The Lumine News

Category: Press release

  • Hon Peter Akpanke Presents Scorecard To Mark One Year In Office

    Hon Peter Akpanke Presents Scorecard To Mark One Year In Office

    The member representing Obudu/Bekwarra/Obanliku federal constituency, Hon Peter Akpanke, has rolled out his scorecard to mark his one year in office.

    In a release he personally signed and made available to TheLumineNews, Akpanke stated that he has moved and cosponsored 5 motions and presented one petition from some constituents who felt they were unjustly withdrawn from the University of Calabar, as well as sponsored one bill for the establishment of Federal University of Technology in Obanliku.

    The release also indicated that he has facilitated 7 projects for his constituency; Installation of solar street lights in Bendi, Obanliku Local Government Area, Beten and Nyanya in Bekwarra Local Government Area, Kubong Bette, Kutiang, Begiaba, Ukwel-Obudu, Okambi, Utugwang, Alege, Ugbang and PHC Obudu, all in Obudu Local Government Area.

    Several other empowerment were listed in the release to include educational and transport support to students including award of scholarship to best WAEC student and financial aid to law graduates preparing for Law School.

    Find full text of the release:

     

    HONORABLE PETER AKPANKE : 1 YEAR OF A PEOPLE CENTERED REPRESENTATION
    (June 13th 2023 – June 13th 2024)

    – MOTIONS/PETITIONS INITIATED : 6

    1. A Motion for the immediate rehabilitation of the abandoned Obudu Dam Resort. (The Contract has been Awarded for the rehabilitation of the Obudu Dam Resort)

    2. He co-sponsored a motion (with other Cross River law makers) which raised alarm that the country was on the verge of losing some parts of Cross River State to Cameroon.

    3. He presented a petition on the floor of the House from some constituents who felt that they were unjustly withdrawn from the University of Calabar.

    4. Co sponsored a Motion on the Demarcation and Ceding of Danare and Biajua Communities in Boki to Republic of Cameroon.

    5. Hon. Akpanke Sponsored a Motion On The Need To Investigate The Indiscriminate Issuance Of “Certificate Of No Objection” by the Bureau of Public Procurement.

    6. Hon. Akpanke presented A motion of public urgent Importance over indiscriminate kidnapping in unical and prof Egaga

    – BILLS SPONSORED : 1
    A Bill for the establishment of a Federal University of Technology in Obanliku, Cross River State.

    – PROJECTS EXECUTED : 7
    1. Installation of solar street lights in Bendi communities in Obanliku LGA (Udieligie Street in Ketting and Ushibetiang Street in Ketting)

    2. Construction of solar powered borehole in Sankwala Market.

    3. Construction of solar powered borehole, Toilets and installation of Street Lights at Obudu old Market Park.

    4. Construction of solar borehole and toilet in Bekwarra Motor Park.

    5. Installation of Solar Street Lights in Beten and Nyanya in Bekwarra Local Government.

    6. Construction of boreholes in Bebuankayang and Bayaga communities.

    7. Installation of solar street lights in Kubung bette, Kutiang, Begiaba, Ukwel, Obudu, Ukambi, Utugwang South, Alege/Ubang Villages in Obudu LGA and Installation of Street Lights in PHC Obudu.

    – EMPOWERMENT PROGRAMMES IMPLEMENTED : 18
    1. Distribution of hand pumps and herbicides to farmers in Obudu/Bekwarra and Obanliku Federal Constituency.

    2. Distribution of machines and Grinding engines to over 50 constituents in Obudu

    3. Distribution of sewing machines and motorcycles to selected beneficiaries in Bekwarra LGA

    4. Distribution of hand pumps and herbicides to farmers in Bekwarra

    5. Distribution of hand pumps, herbicides and liquid fertilizers to Obanliku female farmers

    6. Entrepreneurial training/empowerment of young ladies in hair dressing and makeup business in Obanliku LGA

    7. Entrepreneurship training and distribution of hair-making and makeup kits for hair stylists in Obudu

    8. Distribution of food stuffs to about 200 widows across the ten wards of Obudu

    9. Distribution of food items to widows across the political wards of Obanliku LGA

    10. Distribution of food stuffs to over 200 widows and people living with disabilities in the 10 wards of Bekwarra

    11. Distribution of incentives, gift packages and cash to constituents, unions and associations across Obanliku, Obudu and Bekwarra LGA for new yam celebrations.

