The Lumine News

Category: Press release

  • NBA Statement On The Arrest Of Dele Farotimi And Alleged Invasion Of His Law Firm

    NBA Statement On The Arrest Of Dele Farotimi And Alleged Invasion Of His Law Firm

    STATEMENT BY THE NIGERIAN BAR ASSOCIATION ON THE ARREST OF DELE FAROTIMI AND ALLEGED INVASION OF HIS LAW FIRM

    The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) is gravely concerned about the arrest of Dele Farotimi on allegations of libel, as well as the reported invasion of his law firm and the harassment of lawyers and staff within the premises. These actions constitute a troubling breach of the rule of law and the sanctity of the legal profession.

    While the Nigerian Police Force has the authority to investigate crimes, this power must be exercised within the confines of the law and in respect of offenses recognized under Nigerian law.

    We must reiterate that the alleged offense of libel, for which Dele Farotimi was reportedly arrested, is not recognized as a criminal offense under the laws of Lagos State. The Criminal Law of Lagos State 2011 repealed the criminalization of defamation by omitting it from its provisions. This progressive legislative move aligns with global best practices, which treat defamation as a civil wrong rather than a criminal offense.

    The Supreme Court in Aviomoh v. Commissioner of Police & Anor (2021) affirmed this position. Justice Helen Ogunwumiju, JSC, unequivocally held that defamation ceased to be a criminal offense in Lagos State following the enactment of the Criminal Law of Lagos State 2011. This authoritative pronouncement leaves no room for doubt.

    Furthermore, under Sections 4 and 24 of the Police Act, 2020, the Nigerian Police Force is mandated to act only about conduct that constitutes a criminal offense under Nigerian law. Arresting individuals for non-criminal matters, such as defamation in Lagos State, is not only unlawful but also a blatant violation of the principles of legality and the rule of law.

    Of equal concern is the reported invasion of Dele Farotimi’s law firm and the harassment of lawyers and staff within the premises. Reports that phones were confiscated from lawyers and staff during this invasion highlight a severe disregard for the sanctity of legal practice and the constitutional rights of individuals. The legal profession is a cornerstone of justice and democracy, and any attempt to undermine its independence is a direct assault on the rule of law.

    The NBA unequivocally condemns the invasion of Mr. Farotimi’s law firm, the harassment of its lawyers and staff, and the unlawful seizure of their phones. Such actions are not only a violation of the constitutional right to dignity and privacy but also an affront to the independence of the legal profession.

    We, therefore demand the immediate release of Dele Farotimi, as his arrest lacks any basis under the laws of Lagos State. The authorities must swiftly launch an investigation into the invasion of his law firm, with the findings made public and those responsible held accountable.

    We urge law enforcement agencies to prioritize the principles of legality, fairness, and respect for human rights in their operations. These principles are foundational to justice, democracy, and the protection of citizens’ freedoms.

    #FreeDeleFarotimi #FreeDeleFarotimiNOW

    Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN
    President
    Nigerian Bar Association

  • Sen Jarigbe Agom, Leader Of CRS PDP Addresses Party Faithfuls On Suspension Of The State Chairman, Vena Ikem

    Sen Jarigbe Agom, Leader Of CRS PDP Addresses Party Faithfuls On Suspension Of The State Chairman, Vena Ikem

    SPEECH BY SENATOR JARIGBE AGOM JARIGBE, LEADER OF THE PEOPLE’S DEMOCRATIC PARTY (PDP) IN CROSS RIVER STATE, ON THE SUSPENSION OF THE STATE CHAIRMAN AND THE APPOINTMENT OF AN ACTING CHAIRMAN

    My dear compatriots in the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Cross River State,

    Along with other well- meaning Leaders of our great Party, I take responsibility of the goings-on in our Party, not only as your Senator and Leader but as a steadfast member of this great Party, committed to its unity, progress, and unrelenting pursuit of excellence in governance and representation.

    The decision by the State Executive Committee of our Party to suspend the State Chairman and appoint Chief Austin Edibe as Acting Chairman is a significant and deliberate step to reposition our Party for future success. This action, taken in line with the provisions of our Party’s Constitution, reflects the will of the majority and the resolute commitment of our Party to strengthen its structures and processes.

