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  • I00 Days In Office: Akpanke Set The Pace, Splashes Projects And Interventions Across Federal Constituency

    I00 Days In Office: Akpanke Set The Pace, Splashes Projects And Interventions Across Federal Constituency

     

    In the February 2023 general elections, the people of Obanliku/Bekwarra/Obudu Federal Constituency (OBO) ushered a new dawn when they signed a social contract with Hon. Peter Akpanke by massively electing him as their Representative in the Green Chamber of Nigeria’s National Assembly.  His victory came as a product of hope from his campaign promises for an effective, responsive and active people’s-oriented representation that will give priority to the wellbeing of his constituents.

    Admittedly, the first 100 days in a four-year term is too short to assess the performance of a legislator, especially when he/she has not taken part in the making/implementation of a budget. Nevertheless, the tradition introduced by the 32nd president of the United States, Franklin D. Roosevelt, in 1932 has become a tradition among public office holders. Hon. Peter Akpanke assumed office as member of the 10th assembly with a sense of urgency and has done the following within the first 100 days in office.

    COMMUNITY RELATIONS/PARTNERSHIP
    To achieve the goals of offering a people’s-oriented representation that will drive down the dividends of democracy to his constituents, Hon Peter Akpanke promised to form a strong partnership with the people for the smooth distribution and execution of constituency projects. To achieve this, the MP did the following immediately after his inauguration;

    i. Needs Assessment Tour: He embarked on needs assessment tour with elders, stakeholders, youths and opinion molders across the three LGAs of OBO Federal constituency.

    ii. On-the-spot assessment of uncompleted and abandoned federal projects in OBO. He is in discussion with the various ministries, departments and agencies to rehabilitate/complete the construction of such projects.

    III. On-the-spot assessment of Economic sites like the Obudu Dam Resort, illegal mining sites in Utanga, Obanliku LGA etc. for possible attraction of government’s attention so that royalties could accrue to the host communities.

    2. LEGISLATION
    The primary function of a House of Reps member is to make laws and sponsor bills. Within the few days of his legislative activities, MP Peter Akpanke has been active on the floor of the House. He has the following motions/bill to his credit;

    I. A Motion for the immediate rehabilitation of the abandoned Obudu Dam Resort.

    ii. 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.

    iii. 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.

    iv. He sponsored a bill for the establishment of a Federal University of Technology in Obanliku, Cross River State.

    3. PROJECTS
    * Installation of solar street lights in some communities in Obanliku LGA.
    * Construction of solar powered borehole in Sankwala Market.
    * Distribution of hand pumps and herbicides to farmers in Obudu LGA.
    * Distribution of sewing machines and motorbikes to selected constituents in Obudu
    * Construction of solar powered borehole at Obudu Central Market (Old Park)
    * Distribution of sewing machines and motorcycles to selected beneficiaries in Bekwarra LGA
    * Construction of solar borehole and toilet in Bekwarra Motor Park.
    * Distribution of hand pumps and herbicides to farmers in Bekwarra
    * Distribution of hand pumps, herbicides and liquid fertilizers to Obanliku female farmers
    * Entrepreneurial training/empowerment of young ladies in hair dressing and makeup business in Obanliku LGA
    * Distribution of motorbikes to 20 Obanliku youths
    *Entrepreneurship training and distribution of hair-making and makeup kits for hair stylists in Obudu

    4. AIDS AND INTERVENTIONS
    * Launching of the Akpanke Health Scheme for the benefit of his constituents
    * Distribution of food stuffs to about 200 widows across the ten wards of Obudu
    *Payment of hospital bills for patients in Bekwarra General Hospital
    * Payment of hospital bills for the less-privileged in different hospitals across Obudu
    *Distribution of food items to widows across the political wards of Obanliku LGA
    *Distribution of food stuffs to over 200 widows and people living with disabilities in the 10 wards of Bekwarra
    * Distribution of incentives, gift packages and cash to constituents, unions and associations across Obanliku, Obudu and Bekwarra LGA for new yam celebrations
    * Timely response to the collapsed of Kafa-Bridge linking Lishiche/Shikpeche and eight other communities of Bishiri North and South where he sponsored temporary paths while waiting for the relevant government agencies to commence rebuilding work on the collapsed bridge.