    12. Facilitated jobs and Recruitment for several constituents through his Recommendation. (5 of his constituents are currently in NDLEA while 2 have been gainfully employed at the Federal College of Education,Obudu)

    13. Financial Support to 21 Constituents going to Law School.

    14. Distribution of Free Jamb forms to over 300 Constituents in Obudu, Bekwarra and Obanliku federal Constituency.

    15. Launching of the Peter Akpanke Free Mega medical Outreach to 10,000 Constituents in Obudu, Bekwarra and Obanliku federal Constituency.
    • Total number of registered patients for medical, surgical, and eye check-ups: 10,456.
    • Number of medical consultations/patients seen: 10,203.
    • Medications dispensed: Antimalarials, Antidiabetics, Antifungal, antibiotics, haematinics, antihypertensives, analgesics, immune boosters, supplements, etc.
    • Total number of surgeries booked: 131
    • Total number of surgeries performed: 112
    • Number of health education sessions conducted: Continuous health education throughout the 7-day outreach
    • Referrals made: 19 surgical cases referred

    16. Distribution of Exercise books to public schools in OBO Federal Constituency and pay school fees for orphans and less privilege.

    17. Hon. Akpanke Awards University Scholarship to the Best Performing Waec Student from his Federal Constituency.

    18. Ongoing Bursary Registration

    – INTERVENTIONS MADE : 4
    1. Free Transportation to over 400 Constituents traveling from Obanliku, Bekwarra and Obudu to cushion the effect of the Fuel Hike during resumption of Schools.

    2. Payment of hospital bills for patients in Bekwarra General Hospital

    3. Payment of hospital bills for the less-privileged in different hospitals across Obudu

    4. Free fuel as palliative to 150 cyclist Drivers in Obudu to cushion the effect of the Removal of fuel Subsidy.

    Hon. Peter Akpanke’s approach to representation has been guided by a singular focus on people-centered representation. Since taking office, he has consistently demonstrated a commitment to initiating programs, policies and interventions that brings him close to his Constituency and prioritize the needs and well-being of his constituents.

    His regular visits to his constituency in and out of season has given him the Nickname “The Village Politician” He hopes to do more in coming Months as he await the Budgetary Provisions and implementation of his Constituency needs and proposals before the Federal Government of Nigeria.

    Thank you for your continued prayers and Support for Hon. Peter Akpanke.

  • Jarigbe Calls On Nigerian Leaders To Emulate Former President Goodluck Johnathan To Strengthen Democracy

    Jarigbe Calls On Nigerian Leaders To Emulate Former President Goodluck Johnathan To Strengthen Democracy

    Goodwill Message by Senator Representing Cross River North Senatorial District, Cross River State, on the Occasion of the 25th Anniversary of Unbroken Democracy in Nigeria.

    Fellow Nigerians,

    Respected Constituents,

    Ladies and Gentlemen,

    It is with immense pride and gratitude that I join all democrats to celebrate a remarkable milestone in our nation’s history – 25 years of unbroken democracy. This occasion provides us with a moment to reflect on our journey, honor those who paved the way, and reaffirm our commitment to the principles of democracy.

    First and foremost, let us pay tribute to the forefathers of our democracy. These courageous men and women fought tirelessly, many putting their lives on the line, to ensure that Nigeria could rise as a democratic nation. Their vision, sacrifice, and unwavering dedication laid the foundation upon which our democracy stands. We owe them an eternal debt of gratitude for their unparalleled contributions to our nation’s political evolution.

    In a special way, we must extend our heartfelt thanks to former President of Nigeria, His Excellency Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, GCFR. His patriotic and selfless act in 2015, when he handed over power without hesitation to the winner of the Presidential Election, was a watershed moment in our democratic history. By respecting the will of the people and ensuring a peaceful transition, Dr. Jonathan not only strengthened our fledgling democracy but also set a sterling example of leadership and statesmanship. His actions spoke volumes about his commitment to the principles of democracy and the future of Nigeria.

