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Tag: #Bassey Otu

  • Otu Hands Over Site For The Construction Of Hostel And ICT Center, Commends Clement Udie 

    Otu Hands Over Site For The Construction Of Hostel And ICT Center, Commends Clement Udie 

    By Elijah Ugani 

    The Cross River State Governor, Sen Bassey Otu, has commended Arc Clement Udie for facilitating the construction of Information and Communication Technology ICT Center and a Hostel for the College of Health Sciences Obudu, by the Niger Delta Development Commission NDDC.

    Otu made the commendation during the handing over of ceremony of the site for the construction work on Friday September 5th 2025, at the school premises.

    Represented by the Commissioner for Health, Dr Henry Ayuk, Gov Otu, noted that Arc Clement Udie have proved the essence of public service “I am astonished. I have not heard of this. You have proved to us the essence of public service. You have set a pace and we will follow”.

    Gov Otu used the opportunity and acknowledged the marvelous works of the college provost, Dr Mrs Veronica Undeshi and noted that “The Provost has been nothing short of a performer. She can do a second tenure. And if we want to replace her, we must look for someone who will maintain the tempo she has created”.

    Responding the issue raised by the Obudu Local Government Council Chairman, about Obudu college of Nursing Sciences getting her school bus just like other schools got theirs, Otu noted “Obudu College of Nursing Sciences, will get her bus. By 12th of September, the Ministry of Health will take delivery of Three 18 seater buses and will be distributed to Calabar, Ogoja and Obudu Colleges of Nursing Sciences”.

    He used the opportunity and appealed to the host community not to sell the land allocated for school of Nursing Sciences Obudu.

    On her part, the Provost of the college, Dr Mrs Veronica Undeshi, welcomed guests and noted that the College of Nursing Sciences, Obudu is indeed one of faith, resilience and progress established in March 1980 as initial intake of 65 students for the training of Basic Midwives. Through series of reforms, the school metamorphosed into a college of nursing.

    She noted that “On the 15th of August 2023, by the gracious intervention of the Executive Governor of Cross River State, Sen Bassey Otu, and despite strong opposition from certain quarters, our school was given the rare privilege of transition into a full-fledged College of Nursing Sciences. We got the team from Nursing Council of Nigeria and NBTE, we obtained interim accreditation on the following areas in addition to National Diploma in Nursing. Basic Nursing, Basic Midwifery, Community Midwifery and Post Basic Nursing.

    “Today, I am proud to announce that our students population has risen to 1000. Indeed it has been a difficult journey, but a worthy one”.

    Mrs Undeshi noted that ” the remarkable transformation in the school is the approval by the former Gov Ben Ayade for 100% retention of funds and subsequent sustenance by this administration. The construction of additional classrooms, administrative offices, rehabilitation and extension of buildings at annex, provision of laboratory equipment, classroom furniture, renting of additional hostels, construction of boreholes and employment of casual staff to augment the limited government workforce”.

    She thanked the paramount ruler of Obudu Local Government Area, His Royal Magesty, Utsu Felix Ukudare and Obudu community for the 7.2 hectares of land and that the land is duly surveyed.

    Speaking further she said “Today, we also celebrate the benevolence and influence of one of our Obudu sons, Arc Clement Udie, whose intervention, following the passionate appeal from one Director of Medical Services, Sir Mcfrank Abu (KSM). The Two outstanding projects – an ICT Center and an ultramodern Hotel. These facilities will not only enhance students training but also place us in an advantageous position to secure permanent accreditation from NBTE for our ND program and interim accreditation for HND, which are now the major programs nationwide as Basic Nursing and Midwifery gradually phase out. We appreciate you Arc Clement Udie, History will not forget this massive contribution through you to the college and community”.

    Commenting on the project, the project facilitator and Director of Planning, NDDC Arc Clement Udie, commended the zeal and steadfastness of the provost, the Cross River State government, the community for keeping hope with the training of nurses in Obudu and noted “I’m here to ask of a unity of action and purpose. Those who are going to make this project realizable that all hands must be on desk.
    I require collaboration and support. I’m not here as a representative of NDDC, but I’m here as a stakeholder.