    JOB CREATION
    Hon Akpanke has within the short time in office facilitated jobs for several constituents, the last being 5 of his constituents that are currently undergoing training in NDLEA camps and 2 of his constituents who have resum work at the Federal College of Education,Obudu

    CONCLUSION
    It is evident that the first 100 days of Hon. Peter Akpanke in the House of Reps have been quite impactful and promising. The MP has no plans of slowing down in his quest to deliver the dividends of democracy to OBO Federal constituency. He is determined to leave no stone unturned until he delivers on his campaign promises of harnessing opportunities for his constituents, emancipate women, empower youths, support children education and better the lot of his people.  The MP admonish all his constituents to remain steadfast and continue to pray for him as he continues to put their interest first.

    Once again, welcome to a new dawn in OBO

    Awade Friday
    SSA Media and Publicity to Hon Peter Akpanke

     

  • 100 Days In Office: Jarigbe Agom Spreads 38 Projects Across Northern Senatorial District

    100 Days In Office: Jarigbe Agom Spreads 38 Projects Across Northern Senatorial District

     

    Today marks 100 days as Sen Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, DSSRS, took an oath of office as the Senator representing Cross River North Senatorial District in Nigeria’s 10th National Assembly.

    Without doubt, the distinguished Senator is arguably the most outstanding lawmaker and politician in Cross River State today.

    Senator Jarigbe made history during the February 25th general elections by becoming the first candidate to defeat an incumbent State Governor of Cross River State in a Senatorial poll.

    While the parameter of 100 days for the evaluation of performance of political office holders may seem short, it is usually indicative of the direction and value the official brings to bear on the instruments of governance and a pointer to the trajectory of the new helmsman.

    Despite the distraction by the former governor of Cross River State, Sen. Benedict Ayade, who challenged his victory at the Tribunal, Senator Jarigbe has demonstrated his usual focus and determination in continuing to carry out his extensive programs, projects and interventions in the Northern Senatorial District of Cross River State. The subsequent decision of the tribunal to uphold his victory demonstrates the commitment and professionalism that guides every initiative undertaken by the distinguished Senator, from the conduct of his elections to the discharge of his responsibilities to his Constituency.

    Being one of the most sought-after Nigerian lawmakers, Senator Jarigbe was meritoriously appointed Chairman, Senate Committee on Gas, and membership of various Senate committees. Also, the lawmaker has within 100 days in the 10th Senate executed 38 projects, programmes, key releases and interventions which are listed below;

    1). Construction of Six (6) Classrooms Block at Community Primary School Inyie-Ukan, Gakem, Bekwarra LGA.
    (Completed)

    2). Construction of Six (6) Classrooms Block at St Patrick’s Primary School, Ibil, Ogoja LGA.
    (Completed)

    3). Construction of Six (6) Classrooms Block at St. Pius Primary School Nkpakna, Ekajuk 1, Ogoja LGA.
    (Completed)

    4). Construction of Six (6) Classrooms Block at Mbube West Secondary School Ekumtak, Mbube West 1, Ogoja LGA.
    (Completed)

    5). Construction of Six (6) Classrooms Block at Community Secondary School, Uhutu, Bishiri South, Obanliku LGA.
    (Completed)

    6). Construction of Six (6) Classrooms Block at Community Primary School Begiaba, Bendi 11, Obanliku LGA.
    (Completed)

    7). Construction of Six (6) Classrooms Block at Oe’Yi Onwu Secondary Grammar School Yahe, Yala LGA. (Completed)

    😎. Construction of Six (6) Classrooms Block at Primary School Ejakpe Ukutia, Utugwang North, Obudu LGA. (Completed)

    9. Construction and Furnishing of Three Classrooms Block at Migrant Science and Technical College, Okambi, Obudu LGA.

    10). Construction of Three (3) Classrooms Block at Community Primary School Dam Road, Ukwel-Obudu, Obudu LGA. (Completed)

    11. Construction of Three (3) Classrooms Block at Government Primary School, Bugene, Sankwala, Obanliku LGA.
    (Ongoing)

