The Lumine News

Category: Politics

  • The Assembly Wants Him To Substantiate His Claim Of 6.8M, If He Cannot, We Ask Him To Retract His Comment – Hon Charles Omang

    The Assembly Wants Him To Substantiate His Claim Of 6.8M, If He Cannot, We Ask Him To Retract His Comment – Hon Charles Omang

     

    The member representing Bekwarra State constituency, Hon Charles Omang KSM, has stated that despite insinuations and misconception that the 10th Cross River State House of Assembly wants to silence critics, on account of the summon of Mr Ejim Jonny Agogo, who alleged in a viral video that his house of assembly member, Hon Charles Omang and his colleagues at the Cross River State House of Assembly, receives 6.8M as monthly salary apart from constituency and other allowances.

    Responding to questions from TheLumineNews, Hon Omang noted that the video which was played in a church in Bekwarra Local Government Area, has spread bad blood among his constituents which increased the routine requests for financial assistance, has however put him and his colleagues in the negative light before their constituents.

    The lawmaker explained that “In the assembly, we took it very seriously because that is far from reality. The salary of a state house member is in the public domain since 1999. It has never been reviewed.
    When he made findings, he was told that our salary is #680,000.00 and he mischievously added one zero to the figure to pitch our constituents against us. It is not just about me here, it is about the entire assembly.

    “The assembly is not detaining him or sending him to any prison as wrongly speculated. We want him to come and tell us how he got that figure as our salary. If he cannot substantiate his claim, we ask him to retract his comments using the same energy he used to create the video, and that will end the matter”.

    The lawmaker stated that just very recently that they noticed an increment of #60,000.00 in the salary, and wondered why his constituents resorted to such a blackmail.

    Omang further disclosed that he played a very significant role to restore normalcy in the feud between the Chairman and councillors in Bekwarra last month, but that the said Mr Ejim Jonny Agogo, who hails from the same village with him Ukpah, claimed that he is among the persons sponsoring the councillors against the chairman of council.

    “This guy has been in this act to ruin my reputation. At some point, I called his elder brother’s attention to what he says and writes about me.
    “I was not hungry when I came into the state house of assembly. I have a law firm in Abuja and I was doing well for myself. I came into the assembly because I have always wanted to serve my people. But I can tell you that as assembly members, all is not well with us as people speculate. You can find out from your state constituency member, the deputy speaker. The pressure from personal, family and constituents responsibilities far outweigh our income”.

    Hon Omang noted that “I’m always available to provide information about the operations of the assembly and not for anyone to use falsehood to create rifts between us and our constituents that are unnecessary”.

    Meanwhile, the Cross River State House of Assembly has received widespread criticism for summoning Mr Ejim Jonny Agogo, for raising false alarm on the monthly salary of assembly members.

    Majority to those who have aired their views, suggested that the assembly was supposed to have issues a rejoinder other than the summon.

  • Jarigbe Debunks Defection Rumor, Receives Hundreds Of Defectors In Bekwarra

    Jarigbe Debunks Defection Rumor, Receives Hundreds Of Defectors In Bekwarra

    By Elijah Ugani 

    The Senator representation Cross River Northern Senatorial District, Sen Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, has debunked the rumours of his defection from the People’s Democratic Party to the All Progressive Congress.

    Sen Jarigbe made the clarification during the town hall meeting with constituents held in Obudu, Bekwarra, Obanliku local government areas.

    The lawmaker noted that if Tinubu and Bassey Otu had not stayed in the opposition, they would not have been president and governor today, and so he can not abandon the people and the platform that gave him their support and mandate to represent them.

    In his words ‘It is true that there are some issues at the national level. But those issues are going to be resolved. The election is not tomorrow. The election is not next week. It is not next year.

    “I don’t want us to distract ourselves with all of that. It’s time for governance. We have no excuse not to deliver. We want you to hold us accountable.