    “I have put over 3 decades in public service and I asked myself what will I tell my people when I retire? I approached my Chairman and made a plea and my Chairman graciously considered my request even when there was no budgetary provision, this project came under emergency provision and I assure you that it will be completed to specification.

    “You have spoken well about the contribution of Girl’s Secondary School Obudu, please just be informed that we also construct a hostel at Girl’s Secondary School Obudu”.

    On his part, the Chairman of Obudu Local Government Area, Hon Peter Akonfe Undiandeye, commended the provost for the good work from when she took over, and noted that “Everything about the college has changed. The passion she has to see that the college progresses to the height it deserves is top-notch”.

    Commended the governor, the commissioner and all those in the health sector for the support to improve the facility.

    Thank all leaders of Obudu particularly the Chiefs, for the land donated willfully so that the school meets accreditation requirements.

    Undiandeye thanked Arch Clement Udie for facilitating an ICT hub and hotel in the college from the NDDC.

    SA Nursing, Koko Bassey, commended the community for handing over land for development. The project will not only provide the training for the students but will also enhance their employability. He commended the provost and council members for the development in this college.

    Mr Udie Mike used the opportunity to encourage Obudu community to ask their sons who have the opportunity to hold government positions to account for their stewardship as they prepare for the next election circle.

    Highlight of the event was the handing over of the construction site, commissioning of projects undertaken by the provost: The construction of additional classrooms, administrative offices and conference room.

  • Governor Otu’s Administration’ll Continue to Prioritize the People’s Welfare, Odey Assures

    Governor Otu’s Administration’ll Continue to Prioritize the People’s Welfare, Odey Assures

     

    …as Obudu Council Chairman lauds Gov. Otu for progress on Obudu Airport.

    The Deputy Governor of Cross River State, Rt. Hon Peter Odey, has assured citizens that the administration of Governor Bassey Otu remains fully committed to placing the welfare of the people at the heart of governance in line with the ‘People First’ mantra

    Odey gave this assurance during a stakeholders’ engagement session in Obudu Local Government Area on Sunday, as part of his ongoing Northern Senatorial District tour. He emphasized that every policy, project, and program under the Otu-led administration is designed to uplift lives across both urban centers and the most rural communities in the state.

    He emphasized that despite economic challenges and inadequate allocations due to the state’s exclusion from the 13% derivation benefits as a littoral state, the government has consistently ensured the progression of the Obudu Cargo and Passenger Airport project. Additionally, investments in healthcare, education, infrastructure, efforts to enhance agricultural productivity, support for local economies, and ongoing rehabilitation of rural roads under the RAMP initiative have been prioritized, with Cross River State fulfilling its obligations by providing the counterpart funding.

    Addressing concerns raised by stakeholders, including women, youth, and traditional rulers regarding road infrastructure, youth unemployment, and border security, Odey assured the populace, particularly in the Northern Senatorial district, that Governor Otu’s administration will remain accountable and responsive to their concerns. The administration will continue to engage with relevant authorities and partners to improve the socioeconomic status of its people.

    He commended the Obudu community for their pivotal role in supporting the current administration and encouraged them to maintain their support for a government that has their best interests at heart now and in the future.

    Earlier in his remarks, the Executive Chairman of the Obudu Local Government Area, Hon. (Amb.) Peter Akonfe Undiandeye, KSM, praised Governor Otu for the significant progress made at the Obudu Cargo and Passenger Airport, the government’s efforts in resolving long-standing boundary disputes with neighboring Benue State and other areas, and other infrastructural projects undertaken by the Governor Otu-led administration.

    He commended Rt. Hon. Peter Odey for initiating the senatorial tour, which coincides with the New Yam Festival celebrated across the LGAs in the North, highlighting several pressing concerns about the poor state of the Bekwarra-Obudu, Utugwang-Mbube East Road, rising youth unemployment, and persistent insecurity stemming from unresolved boundary disputes between Obudu and Vandeikya in Benue State

    In separate remarks, Member representing Obanliku/Bekwarra/Obudu in the House of Representatives, Hon. Peter Akpanke, Deputy Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Hon. Sylvester Agabi, Chairman of Utukalu, PJ Ekunke, Community Leader Chief Dr. Tony Undiandeye, the Paramount Ruler of Obudu, as well as Women and youth representatives among others, expressed satisfaction with the inclusive and people-oriented leadership style of Governor Otu.