    12. Construction of Three (3) Classrooms Block at RCM Primary School Begiaba, Obudu LGA.
    (Ongoing)

    13. Construction of Three (3) Classrooms Block at Community Primary School Ubepa, Bekwarra LGA.
    (Ongoing)

    14. Construction of Three (3) Classrooms Block at Community Primary School Egbe Mbube, Ogoja LGA. (Completed)

    15. Construction of Three (3) Classrooms Block at Community Primary School Ekpogryinya, Ogoja LGA. (Ongoing)

    16. Construction of Three (3) Classrooms Block at St. Mary Primary School Ndok, Ogoja LGA. (Ongoing)

    17. Construction of Three (3) Classrooms Block at St. Charles Primary School Ukpe, Ogoja LGA. (Ongoing)

    18. Construction of Three (3) Classrooms Block at Community Primary School Ishindede, Nkum, Ogoja LGA.
    (Ongoing)

    19. Renovation of Four (4) Classrooms Block at Secred Heart School, Ezekwe/Okpodon, Yala LGA.

    20. Construction of 1.5km Ibil-Abakpa Road “Alladim Section” (Ongoing)

    21. Rehabilitation of Abakpa-Ndok Road in Ogoja LGA (Completed)

    22. Construction of Egbe, Oboso Ojirim Road, Ogoja LGA
    (Completed)

    23. Construction of Olachor Okpoma Ward Road, Yala LGA.
    (Completed)

    24. Construction of Aliforkpa Road, Yala LGA (Ongoing)

    25. Construction of 1.5km Yahe-Ukelle road (Ongoing)

    26. Construction of Ukpagada Bridge, Ogoja LGA. (Ongoing)

    27. Construction of Igwo Road, Obudu LGA. (Ongoing)

    28. Construction of Solar Powered Borehole at Egoja Edim, Ogoja LGA. (Ongoing)

    29. Construction of Solar Powered Borehole at Ohong, Obudu LGA. ( Ongoing)

    30. Construction of Solar Powered Boreholes at Okpaka, Wanokom, Yala LGA. (Ongoing)

    31. Construction of Solar Powered Borehole at Ugbakoko, Becheve, Obanliku LGA. (Ongoing)

    32. Construction of Solar Powered Borehole at Ijegbemi, Mfuma/Nrigom, Yala LGA. (Ongoing)

    33. Construction of Solar Powered Borehole at Sankwala, Obanliku LGA. (Ongoing)

    34. Construction of Solar Powered Borehole at Mfamju Ibil, Ogoja LGA. (Ongoing)

    35. Construction of Solar Powered Borehole at Utanga, Obanliku LGA.(Ongoing)

    36. Construction of Solar Powered Borehole at Belesa, Bishiri North, Obanliku LGA.(Ongoing)

    37. Construction of Solar Powered Borehole at Mbagide, Ogoja LGA.
    (Ongoing)

    38. Donation of 100 Bundles of Roofing Zinc and Cash to Communities Affected by Windstorm in Bekwarra LGA.

    These among others are the reasons why he is nicknamed “Mr. Project” by his constituents and other well-meaning Nigerians.

    Congratulations on your first 100 Days in office, sir.

    TEAM JARI MEDIA.

  • My Administration Will Put An End To The Challenges Within The Judiciary – Otu

    My Administration Will Put An End To The Challenges Within The Judiciary – Otu

    The Executive Governor of Cross River State, Sen. Prince Bassey Otu has assured the Judiciary that this administration will put an end to the challenges within the Judiciary.

    The Governor made this known during official opening of the 2023/2024 Legal Year held today the 18th of September,2023 at St. Bernard Catholic Church, Marian Hill.

    Sen. Prince Bassey Otu, who was able represented by his Deputy, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey said a legal year is a time to recommit and dedicate themselves to the ideals of the Judiciary. He charged them to embrace technology as the collaboration between the legal profession and technological advancement has the potential to revolutionize how the dispensation of justice is approached. He, however called on them to be vigilant in the face of the challenges which these advancement brings because the boundary between the physical and virtual are blurred.

