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  • Former Gov Ben Ayade Special Adviser, Boniface Ishamali Defects To PDP With Supporters In Obudu

    Former Gov Ben Ayade Special Adviser, Boniface Ishamali Defects To PDP With Supporters In Obudu

     

    There is excitement in the camp of the Obudu Local Government Chapter of the People’s Democratic Party, as the party receives key stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) back to the fold.

    Among the prominent APC stakeholders who returned is the former Senior Special Adviser Petroleum, and Chairman Downstream, Hon. Boniface Ishamali.

    Speaking on behalf of other defectors, Hon. Ishamali said their decision to return to the PDP was informed by the need to belong to a party that remains the number one choice of Cross River North Senatorial District since the return of democratic rule in 1999.

    He appreciated the PDP for the great achievement recorded in the Senatorial District under the leadership of Distinguished Sen Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe and for always putting the people’s interest above other considerations as well, for receiving them back into the party with open arms.

    “PDP has been my party. I was in APC briefly for sabbatical and I realized the APC has nothing to offer crossiverians and Nigeria as a party which is why I have returned to work tirelessly for the betterment of our people with the support of our leaders in the North”, Boniface added.

    He specifically commended Senator Jarigbe’s leadership style and expressed the optimism that, the exceptional way he has led the party would translate into more resounding electoral victories in subsequent elections in the Senatorial District and State at large.

    The Cross River State PDP is set to receive more defections in the coming weeks.

  • 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

  • UNICROSS Alumni To Hold AGM December 14th

    UNICROSS Alumni To Hold AGM December 14th

     

    The University of Cross River State Alumni Association (UNICROSS) is pleased to announce that its National Executive Council has approved December 14th, 2024, for the year’s Annual General Meeting (AGM). The event is scheduled to hold at Petesville Hotel, Calabar.

    This milestone event fulfills our commitment to upholding the constitution, as pledged during the National Convention. Despite current challenges, we remain committed to maintaining a vibrant and functional association. Our resolve stems from the belief that true leadership is tested during adversity, not prosperity.

    In line with our national President’s transparency and accountability pledge, the AGM will feature a statement of account presentation and a comprehensive report on the association’s progress. Efforts will be made to unite and strengthen membership.

    The event will culminate in a *Gala Night honouring members appointed by Gov. Bassey Otu and those elected into local government positions*. As a young association and university, we want to celebrate modest achievements while aspiring to greater roles for our members across all levels of government.

    We look forward to the participation and meaningful engagement of all members at the AGM.

    We are stronger together!

    Dr. Peace Egbai
    National Public Relations Officer

  • UNICROSS Staff Embark On Indefinite Strike, Demands Payment Of About 500M For Palliatives, Consequential Adjustment

    UNICROSS Staff Embark On Indefinite Strike, Demands Payment Of About 500M For Palliatives, Consequential Adjustment

    Ndifereke BASSEY

    THE Joint Action Committee (JAC) of SSANU, NASU AND NAAT, SSANI have declared an indefinite industrial action to press home their demands of about five hundred million naira for Palliatives, payments of arrears and other entitlements.

    The Union members expressed dismay at the nonchalant attitude of the management and the government over  staff welfare, saying, “nobody had the courtesy to call them for a meeting all this while.”

    They noted,  only Union leaders have been  initiating meetings to no avail, expressing disappointment that the government and management have concluded arrangements to implement a  no-work-no-pay policy, if the strike action is actualized,

    “According to them,  we are not bothered because we are use to the struggle and will take it to the end.”

    After the Congress, held at ETF 1 lecture hall on Monday, November 4, 2024, the Union unanimously voted for an indefinite strike action until their demands are met.

    In a statement jointly  signed by Chairmen and Secretary of the three trade Unions at the institution, Comr. Mark Enang Ayo (SSANU, Chairman), Comr. Vincent Etta (JAC/NAAT, Chairman) and  Comr. Prince E. Bassey (JAC, Secretary) onbehalf of the  unions states: “Having given Management, Council and Government a total of ninety-six (96) working days from June 11, 2024, when the Unions in the University of Cross River State declared a trade dispute over some crucial issues and having not received any concrete commitment from all the aforementioned parties, the Joint Action Committee (JAC) of NASU, SSANU and NAAT held her Congress on Wednesday September 25, 2024 and resolved  “that, the key issues requiring Government’s attention, as listed in our notice of warning strike dated August 16, 2024 cannot be compromised.

    “That, the issues highlighted in our numerous correspondences to Management
    and Council must be met to avert the looming indefinite strike action by the Unions.

    “It should be noted that unions are critical stakeholders and partners in the university project, our interest must not be compromised.

    ” To this end, JAC will withdraw the services of her members throughout the period of the strike action.”

  • Abue’s Family Offer Thanksgiving Mass, Presents New Car To Sister Monica

    Abue’s Family Offer Thanksgiving Mass, Presents New Car To Sister Monica

    By Elijah Ugani 

    The Children of the late Paramount Ruler of Ogoja; Butro Peter Muan Abue (MON) gathered this Sunday, October 26th, at St Columba’s Catholic Church, IDUM MBUBE, to offer a Thanksgiving Mass in honour of their last sibling, Hon Monica Abue, who recently participated in the selection process for COUNCILLORSHIP in Mbube West Ward 1.

    Although Monica was not eventually nominated for the position, it was very clear that she won the popular vote, following the resounding jubilation and solidarity during the Thanksgiving Mass.

    In a homily during the Mass, the Chief celebrant Rev Fr. Dr. Peter Obele Abue who spoke on the need for Christians to eschew what he called a sin-less mentality, advised Christians to be always learn to ask God for mercy when they sin, and seek reconciliation with neighbors when an offence is committed.