    Furthermore, they also praised Rt. Hon. Peter Odey for his hands-on approach to governance and for bringing the government closer to the grassroots through the ongoing senatorial tour. They described engagement as a strategic and inclusive model that fosters direct communication between the government and the people.

    The high point of the event was the donation of N30 million by the Deputy Governor, part of which was in support of the upcoming New Yam Festival scheduled for September 6, and a portion designated for women farmers to acquire agricultural inputs and boost local food production.

    Deputy Governor’s Press Unit,
    Government House, Calabar.

  • Gov Otu Condemns Brutality, Orders arrest of Police Personnel Over death of 23-Year-old man

    Gov Otu Condemns Brutality, Orders arrest of Police Personnel Over death of 23-Year-old man

     

    The Cross River State Government has strongly condemned what it described as a “brazen act of lawlessness and abuse of authority” following the tragic death of 23-year-old Onyekachi Moses in Calabar.

    In a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information, Dr. Erasmus Ekpang, the government lamented that the young man, who sustained grievous injuries allegedly from the reckless actions of a police officer, died after several days of battling for his life in hospital. Governor Otu, the statement disclosed, has directed the immediate arrest and investigation of the officer involved.

    “His Excellency, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, has mandated the Commissioner of Police to effect the immediate arrest of the implicated officer and ensure a thorough investigation into this grievous misconduct,” the statement read. “Impunity has no sanctuary under this administration.”

    The government described the incident as a violation not only of human dignity but also of the core principles of justice and security that form the bedrock of civil order. “Those entrusted with protecting lives cannot become purveyors of fear and tragedy,” the release stressed.

    Governor Otu, according to the statement, warned that any officer who betrays the sacred duty of protection and public trust would face the full weight of the law. “Let it be known unequivocally: this government will not shield any agent of the state who undermines justice,” he affirmed.

    To the bereaved family, the government extended deep condolences, assuring them of justice. “Our hearts are with the family of late Onyekachi in this painful hour. The Cross River State Government stands firmly with you and assures that justice will not be delayed nor denied,” the statement conveyed.

    The release further called on citizens to remain calm and law-abiding, emphasizing that the government is determined to pursue accountability with transparency. “We urge our people to remain peaceful and confident in our collective resolve to seek truth and enforce justice,” it added.

    It pledged that the administration would not rest until the memory of the deceased was honoured with firm and transparent accountability. “This government shall not relent until the assurance is clear that such impunity will never again be tolerated on our soil,” the statement declared.

    Governor reaffirmed his government’s commitment to the sanctity of life, the rule of law, and the people-first philosophy that underpins his administration.

  • From Propaganda to Reality – Ukelle Has Been Heard; The Practicality of a People-First Agenda BY PHYLO MODLIN ODU

    From Propaganda to Reality – Ukelle Has Been Heard; The Practicality of a People-First Agenda BY PHYLO MODLIN ODU

     

    The Cross River State Government, under the administration of His Excellency, Prince Bassey Edet Otu, has demystified the long politicized Ukelle road with the near completion of Yahe–Wanokom–Wanikade-Wannihem-Benue border road.

    According to the people of Ukelle in Yala Local Government Area, they have carried for too long the burden of broken promises and endless propaganda. The Ukelle road has been a pawn on the chessboard of politics for many years. Every election season, politicians would troop to Ukelle, lamenting the condition of the road as though they were concerned, only to vanish after the elections.

    Governor Bassey Otu has broken this cycle of propaganda by prioritizing the people’s interests. The first phase construction of this road has already started to make significant impact on the welfare and livelihood of the people. Today, the Ukelle people speak of their road with pride and gratitude.

    Governor Otu’s intervention is more than concrete and asphalt; it is a statement of trust restored, hope renewed, and a people reconnected to the rest of the state. Ukelle will not forget those lost years of propaganda, but more importantly, they will remember the man who turned their symbol of neglect into one of progress.

    Modlin Philomena Odu
    SSA to the Governor,
    Tactical Media Research and Engagement.

     

  • Celebrating An Icon, Prof Peter Akpa Oti On His Birth Anniversary BY ELIJAH UGANI

    Celebrating An Icon, Prof Peter Akpa Oti On His Birth Anniversary BY ELIJAH UGANI

     

    Prof Peter Akpa Oti hails from Nkirira – Utugwang, in Obudu Local Government Area of Cross River State.

