The Lumine News

Category: Opinion

  • The Crisis Between Boje, Nsadop And Isobendeghe Goes Beyond Land Disputes: A Call For Urgent Action Against Criminality BY JOE OBI BISONG

    The Crisis Between Boje, Nsadop And Isobendeghe Goes Beyond Land Disputes: A Call For Urgent Action Against Criminality BY JOE OBI BISONG

     

    The long-standing challenges involving Boje, Nsadop, and Isobendeghe have often been viewed through the lens of land disputes. However, recent developments clearly indicate that the situation has gone beyond ordinary communal disagreements.

    What we are witnessing today are acts that border on banditry, armed robbery, stealing, cultism, and organized criminal activities.

    Criminal elements appear to have infiltrated these communities, creating fear and insecurity, while allegedly recruiting and influencing young people with the dangerous intention of building a culture of violence and terror similar to the dark experiences associated with the General Iron era.

    This is no longer a matter affecting only the communities involved. It is a serious threat to peace, security, and the future of the entire Boki Local Government Area.

    On 5th August 2026, two sons of Osokom travelling from Eastern Boki to Bansan Osokom reportedly went missing in transit between Boje, Nsadop, and Isobendeghe. This unfortunate incident further underscores the urgent need for all stakeholders to rise to the occasion and work closely with security agencies to ensure that those responsible for criminal activities are identified and brought to justice.

    I therefore call on all Boki leaders — traditional rulers, political leaders, community leaders, youth leaders, and all well-meaning sons and daughters of Boki — to rise above partisanship, personal interests, and community sentiments.

    We must confront this hydra-headed challenge with courage, unity, and determination. The protection of lives and property must come before politics or sectional interests.

    The time has come for a coordinated and decisive response involving traditional institutions, security agencies, government authorities, and community stakeholders.

    For too long, we have remained silent and overly tolerant. This docility must end. Boki must not become a breeding ground for organized criminality.

    I humbly appeal to all leaders and stakeholders: let us act now before the situation gets beyond our collective control.

    Chief Joe Obi Ability Bisong
    Chairman,
    Conflict Reconciliation and Peace Resolution Committee
    Ochibe Bokyi

    Dated today 31st August 2026

     

    Disclaimer: The opinion expressed in this article is strictly that of the author, Chief Joe Obi Bisong and does not represent Theluminenews, it agent, the organisation the author works for/with.

  • Take Up Your Cross And Follow Me Being A Sermon By Rev Fr Felix Ovai Ekpe

    Take Up Your Cross And Follow Me Being A Sermon By Rev Fr Felix Ovai Ekpe

    Compiled By Elijah Ugani 

    “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me.” Matthew 16:24

    The Christian journey is a journey of self-denial, sacrifice, and following Christ. Jesus says, “Take up your cross and follow me.” Whoever wants to preserve his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for Christ will find it.

    When we speak of losing our lives, it is not necessarily about physical death. Sometimes, it means losing our time, our resources, our comfort, and the things we hold dear for the sake of God and others. Whatever we willingly surrender for God, He is able to restore. But whatever we try desperately to preserve at the expense of our faith and purpose, we may eventually lose.

    Following Christ Requires Perseverance. Following Christ is not always easy.

    In the first reading, Jeremiah experienced rejection because he remained faithful to God’s word. He became a laughingstock among the people. Whenever he spoke, he faced opposition and ridicule.

    There are times when you sincerely want to do the right thing, yet people will reject you. There are times when your efforts to serve God will be misunderstood. The Christian journey involves opposition, difficulties, and tribulations.

    Yet Jeremiah spoke of a burning fire within him. That burning fire must remain alive in every Christian.

    When someone constantly complains about serving God, it may be a sign that the fire within is growing weak. When you feel like giving up because of tribulation, rejection, or disappointment, keep moving. Do not abandon God simply because following Him has become difficult.

    There must be a fire within you that keeps you going. Do Not Think Only According to Human Standards

    We must not think only according to human standards. We must allow God to renew our minds and transform the way we see life. This is why Jesus rebuked Peter and said: “Get behind me, Satan.”

    Peter loved Jesus, but his love was not yet aligned with God’s purpose. He wanted to prevent Jesus from passing through the cross. Sometimes, even those who love us can prevent us from fulfilling our purpose and destiny.

    Never allow anyone to love you to the point where you can no longer fulfil your God-given purpose. Allow Your Children to Experience Their Own Crosses

    Peter’s love for Jesus made him want to protect Jesus from suffering. In the same way, parents sometimes want to protect their children from every difficulty. Sometimes we prevent our children from passing through their own crosses.

    For example, Junior wakes up in the morning and refuses to greet an elder. Someone calls your attention to it, and you say, “Leave him; he is still a child.” That is not necessarily love.

    Children must be taught discipline, responsibility, respect, sacrifice, and perseverance. We must allow them to experience appropriate challenges that will help them grow. For you to move forward in life, you must stretch yourself.

    Many of us remember when we used to trek long distances to school. After school, we would return home and still follow our parents to the farm.

    Today, some parents carry their children to school, prepare their meals, put them in lunch bags, and make life as comfortable as possible for them.

