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  • Odukpani Local Government Council Provides Bungalow As Corps Members’ Lodge

    Odukpani Local Government Council Provides Bungalow As Corps Members’ Lodge

     

    The Corps Members serving in Odukpani Local Government Area of Cross River State, today, were thrown into jubilation following the official handing over of a newly constructed 3 Bedroom Lodge by the Local Government Admin. to them.

    Speaking while cutting the ribbon to unveil the lodge, the Head of Local Government Administration (HOLGA), Hon. Ntufan Felix Eyimon, appreciated the management of NYSC for it’s effort in using the Corps Members for National Integration and repositioning their mindset for economic development.

    He asserted that the Governor of Cross River State, Sen. Prince Bassey Otu and his Government would continue, as Youth Friendly Governor, to provide an enabling environment for the Corps Members posted to the state. He described the Corps Members Lodge as one of the ways of replicating ‘Sweet Prince Bassey Otu’s kind gesture to the Scheme in the state.

    Hon. Ntufan further maintained that the Corps Members would also be provided with ( as it has always been) adequate security to ensure that they are well protected, as they also continue to collect monthly allowance from the Local Government.

    In his reaction, the NYSC Coordinator, Mrs Oyenuga Mojisola Joke, applauded the HOLGA for extending the magnanimous nature of the state government to the NYSC.

    Mrs Oyenuga, who was represented by the Assistant Director Information and Public Relations, Mr. Peter Enuma, said that NYSC is a Tripartite arrangement, from the Federal to the Local Government, noting that Odukpani Local Government and the likes had not reneged to that arrangement.

    She however assured the management of the NYSC continues collaboration with them, just as she equally admonished the Corps members to also continue to maintain their good ambassadorship of the Scheme.

  • Steering Obudu To Prosperity: Why Hon. Akwagiobe is the Ideal Chairman BY RICHARD ABU

    Steering Obudu To Prosperity: Why Hon. Akwagiobe is the Ideal Chairman BY RICHARD ABU

     

    As the race for the chairmanship of Obudu Local Government Area intensifies, with various candidates stepping forward to declare their interest in leading the next administration of our cherished LGA, it becomes imperative for the people of Obudu to make a careful and informed choice. In this crucial moment, we must look inward and select a leader who embodies the best interests of the community, a leader with a genuine passion for public service, a proven track record, and the unwavering determination to guide rather than be guided. The Chairmanship of Obudu should not be reduced to a contest of wealth or influence; instead, it should be a race for those who are prepared to shoulder the responsibilities of leadership and bring about the much-needed change that the people of Obudu deserve.

    When we consider who best fits this description, Hon. Emmanuel Undipeye Akwagiobe emerges as the most qualified and capable candidate for the position of Chairman. His extensive experience, deep understanding of the community’s needs, and a proven history of effective leadership make him the ideal choice to steer Obudu toward a future of growth and prosperity.

    Hon. Akwagiobe’s background in public service is a testament to his capability and dedication. His career spans the executive, legislative, and civil service sectors, providing him with a comprehensive understanding of the intricacies of local governance. His political journey, which began over two decades ago, is a clear indication of his commitment to service. Since 1999, there has never been a time when Hon. Akwagiobe has not been actively involved in the politics of Obudu, consistently rewarded with roles that reflect his dedication and effectiveness. His vision, enthusiasm, and unwavering commitment to delivering optimal service have consistently set him apart.

    Hon. Akwagiobe’s first significant role as a Community Relations Officer came at a critical time when there was an absence of leadership at the council level. The responsibility of overseeing the general well-being and peace of Obudu fell squarely on his shoulders. He embraced this challenge wholeheartedly, playing a pivotal role in resolving security challenges and addressing social crises within Obudu and beyond. His hands-on approach and deep engagement with grassroots communities have equipped him with the practical skills necessary to navigate complex issues and implement effective solutions.

    Hon. Akwagiobe’s mission for Obudu is clear: to deliver exemplary socio-economic facilities through effective and prosperous leadership. He envisions a thriving and inclusive Obudu, where every resident enjoys a high quality of life and has access to opportunities for growth. His agenda is rooted in the belief that strong leadership, coupled with community participation, is the key to driving sustainable development.

