures to warn that his influence could eclipse long‑standing power structures within the party. Some analysts suggest his alignment with the Tinubu administration could fast-track projects in Cross River North, further cementing his popularity.

    Opposition’s Dilemma:
    The PDP, still reeling from Jarigbe’s exit, now faces the challenge of countering a candidate who has already proven his electoral strength. Analysts note that without a strong, well‑funded challenger, the PDP’s chances in 2027 appear slim, especially given the APC’s current national momentum. The PDP may need to look beyond traditional candidates, possibly considering former governors or youth leaders to mount a credible campaign.

    What’s Next?
    While Jarigbe himself has framed the defection as a move to better serve his constituents—promising more federal projects and accelerated development—the buzz around his candidacy suggests a race that could become a one‑horse contest unless the opposition unites behind a compelling alternative. His recent tour of the senatorial district, accompanied by APC chieftains, signals an early start to his campaign, with rallies, town halls, and media engagements expected in the coming months.

    In the coming months, both the APC and PDP will be watching closely as Jarigbe consolidates his support, builds coalitions, and translates his already impressive track record into an election‑winning campaign.