The Lumine News

Category: Opinion

  • C’River Deputy Governor Peter Odey’s Northern Tour: When Government Listens BY FRED ABUA 

    C’River Deputy Governor Peter Odey’s Northern Tour: When Government Listens BY FRED ABUA 

     

    The Deputy Governor of Cross River State, His Excellency Rt. Hon. Peter Agbe Odey, PhD, has just concluded a five-day official tour across the five Local Government Areas of Northern Cross River- Bekwarra, Obanliku, Obudu, Ogoja, and Yala. The tour, held in commemoration of their 2025 New Yam Festivals, a cherished tradition in these agrarian Local Government Areas, wasn’t just a cultural visit, but it was empathy in action, a government willing to listen before acting.

    With a consistent message, “I have come to celebrate the new yam with you, and to listen, so government can meet your actual needs,” Dr. Odey moved from community to community, palace to palace, play ground to play ground, not with empty promises, but with real interventions and tangible impacts.

    While over #150 million was committed to support cultural celebrations across the five LGAs, the Deputy Governor brought more than just goodwill. He delivered life-changing interventions worth over #250 million, addressing core community needs – ultramodern boreholes for clean water, agricultural inputs, youth employment opportunities, and local development projects.

    In Obudu, for example, he responded immediately to a request from the women of Utukalu by donating ₦5 million for fertilizers and pesticides. It was a practical and timely response to a pressing agricultural need.

    Everywhere he visited, traditional rulers, critical stakeholders, youth groups, women, and people living with disabilities welcomed him warmly, expressing gratitude not just for the immediate support, but for the visible impact of the Senator Prince Bassey Otu-led administration—notably in rural infrastructure, electrification, agriculture, potable water, and job creation.

    Yet, the consistent refrain was: “We want more.” But this was not a complaint. It was a sign of trust, a belief that government is truly, ‘People First’ and capable of delivering beyond their expectations.

    Often underestimated because of his gentle demeanor, Dr. Peter Odey is a man of deep capacity, thoroughly prepared for leadership. With a background in law, sociology, international relations, and conflict management, he brings depth and intellect to leadership. His journey, from grassroots development work in the NGO sector to high-level public service-has been guided by a singular mission: uplifting his people.

    And during this tour, he was never alone. He was accompanied by a delegation of political leaders and stakeholders Northern Cross River, a strong signal of continued unity, respect, and shared vision.

    Among his entourage were LGAs was member representing Obudu Bekwarra and Obanliku in the Federal House of Representatives, Hon. Chief Peter Akpanke, LGAs Council Chairmen, State Chairman of the Party, Alphonsus Eba, serving and former members of the Cross River State House of Assembly, serving and former commissioners, Special Advisers, Directors-General, and other top government officials. Others were High Chief Higgins Peters, Chief Peter Ojie, Chief Dr. Tony Undiandeye, Ntufam Fidelis Ugbo, Signor Omang Idiege (Ada Bekwarra II), and critical stakeholders from the north.

    The love was massive, as evident in the large turnouts of community people at the various venues. Their message was unmistakable: Cross River State has a government that listens, and a Deputy Governor who delivers.

    Fred Abua, Esq.,
    Press Secretary to the Deputy Governor of Cross River State.
    03/09/2025

    Disclaimer: The opinion expressed in this article is strictly that of the author, Fred Abua Esq, and does not represent TheLumineNews, its agent or the organization the author works for.

  • Water for the People: Sen Jarigbe Agom’s Noble Intervention BY OGAR EMMANUEL OKO

    Water for the People: Sen Jarigbe Agom’s Noble Intervention BY OGAR EMMANUEL OKO

     

    In elementary science, we were taught that water is a universal solvent — capable of dissolving countless solutes. But its universality is not the crux of this piece; rather, it is water’s indispensability in the affairs of man.

