The Lumine News

Category: Press release

  • Cross River Govt Denies Plans to Relocate UNICROSS Okuku Campus

    Cross River Govt Denies Plans to Relocate UNICROSS Okuku Campus

    By Elijah Ugani 

    The Cross River State Government has dismissed as false and politically motivated reports alleging plans to relocate the Okuku Campus of the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS) to Akamkpa.

    In a press statement issued on Monday, the Commissioner for Education, Senator Professor Stephen Odey Adi Odey, described the rumour as “unfounded, mischievous and politically motivated,” saying it was intended to create unnecessary tension and mislead the public.

    According to the Commissioner, the rumour has generated anxiety among students, parents, members of staff, and residents of Yala and surrounding communities, prompting numerous inquiries seeking clarification.

    “There is no iota of truth in this rumour. It is a complete fabrication, conceived by political detractors to create confusion, sow discord, and distract the government from its commitment to educational development,” the statement said.
    Rather than considering the relocation of the campus, the Commissioner noted that the administration of Governor Bassey Edet Otu has continued to invest in the development of the institution.

    He disclosed that the Governor, working through the Vice Chancellor of UNICROSS, Professor Francisca Bassey, recently approved the renovation of facilities at the Okuku Campus as part of efforts to improve infrastructure and strengthen academic activities.

    He stressed that the Okuku Campus remains an integral part of the University and reiterated the government’s commitment to its continued growth and development.

    The Commissioner urged members of the public, particularly residents of Yala and other stakeholders, to disregard the rumour, assuring them that there are no plans by the state government to relocate the campus from its present location.

  • UNICAL Reassures Students, Parents of Campus Safety, Tightens Hostel Security

    UNICAL Reassures Students, Parents of Campus Safety, Tightens Hostel Security

    By Elijah Ugani 

    The University of Calabar (UNICAL) has reassured students, parents, guardians and the general public that the institution remains safe and secure, following concerns raised about the security of students in some campus hostels.

    In a statement issued by the University’s Public Relations Unit, the management responded to comments by the Secretary of the Niger Delta Activists Forum, Comrade Ogar Emmanuel Oko, regarding the safety of students residing in Malabor and Halls 8 and 9.

    The University emphasized that the welfare and safety of students remain the highest priority of the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Offiong Efanga Offiong, and the institution’s administration.

    To further strengthen security across campus, management disclosed that the Chief Security Officer, in collaboration with the Dean of Students’ Affairs, has been directed to intensify security operations in all hostels. The measures include increased day and night patrols, stricter access control at hostel entry points, and enhanced surveillance, particularly around female hostels.

    The institution also said it is working closely with relevant security agencies to maintain a safe learning and residential environment for students.

    Reaffirming its zero-tolerance stance on threats to student safety, the University stated that any act capable of endangering students would attract appropriate disciplinary and legal sanctions in accordance with its regulations.

    Management added that it is engaging hostel porters, the Student Union Government (SUG), and hall executives to strengthen vigilance on campus and encourage the prompt reporting of suspicious activities. Students were also advised to safeguard their personal belongings and immediately report any security concerns to the University’s security unit.

    The University reiterated its commitment to providing a secure environment that guarantees the safety, dignity and peace of mind of all members of the campus community, while appreciating stakeholders for their continued interest in student welfare.

    The statement concluded by reaffirming that the University of Calabar remains safe and secure.

  • Ekpenyong Akiba Says Waterboard Clearance Exercise Is Infrastructure-Driven, Not Political

    Ekpenyong Akiba Says Waterboard Clearance Exercise Is Infrastructure-Driven, Not Political

    TheLumineNews Admin 

    The Special Adviser to the Cross River State Governor on General Duties, Ekpenyong Akiba Esq., has dismissed claims that the ongoing clearance notices issued to occupants of buildings within the Waterboard Estate in Calabar are politically motivated, describing the exercise as a necessary step toward rehabilitating the state’s water infrastructure.