    Comfort is good, but excessive comfort can prevent growth. Sometimes, the cross is what makes us stronger. Every Community and Family Has Its Cross

    What does God want from us? God wants us to worship Him in spirit and truth and to trust Him.

    Every community has its crosses. Every family has its crosses. Unemployment may be a cross. Poverty may be a cross. Misunderstanding within a family may be a cross. The presence of a cross does not mean that God has abandoned you.

    Rather, the way we carry our crosses can become an expression of our faith. Sacrifice Is Part of Christian Discipleship. Sacrifice is part of our Christian discipleship.

    Christianity is more than attending Mass. Christianity means giving ourselves in service to God and to humanity. A neighbour who forgives is offering a sacrifice. A Christian who chooses to love when it is difficult is offering a sacrifice.

    Someone who gives his time, resources, patience, and strength for the good of others is making himself a living sacrifice. Therefore, in whatever you do, be a living sacrifice.

    St. Paul tells us in the second reading to renew our minds. We must not conform ourselves to the things of the world. Instead, we must allow God to transform our minds so that we can understand and live according to His will.

    Even the Sabbath belongs to the Lord. It is not entirely ours. The next Sabbath is not even guaranteed to us; therefore, our time itself belongs to God.

    Let us therefore conform our minds not to the things of the world, but to the things of God. Let us choose what glorifies God. Let us remain faithful even when the journey becomes difficult. Let us carry our crosses with faith, knowing that Christ has gone before us.

    I pray for you that as you make sacrifices for God and for mankind, may God never forget you.

    I pray for you that as you set your minds on the things that glorify God, may God not forget you.

    I pray for you that as you struggle daily to follow Christ, may He never forget you.

    May He give you the grace to deny yourself, take up your cross, and follow Him faithfully.

    Through Christ our Lord.

    Amen.

     

    Disclaimer: The opinion expressed in this sermon are strictly that of the homilist, Rev Fr Felix Ovai Ekpe, and does not represent Theluminenews, agents or the organisation the homilist works for/with.

  • Who Is Jesus to You? A Sermon by Rev. Fr. Felix Ovai Ekpe

    Who Is Jesus to You? A Sermon by Rev. Fr. Felix Ovai Ekpe

     

    There are many questions and answers in today’s Gospel, but two questions stand out. The first is: “Who do people say that I am?” The disciples responded, “Some say John the Baptist; others say Elijah; still others say Jeremiah or one of the prophets.”

    Jesus did not stop there. He asked them a more personal and important question: “But who do you say that I am?” Simon Peter answered, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” Peter was not a man without faults. He was the same Peter who would later deny Jesus three times. Yet, despite his weaknesses, Peter had a personal encounter with Jesus. He had reflected on who Jesus was, and his answer came from that personal conviction.

    This encounter between Jesus and His disciples took place at Caesarea Philippi. It was a moment of retreat, reflection, and self-discovery.

    Self-discovery is very important because it gives us mastery and awareness of who we are. When you know yourself, you are less likely to be defined by what other people say about you. When someone has undergone an operation in the hospital, that person may desperately crave water. Yet, if the person drinks water at that particular moment when the doctor has instructed otherwise, it could be dangerous or even fatal. The water itself is not bad. What matters is understanding the situation and knowing what is appropriate at that moment.

    That is why self-awareness is important. When you truly know who you are, someone cannot simply come and tell you something completely different about yourself and make you accept it. You know yourself. Self-discovery helps you understand where you are coming from and where you are going.

    “Who Do People Say That I Am?” Jesus first asked, “Who do people say that I am?” It is sometimes helpful to know how people perceive us. What do people say about us?What do people think about us? Occasionally, we should take time to find out how others experience us.

    Have you ever stopped to ask yourself: What do people say and think about me? There is a saying: “An entity without an identity is a nonentity.” You must have an identity.

    No one is a complete mirror of himself. Sometimes, we need the opinions of others to help us see things about ourselves that we may not see. However, we must also understand that people’s opinions are not always our reality.

    Sometimes you have goodwill, but people misunderstand you. Sometimes you are doing your very best, yet people still criticize you. Sometimes, no matter what you do, people will sit down and condemn you.
    But remember: their opinion is not necessarily your reality.

    How Do You See Other People? Jesus’ question also challenges us to examine how we see others. What do you say about other people? Some people only see others as opportunities to satisfy their own needs. They greet you only when they need something from you. You hear, “Calvary greetings!” But once you help them, all you receive is, “Thanks, seen.” We must ask ourselves: Is this how we treat people? What do you say about others? Are your words positive? Do you recognize the good in people, or is everything you say about them negative?

    Sometimes, a parish may receive one priest and complain. Another priest is sent, and they complain again. Another one comes, and the complaints continue. So, which priest do you actually want? The problem may not always be the person. Sometimes, the problem is the way we choose to see people. Always look for the good in others. Always try to see the good in people.

    And parents, speak well about your children. Stop constantly condemning your children.. The child you have condemned today may be the very child God has chosen to use to bless your family tomorrow. Instead of constantly condemning your children, pray for them. Encourage them. Speak life into them. And do the same for others.