    Peter Akpa Oti is a Professor of Accounting and a Chartered Accountant. He is a member of the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria and a member of Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria. He teaches Management Accounting, Taxation and Fiscal Policy in the University of Calabar.

    Prof Oti is committed to the growth of his community and state. Oti has written his name in the sand of time as an envoy of emancipation, social development and justice in Utugwang community in particular, and Cross River State at large.
    As a detribalized and patriotic Nigerian, Prof Oti, has spearheaded community driven initiatives aimed at emancipating the underrepresented population. He has supported the education of the less privileged for undergraduates and post graduate students.

    A chartered Accountant and Budget expert, Oti galvanized support from sons and daughters of Utugwang community and utilized the Central Bank of Nigeria licensing of community banks, and midwieved the defunct Utugwang Community Bank. The bank gave non collateral micro loans to local community members, which secured and strengthened thier livelihood.

    He initiated the annual football tournament that brought together the youths of Utukalu communities that identified talents. He identified widows and the physically challenged and provided cash and material assistance to them periodically.

    Prof Oti is an epitome of fairness, committed to hard work and dedication, accessible and setting standards and challenging our disposition to hard work.

    Prof Oti identifies community interest, assets and leadership as a pathway for the local people to make contributions to the development of the community.

    Prof Oti’s leadership prowess epitomizes service delivery, integrity, empathy, and good decision-making skills.

    Prof Oti has held numerous positions in the university of Calabar, where he served as Head, Department of Accounting, Director, UNICALCON, among others. In the Cross River State Government, he served as member, Cross River State Executive Council, in the following positions:

    Special Adviser on Budget Monitoring and Evaluation: As Special Adviser to the Governor on Budget Monitoring and Evaluation, Dr. Peter Oti rejected some reports of budget officers from various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) in 2012 due to non-compliance with budget implementation standards.
    Prof Oti developed a budgetary model that embraced participatory budgeting where stakeholders’ input became very necessary in budget preparation, through stakeholders’ engagement in the three senatorial districts of Cross River State. A model that became a reference point where other states consulted Cross River State.

    Chairman of State Internal Revenue Service: In this role, he announced that six revenue officers were standing trial for diverting government funds into their personal accounts, showcasing his commitment to transparency and accountability.

    Economic Adviser To The Governor: Prof Oti’s involvement as Economic Adviser has shaped the Economic Development Strategies of Gov Bassey Edet Otu’s administration, shaping the financial landscape of Cross River State could influence economic development strategies, potentially driving growth and investment.
    Prof Oti has potentially contributed to economic development, budget management, and revenue generation in Cross River State.

    Prof. Peter Akpa Oti’s work in the Budget Department and Internal Revenue Services highlights his involvement in shaping the financial landscape of Cross River State.

    To an Icon of hope and development:

    Dear Prof Peter Akpa Oti,
    As you celebrate another year of life, wisdom, and service, I acknowledge your remarkable contributions to Cross River State’s financial landscape. Your expertise in budget management and revenue generation has been a beacon of hope for a brighter future.

    May your birthday be as vibrant as the budgets you’ve crafted, as fruitful as the revenue you’ve generated, and as fulfilling as the lives you’ve touched. May your day be filled with joy, love, and celebration, surrounded by family, friends, and well-wishers.

    As you mark another milestone, I pray that your wealth of knowledge and experience continues to inspire and guide future generations. May your legacy be a testament to the power of dedication, hard work, and passion for public service.

    Here is to another year of wisdom, growth, and impact! May your birthday be the beginning of a year filled with happiness, good health, and success.

    You are a mentor, a teacher, community builder, builder of men, a counsellor, a role model, a guide, a pathfinder, a home maker, an inspiration to many who have come in contact with you. You are humility personified.

    Be rest assured of my continuous prayers and goodwill.

    On this auspicious occasion of your birth anniversary, accept my best wishes.