    Let me begin by heartily congratulating Chief Austin Edibe on his new role as the Acting Chairman of our great Party. Chief Edibe, your selection is a testament to your unwavering dedication, leadership qualities, and capacity to steer our Party toward its desired goals. We have full confidence in your ability to build bridges, inspire confidence, and chart a course that will make our Party the envy of others.

    I also wish to commend the members of the State Executive Committee for their bold and decisive action to reposition the Party. You have demonstrated courage and foresight, prioritizing the collective interest of the PDP above all else. This is the kind of leadership that inspires hope and drives progress.

    To our outgoing Chairman, Mr. Vena Ikem, I express my heartfelt gratitude for your efforts in leading our Party over the past three years. Leadership comes with its unique challenges, and I commend you for your dedication during your tenure. As we transition, I urge you to submit to the decision of the majority, remain a loyal and committed party man, and contribute meaningfully to the growth of the PDP in any capacity. We wish you well in your future political endeavors and trust that your wealth of experience will continue to benefit the Party.

    I must also extend my deepest appreciation to the Leaders of our Party across the state—our former Governors, Deputy Governor, Senators, members of the House of Representatives, and the House of Assembly. Your steadfastness and timely intervention have shown that true leadership is about standing up for the Party when it matters most. Your actions have inspired confidence and galvanized our supporters to remain loyal to the PDP.

    To the Leaders of our Party in all Local Government Areas, and to our teeming supporters, I thank you for your unyielding commitment and steadfastness. You are the backbone of the PDP, and your dedication is the reason we continue to stand tall in the face of challenges.

    As your Senator and Leader, alongside our representatives in the House of Representatives and our sole representative in the State House of Assembly, I assure you that we will continue to support the Party in every way possible. Together, we will work tirelessly to make the PDP a force to be reckoned with in Cross River State and beyond.

    Finally, I call on all members of our Party to eschew divisiveness and embrace peace and mutual understanding. Let us remember that the task ahead is not a walk in the park. Rebuilding, strengthening, and repositioning the PDP will require the collective effort of everyone. Let us put aside personal differences and unite for the common good. The future of our Party depends on our ability to work together, hand in hand, for a brighter tomorrow.

    Once again, I congratulate Chief Austin Edibe and thank every one of you for your dedication to this great Party. Let us move forward with renewed determination, knowing that our best days are ahead.

    Thank you, and God bless the People’s Democratic Party.

    Long live Cross River State.
    Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

    Senator Jarigbe A. Jarigbe, DSSRS
    Leader, PDP, Cross River State

  • NYCN CRS Holds Press Conference, Calls On Stakeholders To Take Advantage Of Council Elections

    NYCN CRS Holds Press Conference, Calls On Stakeholders To Take Advantage Of Council Elections

    #October262024!

    WORLD PRESS CONFERENCE

    Hosted by the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Cross River State Chapter

    Venue: NUJ Press Centre, Calabar, Cross River State.

     

    Gentlemen of the press, distinguished guests, and fellow youth of Cross River State.

    1. We are honored to welcome you to this World Press Conference organized by the Cross River State Chapter of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), as the apex body of all Youth organizations in Nigeria, We stand here united and committed to the development of our communities and the advancement of local governance and our dear State Cross River and Nigeria at large.

    2. Firstly, we extend our sincere gratitude to the Federal Government of Nigeria for granting autonomy to Local Governments across the nation. This decision is a historic step toward empowering local communities, ensuring that resources reach the grassroots, and allowing local governments to function more independently. We believe that this autonomy will play a pivotal role in fostering transparency, inclusivity, and rapid community development.

    3. We would also like to express our sincere appreciation to His Excellency, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, the Governor of Cross River State, for his commitment to the advancement of democratic processes. Under his leadership, the Cross River State Independent Electoral Commission (CROSIEC) has set the stage for the forthcoming Local Government Elections scheduled for November 2, 2024. This action reflects the State Government’s dedication to strengthening democracy and promoting good governance at the local level.