    “But Who Do You Say That I Am?” The question Jesus asked His disciples is also addressed to us today: “Who do you say that I am?” This is not simply a question for the disciples. It is a question for every Christian. It is a question of faith, identity, and personal relationship. Each of us must be willing to give our own answer.

    The encounter between Jesus and His disciples was like a personal retreat. Jesus wanted His disciples to move beyond what they had heard from others and come to their own personal understanding of His identity and authority.

    We see something similar in the story of the two disciples on the road to Emmaus. Jesus walked with them, spoke with them, and explained the Scriptures to them, yet they did not recognize Him immediately. Sometimes, we too can be close to Jesus and still fail to recognize Him. That is why our personal encounter with Christ is so important.

    Your Answer Can Change Your Story. People said different things about Jesus. But Peter gave his own answer: “You are the Christ.” Immediately, Jesus responded by changing Peter’s identity: “You are Peter, and on this rock I will build my Church.”

    Peter recognized Jesus, and Jesus revealed something about Peter’s own identity. This teaches us something profound: the way you recognize Jesus can transform the way you understand yourself. When you recognize Jesus Christ as the Son of God, you begin to see yourself differently. When you acknowledge Him as Lord, He can rewrite your story. When you surrender your life to Him, He can give you a new identity. The person people have called a failure may become a testimony. The person people have rejected may become an instrument of blessing. The person people have condemned may become the one God uses to lift others.

    Today, Jesus is asking each one of us the same question He asked Peter: “Who do you say that I am?” Do not answer based only on what your parents told you. Do not answer merely because you grew up in the Church. Do not answer simply because everyone around you calls Him Lord. Have you encountered Him personally?

    The way you see Jesus will influence the way you live, the way you pray, the way you treat others, and the way you understand your own life. May we come to know Christ personally. May we recognize Him not only with our lips but also with our hearts and our lives. And as we recognize Him, may He rewrite our stories, transform our identities, and lead us into the purpose He has prepared for us.

    I pray for you today that the name by which Jesus calls you will be a name that brings magnification, blessing, and glory to you and to your family. May Jesus transform every negative story concerning your life into a testimony. May He give you a new identity, a new beginning, and a renewed sense of purpose.

    May you encounter Christ personally, know Him deeply, and follow Him faithfully. And may your life become a testimony of His goodness and grace.
    Through Christ our Lord. Amen.

     

    Disclaimer: The opinion expressed in this homily is strictly that of the homilist, Rev Fr Felix Ovai Ekpe and does not represent Theluminenews its agent or the organisation the author works for/with.

  • Appointment is Service Not Elevation BY PETER OBELE ABUE

    Appointment is Service Not Elevation BY PETER OBELE ABUE

    APPOINTEE

    In ancient times, keys were very heavy and had to be carried on the shoulder. When a prime minister, for example, was to be crowned, the king would take the mantle and belt and put on him and then would place on his shoulder the key of his palace. To receive the keys meant to have full powers in the palace of the king and authority from him to administer his property, to decide who was to be received and who would be kept outside the palace. Such was the authority given to Eliakim, son of Hilkiah, as we read in Isaiah 22:19-23. Worthy to note here is verse 21 which described Eliakim as an appointee: “He shall be a father to the inhabitants of Jerusalem and to the House of Judah.” These same words were applied to Peter in the gospel of Matthew 16:18-19: “You are Peter… I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.”

    The simple and instructive lesson(s) to be learned here about appointments and appointees or anyone favoured by the ruling class is this: To be in power is to possess keys (heavy keys) from God. These keys are a burden, not a joy. You are burdened with other people’s problems and so there is no reason for you to celebrate, just because you have been selected to a position. Appointment is service, not elevation and you are appointed by a higher power (the king) to serve in his palace. Whatever your position, it is not your palace, it’s the king’s palace. So stop bragging as if you are the king himself. You are only a servant.

    This brings us to the second and final point: As an appointee, your position is to enable you serve, not lord it over others . You have become a father to those in your care; not a Lord. Yours is a privileged position to make life meaningful for others and not to cause pain and separation. At this stage in our history, we are looking for leaders at various levels; community leaders, Church leaders, youth leaders, constituency leaders, etc. Whichever direction you are, remember the words of Jesus to Peter: “flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but my heavenly Father” (Mt 16:17). Do not take advantage of your position to defraud, malign or oppress others because soon the keys will be handed over to other people.

    Fr. Peter Abue

    Disclaimer: The opinion expressed in this article is strictly that of the author and does not represent Theluminenews its agent or the organisation the author works for/with.

  • An Open Letter to APC Ticket Holders and Candidates In Cross River State BY ELIJAH UGANI

    An Open Letter to APC Ticket Holders and Candidates In Cross River State BY ELIJAH UGANI

     

    Dear Ticket Holders and Candidates of the All Progressives Congress (APC), I hope this message finds you in good health.

    It is no longer news that some candidates emerged through processes that left many party members and aspirants feeling excluded, while others were favoured for reasons best known to the established party structures. Whether or not these perceptions are entirely justified, the APC must recognise that unresolved grievances within the party can become serious liabilities at the general election.