    “Party politics is different, but I have to share a few things with you. There are issues surrounding who will be National Secretary and who will not be. But those issues will be resolved. There is nothing like PDP will not be able to file candidates.

    “By the grace of God, I will be on the ballot. Nothing is going to stop you for voting for your son and the person you want. I want to correct an impression that I’m moving from this party. I’m not moving.

    “If our president, President Tinibu, did not stay in opposition, he will not be president today. If our governor, Prince Otu, did not stay in opposition, he wouldn’t have been governor today. So nobody can come and coerce me and say that I must move to any party.

    “In Obanliku, we chose one of your sons and sent him to the national assembly as member of the House of Representatives. Today there are insinuations that he says that there will be no tickets for us on the platform of PDP. Please, there will be tickets for us. If he wants to leave the party, it’s for personal reasons. I am not part of it.

    “It wasn’t the name of any party that voted for us. The people that voted for us are seated here. We will go by your decision and not the decision of anybody in Abuja or Calabar”.

    The lawmaker explained that it was very necessary for him to interface with the people whose mandate he holds to give account of his stewardship for the period of two years in the 10th assembly, and also to have the opportunity to be accessed by his people. He further charged the people to draw his attention to areas of concern where he needs to focus on in the next two years.

    Sen Jarigbe listed projects he facilitated in each of the ten wards of the three Local Government Areas he visited including the electrification of Gakem to Abuochiche, Bekwarra Local Government Area and construction of Amukwong bridge, Alege, Alege/Ubang ward in Obudu Local Government Area which are ongoing.

    He used the opportunity to thank his constituents for the support and steadfastness demonstrated and pledged to always put first the interest of his constituents.

    Speaking earlier during the town hall meetings held at various locations in Obanliku, Obudu and Bekwarra Local Government Areas, the Chairman of the People’s Democratic Party PDP, Cross River State chapter, Mr Vena Ikem Esq, noted that “Globally, it is a common practice for representatives to hold town hall meetings periodically to enable them meet with their constituents as to get feedback to enable them improve their representation.

    “Very recently, I have witnessed where representatives where booed by their constituents on account of their failed representation.

    “Please do not hesitate to tell your senator where he has not done well to enable him serve you better. Where he has done well, please don’t forget to commend him as that will definitely encourage him to do more”.

    Leaders and stakeholders of the three local governments took turns to commend the uncommon representation of Sen Jarigbe Agom, and noted that they have not had it this easy with any senator since 1999.

    In Obanliku, principal among the things mentioned that requires the senator’s attention was the Kakwe road .

    In Obudu, the people called on Sen Jarigbe Agom to lobby for federal appointments for the youths, noting that the youths are roaming the streets with qualified certificates with no one in sight to assist them get jobs. They argue that Obudu youths deserve to also occupy positions in Nigerian National Petroleum Cooperation NNPC, Federal Inland Revenue Services and others.

    In Bekwarra, the people commended Sen Jarigbe Agom, to have facilitated federal government scholarship for three of their sons who are currently abroad on studies.
    They requested the senator to give their youths Jobs and to see to the completion of the electrification project, which worries every Bekwarra person.

    The people of Bekwarra assured Sen Jarigbe Agom, of their unflinching support even beyond 2027 and referred to the coercion by the All Progressive Congress to silence other parties as a failed project. They posited that the APC should coerce the prices of commodities in the market to crash so that the common people can live averagely. And that unless that is done, whatever some of the leaders who were given opportunities on the plater of gold, but failed to utilize it, are wasting their time as majority of the Bekwarra people will continue to support the good work Sen Jarigbe is doing.

    During the town hall meeting at Bekwarra, the All Progressive Congress Chapter Secretary, Mr Joe Okpen Adams, Ayade’s former aide, Odama Groovydee Abednigo Oga, led hundreds of APC faithfuls to the PDP and cited Sen Jarigbe Agom’s leadership prowess and service to the people as the basis for their defection. They used the opportunity and declared support for the lawmaker and the party.