    4. We appeal to all Stakeholders to take advantage of this opportunity to participate and support the Local Government Administration being put in place through an election, hence election should hold on November 2nd, 2024 as scheduled and the will of the people should prevail. As a youth community we say a vehement no to any individual or group with retrogressive intentions, such individual or group MUST have a change of plan in the interest of the State.

    5. The NYCN As critical stakeholder, appeal that as the LG administration is constituted, there should be deliberate plans for more YOUTH INCLUSION in terms of appointments into the Local Governments and deliberate efforts should be made to invest into Youth Development, entrepreneurship opportunities, education and the general Development of our communities.

    6. Furthermore, we commend all participating political parties in the November 2, LG elections, for their progressive and inclusive approach, as evidenced by their decision to nominate and present their tickets to youth and further more providing a level playing field for all. This bold move not only recognizes the potential of young leaders but also builds a foundation for sustainable leadership that reflects the aspirations of the youth in Cross River State. We urge these young candidates to carry the responsibility of their roles with passion, integrity, vision, and dedication to the community.

    7. To all the youths in Cross River State, we call on you to participate actively and responsibly in the upcoming elections. Your involvement is crucial to ensuring that our voices are heard and that our aspirations are reflected in the outcomes. Let us all play our part in building a future that benefits everyone, fostering an environment of inclusivity and mutual respect and overall Development. Even much more, we MUST concern ourselves with all that is happening in our various communities going forward.

    8. The NYCN, however, sounds a strong warning to anyone who might intend to disrupt the peace and order during the election period. We urge such individuals to abandon any plans that might jeopardize the democratic process. The NYCN stands firm in its commitment to see that LGA election is peaceful, transparent, and credible.

    9. We urge the security agencies and all relevant stakeholders to ensure that election is conducted under a peaceful atmosphere and to be vigilant and ensure that lives and properties are safe guarded before, during and after the elections.

    10. We urge all those will will emerge as Leaders of our Local Government to lead with the FEAR OF GOD and ensure the utilization of funds that will be available for the all round development of our communities in support to what the State Government is doing to better Cross River State.

    11. We urge all our Members in the 196 wards to participate actively and support all that will lead to a successful elections come November, 2, 2024.

    12. We appeal passionately that all our Local Government Co-ordinators should be considered at the Local Government Areas as Partners in community peace building and should be adequately captured in the scheme of things.

    13. As the Apex body of youths in Nigeria, we call on all saddled with the responsibility to fix our Federal Roads in Cross River State to swing into action without further delay. We thank His Excellency Sen. Prince Bassey Edet Otu for expressly directing that remedial work be done on the said roads all to ameliorating the difficulty faced by the people.

    14. Finally, we extend our gratitude to the security agencies in Cross River State. We trust in their professionalism and commitment to maintaining the peace. We implore them to be vigilant and proactive in dealing with any disruptions. We call on them to uphold the law by taking swift action against anyone attempting to cause trouble in any of our local government areas before, during and after the elections.

    Thank you, everyone, for your attention and support. Together, let us work towards a successful election on November 2, 2024, that will set a positive example for our state and our nation.

    Thank you, and God bless Cross River State.

     

    His Youthfulness
    Comrade Emmanuel Olayi
    Chairman NYCN
    CRS.

  • NYCN CRS Congratulates Ayodele Olawande Wisdom On His Appointment As Minister For Youth Development

    NYCN CRS Congratulates Ayodele Olawande Wisdom On His Appointment As Minister For Youth Development

    CONGRATULATORY MESSAGE TO COMRADE AYODELE OLAWANDE WISDOM

    On behalf of the entire Cross River State Chapter of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), under the leadership of Comrade Emma Olayi, we extend our heartfelt and resounding congratulations to you, Comrade Ayodele Olawande Wisdom, on your esteemed appointment as the Honorable Minister for Youth Development by His Excellency, President Ahmed Bola Tinubu, GCFR. This monumental appointment is a recognition of your longstanding dedication to the cause of youth empowerment and nation-building, and it fills us with pride to witness your rise to this prominent position.