    Since the advent of the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Nigerians have experienced significant economic hardship. The removal of the petrol subsidy and the broader economic reforms undertaken by the Federal Government have produced some macroeconomic improvements, but the benefits have not yet translated into sufficient relief for many ordinary Nigerians. The World Bank has acknowledged improvements in Nigeria’s fiscal position and economic outlook, while also warning about inflation, poverty and the need for more inclusive growth.

    The reality on the streets is therefore important. The street is not smiling. This is not the time to massage egos, celebrate titles or rely solely on established political structures. The APC must recognise and accommodate people and political actors with genuine grassroots credibility. A significant number of aspirants and candidates appear disconnected from the everyday realities of the electorates.

    I therefore urge every candidate to undertake a personal and sincere assessment: If the election were held today, how confident could you win your constituency on the strength of your relationship with the people? Not through intimidation. Not through manipulation. Not through political connections. Not through assumptions that party structures automatically translate into votes. But through genuine acceptance by the electorates.

    The answer to that question should concern every serious candidate. Many aspirants placed enormous faith in the established structures during the primaries and hoped that an endorsement or anointment would settle the contest. For some, it did. But winning a party ticket is only the beginning. The real test is winning the confidence of the electorates.

    The party’s reconciliation efforts are therefore commendable, particularly where genuine attempts are being made to engage aggrieved aspirants and stakeholders. However, reconciliation cannot merely be about appearances. It must produce genuine inclusion, healing and cooperation.

    Osun Has Just Given the APC a Warning. The recently concluded 2026 Osun State governorship election should be studied carefully by every APC candidate and strategist. The election was held on August 15, 2026, and the APC candidate, Bola Oyebamiji, lost to the incumbent Governor Ademola Adeleke of the Accord Party. Adeleke polled 511,067 votes against Oyebamiji’s 444,815 and won 19 of the state’s 30 local government areas.

    Whatever one’s political interpretation of the result, one lesson is difficult to ignore. Political structures alone do not guarantee electoral victory. The APC should not dismiss the Osun outcome as an isolated event. It should be studied as a warning about voter sentiment, grassroots engagement, internal cohesion, candidate acceptability and the growing importance of connecting directly with the electorates.

    In 2027, many of the political actors and institutions that can be mobilised for a particular election will themselves be fighting for their own political survival. Candidates should therefore not assume that support from powerful stakeholders automatically translates into votes at the polling unit. The electorate is increasingly sophisticated. Voters listen, observe and make their own calculations.

    Some candidates believe that visiting a powerful stakeholder or securing the support of a political heavyweight automatically gives them control over that stakeholder’s polling units. That assumption can be dangerously misleading. A political leader may command influence, but the voter owns the ballot.

    Soon, campaign councils and campaign committees will be constituted. My concern is that the same old structures may once again be recycled, while young, vibrant, credible and community-connected individuals are left outside the decision-making process. If you continue doing things the same way, you should not expect a radically different outcome.

    The APC needs people who understand social media and modern political communication. It needs young people who understand their communities. It needs professionals, community organisers, women leaders, youth leaders and grassroots mobilisers who can communicate with voters in language they understand.

    Most importantly, it needs people who can tell candidates the truth even when that truth is uncomfortable.

    If you have been favoured, nominated or given a party ticket, this is the time to come down from your exalted positions and engage directly with the people. Leave the tinted vehicles occasionally. Visit the markets. Visit the streets. Sit with artisans. Listen to traders. Speak with students and young professionals. Engage religious and traditional leaders. Meet community associations. Talk to people who are struggling to pay rent, feed their families, transport their children to school and cope with rising living costs. Do not wait until a few weeks to the election before discovering the people you are asking to vote for you.

    The electorates must not merely see you during campaign rallies. They must know you, understand your character and believe that you understand their problems.

    This is not intended as an attack on the APC or on any individual candidate. It is a warning born out of concern for the party and for those who intend to contest elections under its platform. You may dismiss this as social-media noise. You may call it political ranting. You may choose to ignore it. But history has repeatedly shown that political parties that refuse to listen to uncomfortable truths eventually pay a price at the ballot box.

    The time to correct weaknesses is before the election, not after the results have been announced. The time to reconcile is now. The time to broaden the political tent is now. The time to engage the electorates is now. And the time to stop assuming that party structures alone can deliver electoral victory is now. The people are watching. The electorates are listening. The ballot belongs to the people.

    Prepare accordingly.

    Elijah Ugani
    Public Affairs Analyst and Commentator Community Mobiliser and Social Change Agent
    He writes from the Hills of Ukwortung

  • Reviving a Crown Jewel: Governor Bassey Otu, Obudu Ranch Resort and All-Year Round Tourism BY FRED ABUA

    Reviving a Crown Jewel: Governor Bassey Otu, Obudu Ranch Resort and All-Year Round Tourism BY FRED ABUA

     

    The Obudu Ranch Resort, once the crown jewel of Nigeria’s tourism landscape, is on the brink of a historic revival. Under the visionary leadership of Governor Bassey Otu, the Cross River State Government has taken decisive steps to restore the iconic resort to its former glory and reposition it as a leading eco-tourism destination in Africa. After more than a year of careful concession negotiations, the administration has secured a capable private partner, Living Curation Real Estate Limited, to rehabilitate, modernize, operate and maintain the Ranch — ensuring that the benefits of this investment flow to the state and to the host communities in Obanliku.