    Again, in social studies, we were taught that water is one of the most important basic necessities of life, alongside food, clothing, shelter, security, healthcare, and education. One can survive without clothes, food, shelter, or even light for a while — but surviving without water is nearly impossible.

    Studies — or better put, common knowledge — show that a healthy adult can survive 30 to 60 days without food (provided there is access to water), but only 3 to 7 days without water.

    For those of us who lived in rural communities and experienced droughts, scarcity, and water shortages, it was a great relief when Senator Jarigbe Agom announced his intention to install 26 solar-powered boreholes across communities in the northern senatorial district. Back in the day, we trekked long distances to fetch water. And to get clean water, we often had to wake up before the cock crowed (around 4 a.m.) — the very hour our elders said spirits returned from their nightly activities.

    Today, in semi-urban areas like Igoli, Abakpa, Okuku, Yahe, Okpoma, and Obudu, most households still rely heavily on well water. In fact, there is no functional public water supply system or urban water scheme in the entire northern senatorial district. The dams in Ijegu and Obudu have become mere conduit pipes for financial embezzlement, while the water reservoir at Okpoma in Yala LGA has remained nonfunctional since inception.

    Currently, the main sources of water in the northern senatorial district are wells, ponds, brooks, streams, and rainwater ( most of which are seasonal). With the commissioning of 26 solar-powered boreholes later in the day, many communities will finally be freed from the manacles of water scarcity, gaining access to clean and safe drinking water.

    Sen. Jarigbe Agom deserves commendation for this noble project. No single individual has sunk as many boreholes as he has in Cross River State. By comparison, in the entire Calabar metropolis, the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has only seven solar-powered boreholes. Only four out of the seven are functional. The rest belong to the state government and corporate organizations. Again, the Senator was quite discretional for choosing solar powered boreholes over electric powered ones because of its cost effectiveness, reliability, durability, energy dependent, easy to maintain and sustainability.

    As I commend the Senator for this laudable initiative, let me, on behalf of my community Ijegu Ojor, humbly appeal that our community be considered in the next phase of this project.

    Comr. Ogar Emmanuel Oko
    Rabbit Punch
    Writes from Lekki

    Disclaimer: The opinion expressed in this article is strictly that of the author, and does not represent TheLumineNews, its agent or the organization the author works for.

  • Owan Enoh MSME Support Program – How The Beneficiaries Will Be Selected.. BY AGBA JALINGO

    Owan Enoh MSME Support Program – How The Beneficiaries Will Be Selected.. BY AGBA JALINGO

     

    Entries for the Owan Enoh MSME Support Program have swelled over 12,000. This demonstrates not just acceptance but also exposes the yawning desire for a helping hand by Cross Riverians.

    I am also sure that many Cross Riverians are already wondering how exactly will beneficiaries be selected from such a massive pool. Many who think some privileged assessors will grab their pens to tick as many names off and plant their favored winners, have been calling, chatting and texting to lobby, to no avail. But I want to give you an idea of the painstaking work that is ongoing behind the scenes by the team that is assessing the entries.

    Stage One: CATEGORIZATION

    The entries are all being categorized into 14 different sectors, namely: Agriculture, Construction, Creative Arts, Education, Energy, Fashion Designing, Financial Services, Healthcare, Hospitality, Manufacturing, Retail, ICT, Transportation, and Others. All these fourteen sectors have their drop down sub-sectors.

    Stage Two: ELIGIBILITY SCREENING

    This involves a general assessment using simple Yes/No responses. Any application that receives five (5) or more “No” responses will be automatically disqualified.

    Applications with more “Yes” responses will advance to the next stage.