    Elijah Ugani
    Public Affairs Analyst and Commentator
    Community Mobilizer
    Social Change Agent
    He writes from the Hills of Ukwortung

  • Just In: National Association of Nigeria Nurses And Midwives Embarks On Warning Strike

    Just In: National Association of Nigeria Nurses And Midwives Embarks On Warning Strike

    By Elijah Ugani 

    The National Association of Nigeria Nurses And Midwives NANNM, has had announced the commencement of a seven days warning strike with effect from 18th August 2025.

    In a release made available to TheLumineNews and signed by the Secretary, Cross River State chapter, Ijeoma Njoku, the association is pressing for a five points demand.

    The release reads in full “Arising from the State Executive Council (SEC) meeting held on 16th August 2025, the SEC – session agreed that all nurses (State and LGA) should proceed to 7 days warning strike, following the expiration of a 7 days – ultimatum given to the state government by the Joint Action Committee of Health Sector Unions in Cross River State, begining from 12:00am of Monday 18th August, 2025.

    “Reasons for the strike

    1. Payment of 100% CONHESS (2024 review) for nurses

    2. Proper implementation of the new national minimum wage for nurses

    3. Review of hazard allowances

    4. Employment of more nurses in the state

    5. Promotion and release of promotion letters”.

    The release further mandated unit heads to ensure that all members under their supervision comply with the directives “You are therefore mandated to ensure total compliance by all members in your various units”

  • Otu Declares CIBN Zonal Conference Open, Charges South-South States To Harness Agriculture

    Otu Declares CIBN Zonal Conference Open, Charges South-South States To Harness Agriculture

     

    The Governor of Cross River State, Senator Prince Bassey Edet has called on South-South states to urgently harness their vast agricultural and extractive resources to drive regional economic transformation and resilience.

    The Governor, represented by his deputy, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey made this call on Wednesday, while declaring open the South-South Zonal Banking and Finance Conference organized by the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN), held at the Calabar International Convention Center.

    In his address, Governor Otu emphasized the urgent need for states within the region to leverage their comparative advantages, particularly in agriculture, oil and gas, and solid minerals, to diversify their economies and reduce over dependence on federal allocations.

    “The South-South zone as a region must now act with urgency to diversify its economy, leveraging our shared natural endowments
    in agriculture and extractive resources,” the deputy governor stated. “The fertile land across our zone gives us a comparative advantage that we must convert into prosperity through agriculture and its value chain.”

    He described the conference as timely, given the growing global economic uncertainties and trade tensions, as well as the need for sub national governments to develop sustainable economic frameworks.

    While highlighting that Cross River State has taken bold steps in key sectors such as agriculture, aviation, maritime, tourism, and infrastructure, he urged participants at the conference to explore investment opportunities both within the state and across the South-South region. He commended the CIBN for its foresight in organizing the conference and for choosing Cross River as host and expressed hope that the conference deliberations would chart a bold and strategic path toward the region’s economic transformation

    Earlier in his welcome address, the Commissioner for Finance and Chairman of the Conference Planning Committee, Dr. Michael Odere, emphasized the importance of decentralizing the hosting of the CIBN conference to foster inclusivity and regional engagement. He urged stakeholders to leverage ongoing economic reforms to drive socioeconomic development across the South-South region. Dr. Odere also encouraged participants to actively contribute to the discourse and offer meaningful input that would shape actionable outcomes.

    In a special remarks, the President and Chairman in Council of the CIBN, Prof. Pius Olanrewaju, praised Cross River State for its hospitality and reaffirmed the Institute’s commitment to deepening financial inclusion, institutional capacity, and economic policy advocacy across the geopolitical zones.

    He highlighted the vast untapped potential of the South-South region and stressed the need for coordinated support across financial, technological, and policy spheres to reposition the region for sustainable growth. He noted that financial institutions must be leveraged as catalysts for innovation, investment, and inclusive development.

    The event featured goodwill messages from Hon. Okon Owuna, Member representing Akamkpa I in the Cross River State House of Assembly and Chairman, House Committee on Finance and Appropriation, as well as from the representative of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Branch Controller. The conference also included presentations by subject-matter experts, notably Professor Akpan Ekpo of the Centre for Public Policy, University of Uyo.

    Deputy Governor’s Press Unit, Government House, Calabar
    17/0702025

  • The Furor in Northern Cross River BY SYLVANUS USHIE

    The Furor in Northern Cross River BY SYLVANUS USHIE

    In the last 2 weeks, the political barometer in Northern Cross River has been on the rise!