    This initiative represents more than a tourism project; it is a strategic economic transformation. When revamped, the Obudu Ranch Resort will diversify tourism in Cross River State, shifting the narrative from a seasonal rush to Calabar to a year-round destination centred on Obudu. The rehabilitation of the iconic cable car, the upgrade of accommodation and hospitality facilities, the improvement of internal infrastructure, and the introduction of new attractions will make the Ranch a world-class resort capable of attracting both domestic and international tourists throughout the year.

    The Resort’s potential as a venue for high-profile events is already being realized. Just recently, the Defence Intelligence Agency hosted a geographical and cultural tour of defence attaches from Australia, Pakistan and other countries at the Obudu Ranch Resort, a testament to the facility’s capacity to accommodate prestigious gatherings. With the ongoing rehabilitation and the introduction of new attractions, international conferences, corporate retreats, and diplomatic engagements will find a natural home in Obudu, further cementing the Resort’s place on the global stage and bringing sustained economic activity to the region all year round.

    Beyond the Ranch Resort itself, the surrounding infrastructure is being reimagined to support sustainable growth. The Bebi Airstrip will be rehabilitated to improve accessibility and attract increased tourist and investment traffic, while the Utanga Safari Lodge will be redeveloped into a modern flora and fauna conservation centre dedicated to wildlife conservation, biodiversity protection, environmental education and ecological tourism. These developments will not only enhance the visitor experience but also create employment opportunities, stimulate local businesses, and benefit farmers, artisans, transport operators, traders and other economic actors across Obanliku, Obudu and the wider Cross River State.

    Critically, the Governor has made it clear that this concession does not amount to the sale of public assets. The Obudu Ranch Resort, Bebi Airstrip and Utanga Safari Lodge remain the property of the Government and people of Cross River State. The concession only grants the private investor the right to finance, rehabilitate, modernize, operate and maintain the facilities for an agreed period, after which the assets, including all improvements made during the concession, will revert fully to the State Government. Oversight will be maintained through a Project Advisory Committee, which includes community liaison officers, to monitor implementation and safeguard the public interest.

    Governor Otu’s administration has also demonstrated a deep commitment to inclusive governance. At a recent stakeholders’ engagement in Sankwalla, Obanliku Local Government Area, the Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, assured host communities of meaningful and lasting benefits from the concession. He appealed to traditional rulers, community leaders, women, youths and other stakeholders to support the project and maintain an atmosphere of peace, cooperation and mutual respect. The administration has pledged continuous engagement and fair consideration of genuine concerns raised through recognized traditional institutions, community liaison representatives and designated government channels — recognizing that the success of the concession depends on a strong partnership between Government, the concessionaire and the host communities.

    Trust in the concessionaire is equally important. Speaking on behalf of Living Curation Real Estate Limited, the company’s representative and team lead, Col. Amit Ghosh, disclosed that the firm has operated in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector for about 20 years and has expanded its operations to Cross River State, where it has been active in Akamkpa Local Government Area for about four and a half years. Ghosh said the company’s vision for Cross River goes beyond the revival of Obudu Ranch. The firm plans to develop the Utanga Safari into a world-class conservation and scientific research centre for the protection and breeding of endangered African species, while also rehabilitating public health centres within three months. This track record and long-term commitment to the state provide additional assurance that the concession is in capable hands.

    The economic and social implications of this initiative are profound. A fully optimized Obudu Ranch Resort will not only attract tourists but also position Cross River State as a hub for conservation, research and sustainable development. The Obudu Cargo Airport, now in its completion state, will further enhance access to the area, opening up new opportunities for trade and investment. Meanwhile, the rehabilitation of public health centres in the area within three months, as disclosed by the concession partner, underscores the administration’s commitment to improving the quality of life for residents in the host communities.

    In an era when the public assets of many states are abandoned by successive governments in preference for new signature projects, Governor Otu’s bold decision to secure a competent private partner for the Obudu Ranch, a demonstration of both political will and strategic foresight, should be commended. By leveraging private capital and operational expertise while preserving public ownership, the administration is putting money in the pockets of Cross Riverians without spending public funds in the process!

    As the rehabilitation progresses, one thing is clear: the Obudu Ranch Resort is no longer a fading memory but a living proof of Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu’s resolve to diversify the state’s economy, create jobs, and build a sustainable future for its people. Cross River State is poised to stamp its mark as Nigeria’s premier tourism destination not just in December, but all year round.

     

    Disclaimer: The opinion expressed in this article is strictly that of the author, Fred Abua and does not represent Theluminenews its agent or the organisation the author works for/with.

  • The Continued Folly Of Cross River’s Men Of Power… BY AGBA JALINGO 

    The Continued Folly Of Cross River’s Men Of Power… BY AGBA JALINGO 

     

    The stupidity about arresting people for talking is that, it is a total waste of time. But those who are intoxicated with power are so naive to realize it until power leaves them.