    Beyond his extensive experience, Hon. Akwagiobe is also a dedicated party man. In 2021, when former Governor Ben Ayade aligned Cross River State with the center of Nigeria’s politics by defecting to the All Progressives Congress (APC), the challenge of moving the masses who had long been loyal to the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) fell to committed party members. Hon. Akwagiobe rose to the occasion, taking on the formidable task of mobilizing his people to embrace the new agenda. His efforts were evident in the last general elections, where his community was among the few that delivered a complete victory for the APC, securing wins in all elections. Today, the party need not look further but should stand by a man with the political acumen and tenacity to ensure that Obudu remains firmly aligned with the APC in the upcoming local government polls and future elections.

    Hon. Akwagiobe’s multifaceted experience, coupled with his deep-rooted connection to the community, positions him as the most qualified candidate for the Chairmanship of Obudu Local Government Area. His ability to navigate the complexities of local governance, combined with his visionary leadership, makes him the ideal choice to lead Obudu toward a brighter future. With Hon. Emmanuel Undipeye Akwagiobe at the helm, Obudu can look forward to sustained development, peace, and prosperity.

    Disclaimer: The opinion expressed in this article is strictly that of the author, Richard Abu, and does not represent TheLumineNews, its agent or the organization the author works for.

  • The Distinguished Constituents Of Senator Jarigbe Agom BY DOMINIC KIDZU

    The Distinguished Constituents Of Senator Jarigbe Agom BY DOMINIC KIDZU

     

    He is urbane and gentle but incredibly discerning of every situation. When he speaks soft words they translate into action with lightening speed, every spoken word sprouting seeds of joy in fulfillment of a promise once made. That, my friend, is character, the stuff that great men are made of.

    And speaking of greatness, as William Shakespeare admonishes us in Twelveth Night “Be not afraid of greatness, some are born great, some achieve greatness and some have greatness thrust upon them.” No one can deny that Jarigbe Agom had a noble birth, has made great endeavors and wears the crown of leadership and greatness today.

    His politics is a long page out of Mallam Aminu Kano”s story. Aminu Kano was the king and hope of the poor, the ‘talakawas’ for whom he lived, denying himself enormous pleasure and luxury for the benefit of the downtrodden. It was inevitable that he would clash with the entrenched establishment from time to time. He would take down the entitled traditional ruling class and politicians with the support of the people, trouncing the high and mighty whenever the need arose and planting the people-power ideology for which Kano is still known today.

    Until his demise, Aminu Kano owned only one small house in the Gwamaja area of the ancient city, even after having been the author of twenty plays, a federal minister and member of the House of Representatives. When I got to Kano late in 1982, after secondary school, I found that the two most popular personalities in the ancient city were Alhaji Abubakar Rimi who was the governor and Malam Aminu Kano who was the founder of his socialist party, the People’s Redemption Party, PRP, which was in pursuit of an ideal society where all men were equal. The party had also produced a governor in Kaduna state, Alhaji Balarabe Musa.

    Although I cannot recall that he has ever confessed a Marxist-Leninist inclination in his philosophical views, Jarigbe’s politics aporoximates to that of Mallam Aminu Kano in his desire for social equation in which all men are given the opportunity for legitimate pursuit of fair enterprise and the good life. To achieve this noble aim from personal resources, the alternative forgone is personal aggrandizement and the exalted lifestyle of the nouveau riche – with a concomitant spirit of noblesse oblige. He gives freely like the dews of heaven, as if driven by compunction to disperse rather than retain wealth.

    This seems to be the passion that drives him to create, a near alternative government and try to provide all that government ought to have provided; including the key areas of water, education, health and roads, for the people of Cross River North. It is not for nothing that he is often referred to as the “Governor of the North.” He embodies their aspirations and hopes, dreams their dreams and ultimately lives with them as they with him. It is not possible to distinguish between the distinguished senator and the people, who have themselves become distinguished side by side with him.