    The were received into the party by the chapter Chairman of the PDP, and encouraged by the state Chairman, Barr Vena Ikem Esq.

    Sen Jarigbe Agom commended their bold step to join the PDP and noted that the move was natural and organic as the PDP has nothing to coerce or to use as a tool to lure anyone to join the party.

  • Zana Akpagu Set To Defect To The PDP As Sen Jarigbe Holds Town Hall Meetings

    Zana Akpagu Set To Defect To The PDP As Sen Jarigbe Holds Town Hall Meetings

     

    The former Vice Chancellor of the University of Calabar, and one time aspirant for the Cross River Northern Senatorial District bye-election, under the All Progressive Congress APC, Prof Zana Akpagu, has declared support for Sen Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe and noted that when they go back, he will discuss with Engr Jacob and plan a bigger rally for defection from the All Progressive Congress APC to the People’s Democratic Party PDP.

    The former UNICAL Vice Chancellor, made this known during the town hall meeting organized by Sen Jarigbe Agom with his constituents yesterday May 25th 2025 at the various venues where the town hall meetings held.

    The excited Prof Akpagu, was reacting to the overwhelming demonstration of love and support for Sen Jarigbe Agom, by the people of Bekwarra Local Government Area, when he sighted Engr Jacob, one of Bekwarra Prominent sons who is a member of the All Progressive Congress APC, came out in solidarity with Sen Jarigbe Agom, on the basis of performance.

    In his words “I want to thank you all for this show of love you have shown to your son Sen Jarigbe Agom. I congratulate you for this solidarity. When we go back, we will discuss with Engr Jacob and plan a bigger rally for defection. I won’t move alone I will bring him to the PDP”.

    Earlier, the former university don, had told his kingsmen in Obudu that it was witchcraft for anyone not to identify with a performing leader like Sen Jarigbe Agom.

    He informed that he took Sen Jarigbe unaware and jumped into the bus with him and he will follow him through the five local government areas for the town hall meetings and he is sure that Sen Jarigbe won’t drive him away.

    He averred that “I will come to my PDP ward chairman, the chapter Chairman and perfect my membership registration process and then defect formally. For now I’m an illegal member”.

    The state party Chairman of the PDP, Mr Vena Ikem Esq, described Prof Akpagu as an uncommon Vice Chancellor, who used the office to empower Cross Riverians.

    He said Ipong ward was blessed with two leaders, one a governor and the other a Vice Chancellor and both occupied a place of prominence. While the former governor was busy doing food on the table, Prof Zana preoccupied his thought process with giving people live long employments.

    Reacting to the development, Mr Udie Mike, who spoke on behalf of Obudu, noted that the biggest achievement in Obudu by Sen Jarigbe is the return of the former Vice Chancellor, Prof Zana Akpagu to the PDP. He assured that with the performance of the senator, more of the APC members are ready to defect to the PDP.

    A foundation member of the PDP, Prof Zana Akpagu, was two time commissioner during Sen Liyel Imoke.

    The former Vice Chancellor is said to have given appointment to not less than 10 persons in each of the 54 political wards in Northern Senatorial District.

     

     

  • The Illusion of a Serious Opposition Coalition BY OKOI OBONO-OBLA

    The Illusion of a Serious Opposition Coalition BY OKOI OBONO-OBLA

     

    Recent developments regarding the much-talked-about opposition coalition aiming to unseat the ruling APC in 2027 raise serious doubts about its viability and strategic coherence.

    The assignment of two former South-South governors to spearhead discussions on whether to create a new political party or adopt an existing one as the coalition’s platform underscores the uncertainty and lack of direction among the key players. Earlier this week, reports suggested that the coalition had settled on the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as its political vehicle, only for a swift denial to follow, deepening skepticism about its seriousness.

    This ambiguity is not new. Just months ago, a prominent coalitionist dramatically resigned from the APC and joined the SDP, proclaiming it as the chosen party for the opposition’s grand strategy. Yet, this plan fizzled out almost as soon as it was announced.