    Some of the queries include:
    1. Residency / Location: Is the applicant or business based in Cross River State?
    ☐ Yes ☐ No

    2. MSME Definition:
    Does the business qualify as a micro, small, or medium enterprise (not a large enterprise)?
    ☐ Yes ☐ No

    3. Sector Fit:
    Does the business fall within target sectors (trade, industry, services, artisanship, agriculture, etc.)?
    ☐ Yes ☐ No

    4. Business Status:
    Is the business operational or is the business idea viable?
    ☐ Yes ☐ No

    5. Documentation:
    Has the applicant provided at least one proof of business (CAC registration, tax ID, cooperative membership, trade association ID, or any verifiable evidence)?
    ☐ Yes ☐ No

    6. Application Completeness:
    Is the application form properly completed (all required fields answered, supporting documents attached)?
    ☐ Yes ☐ No

    7. Previous Support:
    Has the applicant declared that they are not currently benefitting from another government MSME grant/loan that would make them ineligible for this fund?
    ☐ Yes ☐ No

    This stage is expected to reduce the number of entries to a manageable size of 3000-4000.

    Stage Three: APPRAISAL TEMPLATE

    This is the stage that involves the detailed scoring of each application. Applications are evaluated using the full scoring template. A 75% score serves as the cut-off mark for consideration.

    Each panel member independently scores the applications assigned to them and to ensure fairness and transparency, 15%–20% of each panelist’s assessment is randomly reassigned to another panelist for re-evaluation.

    This process helps us maintain integrity, fairness, and objectivity, ultimately leading to a near-perfect selection outcome.

    Some of the appraisal queries include:

    Business viability and feasibility, assess operations, sustainability
    (0-20).

    Clarity of concept, defined problem, feasibility, job creation and employment potential (0-15).

    Current and future staff, realistic market potential and growth prospects (0-15).

    Actual market performance, market research, identified customers, demand validation, financial management and sustainability (0-15).

    Cost structure, revenue model, funding strategy, social impact and inclusiveness (0-10).

    Intended or actual community/social benefits, innovation and creativity (0-10).

    Stronger emphasis for new business ideas: novelty, originality, problem-solving approach alignment with Owan Enoh MSME Fund objectives (0-10).

    CAC, Tax, NAFDAC, proposed business name readiness. Documentation and compliance (0-5)

    Total score, out of 100, will determine the final recommendation.

    Assessors have been duly briefed on prioritizing gender inclusion and urban-rural balance in the final selection to ensure fair spread between Calabar, other urban centers, and rural LGAs.

    Note again that no beneficiary in the formal sector will be given any cash. Whatever the applicants stated as the needs of their business will be procured and supplied to them. The same applies to the informal sector unless successful applicants who deal on perishable wares.

    Yours sincerely,
    Citizen Agba Jalingo.

    (more…)

  • Balance, Fairness Key To APC’s Renewed Push in C’River North BY INYALI PETER

    Balance, Fairness Key To APC’s Renewed Push in C’River North BY INYALI PETER

     

    The Deputy Governor of Cross River State, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, Ph.D. has taken some commendable steps to strengthen the All Progressives Congress, APC in Cross River North, acting on behalf of Governor Bassey Otu. His efforts are the vital spark the party has needed, as I noted in a recent article. Odey’s work is breathing new life into the APC’s presence in the senatorial district.

    He has once again shown why he’s the party’s most valuable asset in the senatorial district, not merely through the prestige of his office but through his conduct and commitment. While some leaders in the North dismiss others as less important, he’s always the first to reach out to aggrieved members and sustains his engagement, regardless the person’s status to keep them in the fold. When a prominent APC member recently defected to the PDP, Odey went to great lengths, even contacting the smallest intermediaries, to persuade him to stay. Even though it could not the change the politician’s mind but his commitment was undeniable, but he cannot do things alone.

    The government and the leaders of the APC in the North need to bring some balance to political offices and development sharing equation to help him maintain the momentum. Currently, the imbalance in the projects and political office patronage among the local governments in the North is one of the issues that if not urgently addressed may explode and undermine the gains of all his efforts. Cross River North comprises five local government areas, LGAs. Even though political appointments and projects have never been evenly distributed, with larger and stronger LGAs getting more, the gap has never been as wide as it’s been in the last ten years.