    We also take this opportunity to specially thank President Ahmed Bola Tinubu for his remarkable decision to elevate you from Minister of State for Youth Development to the substantive Minister for Youth Development. This thoughtful and strategic elevation speaks volumes of the President’s trust in your leadership and his unwavering commitment to the future of Nigeria’s youth. It is a profound recognition of your hard work, visionary leadership, and your capacity to spearhead the transformation of youth policies in our country.

    Your appointment is a testament to your unwavering dedication, visionary leadership, and relentless commitment to empowering Nigerian youths. It reflects not only your personal achievements but also a vote of confidence in the potential of our nation’s youth to drive positive transformation. We are certain that your passion for youth development will translate into policies and programs that will create lasting impacts on the lives of young people across the country, fostering an environment where their talents and aspirations can thrive.

    We are confident that under your stewardship, the Ministry of Youth Development will witness unparalleled growth, innovation, and inclusive programs that will elevate the aspirations of millions of young Nigerians. Your exemplary track record inspires us, and we trust you will continue to serve with excellence, integrity, and a passion for the collective progress of our youth. Your leadership will undoubtedly open new doors of opportunity for Nigerian youths, positioning them to take on leadership roles that will shape the future of our nation.

    Once again, congratulations, Honorable Minister, on this well-deserved appointment. We pledge our full support as you lead the charge toward a brighter and more prosperous future for Nigeria’s youth. We believe that with your vision and dedication, this new chapter in youth development will be marked by progress, unity, and transformative change for generations to come.

    Long Live the Federal Republic of Nigeria!

    _Sign:_

    Dr. Pius E. Akah
    _Chief Press Secretary to_

    HY Comrade Emma Olayi
    Chairman, Cross River State Chapter
    National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN)

  • CRS NYCN Congratulates Party Flag Bearers Of The Forth Coming Local Government Council Election

    CRS NYCN Congratulates Party Flag Bearers Of The Forth Coming Local Government Council Election

    The National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) Cross River State chapter wishes to extend hearty congratulations to flag bearers of political parties in the State, for their victories that have lead to their emergence as flag bearers of their parties.

    Indeed your victory is worth celebrating as it is a testament of your hard work, dedication and tenaciousness for the growth of the party which you have overtimes maintained, and have earned you the confidence and love of your party leadership and members.

    We also express our deepest gratitude to the leadership of the political parties for giving young people with sodding leadership charisma, the opportunity to represent, serve their people and contribute their industry and positive causative abilities to the refinement and remarkable development of their different local Government areas and governance in the State.

    The council assures all candidates of consummate support of the entire youth of Cross River State during and after the elections as we continue to work together in unity, sound mind and enthusiasm to drive the process of achieving a better and prosperous Cross River State.

    The council also appeal to soon to be Chairmen and councillors of local Government council to please continue to have the interest of young people at heart and ensure their inclusion in your programmes, through empowerments,giving them opportunities to serve and helping them to attain their dreams.

    Once again, Congratulations to all flag bearers for your stirring victory.

    Bravo!

    Signed,
    HY Obol Comr. Emmanuel Olayi.
    State Chairman,
    National Youth Council Of Nigeria (NYCN)
    Cross River State Chapter.

  • CRS NYCN Congratulates Party Flag Bearers Of The Forth Coming Local Government Council Election

    CRS NYCN Congratulates Party Flag Bearers Of The Forth Coming Local Government Council Election

     

    The National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) Cross River State chapter wishes to extend hearty congratulations to flag bearers of political parties in the State, for their victories that have lead to their emergence as flag bearers of their parties.

    Indeed your victory is worth celebrating as it is a testament of your hard work, dedication and tenaciousness for the growth of the party which you have overtimes maintained, and have earned you the confidence and love of your party leadership and members.

    We also express our deepest gratitude to the leadership of the political parties for giving young people with sodding leadership charisma, the opportunity to represent, serve their people and contribute their industry and positive causative abilities to the refinement and remarkable development of their different local Government areas and governance in the State.

    The council assures all candidates of consummate support of the entire youth of Cross River State during and after the elections as we continue to work together in unity, sound mind and enthusiasm to drive the process of achieving a better and prosperous Cross River State.