    With less than two years until the next general election, any serious political movement would have finalized its strategy by now. Forming a new political party at this stage seems impractical, given the rigorous legal and constitutional processes required for registration, which could take nearly a year. Additionally, a newly registered party would need substantial time and resources to establish structures across Nigeria’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.

    Even if the coalition opts to adopt an existing party, the enormous logistical hurdles of branding it effectively and securing widespread acceptance among voters remain daunting. Time is rapidly slipping away, and without a clear, resolute approach, the coalition risks becoming another footnote in Nigeria’s political history—a movement that never truly took shape.

    @ 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.

  • Innovating Healthcare: Nigerian Nurses As Changemakers And Solution Providers BY JOE OBI BISONG

    Innovating Healthcare: Nigerian Nurses As Changemakers And Solution Providers BY JOE OBI BISONG

     

    Being a Paper presented On the 20th May, 2025 at College of Health Technology, Calabar

    Protocol

    Innovating Healthcare: Nigerian Nurses as Change Makers and Solution Providers

    1, Introduction
    At the heart of Nigeria’s health care delivery system are Nurses, who are the most populous group of health professionals uniquely positioned to drive transformative changes in the health sector,

    Traditionally seen as caregivers working with other professionals,but the trend has changed, The Nigerian nurses are increasingly assuming leadership roles as innovators, advocates, educators, researchers, and policymakers. In this , discussion, we shall explore the evolving role of Nigerian nurses as change makers and solution providers, examining how they are spearheading innovation in health-care, overcoming systemic challenges, and redefining patient care in a rapidly changing world.

    Today, Nigerian nurses work in diverse settings: hospitals, clinics, schools, industries, and communities. They form the backbone of primary health-care delivery, particularly in rural areas where physicians are scarce.

    However, for decades, the potential of nurses has been undermined by;
    systemic challenges, including limited professional autonomy,
    inadequate training infrastructure,
    poor remuneration,
    and a lack of representation in decision-making processes.

    Despite these challenges, Nigerian nurses have continued to rise to the occasion, driving innovations that directly impact patient care, healthcare delivery, and public health outcomes.

    Nigerian Nurses as Innovators in Healthcare Delivery

    Innovation in healthcare goes beyond technology; it encompasses new models of care, creative problem-solving, and system improvements that enhance quality and access. Nigerian nurses are leading innovation in community health outreach programs, especially in rural and underserved areas. They designing mobile clinics, immunization campaigns, and home-based care programs and reach populations that might otherwise be neglected. For example, during polio eradication campaigns, community health nurses led door-to-door immunization drives, coordinated local logistics, and built trust among hesitant populations.

    b. Task Shifting and Expanded Roles

    Due to the shortage of physicians, especially in rural areas, task shifting has become a pragmatic solution. Nigerian nurses have embraced expanded roles, providing services traditionally reserved for doctors—such as antiretroviral therapy (ART) management, maternal and neonatal care, and chronic disease monitoring. Nurse-led clinics have emerged as efficient models for delivering HIV care and antenatal services, reducing waiting times and improving treatment adherence.

    c. Use of Mobile Technology and e-Health Tools

    In response to Nigeria’s growing mobile connectivity, nurses are leveraging digital health tools to monitor patient outcomes, schedule follow-ups, and deliver health education. Projects such as mHealth Nigeria have involved nurses in the dissemination of maternal health information through SMS, improving prenatal and postnatal care uptake. Digital innovations are also empowering nurses to collect data for surveillance and research.