    The administration of former Governor Ben Ayade widened this gap greatly. When voices like mine called for fairness, we were blacklisted rather than heeded. During Ayade’s tenure, I advocated for fair representation across the LGAs, particularly during the APC state congress, arguing that Ogoja which the government had just tried to deny the Senate seat should not be left empty. I feared that, if APC fail to patronize Ogoja, it I’ll become a fertile ground for the opposition to feast on. My agitation was not out of disdain for Yala or doubt in its candidates but a conscious and strategic thought to prevent Ogoja from becoming an opposition stronghold. Mischief makers twisted my stance, but my warnings proved prescient.

    Ignored, Ogoja became the opposition’s hub in the North. This marginalization became evident when Ayade sought a Senate seat. When people tried to fight the nomination of Odey as the Deputy governorship candidate, Ayade rightly questioned what he could campaign on in Ogoja without it. My earlier position, which caused me trouble in some quarters, was vindicated during the governorship elections, where APC performed strongly in Ogoja, largely due to the decision to pick a running mate from there. For the Senate, it was too late because the people had made up their minds against Ayade and asked why they should go for one when they can actually have the two.

    Like a stubborn child who never learns, the APC seems to be repeating same mistakes. Since assuming office on the 29th of May, 2023, key appointments from the North have disproportionately favoured Yala. For instance, Yala holds three commissioners, while some LGAs have only one. The LGA has the highest number of federal and state appointments. The two last federal commissioners and the only ones to have come from the North went to the LGA. Even the focus on projects mirrors this imbalance.

    This opinion is not a call to strip Yala of its gains, as political patronage is fought for, not given. It is a plea for deliberate inclusivity across all LGAs. To achieve this, the party needs the support of Yala’s leaders, who must act as their brothers keepers, as Galatians 6:2 urges, “Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.” In politics, it’s tempting to echo Cain’s defiance in Genesis 4:9, “Am I my brother’s keeper?” Yet, for the party’s unity and progress, Yala’s leaders should embody the love described in 1 John 4:20-21, which teaches that one cannot claim to love God without loving their brothers.

    Take Bekwerra, for example. Despite most of its political heavyweights aligning with APC, the opposition consistently wins elections there. The reason is simple; APC has not given Bekwerra’s leaders enough to campaign with. The same applies to Utukalu, the lesser served half of Obudu, which has two political blocs. While one bloc enjoys fair representation, Utukalu is left wanting.

    The people of Cross River North are more politically aware than ever and are embracing a “support who supports you” mentality. If elections were held today, Bekwerra and Utukalu would be the battlegrounds. While APC and PDP could perform well in Yala, Ogoja, Obanliku, and Obudu’s Bette bloc, the opposition retains a firm grip in Bekwerra and Utukalu; not out of loyalty to the opposition but because APC has not provided compelling reasons to win their support.

    Therefore, as the Deputy Governor continues his mission to endear APC to the North, the APC government should pay attention to Bekwerra and Utukalu. Without deliberate efforts to ensure government presence is felt in these areas, the party’s recent gains may be undone, like water poured into a leaky basket. Fairness in appointments and projects across all LGAs is not just a necessity but key to sustaining the party in the North.

    Inyali Peter, Ph.D.

     

    Disclaimer: The opinion expressed in this article is strictly that of the author, Inyali Peter, and does not represent TheLumineNews, its agent or the organization the author works for.

  • Concerns Over Governance and Forest Protection in Cross River State Forestry Commission: BY OKOI OBONO-OBLA 

    Concerns Over Governance and Forest Protection in Cross River State Forestry Commission: BY OKOI OBONO-OBLA 

     

    The employment of young people in Cross River State was initiated in 2024, following Governor Bassey Edet Otu’s approval in November 2023 to bolster the severely depleted workforce. Three hundred Forest Guards were recruited and documented; however, 14 months later, they remain undeployed and unpaid.

