The Lumine News

Category: Press release

  • IGP Disu Charges Commissioners of Police to Be Proactive, Build Strong Media Presence, Treat Journalists as Partners

    IGP Disu Charges Commissioners of Police to Be Proactive, Build Strong Media Presence, Treat Journalists as Partners

    The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has charged Commissioners of Police (CPs) across the country to adopt a proactive approach to policing, strengthen their personal and institutional media presence, and cultivate healthy working relationships with journalists.

    The IGP gave the charge on Tuesday while declaring open a two-day workshop on “Enhancing Strategic Communication and Media Relations” for Commissioners of Police drawn from commands nationwide. The workshop, held at the Nigeria Police Public Relations School (NPPRS), Abuja Centre, brought together members of the Force Management Team, resource persons, and senior police officers.

    Addressing participants, IGP Disu stressed that effective communication is critical to modern policing, urging the CPs to engage the public with humility, respond promptly to emerging issues, and establish strong relationships with the media before crises arise.

    In a release made available to Theluminenews, the force Public Relations Officer, CSP Anietie Okokon Edem Iniedu, noted that the IG  emphasized that Commissioners of Police should view journalists as partners in promoting public safety and accountability rather than as adversaries.

    “Guns protect lives, but your voices protect our reputation,” the IGP said, underscoring the importance of strategic communication in enhancing public trust and confidence in the Nigeria Police Force.

    The Inspector-General noted that media engagement has not traditionally formed part of the career development of many officers before their promotion to the rank of Commissioner of Police, explaining that the workshop was designed to bridge that gap.

    He reminded the participants that the responsibilities of a Commissioner of Police extend beyond operational leadership, describing them as managers expected to lead from the front, connect with their communities, and leave lasting legacies wherever they serve.

    IGP Disu also encouraged the CPs to participate in community activities, including social events and school engagements, while maintaining visibility and accessibility within their respective commands.

    He commended police officers across the country for their dedication to duty and applauded recent security operations led by the Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of the Police Mobile Force, as well as Commissioners of Police in Kogi and other states.

    Earlier, the Provost of the Nigeria Police Public Relations School, retired Commissioner of Police Emmanuel Ojukwu, traced the institution’s evolution from Kulende in Ilorin through Lafia to its permanent Abuja Centre.

    He reminded participants that Police Public Relations Officers do not create the image of the Force but manage it, stressing that the conduct and professionalism of officers on the field remain the true reflection of the Nigeria Police Force.

    Ojukwu urged the Commissioners of Police to replicate the knowledge gained during the workshop within their respective commands, noting that seven resource persons had been assembled to facilitate discussions on strategic communication and media relations.

    The two-day workshop is part of the Nigeria Police Force’s ongoing efforts to strengthen the communication capacity of its senior officers and promote a more professional, transparent, and people-centred policing culture across the country

  • PDP Cross River Disowns Alleged ‘Turaki Faction’ Candidates, Urges Public to Verify Names on INEC Portal

    PDP Cross River Disowns Alleged ‘Turaki Faction’ Candidates, Urges Public to Verify Names on INEC Portal

    By Admin 

    The Cross River State Chapter of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) has dismissed as false and misleading reports allegedly being circulated by a group identifying itself as the “Turaki faction” regarding the party’s candidates for the 2027 General Election.

    In a public disclaimer issued on Wednesday, the State Secretary of the party, Hon. Obi Joe Ability Bisong, stated that the PDP had duly nominated its candidates and uploaded their names to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) portal in compliance with the provisions of the Electoral Act and other applicable regulations.

    According to the party, the INEC portal remains open for public verification, and only individuals whose names appear on the official portal should be recognized as legitimate PDP candidates.

    The party warned that anyone claiming to be a PDP candidate without appearing on the INEC portal should be regarded as an impostor. It added that such individuals would be reported to the appropriate security agencies for investigation and any other actions permitted by law.

    The PDP further emphasized that any person presenting himself or herself as a candidate or representative of the party without its authorization does not represent the People’s Democratic Party in any capacity.