    3. Nurses as Leaders in Health System Reform

    Beyond clinical care, Nigerian nurses are increasingly engaged in health system reforms and policy advocacy. Their proximity to patients and communities gives them firsthand insight into systemic failures and opportunities for improvement. Key areas of leadership include:

    a. Policy Advocacy

    Nurse-led organizations like the National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives (NANNM) advocate for better working conditions, regulatory reforms, and increased health sector funding. Nurses have been at the forefront of campaigns for universal health coverage, family planning access, and maternal health legislation.

    b. Educational Reforms and Professional Development

    Nigerian nurses are pioneering efforts to raise the standards of nursing education and practice. With the upgrading of nursing schools into degree-awarding institutions, nurses are pushing for competency-based curricula that emphasize leadership, research, and inter-professional collaboration. Programs like the Bachelor of Nursing Science (BNSc) and postgraduate specialties are producing a new cadre of highly skilled nurse leaders.

     

    c. Research and Evidence-Based Practice

    The integration of evidence-based practice (EBP) into nursing care is gaining ground. Nigerian nurses are conducting research on local health challenges—from maternal mortality to mental health and infectious disease control. Their findings inform clinical guidelines and community interventions, fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

    5. Challenges Facing Nigerian Nurses in Their Role as Change Agents

    Despite these achievements, several challenges hinder Nigerian nurses from reaching their full potential as innovators and leaders:

    a. Brain Drain and Workforce Shortages

    Thousands of Nigerian nurses emigrate annually in search of better working conditions, remuneration, and professional respect. This “brain drain” has depleted the health system of experienced personnel and increased the workload for those who remain.

    b. Gender Bias and Professional Hierarchy

    Nursing, traditionally perceived as a female-dominated profession, often suffers from gendered stereotypes. In many institutions, nurses are excluded from decision-making roles, relegated to subordinate positions despite their competence. Infighting among the various nursing practitioners.

    c. Infrastructure and Funding Deficits

    Innovations require enabling environments. Many nurses work in facilities with poor infrastructure, inadequate medical supplies, and limited access to training or research funding. These limitations stifle creativity and affect care delivery.

    d. Limited Autonomy and Recognition

    Although nurses play pivotal roles in patient care, they often lack the autonomy to make clinical decisions or implement new care models without physician approval. This undermines their capacity to act as true change agents.

    6. The Way Forward: Empowering Nigerian Nurses for the Future
    The nursing and midwifery council of nigeria MUST revise the curriculum of pupil nurses and retraining of the older nurses to reflect comtemporary global health care practices.
    This will fully harness the potential of Nigerian nurses as change makers and solution providers.:

    a. Policy and Legislative Support

    The Nigerian government and health regulatory bodies must enact policies that recognize and protect the expanded roles of nurses. The implementation of the Nurses and Midwives (Establishment) Act, coupled with supportive labor laws, can ensure fair treatment, better working conditions, and professional autonomy.

    b. Strengthening Nursing Education and Research

    Upgrading nursing schools to full-fledged colleges and universities, introducing doctoral-level nursing programs, and promoting interdisciplinary research will equip nurses with the knowledge and tools to innovate. Continued professional development should be encouraged through scholarships, fellowships, and international exchange programs.

    c. Promoting Leadership and Representation

    Nurses should be represented at all levels of healthcare planning and policymaking—from hospital management boards to national health councils. Leadership training should be embedded in nursing curricula to prepare nurses for executive roles.

    d. Investing in Technology and Infrastructure

    Healthcare facilities must be equipped with the necessary tools and technologies to support innovation. Nurses should be involved in the design and implementation of health tech solutions, ensuring that digital tools align with frontline realities.

    e. Public Awareness and Professional Image Building

    Changing societal perceptions of nursing is essential.student nurses should be treated with dignity. Media campaigns, school outreach programs, and public health education can highlight the impact of nurses as leaders and innovators. Encouraging male participation and diversity in nursing will also challenge outdated stereotypes.

    Conclusion

    In the journey toward a resilient and equitable healthcare system in Nigeria, nurses stand as indispensable pillars of change. Far from being passive caregivers, they are emerging as innovators, leaders, and strategic thinkers who craft solutions to the most pressing health challenges. Whether by designing community-based interventions, leading policy reforms, or leveraging digital tools, Nigerian nurses are reshaping the healthcare landscape from the inside out.