    First, everything under section 24 of the Cyber Crime Act, which is being used to harass people for questioning their government is bailable. Be you Governor, Senator, Minister, Security Chief, even a court judge or any other thing that you may consider powerful, no one possesses the power to lock anyone up ad infinitum.

    Every accused person must be brought before a judge where they will be granted bail. But it is so pitiable how those who hold power temporarily fail to realize this simple reality. If you sincerely think a commentator has defamed you, seek justice by going to the courts to sue. Stop using the Police to harass citizens for talking. The sickening desire to see people in handcuffs and the stinking ego arising from this primitive behavior amounts to nothing other than feeling, “I have dealt with that person.” But matter-of-factly, you haven’t dealt with anyone. You only made that person more popular and more powerful and elevated the person to a force to reckon with. I am a typical example of that.

    They came to bundle me from Lagos several times to Calabar. They bundled Ifere Paul and Joseph Odok from Abuja to Calabar. What did any of that amount to? Absolutely nothing! It was all ego trips that actually back fired and turned the people against the government.

    Why do people in government fail to learn this lesson? Do they think they will be in government forever? Where are those who wielded power from Peregrino House yesterday? Are citizens not detesting them today with passion?

    I have reached out to those who I think are responsible for the arrest of Denis Odama and I fervently hope that he will be let off the hook without delay, because that is the right thing to do. I am also in touch with Denis himself and have urged him to remain strong and not be shaken. Nothing will happen to him. I have been through that path. They have just succeeded in matriculating him into the hall of fame.

    But one more thing for the power maniacs. Stop wasting your time and resources thinking you can stop people from talking. The earlier you stop ignoring your critics and begin to address the issues they raise, the better for you. No government, no man, no authority was ever able to stop those they lead from complaining. In fact, the arrest of Odama has instigated more younger persons to talk and watch it, more will raise their voices and the second term of this administration will witness more bitterness and opprobrium from the people. Denis will be released, either by the courts or by those who arrested him and the people in power will be hated for arresting him. It is that simple!

    #ReleaseDenisOdamaNow!

    Yours sincerely,
    Citizen Agba Jalingo.

  • Will State Electricity Regulators Have The Courage To Hold DisCos Accountable? BY INYALI PETER

    Will State Electricity Regulators Have The Courage To Hold DisCos Accountable? BY INYALI PETER

     

    In a recent article, I attempted to clarify how subsidy works in the Nigeria Electricity Supply Industry (NESI). However, reactions from readers across different channels opened a door I didn’t anticipate. If government is still investing heavily in subsidies and other support mechanisms, they argued, why does the quality of service from those providing electricity, especially the Distribution Companies (DisCos), still so epileptic?

    The simple truth is that Nigeria’s electricity sector has rules governing how electricity flows through our homes and businesses, performance contracts with clear penalties for failures, and a regulator in the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission. What has been lacking is the will to enforce these rules firmly and fairly to ensure improved power supply. This is why the Electricity Act 2023, which decentralized power and created State Electricity Regulatory Commissions, should be a genuine game-changer if allowed to function as intended.

    In our homes when we pay for electricity, we expect lights, refrigeration, our children ability to study at night. When the power fails repeatedly, our water system collapses. Small businesses lose income, hospital wouldn’t be able to save a life. These aren’t abstract frustrations but survival. And they’re happening because of failures at multiple levels. For this article, the focus is on the DisCos and how SERC can address a system where accountability has become optional.

    The sector is governed by a network of performance contracts that few Nigerians know exist. The Service Level Agreement (SLA) sets clear performance standards and fault accountability. The Grid and Supply SLA define exactly how much power each DisCo must accept and when load rejections are permitted. The Service-Based Tariffs (SBT) promise customers in different bands a minimum number of electricity supply hours daily. Band A should get twenty hours or more. Those guarantees are written. Customers pay for them because they’re binding. But they’re hardly kept by the DisCos.

    The Transmission Company of Nigeria operates under the Transmission Loss Factor guidelines which caps allowable losses at 7% with tighter regional caps at 6.5%. Miss these targets and TCN faces immediate financial penalties. But when DisCos breach their own SLAs by rejecting allocated power without proper advance constraint declarations, little or nothing happens.

    NERC 139 (2015), titled “Order on the Imbalance Application Mechanism during the Transitional Electricity Market,” imposed financial penalties on DisCos for load rejection. But when TCN complained in 2017, NERC convened a stakeholder meeting and issued threats instead of sanctions. During a 2020 tariff hearing, the then TCN’s Managing Director, Mr. Usman Mohammed challenged NERC to enforce the order. Rather than enforcement, the Commission, in 2021, six years later issued new guidelines on the matter.

    When DisCos fail to meet their ninety-five percent energy offtake targets over evaluation periods, penalties remain theoretical rather than enforced. Similarly, when they fail to deliver the minimum supply hours that customers are already paying for, they face little or no meaningful consequences. This regulatory pampering stands in contrast to the swift penalties imposed on TCN and or participants.

    The Power Evacuation Agreements between TCN and power generation companies establish accountability for both players. These and other contracts were designed by people who understood that electricity is an integrated system where unfairness at one point destroys efficiency everywhere. Accountability for DisCos is always treated as an option. They have learned they can nominate loads, receive power, then arbitrarily reject it without meaningful consequences. The records are documented. NERC reviews them. Life goes on.

