The Lumine News

Category: Press release

  • 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

    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

     

    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

    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

    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

    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

  • 2024 Presents Another Golden Opportunity To Take Very Demanding Course To Rejig Our Strides For Our Advancement – Akpanke

    NEW YEAR FELICITATION.

    Year 2023 took a bow a short while ago, ushering in a new year, 2024. It is a golden opportunity for us as a people, to take another golden step in our natural but very demanding course of rejigging our strides for our individual and communal advancement.

    As I wish us a prosperous new year, permit me to charge us to reinvigorate our commitment to our oneness and the pursuit of our desperate desire for development, in order to chart and sustain the course for our development, so that our Constituency could close ranks with and even be placed at par with other constituencies that are glaringly far ahead of us.

    My wish for us is that we allow peace, love, and brotherhood to reign in our Constituency, in order to provide the desired wholesome climate for our meaningful progress.

    Let me conclude by restating my total commitment to providing effective representation that shall attract abundant dividends of democracy to our Constituency. I am confident that with your continued prayers and support, we shall overcome all our developmental tasks.

    HAPPY NEW YEAR.

  • 2024: Be Intentional And Run The Race Of Excellence – Odey

    2024: BE INTENTIONAL AND RUN THE RACE OF EXCELLENCE

    Welcome to 2024 and the truth is there is no time. The year has started. The first day of the year is as important as the last day of the year so start putting things in place to have a smooth flight in 2024. Your destiny is in your hands. Do not procrastinate. What you have to do, do it now. Be very intentional with your plans and purpose for the next twelve months. Run your race with so much passion and EXCELLENCE. Do not try to make excuses. Excuses birth calamity, regret and retrogression. Start now and watch yourself become a high flier in 2024.

    You are what you think of yourself. The global giants you see understand the dynamics of time and that is why they are always in a hurry to succeed. If you have to acquire that certification, do it now. If you have to read those books and make that decision to be a star, do it. Be intentional and work towards becoming the best.

    Your year has just started and the race is on.

    Happy New Year.

    Congratulations

    Rt. Hon. Peter Odey

  • Humanitarian Affairs Commissioner Charges Cross Riverians To Face The Challenges Ahead Of 2024 With Courage And Determination

    Dear Cross Riverians,

    It is with great pleasure and profound sense of responsibility that I reach out to you today.

    The past year has been filled with numerous challenges and uncertainties, but it has also showcased the resilience, compassion, and unity of our people. In the face of adversity, you have risen above, extending a helping hand to those in need and demonstrating the true spirit of Humanity.

    As we embark on this new year, let us carry forward the lessons we have learned and the values we hold dear. Let us continue to prioritize the well-being and rights of every individual in our beloved state.

    In the year ahead, our mission remains steadfast – to promote and protect the rights and well-being of all individuals in Cross River State. We will work tirelessly to address the pressing humanitarian issues that affect our communities, and we will strive to create an environment where everyone can thrive and reach their full potential.

    I encourage each and every one of you to join us in this noble endeavor. Let us extend a helping hand to those who are less fortunate, advocate for the rights of the marginalized, and work towards creating a society that leaves no one behind.

    I also use this opportunity to express my deepest gratitude to all the individuals, organizations, and volunteers who have supported our efforts throughout the year. Your dedication and commitment have been instrumental in our success, and I am truly grateful for your partnership.

    As we step into this new year, let us embrace hope, unity, and resilience. Let us face the challenges ahead with courage and determination, knowing that together, we can overcome any obstacle.

    I wish you all a Happy New Year filled with love, peace, and prosperity. May this year be a time of RENEWED HOPE, SWEETNESS, Abundant Blessings, and positive change for all.

    Warm regards,
    Hon. Mrs Helen Isamoh- Egodo Ph.D
    Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs, CRS.

  • Christmas: NYSC DG, YD Ahmed Charges Staff And Corps Members To Rededicate Themselves To The Service Of Our Dear Country

    PRESS STATEMENT

    DIRECTOR GENERAL’S CHRISTMAS MESSAGE TO STAFF AND CORPS MEMBERS

    Dear Compatriots in National Service, I am pleased to use this season of Yuletide to felicitate the Christian faithfuls as they celebrate Christmas which commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ.

    This season is punctuated with sharing love with family members, friends and the underprivileged; and symbolically a time for self renewal, thus, charting a new beginning in your lives as Christian faithfuls.

    As we reflect on the significance of Christmas, may I use the opportunity to appreciate your individual and collective contributions in driving the ship of this noble Scheme towards achieving its objectives which has significantly added value in all facets of our national development.

    Accordingly, I charge you to rededicate yourselves to the service of our dear country even as you prioritize your personal security in this season.

    As many that may travel during this festive period, specifically with permission on the side of Corps Members, I wish you journey mercies and divine protection to and fro your various destinations.Remember, you must avoid night journey.

    Together, with other patriotic Nigerians, we shall continue to build a strong, united and prosperous nation.

    I heartily wish all Staff and Corps Members MERRY CHRISTMAS AND GOD’S BOUNTIFUL PROTECTION
    Thank you.

    YD AHMED
    Brigadier General
    Director General