    As we celebrate this silver jubilee of our democratic journey, it is imperative to acknowledge that democracy is not merely a destination but an ongoing process that requires constant nurturing and vigilance. Our democracy must be enduring, and to achieve this, our leaders must emulate the exemplary patriotism demonstrated by Dr. Goodluck Jonathan. The election results must always reflect the true will of the people, free from coercion and manipulation.

    To my fellow leaders, I urge you to always put Nigeria first. Our actions and decisions should be guided by the greater good of our nation and its citizens. Let us work together to uphold the values of transparency, accountability, and justice. By doing so, we will ensure that our democracy remains vibrant and resilient, capable of withstanding the tests of time.

    In conclusion, as we mark this 25th anniversary of unbroken democracy, let us renew our pledge to protect and advance the democratic ideals that have brought us this far. Let us honor the sacrifices of our forebears and the exemplary actions of leaders like Dr. Goodluck Jonathan by committing ourselves to a future where the voice of every Nigerian is heard, respected, and valued.

    Thank you, and may God bless Nigeria.

    Sen Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe
    Cross River North Senatorial District
    Cross River State

  • Humanitarian Affairs Commissioner Welcomes Cross Riverians To The Month Of June

    Humanitarian Affairs Commissioner Welcomes Cross Riverians To The Month Of June

    The month of June begins a new chapter in the continuous unfolding of an amazing period in the life of Cross Riverians.

    We live in a season that has witnessed multiple accomplishments in every sector of governance.

    We in the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs are proud to be part of a team that is delivering hugely on the promises we made one year ago. We remain unrelenting in continuing to deliver on the People’s First mandate of our tireless Governor.

    As has been the case since my Ministry came into existence 12 months ago, my team and I are happy to work endlessly to make the month of June as well as the coming months ever sweeter and always ready to serve all Cross Riverians.

    My Ministry has extended a helpful hand to the homeless among us; we have identified the needs of our destitute population and addressed them boldly; we have rescued children and adults from street life; we have fed the hungry and clothed them. Yet, our work will continue today, tomorrow, and always. We are stepping boldly into the month of June with a more willful readiness than the previous months. Our success will be amplified even more than we have already recorded.

    It is my hope that in whatever occupation you are engaged, this month will be one of the most productive months of the year. My Ministry stands ready to see you through a successful season.
    Happy month of June to you all and God’s blessings.

    Hon. Helen Isamoh E. Ph.D. Fhnr.
    Commissioner For Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation. Cross River State.

  • Akpanke Congratulates Tinubu, OTu On One Year Anniversary In Office

    Akpanke Congratulates Tinubu, OTu On One Year Anniversary In Office

    CONGRATULATORY MESSAGE TO PRESIDENT TINUBU AND GOVERNOR OTU ON THEIR ONE YEAR ANNIVERSARY

    I wish to extend my warm congratulations to President Bola Tinubu and Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State on their one year anniversary in office.

    Their dedication to the growth and development of Nigeria and Cross River State is evident in the numerous projects and initiatives they have undertaken. I commend them for their remarkable achievements and urge them to continue their good work.

    Governor Otu’s developmental strides have yielded significant improvements in infrastructure, security, tourism, sports, education, agriculture, and oil and gas, ushering in a new era of transformation in Cross River State. I am confident that his administration will continue to deliver more dividends of democracy to our people.

    President Tinubu’s efforts to revamp the nation’s economy, improve security, and promote unity among Nigerians are commendable. I urge him to continue his good work and do even more for our nation in the coming years.

    As a representative of the people, I am confident that their leadership will continue to yield positive results and bring prosperity to our people.

    Congratulations once again to President Tinubu and Governor Otu on their one year anniversary!

    Signed:

    Awade Friday
    SSA Media and Publicity to Hon. Peter Akpanke
    Member representing Obanliku/Obudu/Bekwerra federal constituency

  • One Year In Office: Humanitarian Affairs Commissioner Lauds Governor Otu

    One Year In Office: Humanitarian Affairs Commissioner Lauds Governor Otu

     

    Your Excellency Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu’s one year in office is a confirmation of King Solomon’s biblical assertion that the people rejoice when the righteous are in authority. Indeed, the good people of Cross River State have immense reasons to rejoice and celebrate today, 29th May, 2024, as you mark your one year in office as the People’s Governor.