    Meanwhile, in your neighborhourhood, when a transformer fails, the DisCo tells you and your neighbours to buy the replacement parts and do the repair work. When you finally scrape together money to reconnect after paying arrears, they demand you purchase new wires because the old ones belong to them. You’re essentially financing the business infrastructure these companies use to charge you for services. All these are against the rules and contracts imposed by the regulator. But DisCos ignore them and continue to behave as if they exist beyond the law they agreed to.

    The most unfortunate aspect is the complaint system itself. When you escalate some of these issues to NERC, they send you back to the very DisCo you’re complaining about and tell you to give them a chance to resolve it before escalating further. Most customers have already begged, negotiated, documented, and failed before reaching the regulator. The system doesn’t protect consumers. It protects the companies by delaying justice until exhausted citizens give up.

    Perhaps NERC is overwhelmed trying to regulate the entire sector from Abuja. Perhaps the political will to enforce rules against powerful utility companies like DisCos that basically fund them simply doesn’t exist. This is why every state must take setting up and empowering SERC to function properly very seriously. SERC brings oversight closer to reality and the people. Local regulators can domesticate and enforce contracts in the same areas as the companies they oversee and licence competing distributors that introduces the competition that drives improved service delivery

    Similarly, SERC represents both a revolutionary and exciting opportunity. It is the most consequential reform that should bring needed accountability to the sector. Nigerians need to understand the rules that govern the sector so they recognize when their rights are violated or when they are violating the sector laws that may contribute to poor power supply. With local regulators, this education can happen seamlessly.

    However, while we fault the DisCos for lack of accountability, some consumers bear equal or greater responsibility. Many Nigerians steal electricity through illegal connections. Many others disconnect themselves to avoid payment, then demand reconnection without settling bills. Poor collection rates cripple DisCos ability to invest in infrastructure and reduce technical losses. Consumer responsibility and corporate accountability cannot exist in opposition. Both must rise together. You cannot excuse poor service, but neither can you excuse theft. Both destroy the system.

    For NERC’s current leadership, I acknowledge what they’ve done recently. Forcing DisCos to issue unit token refunds to prepaid customers affected by improper billings and past Metre Asset Provider charges was enforcement with teeth. I got about 10k unit last month and will get more later. That’s what accountability looks like. It proves the regulator can act decisively when it chooses. This is the standard we need to apply consistently across all market participants.

    Clearly, the TLF mechanism and the unit refund order prove the rules work. The real question is whether SERC would have the courage to domesticate and enforce them when political actors and electricity stakeholders who have made enforcement uneven still wield influence. Ultimately, we have the performance contracts and the Electricity Act 2023 has give state permission to operate. What Nigerians may still be waiting for however, is for the will to act, decisively and fairly across the value chain.

    -Inyali Peter, Ph.D.

    Disclaimer: The opinion expressed in this article is strictly that of the author, Inyali Peter and dose not represent Theluminenews its agent or the organisation the author works for/with.

  • Developmental Projects Should Emanate from the People, Not from Those in Power — Amb. Kennedy Njar-Nsan

    Developmental Projects Should Emanate from the People, Not from Those in Power — Amb. Kennedy Njar-Nsan

     

    Ahead of the 2027 general elections, Ambassador Kennedy Njar-Nsan, an academic and human rights advocate, has declared his intention to contest for the Cross River State House of Assembly seat for Ikom I State Constituency on the platform of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC). In this interview, he speaks on his ambition, the challenges facing Ikom, governance, youth participation in politics and his vision for the constituency.

    Can you introduce yourself to our readers?

    Amb. Kennedy Njar-Nsan: My name is Ambassador Kennedy Njar-Nsan from Akparabong in Ikom Local Government Area. I am a university lecturer and an academic with degrees in History, International Relations and Political Science. I have taught at Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, and the University of Calabar. My passion has always been leadership, public service and developing people, and that passion has inspired my decision to seek elective office.

    Why are you contesting for the Cross River State House of Assembly?

    I want to represent the interests of the people of Ikom, not the interests of those in power. Despite being the commercial nerve centre of Cross River State, Ikom has suffered years of neglect. Our roads are bad, electricity is non-existent, public schools are underfunded and many communities lack basic infrastructure. I believe effective representation should focus on improving people’s lives through advocacy, legislation and proper oversight.

    What are the major challenges facing Ikom I Constituency?

    Poor infrastructure, unemployment, lack of electricity, poor road networks, lack of pipe-borne water and weak public education are among the biggest challenges. While many of these are executive responsibilities, a committed legislator can influence development through effective representation, oversight and engagement with the government.

    Have you held any public office before?

    I have not held an elective political office, but I have served in several leadership positions throughout my academic and professional career. Leadership has always been part of my life, and I believe those experiences have prepared me for public service.

    How do you assess the current representation of your constituency?

    The people will judge that. However, when you look at the level of development in Ikom today, it is obvious that much more could have been achieved. Our constituency deserves stronger representation and more effective engagement with the government.

    What would you do differently if elected?