    To fully realize this transformative potential, there must be deliberate efforts by government, institutions, and society to invest in nursing, elevate the profession’s status. Nurses are not just part of the system, but the driving force behind its progress.
    Nursing is more than a profession. It is calling grounded in purpose, compassion, and leading transformative changer across the healthcare system.

    Thank you

    Joe Obi Bisong RN, RPN, RNT, BSc(Hons), MSC
    e-mail: [email protected]
    08066670557

    Chief Joe Obi Bisong is a male, a retired Nurse, Educator, Scholar, Farmer and Politician.
    Former Leader, Boki Legislature, One time Cross River State PDP Publicity Secretary.
    He was Senior Special Assistant to CRS Governor, and also Special Adviser Environment CRS Governor.
    He served as Director General Caterpillar Movement, and Deputy DG of the PDP Governorship Governorship campaigns ,2023.
    He is an Environmental Resource management researcher. He is married with children.
    Holder of several honorary awards and chieftency titles. His hobbies include: Arbitration, Driving, table tennis and intellectual discuss.

     

    Disclaimer: The opinion expressed in this article is strictly that of the author, Chief Joe Obi Bisong, and does not represent TheLumineNews, it’s agents or the organization the author works for.

  • Bekwarra LG Crisis: Acting Governor Odey Brokers Peace Between Chairman And Councillors

    Bekwarra LG Crisis: Acting Governor Odey Brokers Peace Between Chairman And Councillors

     

    Acting Governor of Cross River State, Rt. Hon. Dr. Peter Odey, has intervened in the political crisis unfolding in Bekwarra Local Government Area following the impeachment notice issued to Council Chairman, Hon. Theresa Ushie, by the councillors.

    On March 20, 2025, nine out of ten councillors initiated impeachment proceedings against the council Chairman of Bekwarra LG, Hon Theresa Ushie, citing allegations of financial mismanagement, lack of transparency, and abuse of office. The accusation deepened as accusations of unilateral decision-making and poor communication between the executive and legislative arms dominated discourse at the meeting.

    Responding swiftly, Acting Governor Odey convened an emergency stakeholders’ meeting on March 24, 2025, followed by a second session on March 28, 2025, at his temporary office in the Glass House, Calabar.

    After extensive deliberations, it was observed that the crisis primarily stemmed from a breakdown in communication between the Chairman and the Councillors. Acknowledging this, Hon. Ushie offered an apology for any lapses and reaffirmed her commitment to working harmoniously with the legislators and other stakeholders in the local government.

    In his address, Acting Governor Odey urged all political stakeholders to set aside their differences and focus on governance and service delivery to the people of Bekwarra. He emphasized the need for due process, collaboration, and dialogue in resolving conflicts, stressing that effective communication and inclusiveness should be prioritized to prevent future disputes.

    Acting Governor Odey, leveraging his experience as a former UNDP advisor and legislator, adopted a family-oriented approach to resolving the crisis but cautioned that such interventions may not always be available. He called on all public officeholders to be proactive in their duties and embrace dialogue and consultation as essential tools for conflict resolution.

    Concluding, He stressed that impeachment should not be trivialized or used as a political weapon, as it is meant to be a last resort

    In their separate remarks, the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem, State Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, Barr. Alphonsus Eba, and Chief of Staff to the Governor, Hon. Emmanuel Ironbar, emphasized the importance of peace and unity. They urged stakeholders to support the State Governor’s “People First” mantra, noting that no society thrives in a disharmonious environment.

    Also present at the reconciliatory meeting were the Deputy Speaker of the House of Assembly, Hon. Sylvester Agabi, Member representing Bekwarra State Constituency, Hon. Charles Omang Commissioner for Local Government Affairs, Chief Victor Felix-Idem; Commissioner for Finance, Dr. Michael Odere; Head of Personal Staff to the Acting Governor, Dr. Chris Ojiokpong, Bekwarra LG APC Chapter Chairman, Thomas Odama, and the Local Government Vice Chairman, Hon. Egbung Odama, among others.