    Governor Otu added that the legal year affords the Judiciary the opportunity to reflect on the state of access to justice in our society. He called on them to ensure that justice is not only available to those who can afford it, but all members of the society. They must strive for a legal system that is not only efficient and fair, but also inclusive and responsive to all individuals regardless of their social or economic background.

    His Excellency further admonished that as they embark on this legal year, let them be guided by the principles of integrity, professionalism and compassion while also embracing peace and inclusion.

    He assured the Judiciary that this administration will collaborate with and equip the Judges with all that is necessary to ensure that they dispatch their duties responsibily.

    Earlier, the Chief Judge of Cross River State, Hon. Justice Akon B. Ikpeme, said it was traditional for her and the Judiciary to begin the legal year in God’s presence. While thanking the Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. Charles Etim (Esq) for the homily, she prayed that God will see to their lives, guide and remind them that one day, they too will stand before the greatest Judge of all. Justice Ikpeme encouraged the judicial officers to go back to the drawing board as the legal year begins and do what they can do with their consciences in place. She appreciated all who left their busy schedules to grace the occasion.

    Present at the event were the officiating priests, the Speaker, His Lordship, the President of the Cross River State Customary Court of Appeal, Their Lordships, Honourable Judges of the Cross River State High Court, The Attorney General of Cross River State, Senior Advocates of Nigeria, The Chief Registrar, Magistrates, The Solicitor General/ Permanent Secretary of the Cross River State Ministry of Justice, The Director of Public Prosecution, Members of the Bar, Counsel of the Cross River State Ministry of Justice, amongst others.

  • Cross River Coordinator Re-opens NYSC Clinic At Secretariat

    Cross River Coordinator Re-opens NYSC Clinic At Secretariat

     

    The State Coordinator of NYSC Cross River State Mr Zemoh Andrew today 14th September 2023 re- opened a newly renovated NYSC Clinic at its Secretariat to commence operations to staff, Corps Members and people living within its environs.

    Opening the Clinic, the State Coordinator said the project was laudable. He used the occasion to inform all that the Scheme has restated its commitment to promoting the medical well-being of members staff, Corps Members and indigent people of the host community of the NYSC office to access free and quality healthcare.

    The NYSC Boss said that the re-opening of the office Clinic was in line with the implementation of the NYSC heath initiatives for rural dwellers (HIRD) programme of the Scheme. According to him, the HIRD programme has since inception benefitted over two millions people from the State through free medical outreaches across the various rural communities.

    He commended the members of Medical and Heath Community Development Service (CDS) group for their initiatives by setting up the Clinic again to serve the entire members of staff, Corps members and its environs.

    In an act of appreciation, Mr Zemoh donated Nextus NX- 65 Refrigerator to the Clinic to provide safe storage for some essential drugs.

    Responding, the CDS president, Pharmacist Okon ldara Effiong with State code CR/ 22C/ 2475 on behalf of the CDS Corps Members said that the CDS was well thought out to address the healthcare of staff. He went on to state that the CDD has a vision to provide smart healthcare services to the staff and vulnerable people within the host community.
    According to him ” As a group , we identify the lack of primary medical services within the State Secretariat, hence the initiative to renovate and re-open the clinic to provide basic medical services ranging from free medical consultations, free medical check-up to the provision of pharmaceutical care to staff members, corps members and members of the neighbouring Community,” he opined.

    He said the clinic will run three (3) times in a week (Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays) from 10am to 2pm. The clinic will be manned by medical doctors, nurses and pharmacists from the medical and health CDS group.

    Highpoint of the event was the presentation of Nexus NX- 65 Refrigerator to the Clinic by the State Coordinator.

  • TIFUH Berths In UNICAL As VC Seeks Robust Collaboration

    TIFUH Berths In UNICAL As VC Seeks Robust Collaboration

     

    A Study Center under the aegis of the Institute for Universal Harmony (TIFUH) has berthed in the University of Calabar( Unical), just as the Vice Chancellor of the institution, Prof. Florence Obi is seeking a robust collaboration with the Center.

    Speaking at the institution’s Senate Chamber during the inauguration and launching of TIFUH Study Center, the Vice Chancellor commended TIUFH for finding Unical worthy of collaboration, saying the institution was looking forward to deepening and sustaining the partnership.