    The council also appeal to soon to be Chairmen and councillors of local Government council to please continue to have the interest of young people at heart and ensure their inclusion in your programmes, through empowerments,giving them opportunities to serve and helping them to attain their dreams.

    Once again, Congratulations to all flag bearers for your stirring victory.

    Bravo!

    Signed,
    HY Obol Comr. Emmanuel Olayi.
    State Chairman,
    National Youth Council Of Nigeria (NYCN)
    Cross River State Chapter.

  • Sen Jarigbe Felicitates Gov Bassey Otu On 65th Birth Anniversary

    Sen Jarigbe Felicitates Gov Bassey Otu On 65th Birth Anniversary

    18th October, 2024

    His Excellency,
    Prince Bassey Otu,
    Governor, Cross River State,
    Government House,
    Calabar, Cross River State.

    Your Excellency,

    FELICITATIONS ON THE OCCASION OF YOUR 65TH BIRTHDAY

    It is with immense pleasure and a profound sense of respect that I, on behalf of the People of Cross River North Senatorial District and in my personal capacity, extend my heartfelt felicitations to Your Excellency as you mark your 65th birthday.

    This occasion offers us an opportunity to reflect on and appreciate your exemplary leadership, unyielding commitment to the development of our dear state, and your remarkable contributions to the welfare and prosperity of our people. Your tenure as Governor has been marked by vision, dedication, and a deep sense of responsibility, and your passion for public service continues to inspire many.

    As you celebrate this significant milestone, I pray that Almighty God grants you many more years of sound health, wisdom, and strength to continue serving Cross River State and our Nation with distinction.

    Once again, happy birthday, Your Excellency.

    Yours sincerely,

    Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe
    Senator, Cross River North Senatorial District
    Chairman, Senate Committee on Gas

  • LG Elections: UniCross Alumni Congratulates Members Who Emerge APC Candidates, Hail Otu, Party

    LG Elections: UniCross Alumni Congratulates Members Who Emerge APC Candidates, Hail Otu, Party

    LG Elections: UniCross Alumni C

    The University of Cross River State (UniCross) Alumni Association has extended its warmest congratulations to its members who emerged as candidates of the ruling APC in various offices for the forthcoming local government elections in the state.

    In a statement signed by the National Public Relations Officer of the association, Dr. Peace Egbai, the association commended Governor Bassey Otu, State Chairman of APC, Barr. Alphonsus Eba, the entire State Working Committee of the party, and all relevant stakeholders for their roles in the emergence of the candidates.

    While noting that as products of the university, they are expected to embody the values of excellence and dedication that it is known for, the alumni charged the candidates to work hard to win the elections and upon winning, see their positions as a call to service, not an opportunity to be served.

    According to the statement, “on behalf of the National President, Dr. Inyali Peter and the entire National Executive Council of the association, we extend our warmest congratulations to all our members who emerged candidates for various positions in the ruling APC ahead of the November 2nd local government elections in Cross River State.

    Even though for now, we may not have the comprehensive list of all our members who scale through, we’re aware that the immediate past Deputy National President, Katame Emilia, National Secretary, Njang Ndoma, Osim Markpeace and Kasetima Nentui have emerged Vice Chairmanship and councilorship candidates in Akamkpa and Ikom local government areas respectively.

    As an association, our charge to them when they assume office (we know they’ll win) is that they should be good ambassadors of Unicross and the alumni association. Their new offices should be seen as a stepping stone, not the destination, of their political careers. With hard work and determination, we know they can achieve great things and make a lasting impact on their respective local governments”.

    The statement added that, “Unicross has a reputation for producing high-achieving graduates therefore, we’re confident that these candidates will uphold this standard. They have the skills, knowledge, and passion to make a real difference, and we’re excited to see them in action as Vice Chairman and councillors. We wish them all the best in the upcoming elections and look forward to seeing the positive impact they will make upon assuming office”.