    Fred Abua, Esq.,
    Press Secretary to the Acting Governor of Cross River State
    28/03/2025

  • RE: Should the people of Cross River Central Senatorial District Withdraw Senator Eteng Williams?

    RE: Should the people of Cross River Central Senatorial District Withdraw Senator Eteng Williams?

     

    We have taken note of Henry Tanya’s article, which attempts to draw comparisons between Distinguished Sen Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe and Senator Eteng Jonah Williams. This article is a clear attempt to stir up controversy and create unnecessary tension.

    By solely focusing on Senators Eteng and Jarigbe, the author ignores that there are three senators representing Cross River State. This comparison is unfair and designed to drive a wedge between the two senators. It is utterly absurd to compare someone with a decade of experience in the National Assembly, like Senator Jarigbe, to someone with only two years of experience in the Senate.

    The intent behind this analysis reeks of bias, and it is wrong to single out one legislator from a group of 11 for such negative focus. Henry’s comparison also overlooks the broader picture of how our state and country are governed. It is inappropriate to bring internal party politics into this, and Sen. Jarigbe wants no part in fueling such divisiveness.

    If the focus is on service to the people, then all the lawmakers should be judged fairly based on their collective work and impact, not on divisive narratives. We advise Henry to avoid using Senator Jarigbe ‘s performance index to fuel personal ambitions or incite unnecessary conflicts and the Senator should be excused from the APC’s internal politics.

    In conclusion, instead of perpetuating divisive Rhetorics, we should focus on promoting unity and constructive dialogue. The people of Cross River State deserve fair representation, and it’s our responsibility to ensure that our leaders are held accountable for their actions, not their party affiliations or personal connections.

    TEAM JARI MEDIA

  • APC Stakeholder Berates Gov Otu, APC For Poor Reward System

    APC Stakeholder Berates Gov Otu, APC For Poor Reward System

    APC must be delibrate in improving it’s rewards system

    Giving 100k to Local Government aspirants as a Christmas package and covering transportation to and fro Calabar by Governor Bishop Senator Prince Bassey Otu is, frankly, insulting. It was less than 100k because some money was deducted for clearance. This is supposed to be for a people with not only families but also having supporters they ought to reach out to on Yuletide. This gesture reflects how the APC treats its members – with disregard and a lack of genuine appreciation. Governance should be about inclusion, not tossing crumbs at people and expecting unwavering loyalty.

    To even imagine that the less than 100k was given to aggrieved APC aspirants who were called for peace to mitigate the unfair selection of others makes it worse

    Barr Alphonsus Ogar Eba , APC state Chairman, it’s crucial we do better. The excuse of “no money” rings hollow when those in power live lavishly, prioritizing personal interests, family, and loyalists over dedicated members. Let’s remind those in power that elections will come again, and they’ll need the support of those they’re currently neglecting and insulting with paltry gestures.

    Joseph Odok PhD Esq

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

  • An Open Invitation to Join the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) BY AUSTIN IBOK

    An Open Invitation to Join the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) BY AUSTIN IBOK

     

    Dear APC Aspirants in the Recently Concluded CRS LGA Elections,

    I commend your unwavering dedication to leadership and your active participation in the democratic process within our state. Your commitment to the progress and development of our communities is truly admirable. However, the recent treatment many of you have received from the Governor and the APC leadership highlights a troubling disregard for your contributions and aspirations.

    The selection processes within the APC were marked by arrogance, impunity, and a lack of respect or consultation with key leaders representing various LGAs. Many of you were denied the opportunity to demonstrate your capacity and competence in the field, with rewards seemingly reserved for those with close personal ties to the Governor or members of the old APC. If figures like Ayade and Dr. Frank, who played instrumental roles in the Governor’s emergence, could be marginalized, what hope is there for others?