    To avoid misinformation, the party reminded members of the public that its official state secretariat is located at No. 27 Mary Slessor Avenue, Calabar, where authentic information about the party can be obtained on working days between 9:00 a.m. and 5:30 p.m.

    Reaffirming its commitment to due process and the rule of law, the Cross River PDP described itself as a responsible and law-abiding political party and urged the public to disregard unauthorized statements, announcements, or claims made by individuals falsely presenting themselves as representatives or candidates of the party.

  • JARILEAGUE Coalition Celebrates Six New Law Graduates

    JARILEAGUE Coalition Celebrates Six New Law Graduates

     

    The JARILEAGUE Coalition has announced a special celebration in honor of six distinguished family members and Two associates who have successfully attained the Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) degree, marking a significant academic milestone.

    The Coalition brings together people from diverse backgrounds, including political parties, academia, religious organisations, civil societies, civil service, the private sector, and business communities. United by a shared appreciation of Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe’s leadership and performance as the senator representing Cross River Northern Senatorial District, the group continues to promote excellence, unity and human capital development among its members.

    The honorees are:
    1. Engr. Dr. Jacob Owan, LL.B.
    2. Ashibi Thomas, LL.B.
    3. Friday Oleja, LL.B.
    4. Patricia Onigah, LL.B.
    5. Dr. Mathew Ebim, LL.B.
    6. Augustine Ogaga, LL.B.
    Associates:
    7. Ngore Vincent; LL.b
    8. Effa Collins; LL.b.

    In a release signed by by Prof. Egaga, the Convener of Jarileaque Coalition, the celebration recognizes the graduates’ dedication, perseverance, and commitment to academic excellence, describing their achievement as a source of pride for their families and associates.

    The event is scheduled to take place today, Tuesday, July 21, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Little Havana (Airport Field).
    Members of the JARILEAGUE Coalition, friends, family, and well-wishers have been invited to join in celebrating the graduates’ accomplishment and to wish them success as they embark on their legal careers.

    The achievement of the six graduates has been hailed as an inspiring example of determination and a testament to the value of education, with organizers expressing confidence that they will make meaningful contributions to the legal profession and society.

  • Achadu Denies Double Salary Allegation, Says He Voluntarily Refunded Erroneous Payments to UNICAL

    Achadu Denies Double Salary Allegation, Says He Voluntarily Refunded Erroneous Payments to UNICAL

    By Admin 

    The member representing Yala II State Constituency in the Cross River State House of Assembly, Hon. Dr. Martins Achadu, has denied allegations that he received double salaries as both a serving lawmaker and an employee of the University of Calabar (UNICAL), insisting that the claims are misleading and unsupported by the facts.

    In a press statement issued on Thursday, July 16, 2026, Achadu was responding to a petition reportedly submitted to the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) by a group identified as the Global People’s Right and Values Observation Network.

    The lawmaker stated that he resigned from his appointment at the University of Calabar before contesting the 2023 Cross River State House of Assembly election. According to him, he was employed by the university on May 4, 2020, and tendered his resignation on March 25, 2022, after serving for about 20 months without receiving salaries for the period.

    Achadu explained that, despite his resignation, he unexpectedly began receiving salary payments from the university in December 2024, nearly three years after leaving the institution. He said the payments continued until December 2025 due to what he described as an administrative error.

    He said that upon discovering the payments, he immediately notified the university management, requested that the payments be stopped, and asked the institution to provide an account into which he could refund the funds.

    According to Achadu, the university acknowledged his voluntary disclosure and commended him for bringing the issue to its attention.

    “The University appreciates your patriotic disposition and voluntary disclosure of this matter,” he quoted from one of the institution’s correspondences.

    The legislator further stated that the salary payments have since been discontinued and that he has refunded all the money paid into his account, despite the university’s outstanding salary arrears for the 20 months he served before resigning.

    He also disclosed that the University of Calabar has issued him a clearance confirming that his resignation took effect on March 25, 2022.

    Achadu urged his constituents and the general public to disregard the allegations contained in the petition, describing them as an attempt to tarnish his reputation. He added that relevant correspondences exchanged between him and the University of Calabar have been made available to support his position.

  • 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.