    DVC (Admin) Prof Eno Grace Nta
    Represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Administration,Prof.Eno Grace Nta, the Vice Chancellor applauded TIFUH for choosing Unical as the host study center, saying the center will contribute immensely towards the promotion of peace and harmony in the various strata of the society.

    She said, “I congratulate and thank TIFUH for choosing University of Calabar as a worthy partner for this quest for peace in our community and the nation.

    “We believe that this relationship will yield lot of dividends in terms of how our students will develop, due to the fact that our degree is based on character and learning”.

    The University helmsman also reiterated her administration’s commitment towards providing a conducive environment for the Center to achieve it’s laudable goals, adding that, ” we will make sure the University facilities are available for the institute, you have not made a mistake in collaborating with unical.”

    Also speaking, the Governor of Cross River State, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu described peace as an indispensable factor for the growth and development of any nation.

    Represented by the State Commissioner for Education, Senator Stephen Odey, the Governor commented TIFUH for establishing the study centre, saying the society is currently facing a lot of crisis hence the need to have professional peace ambassadors to help curb the menace.

    He assured the Institute of his total support to enable them produce managers that can address the issue of conflict management in the society.

    While charging TIFUH to engage people with proven integrity, the Governor said, “engage managers that will be consultants and advocates of peace in our society.”

    The Chairman of the occasion and Founder of Christian Central Chapel, Bishop Emmah Gospel Isong said no nation can achieve sustainable development without peace.

    Represented by the Chaplain of TIFUH, Apostle Dr.Glory Udoema urged everyone to be advocate of peace as only peace can bring meaningful progress in the society.

    He commended TIUFH for seeking to promote peace in Cross River State which is already touted as a peaceful state.

    Earlier, in her welcome address, the National President of TIFUH, Prof Mrs Akon Esu, said she was delighted over the birth of the institute particularly at a time when conflict is ravaging the whole world, saying the emergence of TIFUH at this time is very appropriate.

    Prof Akon Esu said TIFUH is on a mission to deliver quality training and give access to more people around the world to embrace peace advocacy.

    She disclosed that TIFUH is currently enrolling interested applicants into courses in the institute and urged members of the public to avail themselves the opportunity to be among the pioneer students.

    The International president of TIFUH, King Charles E. Bassey, in his remarks, said the institute has unique features that enable students to study anywhere in the world through online programmes.

    He said the vision is to be a conflict management institute in the world that conflict Resolution professionals can identify with for instilling peace building capacity in the minds of their professional members via intellectual and pragmatic training, locally and internationally.

    King Charles said TIFUH’s mandate is to help develop relevant training that will enhance manpower in peace building.

    He said the institute’s core values are anchored on passion for peace and harmony, human dignity.

    Highlight of the event was the conferment of the award of Honorary Fellow on the Vice Chancellor of the University of Calabar, Prof Florence Obi.

    The event was graced by Royal Fathers, the Clergy, Security Chieftains and a coterie of Peace Advocates.

  • War Breaks Out Between Ugaga And Igbekurekor Communities In Yala

    War Breaks Out Between Ugaga And Igbekurekor Communities In Yala

    By CrossRiverWatch Admin

    Two communities in Yala Local Government Area of northern Cross River State, Ugaga and Igbekurekor are currently at war with each other, information reaching CrossRiverWatch shows.

    The conflict started last weekend, Tim Ugaga Esq, the President of the Ugaga Family Union, says.

    “It is about land and boundaries. It is unfortunate that this is happening,” Mr. Ugaga said.

    Mr. Ugaga said the conflict between both communities has been dormant for a long while and was only triggered by allegations of an incursion into farmland.

    “The problem started with the story that Ugaga people tilled heaps and the Igbekurekor people went to plant on them. I learned there was an attempt at a peace meeting, but that failed, and now they are at war. It is shameful,” Mr. Ugaga explained.

    Ugaga who disclosed that he was at neighboring Okuku community when he was contacted by CrossRiverWatch, said he saw trucks of soldiers heading towards Ugaga which he hopes is to calm the situation.