    Fr Abue urged political gladiators to learn to play clean politics and to accept defeat when they lost. He praised Monica for accepting to move on with her life after her loss.

    Also speaking during the Thanksgiving Mass, Rev Fr. Prof. Jake Otonko, commended the Abue family for their contribution to building the Idum community and enjoined Monica Abue to continue to forge ahead, confident that her perseverance would bring her success.

    In a vote of thanks at the end of the Mass, the Head of the Family Prince Joe Aras Abue (KSJI), extolled Monica for her charity towards the less privileged and announced that the family was aiding Monica to “establish a cooperative to empower the poor especially small business owners”.

    Prince Aras enjoined all to emulate Monica in her dogged spirit of politics without bitterness and wished her well in her future political ambitions.

    In a remarkable ceremony of PRESENTATION after the Mass, Sir Patrick Damian Abue, a US-based member of the family, presented a TOYOTA CORROLLA Salon Car to her junior sister Monica Abue, on behalf of the family.

    In his words, “this vehicle is to enable her to continue the good and charitable ventures she has always been known for, so as to be of service to others, as this has always been her wish”.

    The Thanksgiving day was concluded in the family compound with a lot of merriment by neighbours, friends, and family members of the Abue family. Everyone wished her well and said special prayers for her.

    Speaking with TheLumineNews, Hon Monica Abue, thanked her siblings for the surprised car gift and promised to serve humanity even as they have decided to establish a cooperative to enable her reach the most vulnerable population.

    She used the opportunity to thank family members, political supporters, friends and well wishes who have stood by her through out the period of consultation and promised to continue to support her people, as she wished all safe travels back to their various destinations.

  • Jarigbe Agom Bags Nigerian Sports National Merit Award as Best Performing Senator in Sports Development

    Jarigbe Agom Bags Nigerian Sports National Merit Award as Best Performing Senator in Sports Development

     

    The Senator representing Cross River North Senatorial District, Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, has received the prestigious “Best Performing Senator on Sports Development” award from the Nigerian Sports National Merit Award.

    This recognition acknowledges his significant contributions to sports growth and development in Nigeria, particularly in Cross River North Senatorial District.

    The award, backed by prominent organizations such as the National Sports Commission, Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC), Society for Promotion of Sports in Nigeria, Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), and African Union Sports Council, is the most esteemed honor in the Nigerian sports industry.

    Presented by Maj. Gen. Maikano Abdullahi, Vice President of the International Military Sports Council (CISM), the award highlights Senator Jarigbe’s pivotal role in uplifting sports in Nigeria. In acceptance, Barrister Firsts Baba Isa representing Senator Jarigbe, emphasized that this recognition motivates him to continue supporting his constituents adding that his investment in sports development is driven by a desire to contribute positively, rather than for political or financial gain.

    This honor solidifies Senator Jarigbe’s reputation as a champion of sports development and youth friendly legislator in the Nigerian Senate.

    Other notable awardees include; Rear Admiral FBI Porbeni MNI., CFR, President, Nigeria Rowing, Canoeing & Sailing Federation (Sports Personality of the Year), Chief of Defense Staff, General Christopher Musa, OFR, (Nigerian Sports Order of Merit Award), Engr. Musa Nimrod, President, Nigeria Volleyball Federation, (Best Performing Nigerian Sports Federation President) & Distinguished Senator Ned Nwoko amongst others.

    Congratulations Most Distinguished Senator!

    TEAM JARI MEDIA.

  • 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.

  • Governor Otu, Others Attend Funeral Mass for Former Commissioner Tanko Ashang

    Governor Otu, Others Attend Funeral Mass for Former Commissioner Tanko Ashang

    Cross River State Governor, Senator (Prince) Bassey Edet Otu, Saturday, attended the funeral mass in honour of the late Tanko Mathias Ashang, SAN, held at Mater Redemptoris Parish, Sankwalla, in Obanliku Local Government Area.

    Ashang, aged 54, once served as Commissioner for Works and was the immediate past Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice in the state.

    In a tribute delivered to the Ashang family, Governor Otu, represented by his deputy, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, praised Ashang for his professional accomplishments, compassionate nature, and the lasting legacy he left.

    Deputy Governor Odey described Ashang as a legal luminary, an astute administrator, and an exemplary ambassador who dedicated and committed himself tirelessly to the service of the state.

    Odey highlighted Ashang’s impactful contributions during his tenure as Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, including his leadership in the holistic review of outdated state laws. His efforts to realign the ministry of justice led to enhanced service conditions and overall improvements in service delivery.

    Speaking further, Rt. Hon. Odey intimated that Ashang’s vision and commitment to progress have left a profound impact on the state that will resonate for generations to come.

    Offering words of comfort to Ashang’s family, Odey encouraged them to find peace in the belief that Ashang is now at rest in the bosom of the Lord, having lived a life of compassion, dedication to God and humanity, and a relentless drive to make the world a better place.

    Among other speakers at the well-attended funeral, Ntufam Fidelis Ugbo remembered Ashang’s support for Cross River North and assured the family of Northern Leaders’ steadfast support during this time of loss and beyond.

    Senator Eteng Jones Williams, representing Cross River Central in the Nigerian Senate, State Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Alphonsus Eba, Deputy Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Hon. Sylvester Agabi, former Chief of Staff to the immediate past Governor of CRS, Hon. Martin Orim and the immediate past of Representatives member for Obanliku/Bekwarra/Obudu Federal Constituency, Rt. Hon. Legor Idagbo graced the well attended event.

    Others were former and serving House of Assembly members, Commissioners, top state and federal government officials, party members across party lines, friends, family, and other well-wishers graced the occasion.

    Fred Abua, Esq
    Press Secretary to the Deputy Governor of Cross River State
    26th October, 2024

  • 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.