    This presents a unique opportunity for true supporters of Ayade to reconsider their position and align with the PDP, while leaving Ayade himself in the APC. This allows his administration to continue enjoying the protection it seeks, while core supporters can chart a new path within a platform that truly values their efforts.

    At both the state and national levels, the APC administration has brought untold hardship to Nigerians through poor policies, mismanagement, and broken promises. Aspirants like you, who have sacrificed so much, have been sidelined and denied the recognition and support you rightfully deserve.

    The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) offers a fresh start—a platform that prioritizes inclusiveness, progress, and genuine leadership. In the PDP, your contributions will not only be valued but celebrated. Together, we can rebuild our state and restore hope to our people. We have learned from our past mistakes.

    We warmly invite you to join us in shaping a brighter, more prosperous future for our state. Let us unite to deliver real results and lasting progress for all.

    Compliment of the season.

    Yours sincerely,
    Austine Ibok
    PDP Stakeholder, CRS

  • Give Us Time, We will Resolve Our Misunderstanding, Akpanke Tells Obudu PDP Stakeholders

    Give Us Time, We will Resolve Our Misunderstanding, Akpanke Tells Obudu PDP Stakeholders

     

    The member representing Obudu/Bekwarra/Obanliku federal constituency, Hon Peter Akpanke, has assured stakeholders of the People’s Democratic Party PDP, in Obudu Local Government Area that the widespread misunderstanding that seemed to have caused division among party faithfuls will soon be resolved.

    The Member of Parliament made the disclosure at his residence, Keting – Bendi in Obanliku today 3rd December 2024 when he hosted stakeholders of the People’s Democratic Party PDP.

    Akpanke who reacted to the call by the stakeholders for the trio of Sen Jarigbe Agom, Hon Peter Akpanke and Mr Vena Ikem Esq, the PDP State Chairman to come together and provide the leadership that is required of them, noted that the leadership has decided to put the differences behind them to enable them provided the leadership and representation that is required of them.

    Stakeholders from the 10 wards of Obudu Local Government Area, took turns to expressed their disappointment over what they referred to as in-house differences, rather became an issue that was discussed everywhere and used the opportunity and charged the trio to unite for task ahead is very demanding.

    Hon Akpanke used the opportunity to appreciate stakeholders for the support given to the party, and noted that even husband and wives have some misunderstandings and how best they resolve their differences matters.

    He noted that “The little disagreement, we have met and decided that we should reunite ourselves, give us time, we will resolve fully.

    “All the people that were suspended, by the grace of God, they will be reinstated”.

    Akpanke berated the use of social media to vent anger when he said “There are more mature ways of settling issues other than going to social media.
    I don’t need to destroy people today and tomorrow I come and pretend to you that I need you.

    “We are very sorry for disappointing you. For those of you who wants to destroy others, please stop it. Some of you seated here are the ones spreading the rumors.

    “I have not told anybody that I want to defect to APC. I have not told anybody that I will run for senate. Whatever issues you think we have, we will resolve them. To

    “I will invite the three chapter chairmen to Abuja and we will have a meeting with leadership in Abuja to consolidate”.

    On the request for constituents to be awarded contracts to equip them for grassroot mobilization, Hon Akpanke, informed stakeholders that there seemed to be more bottle necks in the release of funds for projects execution now than before.

    He called on constituents to exercise some patience when he said “Please know that Sen Jarigbe Agom and I are in opposition. Give us the four years and access our performances”.

    On his rumoured defection, he said “I’m not defecting to anywhere. Those who are there, how well are they?
    Please don’t take anything personal.

    “All the issues you hear, are 80 percent resolved.
    They know our strength, and wants to infiltrate us. We will not give them the opportunity”.

    On the last local government elections, he averred that “The local government elections was not within our powers. The election was state government election. In Obanliku, they brought materials, they gave us result sheets, but they didn’t give us the ward result sheets, where will we have collated the results?”.

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