    I, on behalf of the Permanent Secretary, Directors, and entire staff of the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation wholeheartedly join your teaming supporters and admirers to heartily congratulate you on your monumental accomplishments in your determined efforts to repositioning our dear State.

    In your resolute endeavours to promote human welfare, you created the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation in August 2023, where the humanitarian hub resides with, in order to develop humanitarian policies and provide effective coordination of the local, state, national and international humanitarian interventions in the state, ensure strategic disaster mitigation, and to have social protection systems that are proactive, humane, and sustainable for improvement and the general welfare of the people of Cross River State.

    Your extraordinary performance in rebuilding our State is quite commendable, and indeed, we are in the Season of Sweetness.

    Congratulations, Your Excellency, and Happy ONE Year Celebration!

    Helen Isamoh Egodo, Ph.D.
    Honourable Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation
    Cross River State.

  • Obono-Obla Congratulates Sen Otu On His One Year Anniversary As Governor

    Obono-Obla Congratulates Sen Otu On His One Year Anniversary As Governor

    I heartily congratulate His Excellency, Senator Bassey Edet Otu, on his first anniversary in office as Governor of Cross River State of Nigeria.

    On 29th May 2023, Senator Otu took the Oath of Office and Oath of Allegiance as the 7th democratically elected Governor of Cross River State.

    I greatly rejoice with you on this solemn occasion of your first anniversary at governorship, which is an affirmation of the unity and oneness of our people in overwhelmingly voting for you as Governor in an election that saw your winning clearly in 15 Local Government Areas out of 18, and also scoring the mandatory 25 percent of the total votes cast in the three other Local Government Areas.

    Even with the massive devaluation of the national currency and withdrawal of fuel subsidies that brought unprecedented hardship, you have methodically and calmly restored some semblance of order to our dear State.

    You are also laying a great foundation for the State, and I fervently believe that the next three years under your leadership, the State shall witness great economic growth and development.

    Happy first year anniversary, once again to His Excellency! And to the People of Cross River State!!!
    Obol Okoi Obono-Obla

  • Mike Etaba Condemns Recent Outbreak Of Communal Violence In Ogamana And Ofonokom

    Mike Etaba Condemns Recent Outbreak Of Communal Violence In Ogamana And Ofonokom

     

    The member representing Eating/Obubra federal constituency, Rt. Hon. Mike Etaba, Member Representing condemned the  recent outbreak of communal violence in Ogamana and Ofonokom

    In a release sighted by TheLumineNews and signed by Hon Etaba, the leaders of both communities have been called to exercise restraint.

    The release reads in full “I am deeply saddened and appalled by the recent outbreak of communal violence between Ogamana and Ofonokom communities in Obubra. It is disheartening to witness our brothers and sisters, who have lived together for generations, resorting to violence and choosing the path of destruction instead of dialogue.

    “As a representative of the people, it is my utmost duty to ensure the safety and welfare of my constituents. I strongly condemn this unwarranted and senseless violence which has caused a heavy gun battle in the Ijebeh axis, leading to the death of one of my constituents. This situation demands immediate attention and intervention from all authorities. It is crucial that peace and stability are restored in these communities without any further delay.

    “On my part, I have put a call across to the relevant security agencies to swiftly intervene and bring an end to this destructive conflict. They should deploy adequate personnel to the affected areas to halt the ongoing gun battle and prevent further loss of lives and destruction of properties. The safety and security of our people must be the top priority.

    “Furthermore, I urge the leaders and stakeholders of both communities to exercise restraint and embrace peaceful dialogue in resolving whatever differences they may have. Violence only begets more violence, and it is through peaceful engagements that we can find lasting solutions to our conflicts.

    “To our brothers and sisters in Ogamana and Ofonokom, I stand in solidarity with you during this trying time. I implore you to lay down your arms and seek peaceful resolutions to any grievances you may have. United, we can overcome this crisis and rebuild the trust and harmony that once characterized our communities.