    Meanwhile, four commissioners have completely usurped the responsibilities of the professional staff of the Commission, arrogating those duties to themselves. The Commission has devolved into a cesspool of wheeling and dealing, with revenue accruing to the wrong quarters. As a result, our forests are ravaged by rampant illegal logging, leading to severe depletion and exposing both our State and the West African sub-region to the pernicious and deleterious consequences of climate change.

    The Afi Mountain Sanctuary in Boki Local Government Area has borne the brunt of this crisis, suffering extensive damage due to illegal logging and the blatant compromise and dereliction of duty by these four commissioners.

    Urgent reform and accountability are imperative to restore integrity, protect our forests, and safeguard the ecological future of Cross River State.

    @ Okoi Obono-Obla

    Disclaimer: The opinion expressed in this article is strictly that of the author, Okoi Obono-Obla, and does not represent TheLumineNews, its agent or the organization the author works for.

  • Strengthening Community Ties: Dr Peter Odey’s Strategic Tour of Northern LGAs BY FRED ABUA

    Strengthening Community Ties: Dr Peter Odey’s Strategic Tour of Northern LGAs BY FRED ABUA

     

    Rt. Hon. Dr. Peter Odey, Deputy Governor of Cross River State, recently embarked on a strategic tour of the five northern Local Government Areas (LGAs) of the state. The aim: to engage directly with citizens and better understand their needs and expectations. This initiative reflects a clear commitment to people-focused governance and aligns with Governor Bassey Otu’s People First agenda.

    Dr. Odey’s outreach signals a shift toward responsive, grassroots-based leadership. Rather than applying generic solutions to complex local issues, the tour provides an opportunity to design policies and programs that are tailored to the realities of each LGA. It addresses a long-standing challenge in governance—misdirected development efforts that result in underused or abandoned infrastructure due to the absence of proper needs assessments.

    By listening to community voices and responding directly to their concerns, the administration is laying the groundwork for more effective, sustainable, and inclusive development.

    So far, the tour has covered two of the five LGAs. During these visits, community leaders and stakeholders have openly shared their challenges and priorities. A recurring theme in their feedback has been widespread appreciation for Governor Otu’s rural development initiatives, particularly visible infrastructure projects that are transforming rural communities and revitalizing long-neglected public assets.

    Among these projects are the construction of the Yahe–Ebo–Wanokom–Benue Border Road in Ukelle, the Ndok Junction–Abakpa–Igoli–Moniaya Ring Road, and the Ndok–Mbube Road in Ogoja. These strategic developments have significantly improved road connectivity, expanded access to remote areas, and unlocked new economic opportunities.

    Governor Otu has also demonstrated a strong understanding of ‘government is a continuum’ by his commitment to building on inherited foundations and completing major projects initiated by previous administrations. A prime example in the north is the Obudu Cargo Airport, which has progressed to advanced stages of completion under his leadership.

    In Yala LGA, one stakeholder expressed deep appreciation, pledging total support for the Governor and his deputy ahead of the 2027 elections. He highlighted the administration’s magnanimity, particularly its inclusion of several Yala indigenes in key federal and state appointments. “The Yala people are committed to returning kindness for kindness,” he affirmed.

    As the tour continues across the remaining LGAs, it is clear that Dr. Peter Odey’s initiative is achieving more than administrative outreach. It is reinforcing trust, promoting inclusion, and reaffirming the principle that effective governance begins with the people.

    The Northern tour which was deliberately planned to coincide with the new yam festivals could not have been better timed; His Excellency’s entourage will be celebrating the festivals with fanfare in all the LGAs. He has doled out N15,000,000 to N25,000,000 to stakeholders of each LGA ranging from women and youths to traditional rulers.

    Today, in his Idum-Mbube community, the Deputy Governor is celebrating ‘Bitchong Ifife’ as the festival is called in the local parlance. This gesture is an indication of the government’s commitment to cultural heritage and community engagement. As Dr. Peter Odey immerses himself in the local culture, thankfully enjoying traditional delicacies like pounded yam with bansan soup and palmwine, it is clear that this tour will achieve more than just governance, it will lead to the building of stronger relationships and fostering a sense of community.