    He still lives in a middle-class estate in the nation’s capital, comes home to roost in his modest house in Ogoja, his hometown and owns no house in his state capital, Calabar. Franz Kafka was nostalgic when he wrote ” I was ashamed of myself when I realized that life was a costume party and I attended with my real face.” There are no such wistful thoughts for Senator Agom because he is happy to be real all the time. He does not regret his austere lifestyle because he intentionally created it while building mansions in the hearts of men, men who love and trust him with their lives.

    And as Catherine confesses about Heathclif in Emily Bronte’s Wuthering Heights, “they love the ground under his feet, and the air over his head, and everything he touches and every word he says. They love all his looks and all his actions and him entirely and all together.” They love him so much that they voted against a sitting governor to send him back to the Senate, braving all odds including the gunboot politics of exalted men of power and the long, dark night of legal disputation. Were Northern Cross River a manor, they would happily have him as Lord-In Residence, but because it is a senatorial zone, they crowned him senator.

    Chief Dan Ulasi, ex-Biafran army captain and former chairman of APGA said on television last week that “government is not about making long speeches, it is about taking action.” The people are weary of listening to the speeches, they prefer the positive action they have been seeing throughout the reign of the people’s senator, who builds schools, medical facilities and roads for them. A senator who has started businesses for his constituents, trained and empowered the youths, given motorcycles, keke, cars, tailoring equipment to men, women and youths. And all together made life much more bearable and comfortable for the people of Cross River North.

    Having been so well served, his constituents imagine themselves distinct and distinguished, as though they were the senator, each of them and everyone with him, in a unity that knows no pomp nor pageantry, but genuine humility which only mutual love can conjure. In the end when the history of the politics of Cross River State comes to be recounted, Jarigbe Agom’s chapter will be written in gold and it shall tell the story of a young man who denied himself the just desserts of public office and gave all to the masses, for who’s sake he joined politics in the beginning. Do you still wonder why they chose him over a sitting governor? Or doubt the fertile intimatioms of his own immortality well ahead of time?

    Disclaimer: The opinion expressed in this article is strictly that of the author, Dominic Kidzu, and does not represent TheLumineNews, its agent or the organization the author works for.

  • Why Tinubu’s 2023 Magic May Not Replay In 2027 BY INYALI PETER

    Why Tinubu’s 2023 Magic May Not Replay In 2027 BY INYALI PETER

     

    President Bola Tinubu’s emergence as the APC presidential candidate and subsequent victory has been interpreted in various ways. Many believe his success despite opposition and gang-up by presidential cabal makes him immune to defeat now that he’s in power. However, this assumption may be inaccurate, as the circumstances that led to his victory in 2023 may not be replicated in 2027.

    Tinubu’s famous ‘Emi Lo Kan’ speech in Ogun state was a turning point as it forced President Muhammadu Buhari to steer clear of endorsing anyone. The then President was boxed into a corner where the only option was to endorse Tinubu or no one at all. Tinubu knew that Buhari’s endorsement of another candidate would have ended his ambition as well as, without it, no one was going to defeat him, and so it was. But there may be no room for this scenario in 2027.

    Similarly, after clinching the ticket, another factor that worked for him in the main election was the balkanization of the main opposition People’s Democratic party into four factions; Atiku Abubakar’s faction (main PDP), Peter Obi faction (LP), Rabiu Kwankwaso (NNPP) and Nysom Wike (G-5). This development smoothened Tinubu’s path to victory. However, like the ‘Emi Lo Kan’, this factor may not repeat itself in 2027, as the opposition is likely to regroup and present a united front.

    Moreover, the 2023 election results show that Tinubu garnered only 36.6% of the 25,586, 616 total votes, meaning 53.4% of voters did not support him. This implies that he has a significant task to convince the major who didn’t vote for him. But not only this number, also the over 50 million eligible Nigerian voters who didn’t participate in the election. This is a daunting task, especially considering the current state of the nation.

    But has his performances so far achieved the task of convincing the majority who didn’t vote him? The answer is obviously in the negative. In fact, if anything, it has justified their position than convince anybody. And if things don’t change, his support base will continue to deplete, thereby strengthening the opposition and making the impression that he would always find a way to win like in 2023 utupia.

    To give him any chance in 2027, the President must stop listening to the hallelujah people around deceiving him that if he could win despite the challenges in 2023, he can’t lose in 2027, and rather find ways to turn things around quickly. The hunger and anger in the land are real and these would raise more army against him than anything. Government have been realising figures to show improved revenue. But that’s not what Nigerians want, they want improvement in their standards of living, not just revenue figures.

    The President must also convince Nigerians that his administration is not prioritizing regional interests. So far, his appointments have clearly defined it to be a “government of the Yorubas, by the Yorubas, and for the Yorubas.” For a complex diverse country like ours, this pattern can only lead to doom.

    Besides, the call for ex-president Goodluck Jonathan to join the 2027 presidential election is gaining momentum and rattling the APC. If things don’t improve and Jonathan agrees to run, Tinubu’s chances of winning would require unprecedented political wizardry.

    GEJ’s reputation as a liberal and detribalized leader, combined with the prospect of a single term that would return power to the North, makes him an appealing candidate. The South South and South East, feeling marginalized by Tinubu’s administration, are Jonathan’s strongholds. Meanwhile, the North is growing increasingly hostile towards the current President, making Jonathan a more likely choice.

    Based on today’s reality, Tinubu’s fate in 2027 hangs in the balance, as his Renewed Hope policies have yet to deliver tangible relief to Nigerians. If his administration can turn things around and make a meaningful impact, the current permutations may shift in his favour. However, until then, there’s little indication that his 2023 success will be replicated. In fact, even his own actions suggest he’s more interested in his current term, rather than laying the groundwork for a second term.

    Disclaimer: The opinion expressed in this article is strictly that of the author, Inyali Peter, and does not represent TheLumineNews, its agent or the organization the author works for.

  • Leboku 2024: Otu Calls For Mechanized Farming To Ensure Food Security

    Leboku 2024: Otu Calls For Mechanized Farming To Ensure Food Security

    By: Ukongikwen Adie

    The Executive Governor of Cross River State, Senator (Prince) Bassey Otu has commended the Obol Lopon of Ugep, HRM Obol Ofem Ubana Eteng for maintaining peace within his domain as records have shown that since his enthronement as the Obol Lopon of Ugep and Paramount Ruler of Yakurr, inter-communial harmony, peace and socio-economic development of the Yakurr people have increased.

    The Governor made this commendation through his Deputy, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey who represented him in the 2024 lnternational New Yam Festival with theme ” Community Mobilization For Sustainable Growth ”

    Otu acknowledged the deliberate initiative of successive administrations in the state to use the event in encouraging food production and showcase the rich cultural endowments of the Yakurr people.

    “My administration is poised to sustain the momentum of the event and even surpass its achievements”

    The Governor added that this administration is intentional in transitioning from subsistence to mechanized agricultural practice with the procurement of light and heavy duty machinery to enable small farm holders and agricultural entrepreneurs embark on large scale production of rice, cassava, oil palm, cocao and yams to ensure food security in the state.

    Earlier, the Obol Lopon of Ugep, HRM, Obol Ofem Ubana Eteng had received the Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey and His entourage in his Palace.
    The Paramount Ruler expressed his appreciation and that of the Yakurr nation to the governor and members of the Cross River State House of Assembly, members of the State Executive Council and other political office holders for gracing the occasion and for the sustained support the Leboku lnternational New Yam Festival and the Yakurr nation as a whole has received.

    Dignitaries who graced the festival were the Deputy Speaker and other members of the Cross River State House of Assembly, members of the state executive Council, the Head of Service, the chairman of the traditional rulers council and other traditional rulers and several political office holders.

    Highlights of the festival included the presentation of prizes to the winners of the 2024 Mr. Leboku & Miss Leboku Pageant, the best Yam harvester of the year and other consolation prizes.

  • Governor Otu Pledges Continued Support for Business Growth in the State

    Governor Otu Pledges Continued Support for Business Growth in the State

     

    Cross River State Governor, Senator Prince Bassey Otu, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to enhancing the state’s socioeconomic landscape by fostering a conducive environment for business growth.

    Represented by his deputy, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, Governor Otu made this statement when he received in audience, Mr. Charles Odii, the Director General of the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN), at Government House in Calabar on Tuesday.

    Odey highlighted the vital role that Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) play in driving state development, emphasizing their importance within his administration’s ‘People First’ agenda.

    He emphasized the efforts of the Cross River State Microfinance and Enterprise Development Agency (MEDA), led by Mr. Great Ogban, and stressed the need for collaboration with SMEDAN to maximize the contributions of SMEs in job creation, economic revitalization, and expanding economic opportunities for the citizens of Cross River State.

    The Governor also revealed that his administration is actively developing strategies to empower small business owners by leveraging local content policies to help their businesses thrive.

    Deputy Governor Odey commended Mr. Charles Odii for his dedication to engaging young people in productive activities and providing crucial support for their creative and income-generating endeavors.

    “The only way to build a sustainable and globally competitive economy is through serious commitment, and as a government, we are fully committed to this partnership and future collaborations,” Odey stated.

    Speaking earlier, SMEDAN’s Director-General, Mr. Charles Odii, appreciated the Cross River State Government for its efforts to strengthen SME activities through MEDA, providing necessary support and financial services to boost their operations.

    He highlighted SMEDAN’s role in Nigeria’s economic growth and development, noting that the Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) ecosystem in Nigeria comprises approximately 40 million businesses, with 38 million classified as Nano businesses, primarily youth-led and youth-owned.

    Mr. Odii emphasized that with proper guidance, improved resources, and adequate opportunities as well as workforce support, Nano businesses have the potential to grow into major enterprises.

    In attendance were the Commissioner for Wealth Creation and Employment, Hon. Patrick Egbede, Commissioner for Youth Development, Barr. Ijom-Odum Ukam, Commissioner for Information, Hon. Erasmus Ekpang and the Head of Personal Staff to the Deputy Governor, Dr. Chris Ojikpong as well s the Director General of MEDA, Mr. Great Ogban, along with other government officials.

    Deputy Governor’s Press Unit, Calabar

  • UNICAL SUG President, Blessing Alims Pledges To Leave Lasting Footprints As ActionAid Holds Close Out Learning And Dissemination Meeting

    UNICAL SUG President, Blessing Alims Pledges To Leave Lasting Footprints As ActionAid Holds Close Out Learning And Dissemination Meeting

     

    The University of Calabar President of the Student’s Union Government SUG, Comr Blessing Alims, has pledged to leave lasting footprint for other young ladies with the zeal for service in leadership position, and linked her success and leadership capacity to ActionAid, GADA, Girls Power Initiative and other development organizations that she has previously offered voluntary services for.

    The SUG President made this known while she served as Special Guest, during the Close Out Learning and Dissemination Ceremony organized by ActionAid Nigeria, held at Continental Hotel, Abuja on Tuesday 20th August, 2024.

    Comr Blessing Alims, who averred that her desire to create impact is work in progress, commended all who contributed to her success in the election that provided the opportunity for her to showcase her abilities.

    She used the opportunity to call on other ladies with the desire to offer solutions to the myriad of challenges that bedevilled the society to take up leadership positions.

    Of particular mention was the role played by ActionAid Nigeria, for the platform and support and promised to continue to keep the fire burning while providing support and mentorship to other aspiring ladies.

    In her words “We are grateful for the support of ActionAid Nigeria, GADA, Women in Politics Forum, also several NGOs and our partners in advancing gender equality and women’s rights in Nigeria.

    “I pledge to continue working towards a Nigeria where women and girls can thrive and reach their full potential.”

    ActionAid Nigeria marked the successful completion of the Women’s Voice and Leadership Nigeria Project, a 5-year initiative supported by Canada, aimed at promoting gender equality and women’s rights in Nigeria.

    The ceremony brought together stakeholders, partners, and beneficiaries and shared lessons learned and best practices. The event highlighted the project’s achievements, including empowering women’s rights, organizations and movements, strengthening women’s leadership and participation in decision-making processes, advancing gender equality, and improving access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities for women and girls.

    – The importance of women’s leadership and participation in decision-making processes
    – Challenging harmful social norms and stereotypes that hinder women’s progress
    – Empowering young ladies to take up leadership roles and build their capacity
    – Leaving a lasting legacy for future generations

    ActionAid Nigeria is a non-governmental organization working to promote human rights, gender equality, and sustainable livelihoods in Nigeria.

  • LAWSAN Files Petition Against Dean Student’s Affairs For Arrogating Powers To Self

    LAWSAN Files Petition Against Dean Student’s Affairs For Arrogating Powers To Self

    By Patrick Obia, Culled From CrossRiverWatch 

    The University of Calabar Law Students Association (LAWSAN), 2024 Electoral Commission, has filed a petition against the Dean of Students Affairs Professor Tony Eyang for intrusion and arrogating power to himself.

    LAWSAN in a petition signed by LAWSAN 2024 Electoral Chairman Onyeagba Stanley; Secretary, Bisong Edor and other members, to the Vice Chancellor Professor Florence Obi, copying the Department of State Services (DSS), the Student Union Government (SUG) and among other authorities, accused the Dean of playing ethnicity and use of position to usurp constituted bodies.

    They accused Prof. Eyang of unilaterally disqualifying candidates who had already been screened and cleared by the Electoral Body when the Dean lack the authority to overrule the Association Electoral Body.

    LAWSAN also alleged that for the past four years, the planning and execution of the freshmen orientation have occurred without the involvement of the SUG. The funds allocated for these orientations remain unaccounted for and Prof. Eyang has seemingly taken on the role of both the Vice President of the Student Union Government and Dean of Student Affairs, contrary to constitutional provisions. ”These issues call for a thorough investigation and prompt action to ensure accountability and transparency in the administration of student affairs at the University of Calabar.”

    The petition reads below:

    We, the undersigned members of the Law Students Association (Lawsan), 2024 Electoral Commission are compelled to bring to your attention significant concerns regarding the actions of the Dean of Student Affairs in the context of the Lawsan 2024 General Elections. Before delving into the core issues, allow us to provide a background understanding of the situation at hand. The Lawsan UCC Electoral Commission published the electoral timetable for the 2024 General Elections and commenced activities as stipulated. The sales of forms were conducted, and the Electoral Body, tasked with the exclusive mandate of screening and clearing candidates, performed its duties diligently to ensure a credible process.

    All aspirants who purchased forms were cleared, even if some did not meet the required cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of 3.50 and above. Historically, many candidates with lower CGPAs were allowed to participate in the general elections because once an aspirant lodged applications for result correction, the CGPA constitutional requirement was waived by the Electoral Body. This practice and convention have been upheld by the Lawsan Electoral Commission over the years.

    Among the six initial aspirants, three had applications for result corrections and were all cleared on this premise. However, a petition was submitted by a faculty staff member against only one candidate, Frank Agness Ekaette, due to her perceived closeness to Associate Professor Mike Otu. This was allegedly because she reported a case of a threat issued by Professor Jake Osimiri to Associate Professor Mike Otu during lectures to the 4th-year class of the Faculty. The faculty is currently polarized between the Yala and Boki blocs of staff, which further complicates the situation. We have however moved on past these petty tussles and fight over the Control of LAWSAN.

    When these issues were brought to the attention of the Dean of Student Affairs, we expected him to maintain a neutral position, given the confidence reposed in him. However, the Electoral Body discovered conclusively that the Dean had taken a biased stance to further his own interests, which aligns with that of the faculty’s interest. The Dean of Student Affairs unilaterally disqualified candidates who had already been screened and cleared by the Electoral Body. We categorically state that the Dean of Student Affairs lacks the authority to overrule the Association Electoral Body. The only institution within the university with the jurisdiction to overturn decisions made by the Students’ Electoral Body is the judicial arm of the respective association, and by extension, the Student Union Government High Court and the honorable SUG High Court can only exercise such jurisdiction when an appeal is filed before it. In addition, the Security Department of the University is another institution within the University Community saddled with such Power to disqualify an Aspirant on the ground on Security reasons when the Conduct of an Aspirant in the past had posed a threat to the University Peacefully coexistence. Due process was never considered, and the process was abused in an association where the staff adviser is a lawyer.

    These institutions of the Student Union government (executive, judiciary, and legislature) are not mere formalities within the university community but are intended for student affairs of this nature. The expected role of the Dean of Student Affairs is advisory rather than the total usurpation of the power of the Electoral Body. Following this unilateral disqualification, the Electoral body proceeded with the sales of forms, a move which the Dean of Student Affairs had initially approved and now opposes for reasons best known to him. The Dean of Students’ Affairs should be reminded that it is not within his authority to open or close the sale of forms.

    If the argument is that the time frame had elapsed, he should be reminded that he had already disrupted the process by disqualifying candidates who were already screened and cleared, thereby impliedly necessitating the continuation of the sale of forms, which he initially approved and consented to in his office. When the new candidates purchased forms and monies submitted on the directive of the staff adviser, the Dean ordered the refund of these monies, despite knowing that such monies are legally non-refundable. He insisted on refunding them their monies because he has no other ground for disqualifying them like he has been doing before aside hinging on the process he had earlier disrupted.The Vice Chancellor should note the Following:

    ● That during the meeting we had with the Dean of students’ affairs in his office, he emphasized on the fact that these new aspirants were brought to him by Associate Professor Mike Otu.

    ● Equally, the Dean Of Students’ Affairs consistent involvement of Barr. Maxwell Egba in all our meetings and Barr. Egba’s constant diction of “We know How To Run These Things” gives concern regarding the transparency of an electoral process under the sole auspices of the Dean Of Students affairs.

    ● We request that the Vice Chancellor through her good office instruct Chairman Of the Calabar University Electoral Commission (CUECO) to supervise the election as the last conducted Student Union government election was the most transparent, free and credibly fair electoral process witnessed in recent time in the university of Calabar.

    ● We further request that all Aspirants who bought forms after the earlier adjustment of the Electoral timetable be allowed to stand Elections, hence there is a Pending Court order from the Student Union Government High court mandating the Electoral Commission to act forthwith. Several concerns have been raised regarding the administrative conduct of Prof. Tony Eyang in his capacity as the Dean of Student Affairs at the University of Calabar. These concerns revolve around financial discrepancies and procedural violations in the management of student affairs.

    1. Financial Mismanagement in Hostel Accommodation:

    It has been reported that funds were collected from students for hostel accommodations, exceeding the actual number of students who paid and cleared for these facilities. Despite receiving these payments, many students have yet to be provided with the promised accommodation, neither have refunds been made accordingly.

    2. Unaccounted Funds for Student Initiatives

    Over the past two years, payments made through the Entrepreneurial Development Center and the Center for General Studies for the Student Union Government’s almanac and constitution have not been adequately accounted for. While we do not speak on behalf of the Student Union Government, as concerned students of the University of Calabar, we feel obligated to bring these issues to light.

    3. Violation of the Student Union Government Constitution:

    Pursuant to Section 17(2) of the Student Union Government Constitution, “The vice president shall be the chairman of the orientation week planning committee.” However, for the past four years, the planning and execution of the freshmen orientation have occurred without the involvement of the Student Union Government. The funds allocated for these orientations remain unaccounted for. Prof. Eyang has seemingly taken on the role of both the Vice President of the Student Union Government and Dean of Student Affairs, contrary to constitutional provisions. These issues call for a thorough investigation and prompt action to ensure accountability and transparency in the administration of student affairs at the University of Calabar.

  • Sweden, A Nation With “No Excellencies…” BY AGBA JALINGO

    Sweden, A Nation With “No Excellencies…” BY AGBA JALINGO

     

    Did you know that, Sweden, a Scandinavian nation that transformed itself from an impoverished, agricultural society into one of the wealthiest, most socially just and least corrupt countries in the world, is a nation with ‘no excellencies?’

    1. Sweden does not offer luxury or privileges to its politicians. They do not treat their elected officials differently than the citizens?

    2. Swedish Ministers and MPs do not have official cars or private drivers. They travel in crowded buses and trains, just like the citizens they represent.