     

  • Tribunal Sacks Emil Inyang, Orders INEC To Withdraw Certificate Of Return

    Tribunal Sacks Emil Inyang, Orders INEC To Withdraw Certificate Of Return

     

    National assembly election Petition tribunal sitting in calabar, has sacked and ordered INEC to retrieve certificate of return from APC house of representatives member representing Akamkpa/Biase federal constituency, Dr. Emil Lemke Inyang. And conduct a fresh rerun election in affected polling units.

    Congratulations to my principal and boss Hon. Austine Aidam

  • Army GOC Expresses Readiness To Combat Crime In Cross River

    Army GOC Expresses Readiness To Combat Crime In Cross River

    By Ukongikwen Adie

    The Cross River State Governor Senator (Prince) Bassey Otu today the 7th September, 2023, received in audience the General Officer Commanding, 82 Division of the Nigerian Army, Major General Hassan T. Dada and his entourage in a courtesy call.

    Speaking during the call, Major General Dada who recently assumed office as GOC, 82 Division, said it was customary to carry out familiarization tour of the states under an officer’s command, and he has therefore come to pay homage to the Governor of Cross River State as the Chief Security Officer of Cross River, one of the 6 states under the division. Major Dada added that it is both nostalgic and gratifying to be in the state having been here years ago as a Commanding Officer, 146 Battalion and also being a Malabite.

    The GOC solicited the co-operation of the state government and other sister agencies to tackle the challenges of kidnapping, piracy, cultism and communal clashes that have plagued the state in recent times. He assured the government that with their cooperation, even though the task ahead is Herculean, the command has the capacity and expertise to deliver.

    The Cross River State Governor, ably represented by his Deputy, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey welcomed Major General Dada who was also accompanied by the Commander of the 13th Brigade, Nigerian Army, Brigadier Gen. E. I. Okoro and other high ranking officers. Rt. Hon. Odey thanked them particularly for being proactive in the lkang axis of the State by curbing the menace of kidnapping and also still manning the Yala/Benue State border to ensure that enduring peace and security returns to the state, while assuring them of government’s commitment to ensuring that Cross Riverians have the freedom to go about their businesses unhindered.

    Also present during the courtesy call were the Senator representing Cross River State Central Senatorial district, Send. Eteng Jones Williams, Commissioners for Information and Justice, the Chief of Staff to the Governor, the Head of Service, State Security Adviser and other Political Appointees.

  • Tribunal Victory: C’River PDP Congratulates Sen Jarigbe Agom

    Tribunal Victory: C’River PDP Congratulates Sen Jarigbe Agom

    PEOPLES DEMOCRATIC PARTY (PDP) CROSS RIVER STATE.

    CONGRATULATES SENATOR JARIGBE OVER TRIBUNAL VICTORY.

    The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Cross River State congratulates Distinguished Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe on his victory at the National Assembly Election Petitions Tribunal yesterday 9th. September 2023.

    The Tribunal sitting in Calabar, Cross River state upheld the victory of Sen Jarigbe in the Feb 25th, 2023 polls as Senator representing Cross River North senatorial District, which was challenged by Senator Prof Ben Ayade.

    PDP hails the Tribunal for delivering substantial justice in the petition based on the facts and evidence tendered before it in line with the extant electoral laws, guidelines and regulations, thereby boosting public confidence in the judiciary.

    The party rejoices over the victory particularly as it re-established confidence of the electorates in his representation at the upper chamber of the National Assembly.
    Furthermore, the party is confident that Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe will deploy his wealth of experience and proven pedigree in political representation to bear on the 10th Senate.

    Congratulations once again and accept our assurances of the highest esteem.

    Signed.
    Prince Mike Ojisi
    State Publicity Secretary.

  • Ewa versus Eteng: Coalition Calls On Court Of Appeal To Look Into Some Tribunal Judgement In Cross River State

    Ewa versus Eteng: Coalition Calls On Court Of Appeal To Look Into Some Tribunal Judgement In Cross River State

    CROSS RIVER COALITION FOR GOOD GOVERNANCE

    PRESS STATEMENT

    Sunday, September 10, 2023
    A PLEA FOR COURT OF APPEAL TO LOOK INTO SOME TRIBUNAL JUDGMENTS IN CROSS RIVER

    In the last few days, the Tribunals across the country have been delivering their judgments on State and National Assembly Elections Petitions with some mixed feelings.