     

    Fred Abua Esq.

     

    Disclaimer: The opinion expressed in this article is strictly that of the author, Fred Abua Esq, and does not represent TheLumineNews, its agent or the organization the author works for.

  • From Propaganda to Reality – Ukelle Has Been Heard; The Practicality of a People-First Agenda BY PHYLO MODLIN ODU

    From Propaganda to Reality – Ukelle Has Been Heard; The Practicality of a People-First Agenda BY PHYLO MODLIN ODU

     

    The Cross River State Government, under the administration of His Excellency, Prince Bassey Edet Otu, has demystified the long politicized Ukelle road with the near completion of Yahe–Wanokom–Wanikade-Wannihem-Benue border road.

    According to the people of Ukelle in Yala Local Government Area, they have carried for too long the burden of broken promises and endless propaganda. The Ukelle road has been a pawn on the chessboard of politics for many years. Every election season, politicians would troop to Ukelle, lamenting the condition of the road as though they were concerned, only to vanish after the elections.

    Governor Bassey Otu has broken this cycle of propaganda by prioritizing the people’s interests. The first phase construction of this road has already started to make significant impact on the welfare and livelihood of the people. Today, the Ukelle people speak of their road with pride and gratitude.

    Governor Otu’s intervention is more than concrete and asphalt; it is a statement of trust restored, hope renewed, and a people reconnected to the rest of the state. Ukelle will not forget those lost years of propaganda, but more importantly, they will remember the man who turned their symbol of neglect into one of progress.

    Modlin Philomena Odu
    SSA to the Governor,
    Tactical Media Research and Engagement.

     

  • On Owan Enoh’s N500m Business Grant for Cross Riverians BY PETER INYALI 

    On Owan Enoh’s N500m Business Grant for Cross Riverians BY PETER INYALI 

     

    During former Governor Ben Ayade’s first term, despite being one of his vociferous critics, I appreciated his idea of boosting people’s purchasing power to stimulate economic growth through his “food on the table” policy. However, I opposed distributing money without requiring value in return, as it’s unsustainable and risks economic drawbacks.

    Without a doubt, purchasing power is a key driver of consumer behaviour and economic growth. When households have more income, they buy more goods and services, increasing demand. Yet, handouts without productivity can destabilize the economy.

    While putting money in the hands of people or food on the table was good, making them accountable by encouraging value for the money was even better. This was what inspired me to share my idea for the restructuring of the policy to something more sustainable and beneficial to both the people and the government. In a private message to the then Governor, I proposed the creation of a “Cross River Business Support Fund” instead of treating public appointments as job creation or encouraging dependency.

    The idea was to calculate the total value of appointees’ payments over their tenure and provide it as business startup capital under strict oversight. I suggested that the state could secure a bank facility that can be repaid monthly with funds that would have gone to appointees salaries to ensure no debt burden for the next administration.
    Each appointee was to receive at least N5m capital to establish small business, with each venture creating one or two additional jobs. For instance, for 5,000 appointees, this could have directly and indirectly generate at least 10,000 jobs.

    When my private suggestion was ignored, I published articles advocating for this. I had hoped that a government official who had the Governor’s ears could pick it up and convince him that it was more sustainable than the free money policy, but the suggestion, as many others from other patriotic Cross Riverians was ignored.

    Nevertheless, it gladdens my heart that years later, the Honourable Minister of State, Industry, Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Investment, Sen. John Owan Enoh is set to launch a N500m business grant for Cross Riverians; a commendable step towards building an alternative economy for our people. This programme, understood to be a private initiative stands as the largest single individual support for businesses in Cross River State.