    I will put the people first. I intend to hold regular town hall meetings so that development priorities come directly from the people. The government should respond to the needs of communities, not impose projects that do not address their challenges. Representation should be driven by the voices of the people.

    Do you think your party will be a limitation?

    Not at all. The NDC stands for policies that address poverty through investments in education, healthcare, infrastructure and support for small businesses. We believe governance should focus on solving collective goods problems rather than distributing temporary handouts during elections.

    As a young politician, what challenges have you faced?

    Funding remains the biggest challenge because politics is expensive. Another challenge is changing the culture of vote-buying, where some voters expect money or gifts before offering support. Politics should be about development, not transactions.

    How do you assess the representation of Ikom/Boki Federal Constituency?

    That decision belongs to the people of Ikom and Boki. They should evaluate whether their representative has delivered meaningful development and use their votes accordingly.

    How would you rate Governor Bassey Otu’s administration?

    The people of Cross River State will ultimately decide. I acknowledge that the administration has made progress in security, but there are other areas where citizens expect more. Democracy gives the people the opportunity to evaluate every government based on performance.

    What message do you have for young Nigerians?

    Politics affects every aspect of our lives, from education and healthcare to roads and employment. Young people must participate actively in politics and reject vote-selling. We must elect leaders based on competence, integrity and performance.

    What are your chances in the 2027 election?

    I am optimistic because I believe the people are looking for credible alternatives. If elected, I will remain accountable to the people of Ikom. I will not become a puppet or defend the government at the expense of my constituents. My commitment is to serve the people with integrity and courage.

    Finally, what is your message to the people of Ikom I ahead of 2027?

    I urge our people to vote for competence, character and vision. Hold leaders accountable and never reward poor performance. If entrusted with your mandate, I will work tirelessly to justify your confidence and ensure that the interests of Ikom I State Constituency remain my highest priority.

  • Nigeria Is Not a Poor Country. We Must Change Our Mindset BY MIKE UDAM 

    Nigeria Is Not a Poor Country. We Must Change Our Mindset BY MIKE UDAM 

     

    Nigeria is a blessed nation. God is not owing Nigeria anything. He has already blessed this country beyond measure.

    Few nations in the world possess the combination of natural and human resources that Nigeria has. We are richly endowed with crude oil, natural gas, gold, lithium, uranium, tin, columbite, iron ore, bauxite, limestone, and vast deposits of clay suitable for ceramics and manufacturing.

    Our agricultural potential is equally remarkable. We have millions of hectares of fertile land capable of producing enough maize to feed much of Africa. We have extensive rice-growing areas, abundant cassava, yam, cocoa, palm produce, and one of the largest sugarcane plantations on the African continent. The land is not our problem.

    Neither are our people.

    In virtually every profession, Nigerians continue to distinguish themselves. Our accountants, doctors, engineers, scientists, lawyers, academics, and technology experts compete with the very best in the world. Nigerians occupy important positions in leading universities, multinational companies, research institutions, and hospitals across the globe. Wherever excellence is demanded, Nigerians are often found delivering it.

    Nigeria is not a poor country.

    Our greatest challenge is not a lack of resources or talent. Our challenge is leadership and the systems that have allowed a small group of people to concentrate enormous wealth and influence in their hands. They continue to succeed because many of us have failed to understand the game being played.

    Every election season, familiar strategies are employed. Ethnicity is brought to the forefront. Religion is weaponized. Historical grievances are revived. Suspicion is stirred among ordinary citizens. While we argue among ourselves, those who benefit from our division quietly consolidate their power.

    The real tragedy is that those who suffer the most are often divided against one another. Instead of speaking with one voice for justice, accountability, and good governance, we allow ourselves to be separated by tribe, religion, and political sentiment.

    The late Chinua Achebe wisely observed that when two brothers fight over a piece of land, a stranger harvests the crop. That lesson remains painfully relevant today. While Nigerians quarrel among themselves, others continue to enjoy the benefits of our disunity.

    Let me say this clearly, and let it be on record:

    The day those beneath the table decide to stand up, those feasting at the table will realize that their comfort depended on the people underneath.

    Those who manipulate the system understand exactly how to divide us. The question is whether we will continue to allow ourselves to be divided.

    Permit me to end with a simple illustration.

    Imagine you are travelling through a lonely forest, and your car suddenly breaks down. You desperately need a mechanic. At that moment, you do not ask the mechanic which tribe he belongs to. You do not ask his religion. You ask one question:

    Can this person fix my car?

    What matters is competence. What matters is integrity. What matters is the ability to solve the problem before you.

    Nigeria is that broken car.

    At this critical moment in our history, our primary concern should not be where the person comes from. Our concern should be whether that person has the character, competence, vision, and courage to repair this nation.

    If we continue to choose leaders merely because they come from our village, our ethnic group, or our religious background, we may remain stranded on the same road for many more years.

    Nigeria has everything it needs to become one of the greatest nations on earth.

    The question is no longer whether God has blessed Nigeria.

    The question is whether Nigerians are prepared to rise above division, choose competence over sentiment, and build the nation we all deserve.

    Dr. Michael Udam serves the church of Christ meeting at Ukpagada 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 organisation the author works for/with.