    There has been agitations and permutations all linked to 2027 politics. The salvo started with the formation or rebirth of NORTHCO! A group which claims to represent the North. Practically all its members have been in office more or less continuously since 1999, yet the North of Cross River has nothing to show for their countless years in power! Yet, they have resurfaced with a claim to loving the north! Can a vulture turn into a dove?

    All their years in power, they didn’t remember the North. Is it now, for the first time that a Senator is working for the north, that these forces are trying to realign. Is it now that members of the HOR from the North are meritoriously serving the people of their various constituencies that these expired fellows want to come and spoil the flow of development in the North!

    In all their years in office, most of these prodigal politicians never went near home. They operated in Calabar. Their politics was in calabar. Even when the government of Liyel sent them home with goodies for the people, they never went home. They took rooms in hotels in Calabar where they lavished the people’s money! Those of them that were in Abuja returned only to Calabar where they stayed until they went back to Abuja. They never cared for the north then!

    These same folks were part and parcel of the rapacious Ayade Administration. An Administration that left the North worse than it met it. It is during Ayade that the ranch collapsed. It is during Ayade that the Obudu international marathon was scrapped. It is during Ayade that many roads that the people were managing were scrapped but never repaired. Yet billions were siphoned off in the name of the North!

    These men ganging up now were mostly part and parcel of that regime that destroyed the North. That very regine that set the North back. They didn’t rise then. Instead they feasted on the carcasses of their own people.

    Today that Jarigbe and co are beginning to make our people have a taste of government amenities and facilities, they are now rising so that they can once again set the North back.

    Anyway, there is nothing to worry about. We know them, they are ganging up to see how they can deceive Prince Otu so they can engage in another round of choppings. They can go ahead, but we the people, we know them.

    They cannot win anything politically. They think that the people have forgotten! The people are waiting for them. We will advice Otu to look well. If these are the people who wants to use to win elections in the North, then he has a hard road in front of him.

    We, the people of the North, we are wiser than this. And we will send them back to sender when the time comes!

    Sylvanus Ushie
    Writes from Calabar!

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

  • Governor Otu Eulogizes Late Abubakar Ewa, Attends Funeral Ceremony

    Governor Otu Eulogizes Late Abubakar Ewa, Attends Funeral Ceremony

     

    The remains of the late Commissioner for Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Hon. (Chief) Abubakar Robert Ewa, were on Saturday committed to mother earth in his hometown of Wula, Boki Local Government Area.

    During the Funeral Mass held at the deceased’s compound in Wula and officiated by St. John the Baptist Parish, Governor Bassey Otu paid tribute to the late commissioner, describing him as a dedicated public servant who served with distinction as a member of the Cross River State Executive Council.

    Represented by his deputy, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, Ph.D., Governor Otu recalled Ewa’s invaluable contributions to the development and promotion of the state’s cultural and tourism sectors, as well as his unwavering commitment to the progress of Cross River State.

    “As a former Chairman of Boki Local Government Area, he worked tirelessly to improve the lives of his people, earning their admiration and respect. He was a dutiful, easy-going, and fine gentleman whose kindness, leadership, and devotion to public service will not be forgotten,” the Governor remarked.

    Governor Otu expressed deep regret over the loss, noting that Ewa’s passing is not only a loss to his family but also to Cross River State and the Boki nation. He urged the family to take pride in the late commissioner’s remarkable achievements and to continue upholding the legacy of excellence he established. The Governor also assured the family of the government’s continued support during this difficult time.

    In his condolence message, the Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem, described the late Ewa as a unifier, bridge-builder, and a friend to all.

    Similarly, the Commissioner for Local Government Affairs and Chairman of the College of Commissioners, Chief Victor Felix Idem, expressed profound grief on behalf of his colleagues, noting the void left in the State Executive Council. He remembered Ewa as a kindhearted, hardworking, and dependable colleague.

    The State Chairman of the All Progressives Party (APC), Alphonsus Eba, Esq., reflected on Ewa’s life, urging the family to find solace in his numerous accomplishments and the widespread friendships he enjoyed across ethnic and religious divide.