    3. They are not allowed to have private secretaries and their parliamentary offices are as small as 8m².

    4. Swedish politicians who dare to spend public money on taxi journeys, instead of riding the train, end up on news headlines.

    5. Even the Speaker of Parliament (Riksdag), receives a card to use public transportation.

    6. Only the Prime Minister has the right to use a car from the security forces on a permanent basis.

    7. Swedish parliamentarians live in tiny apartments in the capital, where they wash and iron their own clothes in communal laundries.

    8. At the municipal level, unlike our LGA Councilors and Houses of Assembly members who live large on our resources, Swedish councillors do not even earn a salary.

    9. They do not have a right to an office. They work from home.

    10. According to Business Insider, an MP in Sweden earns $78,000 a year. That’s less than the quarterly office running cost of a Nigerian parliamentarian.

    11. When foreign Heads of States visit Sweden, they sometimes ride with their Prime Minister in public transportation.

    12. Judges also do not have the right to official cars, private secretaries or perks.

    13. A former Swedish Deputy Prime Minister, Mona Sahlin, once bought a bar of chocolate, nappies and some other personal items with a government credit card. There was national uproar and she lost her job. The scandal went down in the annals of Swedish politics as the “Toblerone Case.”

    14. Yet, Sweden tops as the number one country with the best quality of life and social purpose on Earth.

    15. Sweden is ranked the best country to be a woman and raise children in, and for a sustainable lifestyle.

    16. Health care and college education are free in Sweden and its people boast one of the longest life expectancies in the world.

    17. Almost all of Sweden’s trash is recycled.

    18. Swedes donate about 1 percent of their gross national product to humanitarian aid programs around the world each year.

    19. The literacy level in Sweden is 99 per cent.

    20. Sweden is recognized for having an abundance of clean air, given its high tree cover percentage, and they have the highest number of non-religious population in the world.

    How did a non-religious society come to love simplicity, humanity and even God, more than the very religious nations, who are struggling to produce honest leaders that can give their people basic rights?

    Why do non-productive leaders in struggling countries prefer to spend more public money on their personal luxuries than on the welfare of the people that voted for them?

    How did a nation with no excellencies, manage to become so excellent, while nations filled with countless excellencies, are unable to become excellent?

    Think about it and decide today to be part of building a new Nigeria that will at least, have less excellencies.

    Yours sincerely,
    Citizen Agba Jalingo.

    Disclaimer: The opinion expressed in this article is strictly that of the author, Agba Jalingo, and does not represent TheLumineNews, its agent or the organization the author works for 

  • CRSG Will Continue To Support NYSC, Odey Assures New State Coordinator

    CRSG Will Continue To Support NYSC, Odey Assures New State Coordinator

     

    The administration led by Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) in its efforts to achieve its objectives in Cross River State.

    Deputy Governor of Cross River State, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey made this known when he received in audience the new State Coordinator of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Mrs. Joke Mojisola Oyenuga, at his temporary office in Calabar.

    In welcoming Mrs. Oyenuga to her new role, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey emphasized the state government’s dedication to strengthening its partnership with the NYSC to combat social vices, noting that the current administration is focused on the emancipation and empowerment of youth, regardless of their background.

    The Deputy Governor encouraged the new State Coordinator to leverage her extensive experience with the NYSC to enhance the scheme’s activities in Cross River State, aiming to elevate it to new heights.

    Mrs. Oyenuga, in her remarks, explained that the purpose of her visit was to officially familiarize herself and to further solidify the relationship between the state government and the NYSC.

    Oyenuga, while appreciating the deputy governor for the warm reception accorded to her and her team, acknowledged the state’s ongoing support for the NYSC over the years and appealed for continued collaboration and improved welfare for the scheme and its corps members.

    She assured the Deputy Governor of the NYSC’s commitment to contributing to the success of the current administration in Cross River State.

    Other members of the delegation who accompanied the new state coordinator on the visit included Comrade Elot Elot Ukam, AD, HRM, Ms Asisk Mfon, AD, Corps Discipline and Reward and Mr. Enuma Peter, AD, Public relations as well as Mr Tony odey, Zonal inspector Calabar Zone.