    The clearance notices have generated widespread debate, with some opposition figures alleging that the exercise is targeted at political opponents ahead of the 2027 elections. However, Akiba said the action is based solely on engineering and legal considerations aimed at restoring the Cross River State Waterboard Limited.

    According to him, the state government is working to secure funding for the rehabilitation of the Waterboard, a project that has reportedly faced delays due to the need for unrestricted access to key infrastructure. He explained that the rehabilitation requires excavation along major underground water mains that serve the state’s water distribution network.

    Akiba disclosed that technical assessments identified 39 structures, including private residences, former staff quarters, and buildings occupied by retirees, as having been constructed directly above critical underground water pipelines. He said these structures now constitute major obstacles to the planned rehabilitation works.

    “Where water mains are located beneath buildings, government has both the legal responsibility and the obligation to clear the right-of-way to enable the restoration of potable water supply,” he said.

    The clearance exercise drew increased public attention after a notice was reportedly served on Barr. Alphonsus Ogar Eba, a former Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Cross River State and the reported deputy governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the 2027 election.

    Responding to allegations of selective enforcement, Akiba said the affected properties belong to individuals across different political affiliations and public service backgrounds.

    According to him, the list includes serving commissioners, special advisers in the current administration, former permanent secretaries, and retired civil servants, indicating that the exercise is not directed at any particular political group.

    He maintained that the clearance is being implemented strictly on the basis of the location of underground water infrastructure rather than the political status of property owners.

    Akiba further stated that all affected occupants have been served the required legal notices in line with due process and that government is engaging stakeholders while considering appropriate relocation arrangements where necessary.

    He reaffirmed that the objective of the exercise is to facilitate the rehabilitation of the Waterboard and improve access to potable water for residents of Calabar and surrounding communities.

  • The Current State Of Agbokim Waterfall Road: Setting The Records Straight BY JON OWAN ENOH

    The Current State Of Agbokim Waterfall Road: Setting The Records Straight BY JON OWAN ENOH

    PRESS RELEASE

    THE CURRENT STATE OF AGBOKIM WATERFALL ROAD: SETTING THE RECORD STRAIGHT

    I am compelled to respond to a trending video circulated by one MC Okrika on May 26, 2026, in which deliberate falsehoods, distortions and malicious allegations were made against my person regarding the deplorable condition of the Agbokim Waterfall Road.

    Let me state from the outset that this response must not be misconstrued as an attempt to excuse, defend, or trivialize the unacceptable condition of the road and the daily hardship endured by our people and neighboring communities. I share in these pains personally. As someone who has remained deeply connected to his roots and accessible to his people throughout my years in public service, I travel home regularly and experience firsthand the frustration, discomfort and economic setbacks caused by the current state of the road.

    However, while genuine concerns about the road are legitimate, the reckless falsehood peddled by MC Okrika, particularly the claim that I avoided the road during my recent visit by taking an alternative route is completely false, mischievous and clearly part of his coordinated smear campaign designed to tarnish my reputation and mislead the public.

    Those familiar with my concerns/ interventions on the Agbokim Waterfall Road know that I have consistently acknowledged that the condition of the road remains one of the greatest disappointments in my otherwise distinguished record in public service. At no point have I shied away from admitting the seriousness of the problem. What must equally be made clear, however, is that the prolonged deterioration of the road has never been due to indifference, neglect or lack of sustained effort on my part.

    For the purpose of clarity and public enlightenment, the following facts are hereby presented:

    1. THE ROAD HAS REMAINED UNDER AN ACTIVE NDDC CONTRACT FOR YEARS
    For virtually all the years the Agbokim Waterfall Road has remained in a deplorable condition, the road has been under a valid contract awarded by the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).

    The initial contract for the reconstruction of the road was awarded around 2009 to a company called JAMEON Nigeria Ltd.Because it was a company with no known record,the Senate Leader then,Senator Ndoma Egba(SAN)and i, signed a joint protest letter addressed to the then Director General of the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP),Engr Emeka Eze,against the award.Regrettably,we were ignored.

    Unfortunately, the execution of the contract by Jameon was plagued by an extremely slow pace of work and glaring incompetence. Years later, the road’s continued deplorable state more than vindicated the concerns we raised from the onset.