    Earlier in his homily, Rev. Fr. Ukwa Emmanuel Wonah encouraged people to emulate the late commissioner’s exemplary life, which was characterized by love, dedication to the welfare of his people, and a strong sense of responsibility.

    The funeral was attended by top government officials, traditional rulers, and stakeholders in the tourism sector. Among the dignitaries present were Senator Eteng Williams, representing Cross River Central Senatorial District, House of Representatives member for Boki/Ikom Federal Constituency, Hon. Victor Abang, Deputy Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Hon. Sylvester Agabi, Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Anthony Owan-Enoh, Chief of Staff to the Governor, Hon. Emmanuel Ironbar, and Ntufam Fidelis Ugbo, Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the UNICROSS Governing Council.

    Other included members of the State House of Assembly, local government council chairmen, State Executive Council members, former House of Representatives member Rt. Hon. Legor Idagbo, former Chief of Staff, Hon. Dr. Martins Orim, Chief Peter Ojie, and State Executive Committee members of the APC, among others.

    Fred Abua, Esq
    Press Secretary to the Deputy Governor

  • Gov Otu, Donald Duke, Akpanke, Others Grace AJFIAJ Maiden Symposium, Lauds Initiative

    Gov Otu, Donald Duke, Akpanke, Others Grace AJFIAJ Maiden Symposium, Lauds Initiative

     

    By Godwin Otang, CrossRiverWatch

    Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Otu, Former Governor Donald Duke, Honorable Peter Akpanke and among other dignitaries have welcomed the establishment of the Agba Jalingo Foundation for Investigative and Accountability Journalism (AJFIAJ).

    The dignitaries drawn from both private, and public sectors converged in Transcorp Hotel Calabar, Cross River, the venue of a one-day maiden symposium of (AJFIAJ), cum birthday anniversary of Human Rights Activist Citizen Agba Jalingo.

    The symposium had the theme, “Journalism and Crossing the Cyber Crimes and Legal Huddles”.

    Governor Bassey Otu, re-emphasized his administration’s commitment to journalism, media and information dissemination as a tool for development.

    The Governor represented by Commissioner for Science and Technology, Hon. Beshel Justine, acknowledged the critical role journalism plays in a society.

    In an evolving world of information dissemination, he said Journalists must adopt modern cutting edge technologies for proper information dissemination.

    “All we try to do in Cross River State is to make public all our government practices, projects and programs public, inline with the roles of journalism. Today, journalism must pave a new way for information dissemination. The theme of this event has become very apt at this time. Journalist must also adopt cutting edge practices to fit into the present technologically advanced world.

    In an address during the event, ex-Cross River State Governor, Mr. Donald Duke encouraged media practitioners and Journalists to trade on correct and accurate information, noting that information disseminated attracts degrees of consequences – positive or negative which they must brace up for.

    He said “the rapidity in which the world is changing, even office spaces are changing. I can not comprehend what the world will look like in the next ten years, in terms of information communication technology (ICT). But, they’re consequences, you must be ready to face the consequences of whatever information we put out there.”

    “My message to all of us is; as we go into a new year, let’s take responsibility for all we do. Speak the truth and know that they’re consequences even for speaking the truth. For government officers here, do not get shy or upset when people call you. Don’t get too irritated when you get calls from people you don’t know because you’re a servant , the day you begin to feel very irritated, you’re no longer serving,” he said.

    The Member representing Obudu/Obanliku/Bekwarra Federal Constituency, Honorable Peter Akpanke, represented by his media aid, Awade Friday, commended the character of Mr. Agba Jalingo, noting that his activism has attracted positive results of public relevance and interest.

    “Jalingo is my constituent, your activism has produced good results. The theme of this symposium is timely considering the important role of Journalists in society,”Akpanke remarked.

    In his remarks, Citizen Jalingo Agba who is the Editor-In-Chief of CrossRiverWatch, reaffirmed his commitment to journalism practice, holding the government accountable and advocating for the voiceless in the society.

    Jalingo lauded Governor Otu for granting pardon to 45 inmates from Afokang correctional facility a few days ago, calling the action a good one.

    Other dignitaries in the event include wife of the immediate past Governor Ben Ayade; the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Bassey Otu Mr. Gill Nsa, lawyers, Journalists, government functionary and university students.

    Slide left for photos: