The Lumine News

Category: Press release

  • 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

    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

    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

     

    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

    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 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

    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

    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”.

  • I Remain Loyal To The PDP, I Have No Reason To Leave – Jarigbe

    The senator representing Cross River Northern Senatorial District, Sen Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, has urged his constituents to be calm as he his loyalty remain with his constituents.

    Sen Jarigbe responded to rumors peddled by distractors and said he remained with the PDP because he has no reason to leave.

    The lawmaker noted that his mandate was given to him by people of Cross River North, and only the person have the power to determine his fate, and insisted that no political maneuver or rumor can alter this truth. The senator affirmed that his loyalty lies with the people, and his commitment to our shared vision of progress remains unshaken.

    The senator made this known in press release made available to TheLumineNews, which he personally signed.

    Find the release below

    PRESS RELEASE

    DISREGARD BASELESS RUMORS: I REMAIN LOYAL TO THE PEOPLE’S DEMOCRATIC PARTY (PDP).

    My dear Constituents of Cross River North Senatorial District, esteemed Party men and loyal supporters,
    I address you today in response to a baseless and mischievous rumor making the rounds, suggesting that I, your Senator, am planning to defect from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to another political party. I wish to categorically state that this rumor is entirely false, a figment of the imagination of political jobbers who are bent on misleading and distracting us from the important task of governance and development in our district.

    Let me be clear: I remain fully committed to the ideals of the PDP and have no intention whatsoever of jumping ship. This malicious rumor is the handiwork of those who seek to cause confusion among our people. Their intention is to undermine the trust we have built together, but I urge you to completely disregard their lies. Our focus must remain on delivering the dividends of democracy to our people, not engaging in baseless speculation.

    I did not seek this position to play politics; I sought it to serve you, my people. It is not about the political party, but about the commitment to fulfilling our social contract. As your representative, I have always placed your welfare, development, and progress above all else. That will never change. I am here to serve, and I will continue to deliver on my promises, no matter the distractions.

    Those who are quick to defect are often those who have failed to perform and are now seeking help from the government in power ahead of the next election. However, let me remind them that elections are won based on performance, not on the political party one belongs to. Our people are wise, and they will assess us by what we have done for them, not by where we have chosen to sit at the table of power.

    I remain with the PDP because I have no reason to leave. My mandate was given to me by you, the people of Cross River North, and only you have the power to determine my fate. No political maneuver or rumor can alter this truth. My loyalty lies with you, and my commitment to our shared vision of progress remains unshaken.

    I urge you to stay focused and disregard the noise from those who wish to distract us. Together, we will continue to work for the betterment of our Senatorial District , ensuring that the progress we seek is achieved.

    Thank you for your trust, support, and belief in our shared mission.

    God bless Cross River North Senatorial District.
    God bless the People’s Democratic Party.

    Dist. Sen Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, DSSRS.
    Cross River North Senatorial District
    People’s Democratic Party (PDP)

  • Obono-Obla Wants CROSIEC To Clarify It’s Own TimeTable

     

    A Human rights Lawyer and activist, Chief Okoi Obono-Obla, a founding member of the All Progressive Congress APC, who was also a former President Buhari Aide, has called on the Cross River State Independent Electoral Commission CROSIEC, to clarify it’s own timetable.

    According to the timetable released by CROSIEC, there is no provision for registered political parties to comply with section 20A of CROSIEC law.

    In a release made available to TheLumineNews, Obono-Obla noted the importance of CROSIEC to correct the error to avoid someone challenging the process.

    The release reads in full:
    “CROSEIC NEEDS TO CLARIFY THE OMISSION ON ITS TIMETABLE:

    “Undoubtedly, the timetable released by CROSIEC today, the 25 September 2024, which kickstarts activities that would culminate in the Local Government councils elections in Cross River State, is nebulous.

    “CROSIEC, must as a matter of urgency, explains why in its timetable, no provision was made for registered political parties to comply with section 20A of CROSIEC Law (supra)

    “This time table is faulty because there is provision made for registered political parties to give 21 days’ notice in writing to CROSIEC of their intention to hold congresses to nominate their candidates for the election as provided by section 20A of CROSEIC Law (2002) (as amended).
    It is important for CROSIEC to take steps to correct this error ,otherwise, it is opening her flank for someone to challenge the process, which may result in the invalidation of the entire process.
    Is it a deliberate omission or an oversight?”.