    Beyond this, the Minister has also facilitated soft loans from the Bank of Industry for so many startups and existing businesses in the state. Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) are the backbones of any economy as they are vital for job creation. Unarguably, these initiatives; the loans and business grants will boost employment and purchasing power in the state. This didn’t come as a surprise as the Minister’s public service life has been defined by commitments to create sustainable jobs for the people than anything else.

    As Cross Riverians look up to the success of the programme which will be unveiled formally on Friday in Calabar, the Minister deserves all the praises for promoting entrepreneurship as a solution for rapid economic growth in a state heavily reliant on civil service and politics. Kudos to him.

    Inyali Peter, Ph.D.

    Disclaimer: The opinion expressed in this article is strictly that of the author, Peter Inyali, and does not represent TheLumineNews, its agent or the organization the author works for.

  • The Laws of Human Stupidity and Nigeria’s Tragic Decline BY MIKE UDAM

    The Laws of Human Stupidity and Nigeria’s Tragic Decline BY MIKE UDAM

     

    Carlo M. Cipolla, the Italian economic historian, once wrote a humorous yet painfully accurate essay titled The Basic Laws of Human Stupidity. Though penned decades ago, his insight perfectly explains Nigeria’s present misery. It is not merely corruption, bad leadership, or foreign manipulation that has wrecked our economy; it is the power of stupidity, unrestrained and underestimated, that has brought us here.

    Cipolla’s first law warns us: “Always and inevitably, everyone underestimates the number of stupid people in circulation.” Nigerians underestimated how many among us were willing to sell their conscience for crumbs, swap their votes for rice, or cheerfully defend policies that harm them. We mocked them as “ignorant villagers” or dismissed them as “politically illiterate masses,” forgetting that stupidity is no respecter of class or degree.

    The second law pierces deeper: “The probability that a certain person is stupid is independent of any other characteristic of that person.” This means stupidity cuts across tribes, religions, education levels, and wealth. Some of the loudest voices that justified Nigeria’s political U-turn—trading a stabilising, reform-oriented government for chaos—came from elites, professors, social media influencers, and even so-called intellectuals. We assumed the educated class would make wise choices; Cipolla reminds us that stupidity is democratically distributed.

    But Cipolla’s third and fourth laws are devastating. He defined stupidity as behavior that causes harm to others while bringing no real benefit to oneself. This is precisely what Nigeria has witnessed. Citizens were manipulated into embracing policies and leaders that have destroyed the naira, collapsed businesses, and triggered unprecedented hunger—while those same citizens suffer under the weight of their decisions. Worse, rational Nigerians underestimated how destructive stupidity could be. We thought “they’ll learn,” or “things will balance out.” Instead, we are now watching an economy spiral, with food inflation beyond reason, power grids failing, and insecurity spreading like wildfire.

    Cipolla’s fifth law seals the argument: “A stupid person is the most dangerous type of person… more dangerous than a bandit.” A bandit is predictable; he steals for gain. But stupidity is chaos: it votes for poverty, celebrates oppression, and attacks those who seek solutions. In Nigeria today, stupidity is not a minor inconvenience—it has become a political force. It has enthroned leaders who cannot govern, dismantled economic reforms, and placed the nation at the mercy of clueless decision-makers.

    We are living proof of Cipolla’s warning: a society dominated by stupidity is doomed to decline. Nations rise when intelligent, principled citizens outnumber and outmaneuver the stupid. Nations collapse when stupidity becomes a majority voice, amplified by propaganda, tribalism, and religious manipulation.

    So, where do we go from here? Nigerians must face this uncomfortable truth: no amount of oil wealth or foreign investment can rescue a country where stupidity is celebrated and rewarded. The fight for Nigeria’s future is not only against corruption or insecurity; it is a battle to awaken reason, restore moral courage, and break the cultural cycle of foolish choices.

    As long as stupid people dictate elections, defend failed leadership, and normalize mediocrity, Nigeria will continue this descent. Our tragedy is not that we are poor in resources but that we are rich in folly.

    May God give us wisdom to repent of our collective foolishness before this nation becomes a full-blown failed state.

    Mike Udam, PhD
    Teacher and Preacher
    Ogoja Nigeria

    Disclaimer: The opinion expressed in this article is strictly that of the author, Mike Udam, and does not represent TheLumineNews, its agent or the organization the author works for.

  • Beneficiary Of #JariBurs Writes Sen Jarigbe Agom, Commends The Initiative

    Beneficiary Of #JariBurs Writes Sen Jarigbe Agom, Commends The Initiative

    One of the beneficiaries of Sen Jarigbe Agom Bursary Scheme codenamed #JariBurs, Mr Franklin Ikpong, has taken to his Facebook page, to expresse joy and happiness for the financial support for his master’s program.

    Mr Ikpong noted that the support to have not only assists his studies but symbolizes hope and motivation as he pursue his Master’s degree in Anatomy.

    Full text of his message of gratitude:

    “I want to express my deepest appreciation to our remarkable distinguish Sen Jarigbe Agom who have significantly impacted my life during a challenging period through JariBurs. Your generosity and belief in Northern Cross River student potential have uplifted our spirits as students and provided essential support for our academic goals.

    “The able distinguish senator, I’m profoundly grateful to you. Your unwavering belief in students potential means the world to me. As a young student navigating the challenges of higher education, I have often felt overwhelmed with a lot of Hurdles.
    Your encouragement through Jari Burs #education initiative has been a guiding light, reminding me that perseverance can help me overcome obstacles. Your commitment to education and community development is truly inspiring, showcasing your dedication to nurturing the next generation of leaders. Your financial support in Jari Burs initiative not only assists my studies but symbolizes hope and motivation as I pursue my Master’s degree in Anatomy.
    In a special way I also want to extend my gratitude to Agba Jalingo and the selection team for their role in coordinating the assistance process impartially. Your efforts ensured that support reached deserving students like me, alleviating the financial burdens as I work toward the completion of my academic aspirations. Your kindness has rejuvenated my faith in community support, allowing me to focus on critical areas of my studies, particularly my dissertation research.

    “Pursuing a Master’s degree in Anatomy is not just an academic goal; it represents a significant step towards fulfilling my aspirations to contribute meaningfully to our Basic medical system. My passion for anatomy stems from a deep desire to understand the human body better and positively impact the field of Basic medical science. The knowledge I gain will equip me with skills to make a difference in healthcare, benefiting our society as a whole.
    Thanks you distinguish Senator.”

    Three days later, Franklin Ikpong returned, see what he wrote:

    “Once again, In a way of appreciation as a beneficiary of JariBurs, I dedicate this Sunday in celebration of distinguish Sen Jarigbe Agom for his efforts to humanity.

    I also appreciate Agba Jalingo an impartial Man with credibility for everything he do for humanity.

    “My academic pursuit in the master degree level has been an endless voyage and a continual venture into the unknown. I say this because funding a master degree program without a reliable Job and a sponsor is very challenging. I have experience a lot of Hurdles that left me with a decision to to quit the program but at Everytime of this decision opportunities will always come to give me the reason to continue, JariBurs is another significant opportunity that has presented itself and ask me to continue without quiting. Though the challenges continues because the program is not over yet, and what I keep believing in is that God willing I must complete the program because the will of God will never take me to where the grace of God will not protect me.

    “Now I normally believe my late mum words to me in her dying Bed and I quote “Frank I am dying because I don’t know if I will be healed from this sickness, my pains is that I won’t be alive to train you in school but since you have a willing heart don’t worry the way will be open. If you want to have a PhD in your chosen field don’t worry you will have it and you will not know how, but just believe, because when the heart is willing the way will be open”.

    ” Thanks you once again distinguish Senator for the JariBurs education initiative.”

    Disclaimer: The opinion expressed in this article is strictly that of the author, Franklin Ikpong, and does not represent TheLumineNews, its agent or the organization the author works for.