    “Lastly, I call on all the chiefs, women, youths and other stakeholders of Obubra to join hands with us to take urgent action in resolving this conflict and bring the perpetrators of violence to justice. Our Local Government deserve peace, security, and development, and it is our collective responsibility to ensure their well-being.

    “May peace prevail in Ogamana and Ofonokom, and may the affected find solace and relief soon.

    “Rt. Hon. Mike Etaba
    Member representing Obubra/Etung Federal Constituency”

  • Gov Otu Directs Payment Of All State And Local Government Workers, Pensioners

    Gov Otu Directs Payment Of All State And Local Government Workers, Pensioners

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    Governor Otu Directs Payment Of All State And Local Government Workers, Pensioners

    1. Governor Bassey Otu directs that all unpaid salaries and pensions should be paid immediately, while those with issues should be verified and cleared for the implementation of February salaries.

    2. The Governor sincerely sympathises with all employees and pensioners for the delay due to ongoing staff and pension audit and verification exercise.

    3. However, to ensure the seamless payment of February salaries and pensions, the Governor directs all those with duplicate names and accounts, which have been made public, to report at the Office of the Head of Service for authentication.

    4. Names of the affected staff have also been sent to the respective MDAs for that purpose.

    5. The Governor is desirous to save sufficient funds from the audit and verification exercise in order to commence the IMMEDIATE employment of the teeming unemployed Cross Riverians into the State and Local Government Service.

    Emmanuel Ogbeche
    Chief Press Secretary to the Governor
    21/2/24

  • Sandy Onor Congratulates Otu, Odey, Calls For Support That Will Make Cross River The Dream Homeland

    Sandy Onor Congratulates Otu, Odey, Calls For Support That Will Make Cross River The Dream Homeland

    By Elijah Ugani 

    The People’s Democratic Party PDP, gubernatorial candidate for the 2023 general elections in Cross River State, Prof Sandy Onor, has congratulated Sen Bassey Otu, for the successful journey from the primaries through the main elections leading up to the final declaration at the Supreme Court.

    In a release sighted by TheLumineNews, Onor noted that “I write most sincerely to congratulate the governor and his deputy, Rt. (Hon.) Peter Odey for the successful journey for the successful journey from the primaries through the main elections leading up to the final declaration at the Supreme Court, which typifies the entire gamut of every election cycle”.

    Onor thanked his entire team for the unwavering support throughout the election period as he stated” On behalf of my entire team, I lavishly thank all those who believed in and stood by us, the clergy, across the Catholic and protestant aisle; youths, elders, men and women, party faithfuls across the three senatorial districts and even across parties, and all those who shares in our genuine yearnings and aspirations of the development of Cross River State.

    “I thank in particular, the Caterpillar Movement in all its multi-faceted dimensions and the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), ably led by the irrepressible Barrister Venatius Ikem for their support, prayers and resilience throughout this struggle to make Cross River State a dimension of excitement and splendor as well as an oasis of security and development”.

    Prof Onor used the opportunity to call on all and sundry to support Gov Bassey Otu, to make Cross River State the dream homeland that we all cherish.

    “We call on all and sundry to give His Excellency, Sen Bassey Edet Otu, and those who work with him, all the support, advise and prayers that they will need to make Cross River State, the dream homeland that we all cherish”.

  • Peter Odey Congratulates Gov Otu On Supreme Court Victory

    Peter Odey Congratulates Gov Otu On Supreme Court Victory

    I congratulate my boss and principal, the dogged and pragmatic leader and Governor of Cross River State, Prince Bassey Otu on our Supreme Court Victory.

    Today’s judgement has indeed put an end to the many distractions and legal tussles we have experienced. The Supreme Court Judgement has further reaffirmed the People of Cross River’s Hope in the Prince Bassey Otu led administration.

    I thank the Cross River People for their prayers , support and solidarity in the last couple of months. May I also congratulate our team of Lawyers for a job well done and also commend the Judiciary for their transparency and accountability in the discharge of justice and preserving the People First Mandate given to us by the People of Cross River State.

    Indeed, Cross River is in good and safe hands under the maverick and quintessential leadership of Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu.

    Let’s work together in making our State the envy of many.

    Rt. Hon. Peter Odey