    2. I FOUGHT CONSISTENTLY FOR THE REVOCATION AND THE RE-AWARD OF THE FAILED CONTRACT
    Following the glaring failure of JAMEON Nigeria Ltd. , despite records indicating that the company had reportedly received nearly half of the contract sum, I continued to pressure the NDDC authorities for the contract to be revoked and reassigned to a more credible contractor.
    After sustained engagement with both the NDDC as well as the supervising Minister and even the Presidency, the NDDC eventually revoked the contract in the last quarter of 2024.
    Consequently,the contract for the emergency construction of the road in four Lots was awarded to two companies,FaithPlant and Rhema around the last quarter of 2024.By January 2025,the NDDC formally handed over the road to the contractors.

    3. THE CLAIM THAT I OWN THE CONTRACT IS FALSE, MALICIOUS, AND DEFAMATORY
    Let me categorically and unequivocally state that neither I nor any proxy linked to me has ever been awarded the Agbokim Waterfall Road contract.
    The insinuation by MC Okrika that I own the contract is a blatant lie fabricated to deceive the public and assassinate my character. It is malicious, defamatory, and borne purely out of hatred, mischief and political bitterness.
    Throughout my years in public office, I have conducted myself with integrity and an abiding respect for ethical standards. I have never solicited for, demanded, or received any financial benefit from any contractor handling the project. My commitment to public service and accountability will never permit such conduct.

    4. THE CURRENT SLOW PROGRESS IS LARGELY DUE TO FUNDING CHALLENGES
    It is a known fact that the current contractors moved with speed immediately they took over the road.However, the slow pace currently being witnessed on the project is due to funding challenges.
    Nonetheless, I have continued to actively engage the leadership of the NDDC and other relevant bodies to overcome this challenge and ensure the full resumption and completion of work on the road.

    Beyond this, I have continued to make personal efforts to mobilize resources and alternative funding aimed at accelerating progress on the project because I understand fully the strategic and economic importance of the road to our people.

    While MC Okrika chooses to weaponize the suffering of our people for cheap political attacks and social media relevance, I remain focused on solutions, not propaganda. My commitment to the people has never been driven by noise-making or opportunism, but by genuine service and tangible impact.

    5. MY COMMITMENT TO MY PEOPLE REMAINS UNWAVERING,UNBEATABLE
    My love for my community and my dedication to the welfare of the people I represent remain unquestionable. Indeed, the people have always been at the center of my political philosophy and my public service engagements, both in the Legislative and Executive arms of government where I have had the rare privilege to serve.
    Ironically, even in the course of his ill-motivated attack, MC Okrika inadvertently acknowledged one of the many intervention programmes I currently champion — the Statewide MSME Intervention Programme designed to empower small businesses and expand economic opportunities for our people.
    Public service comes with sacrifices, including unfair criticism, deliberate misinformation and politically motivated attacks. I have accepted this reality long ago.

    However, no amount of coordinated hostility or sponsored blackmail will distract me from my responsibility to continue serving my people diligently and honourably.

    The undeniable truth remains that the Agbokim Waterfall Road requires urgent and lasting intervention. I remain confident that under the very able leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, whose administration I am privileged to serve as member of cabinet, the project will ultimately receive the attention and completion it deserves.

    I therefore urge our people to remain patient, vigilant and supportive as ongoing efforts continue to ensure that this important road is fully reconstructed for the benefit of present and future generations.
    Thank you and God bless.

    John Owan Enoh
    Hon. Minister of State for Industry
    27/05/2026

  • Jarigbe Dissociates From Michael Emaluji, Asks The Public To Hold Him Responsible For His Actions

    Jarigbe Dissociates From Michael Emaluji, Asks The Public To Hold Him Responsible For His Actions

    PRESS RELEASE

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    OFFICE OF SENATOR JARIGBE AGOM JARIGBE
    Representing Cross River North Senatorial District

    PUBLIC NOTICE: DISSOCIATION FROM THE ACTIONS AND INACTIONS OF MR. MICHAEL EMALUJI

    The Office of Distinguished Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe wishes to bring to the attention of the general public, particularly constituents of Cross River North and all Nigerians, the urgent need to clearly distinguish between the Senator and his official activities, and the personal conduct of one Mr. Michael Emaluji.

    It has come to our notice that Mr. Michael Emaluji has, through certain actions, inactions, and statements made both online and in physical interactions, created impressions or expectations that may be incorrectly linked to Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe or his office.

    We hereby state unequivocally that Mr. Michael Emaluji is not a staff, agent, representative, or affiliate of Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, nor does he act on behalf of the Senator’s office in any capacity. The Senator has not authorized him to make any statement, representation, or commitment whether on social media, in public meetings, or in private dealings that would bind or reflect the Senator or his office.

    Consequently:

    1. The general public is hereby advised to hold Mr. Michael Emaluji solely responsible for his own actions and inactions, and to seek redress directly from him for any claims, promises, or obligations arising from his conduct.

    2. Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe and his office are fully and completely dissociated from any activity, transaction, representation, or communication by Mr. Michael Emaluji, whether undertaken online or physically.

    We caution all individuals, groups, and institutions to desist from associating Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe with any matter involving Mr. Michael Emaluji. Any person who feels maligned by his actions, is advised to take lawful actions to seek redress.

    For verification of any person claiming to represent Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, please contact the Senator’s official office via the details below.

    Signed:

    John Agom Agom
    Special Assistant Media

  • Muslim Community Appeals To Sen Jarigbe To Stop Responding To Ayade, Insists They Know Who Truly Love Them

    Muslim Community Appeals To Sen Jarigbe To Stop Responding To Ayade, Insists They Know Who Truly Love Them

    An Open Letter to Distinguished Senator Sen Jarigbe Agom For All: Do Not Respond to Prof. Ben Ayade

    Dear Distinguished Senator Sen Jarigbe Agom,

    We, your constituents from the Muslim community, most especially the Hausa community in Cross River North, are writing to urge you: do not waste your time responding to former Governor Ben Ayade.

    A man’s true character is revealed by his actions, not his Statement. We the entirety Hausa community (Muslim Ummah) have lived in Ogoja, Yala, Bekwarra, Obudu, and Obanliku for decades if not Century. We know who opened doors for us and who only remembered us during campaigns.

    When our Central Mosque in needed lighting, you did not send a delegation. You came yourself and solved it. When our brother and sisters needed help, you picked the call. When we lost Our Late Sarki (My Inlaw), you came personally to condole with us and even showed how generous you are, you donated handsomely for the widow( My Mother Inlaw) And the entire family. We were mourning and also smiling because you came and put a smile on our faces. Your door was open to many of us. You never asked us about tribe or faith. You acted!

    “True friends are best known by their actions, loyalty, and unwavering support during times of adversity, rather than just in times of prosperity or comfort” Dear Distinguished Senator Jarigbe, you are a true friend . You support us, ‘we Dey gidi gba wit you’

    That is why we say with full chest: we know who loves us by actions and who only claimed to love us with words.

    Prof Ben Ayade had eight years. Good Eight years to show love to the Hausa whole community rather selected one, Eight years to fix our roads, support our markets men and women and respect our faith. The record is there. We saw it. We lived it.

    Responding to him now will only drag you into noise. The people who matter have already decided, because we felt your impact. Our elders say: “The goat that is already in the market does not join issues with the one still in the bush.” You are already with the people.

    Let your works keep answering for you. When he talks, let the solar lights in our mosque answer. When he writes, let the those who you felicitated their Hajj, Grants you paid for answer. When he grants interviews, let the peace we enjoy under your representation answer.

    Dear Distinguished Senator Jarigbe, stay focused. We, the Muslims and Hausa community of Cross River North, are not confused. We know our friend. We will show it at the right time.

    Remain silent and keep working. Action is the only reply Ayade does not understand.

    Thank you,

    Amb Mohammed Garba Yahaya
    Spokesperson,
    Coalition for Better Nigeria.