    Cross River State National Assembly Elections Petition Tribunal have become a case study based on some judgments they have delivered so far.

    The Panel headed by Justice O. A. Adeniyi is the case in point. Justice Adeniyi presidered over the petition with Suit No. EPT/CR/SEN/01/2023 between Mr. Bassey Eko Ewah of People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and Hon. William Jonas Eteng of All Progressives Congress (APC).

    Ewa had sought a declaration that the Ist respondent (Eteng Williams) did not score majority of lawful votes and thus not duly elected and returned.

    Delivering judgment on Friday, September 8,2023, the Honourable Justice Adeniyi, upheld the election of the All Progressives Congress (APC) senatorial candidate, Senator Eteng Jonas Williams.

    The tribunal headed by Justice O. A. Adeniyi said Senator Eteng won the February 25, 2023 general elections after recomputing the scores of the elections.

    Bassey Ewa through his counsel, Mba Ukweni, SAN in suit number EPT/CR/SEN/01/2023 sought a declaration that the Ist respondent (Eteng Williams) did not score majority of lawful votes and thus not duly elected and returned.

    He also sought relief among others from the court cancelling votes of all the parties in about 96 polling units spread across the central senatorial district where there was clear evidence of over voting as well as re-computation of votes in the ventral senatorial district and declaration of the first petitioner as winner of the election.

    However, in a three hour judgment, Justice O. A. Adeniyi said the petitioner was able to establish cases of over-voting in only 49 polling units in the central senatorial district out of the 96 it claimed.

    In all the 49 affected polling units, the APC lost 3, 969 votes while the PDP lost 2, 066 votes.

    The recomputed results showed that the APC retained its victory by garnering 53, 375 votes while the PDP retained it’s runner’s up position with 51, 387 votes, thereby declaring Eteng winner.

    But we are alarmed at the way and manner the Panel chairman handled the case, wondering why a matter that judgment was reserved a month ago should be read from the Palm top instead of it being typed, printed out in clean copy and signed by the panel members.

    We wish to state that we followed the Tribunal proceedings untill August 3, 2023 when the final written addresses by the both parties to the suit were adopted. And the Justice decided to keep the judgement for almost a month before delivering judgment.

    We also alarmed at manner Justice Adeniyi singled handed selected 49 polling units out of the 96 and those selected for re-computing are polling units where PDP had majority of votes, leaving out polling units APC had an advantage in terms of over-voting to give a semblance of balance.

    We express shock that the Tribunal chairman read the judgement from his palm top and is yet to make a available a signed copy of the judgement three days after delivering the judgment even as we have it on grape vine that the other members of the panel had dissociated themselves from the said-judgment.

    We also gathered that the outcome of the judgement was already made available to Eteng’s as they were in jubilation mood before the final reading of the judgement, an indication that money had allegedly exchanged hands.

    We wish to also disclose that the same Adeniyi was here in Cross River in the 2019 Election Petitions Tribunal and he was again sent to the same Cross River State in 2023 Tribunal. In other words, Justice Adeniyi is on a familiar terrain and may have been brought here to do a hatchet job for his pay masters in Calabar.

    We, therefore would want to ask: Is Adeniyi the only Justice that should always be sent to Calabar at every Election Tribunal period? Why is his cases always controversial? Why has he refused to make available the Certified True Copy (CTC) of the judgement almost four days after even when he promised to make it available the following day, Saturday, September 9, 2023?

    Based on these issues raised above, we call on the President of Court of Appeal to look into the matter and the Tribunal cases being handled by Justice Adeniyi and ensure that justice is done and seem to have been done in this case.

    The above case between Hon. Bassey Eko Ewah and Hon. Williams Jonas Eteng should be properly looked and enjoin the Lordship to adopt the same criterion used in cancelling the other 49 polling units to do same with the other 50 polling units he largely ignored.

    Thank You

    Comrade Ikpi E. Ikpi
    Coordinator

    Comrade John Agbor
    Secretary