  • Obono-Obla Berates CRS APC Chair, Rejects Elder Advisory Council Appointment

    Obono-Obla Berates CRS APC Chair, Rejects Elder Advisory Council Appointment

    13 October 2024

    Barrister Alphonous Ogar Eba,JP
    State Chairman
    All Progressives Congress Cross River State Chapter
    State Secretariat
    Murtala Mohammed Highway
    Calabar,Cross River State
    Nigeria

    Dear Mr Chairman,

    Rejection of Appointment as Member of a Purported Senatorial Elders Advisory Council (Central) Yakurr Local Government Area.

    My attention has been drawn to a press release signed by the State Chairman and State Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Cross River State dated 12 October 2024, where my name was listed No 8 as a member of the said Council to represent Ijiman Ward in Yakurr Local Government Area.

    I take a serious exception to my purported appointment, which is calculated to diminish my status as one of the foundation members of the APC at the National, Senatorial, Local Government Area, and Ward levels of the Party since 2013.

    It is also pertinent to state that I was the pioneer National Legal Adviser, Member of the Board of Trustees (June 2009 to 31 December, 2010), Deputy National Secretary, Secretary (4 January 2011 to 31 July 2013), and Secretary/Member of the Merger Commitee of the defunct Congress For Progressives Change (CPC) between February 2013 to July 2013.

    Most importantly, I was the Co-Secretary of the Joint Inter Party Merger Committee that negotiated the formation of the APC in 2013.

    Finally, I raised an objection several days ago to the constitutionality of the purported Senatorial Elder Advisory Council (Central). For the avoidance of any doubt, I boldly submit that the said Senatorial Elders Advisory Council (Central) is an organ or structure unknown to the APC Constitution (2013) (as amended). I, therefore, reject and decline membership of the purported Senatorial Elders Advisory Council (Council) and the Yakurr Local Government Area Caucus of the APC.

    Yours sincerely

    Obol Okoi Obono-Obla

    C.C

    His Excellency
    Senator Bassey Edet Otu
    Governor
    Cross River State of Nigeria
    Governor’s Office
    Hope Waddel Avenue
    Calabar,
    Cross River State

    Mr Patrick Asuquo
    State Secretary
    All Progressives Congress Cross River State Chapter
    State Secretariat
    Murtala Mohammed Highway
    Calabar,Cross River State
    Nigeria

  • Group Demands Immediate Repairs Of Ogoja-Bekwarra-Katsina-Ala Federal Highway

    Group Demands Immediate Repairs Of Ogoja-Bekwarra-Katsina-Ala Federal Highway

    The who is who forum in Northern Cross River State has demanded the immediate repairs of the Ogoja-Bekwarra-Katsina-Ala Federal Highway, which has become a nightmare and many lives lost as a result of some parts of the road been spread with large portholes.

    A release made available to TheLumineNews and signed by the Convener, Mr Dormkclaimz Enamhe, and Mr Johnny Agim (SAN), Co-convener, indicates that: “Presently, this destruction is moving into our villages and towns centres as heavy duty trucks as well as other vehicles are gradually destroying roads that pass through them and are ordinarily not built for heavy vehicular movements in a bid to find alternative roads.
    Of utmost concern right now is the Abuochiche-Ijibor stretch which has been rendered completely non pliable with a huge muddy gully splitting the road in the middle.
    We cannot continue to be silent in the midst of this unfortunate circumstances that threatens our safety and means of livelihood as a people since commercial activities have been impacted negatively with movement of goods and passengers a herculean task.
    The Ogoja people are law abiding citizens contributing to the GDP of this country through agrarian and other activities,we therefore deserve to enjoy good roads like other Nigerian citizens”.

    The release further calls on the federal government to as a matter of urgency, fix the long neglected portion of the road to citizens go about their activities safely, “We therefore call on the Federal government to as a matter of urgency fix this long neglected road to enable us go about our activities safely and earn a living”.

    It further call on the government of Cross River State, lawmakers and other stakeholders to ensure that the necessary attention is paid to the project. “In addition, we call on the government of Cross River State, our lawmakers and other relevant stakeholders to do the needful in terms of ensuring that the necessary attention is paid to the execution of this project.

    “Ogoja People are tired of living with this menace of a road, we want it fixed now”.