  • I Implore All Of Us, Aspirants, To Listen To The Voices Of Our People And Not Live In Denial Of The Obvious. Are The People We Seek To Serve, Willing To vote For Us Or Not? Vox Populi, Vox Dei – Jarigbe Agom

    I Implore All Of Us, Aspirants, To Listen To The Voices Of Our People And Not Live In Denial Of The Obvious. Are The People We Seek To Serve, Willing To vote For Us Or Not? Vox Populi, Vox Dei – Jarigbe Agom

    The senator representing Cross River Northern Senatorial District, Sen Jarigbe Agom, has called on all aspirants for the senate ticket to listen to the voices of electorates and not to live in denial of the obvious truth. He asked the to introspect and see if the people the seek to represent will vote for them as the voice of the people is the voice of God.

    The senator who took to his verified Facebook page, Sen Jarigbe Agom, called on all his supporters to desit from using abusive language to describe or refer to his opponents, former Governor Ben Ayade and Hon Legor Idagbo. He insisted that his campaign will be defined by ideas, not insults.

    Fine full text of his press release:

    “A Piece of My Thoughts.

    “My dear good people of Cross River North,

    “As we embark on this re-election journey, I thank you deeply for your unwavering support, but today, I must speak plainly to you about the path we must take.

    “I am aware that emotions run high. Our opponents, including my brother, former Governor, Senator Ben Ayade, are formidable. I charge you: do not use uncouth words against any aspirant. No insult, no personal attack, no abusive language. We are better than that. Our campaign will be defined by ideas, not insults.

    “Furthermore, I demand that you respect the Seat of Governor, whether serving or former, regardless of who occupies it. Whether you believe the former Governor performed or underperformed, that office commands our collective dignity. No man is infallible. We all have strengths and weaknesses. Let us critique records, not abuse persons.

    “Let us pursue a healthy contest and one that reflects our proper upbringing as sons and daughters of Cross River. Remember: life’s struggles, its cravings, its ambitions, they all amount to vanity at the end. What endures is character, community, and how we treated one another along the way.

    “I only implore all of us, aspirants, to listen to the voices of our people and not live in denial of the obvious. Are the people we seek to serve, willing to vote for us or not? Vox populi, vox Dei.

    “Finally, we remain one united APC family. Even as we further our divergent interests within this primary, we must never forget that after the votes are counted, we will still need each other. No ambition is worth destroying the conviviality we have shared amongst one another.

    “Campaign with passion, but campaign with honour.

    “Thank you, and God bless Cross River North and the entire Cross River State.

    Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe
    Cross River North Senatorial District”.

  • Nigeria: Far From Change, Nearer To Baits BY AGBA JALINGO 

    Nigeria: Far From Change, Nearer To Baits BY AGBA JALINGO 

     

    After the 2023 elections, very few Nigerians have been an exception in the flurry of complaints about how hard and difficult life has been in all ramifications. The cost of EVERYTHING except oxygen, which is provided free by nature, has skyrocketed. Everyday, people sleep in other people’s inbox and DMs, begging for assistance to survive and race through the maze of life.

    Those who were (s)elected in 2023 to improve the fortunes of the ordinary people have generally lived abysmally below expectations. You will think that, now that elections are approaching, there will be a saturation of bile and anger to vote out the below per officials, but the opposite is our reality.

    The mid term elections are approaching in the US for instance, and it is crystal obvious that the voters desire a shift as a consequence for failed campaign promises. Clearly, some public office holders in that clime are worried and they know their days in public office are numbered. But over here, the energy and verve with which the victims of bad governance are gearing up to return those who have impoverished their lives and left them to complain, is alarming.

    I mean, you live hand-to-mouth and cap-in-hand. You complain about how badly you have been governed. You complain about how horribly you have been abandoned by those you voted, yet you are at the forefront of those running around to reinforce failure and incompetence. You are campaigning for the return of the same people who left you in penury and squalor. How ironical!

    It is clear that what the majority of our country people want isn’t good governance. Because if it was good governance, they will seek and vote for good leaders and defend their votes. They will vote out bad leaders and keep them permanently in retirement or in jails where they belong. It is also clear that what our people prefer are stop gap expediencies and quick baits that guarantee immediate ingratiation. We are far away from change but nearer to cheap baits, and the intrepid power seekers understand this and are fully on the wheels.

    Maybe it is not our fault. Maybe it is because we don’t even know what good governance is, having not experienced it before; because if you have never experienced good governance before, you cannot know what bad governance is. Maybe it is because we have been conditioned to believe that good governance is the distribution of palliatives and handouts from politicians. Maybe, maybe, maybe and just may be! This generation lack the spine to ask for good governance. This generation is in love with their chains and they very well deserve it.

    Albeit, I remain fervently and unrepentantly hopeful that someday, when the shadows are illuminated and when the veils are torn, a generation will rightly rise up and demand for their morsel.

    Yours sincerely,
    Citizen Agba Jalingo.

    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.

  • Eid-el-Fitr: Senator Jarigbe Extols Unity, Empathy, Shared Humanity

    Eid-el-Fitr: Senator Jarigbe Extols Unity, Empathy, Shared Humanity

     

    The Senator representing Cross River State Northern Senatorial Zone, Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, has extended warm felicitations to the Muslim Ummah in Cross River State and across Nigeria on the successful completion of the holy month of Ramadan and the joyous celebration of Eid-el-Fitr.

    In his goodwill message, the Senator paid tribute to the resilience, devotion and discipline demonstrated by the faithful throughout the period of fasting, prayer and almsgiving, noting that Ramadan remains a powerful testament to the elevating force of faith and the human capacity for sacrifice in pursuit of divine grace.

    Jarigbe observed that “Eid-el-Fitr is not merely a festivity, but a solemn reminder of the enduring virtues that bind humanity together, compassion, generosity, tolerance and love.” He urged the Muslim faithful to carry forward the moral and spiritual lessons of Ramadan into everyday life, allowing them to shape interactions, deepen empathy and strengthen communal bonds.

    He emphasized that “the occasion presents a timely opportunity for Nigerians, irrespective of religious or ethnic differences, to reaffirm their commitment to peaceful coexistence, mutual respect and national cohesion,” noting that “the true essence of Eid lies in our ability to extend kindness beyond familiar circles and to build bridges of understanding in a diverse society such as ours.”

    While reflecting on the broader national context, the Senator reiterated the need for collective responsibility in nurturing a just, inclusive and harmonious society where every citizen is accorded dignity and opportunity, regardless of background or belief.

    Jarigbe therefore enjoins the Muslim faithful to celebrate with gratitude, moderation and a deep sense of social responsibility, praying that the blessings of Eid usher in peace, renewed hope and abiding prosperity for Cross River State and Nigeria at large.

    TEAM JARI MEDIA

  • Jarigbe Calls On Supporters To Desist From Making Nasty Comments About Hon Peter Akpanke

    Jarigbe Calls On Supporters To Desist From Making Nasty Comments About Hon Peter Akpanke

     

    The senator representing Cross River Senatorial District, Sen Jarigbe Agom, has called on his supporters to refrain from making mastic statements about the member representing Obudu/Bekwarra/Obanliku federal constituency, Hon Peter Akpanke, and insisted that the differences between them have been resolved.

    In a release made available to Theluminenews, indicates that the senator dissociates from those damaging comments and has requested for sanity.

    The release reads in full “The attention of the Senator Representing Cross River North Senatorial District, has been drawn to the nasty comments being circulated in the social media about the member representing Obudu/Bekwarra/Obanliku Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives. Those comments are being linked to the Senators protégées. The Senator has dissociated himself from such damaging comments and has requested for sanity.

    “No supporter of the Senator should make further comments on the feud between the Senator and the House of Representatives member for OBO. He has stated that the issues have been resolved and the Lawmakers are all working together as members of the APC.

    “Senator Jarigbe reiterates his commitment to good governance, social development, infrastructural delivery and economic growth of Cross River North Senatorial District.

    “Signed:
    Office of Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe,
    Cross River North Senatorial District”.