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Tag: #Bassey Otu

  • Bakor New Yam Festival: Gov Otu, Sen Jarigbe Calls For Unity

    Bakor New Yam Festival: Gov Otu, Sen Jarigbe Calls For Unity

    Culled From Sun

    The governor of Cross River State Prince Bassey Otu and the Senator representing Cross River North in the National assembly Jarigbe Agom have called for unity among the Bakor people of the State.

    The governor who spoke through the Speaker of the 10th Assembly Elvert Ayambem disclosed this at Alladim Nkum Clan in Ogoja during this year’s Bakor New Yam Festival.

    Governor Otu said political parties should be seen as a ladder and that the Bakor people should know the strength they have is the unity they portray.

    “I stand here of the APC extraction and Senator Jarigbe is of the PDP but when it comes to the unity of Bakor parties are seen as a ladder for development.

    “I came here to honour Senator Jarigbe in solidarity and let our people know that the strength we have as Bakor people is the unity we portray.

    “Senator Jarigbe is the pride of Bakor Nation, has empowered so many people and there is no better humanity than what he is doing”, he said.

    Also speaking, Senator Jarigbe who was honoured by the Bakor Nation said he seeks for unity and the Bakor people can only get better as a people.

    “We have come here as a people and what we seek for is unity among ourselves.

    “There is nothing that can stop us when we are together as a people and we can only get better as a people”, he said.

    He promised to deliver on his promises not just to the Bakor Nation where he had the highest number of votes but the entire northern senatorial district.

    He added that in the 2024 budget there are a number of projects for the the senatorial district which will commence shortly.

    Earlier, Engr. Robert Obeye, the president of the Bakor Nation said the New Yam Festival remains the flagship of their cultural heritage.

    “Bakor New Yam celebration on the 15th of September remains sacrosanct, deeply entrenched and provides indelible platform for our contact.

    ” It is the rallying point of our rich culture and the re-enactment of our communality as well as the resilience and undying spirit of our farmers”, he said.

    He added that it’s also a veritable platform to retrospect on the ensuring legacy of love, unity, team spirit and brotherhood.

    This year’s Bakor New Yam Festival had as theme “If politics divide us, culture should unite us”, and was graced by all the nine clans .

  • Obono-Obla Writes Gov Otu, Calls For The Suspension Of APC State Chairman, Alphonsus Eba

    Obono-Obla Writes Gov Otu, Calls For The Suspension Of APC State Chairman, Alphonsus Eba

    A former President Buhari Aide and foundation member of the All Progressive Congress APC, Chief Okoi Obono-Obla, has called on Gov Bassey Otu to to intervene and direct the appropriate organ of the Party to immediately initiate disciplinary proceedings against Barrister Alphonsus Ogar Eba or in the alternative the State Exco convene a meeting to consider whether or a vote of no confidence should not be passed on Barrister Alphonsus Ogar Eba or I will seek legal means to remove him from office as State Chairman of All Progressive Congress Cross River State Chapter.

    Obono-Obla in a letter addressed to Gov Otu on 9 September 2024, and made available to TheLumineNews stated among other allegations that Barrister Alphonsus Ogar Eba wrote an incendiary piece on his Facebook and other social media page titled Open Letter to Mr President calculated to promote ill feelings, incitement, and hostility by the populace against the APC Federal government of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    The letter reads in full:

    “His Excellency
    Senator Bassey Edet Otu
    Governor
    Cross River State of Nigeria
    Governor’s Office
    Hope Waddel Avenue
    Calabar, Cross River State
    Nigeria

    His Excellency,

    “WHY BARRISTER ALPHONSUS OGAR EBA SHOULD BE SUSPENDED AS STATE CHAIRMAN, ALL PROGRESSIVES CONGRESS CROSS RIVER STATE CHAPTER

    “I write to you in your capacity as the Governor of Cross River State of Nigeria and the Leader of the All-Progressive Congress Cross River State Chapter and the South South Zone of Nigeria to bring to your attention the quiet crisis rocking our Party quietly but which would soon fester into a major one if decisive step (s) is not taken now to nip it in the bud. The State Executive Committee of the Party led by Barrister Alphonsus Ogar Eba is atrophied, rudderless, and has reached it menopause and has to leave when the ovation is still louder.

    “I therefore respectfully implore you to intervene and direct the appropriate organ of the Party to immediately initiate disciplinary proceedings against Barrister Alphonsus Ogar Eba or in the alternative the State Exco convene a meeting to consider whether or a vote of no confidence should not be passed on Barrister Alphonsus Ogar Eba or I will seek legal means to remove him from office as State Chairman of All Progressive Congress Cross River State Chapter.

    “MY REPRESENTATION TO HIS EXCELLENCY IS HINGED ON THE FOLLOWING GROUNDS:

    “1. CREATION OF FACTIONS:
    The APC has splintered into numerous factions in almost 18 local government areas of Cross River State as a result of Barrister Alphonsus Ogar Ebo dictatorial leadership style, which makes internal cohesion, solidarity, and unity practically impossible. Some of these factions enjoy the endorsement and support of Chairman Barrister Alphonsus Eba and cohorts.
    For instance, when I raised the existence of a faction in APC Yakurr Local Government Area known as Yakurr Embassy in an interview granted by me to an online newspaper known as TNT, which enjoys the tacit support, Chairman Barrister Alphonsus Eba falsely asserted that it was a support group.
    However, the said Yakurr Embassy is not registered, neither in Cross River State nor the National as a support group.

    “2. DISCREDITING MR. PRESIDENT’S POLICIES:
    Recently, Barrister Alphonsus Ogar Eba wrote an incendiary piece on his Facebook and other social media page titled Open Letter to Mr President calculated to promote ill feelings, incitement, and hostility by the populace against the APC Federal government of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    “During the campaign in 2023, the APC made it quite clear that as part of its economic reform agenda, it would scrap the payment of subsidies on Petroleum products.

    “The hardship and high cost of living the country and its people are passing through presently is a natural consequence of the withdrawal of subsidies on Petroleum products.

    “As the Chairman of APC in Cross River State, Barrister Alphonsus Ogar Eba must align his opinion and public utterances with the policy agenda of the APC Federal government and resist the temptation to pander to the sentiments and narratives been bandied by the opposition to score political points against the government. See attached screenshot of the Facebook page of Barrister Alphonsus Ogar Eba dated 3 September 2024

    “3. VIOLATION AND FLOUTING OF THE PROVISIONS OF THE APC CONSTITUTION:
    Violation and flouting of the provisions of the APC Constitution that the framers of the Constitution deliberately inserted to enhance smooth administration and management of the Party by someone like Barrister Alphonsus Ogar Eba continually since he assumed office is a calculated sabotage, inexcusable and unbecoming.

    “Article 13.8(v)of the APC Constitution 2022 provides that the State Executive Committee Create or appoint such Committee(s) as it may deem necessary, desirable, or expedient and assign to them such powers and functions as it may deem fit and proper, provided that the powers and functions of such Committee(s) shall not conflict with any Committee(s) set up by the National Executive Committee or the National Working Committee.
    As a deliberate failure, refusal and or neglect of Barristers Alphonsus Eba led State EXCO to activate organs and structures created by the Constitution to foster and promote smooth administration of the Party and ensure wide participation of major stakeholders across the State the Party has become purposeless and rudderless and wobbling on the verge of collapse.

    “These organs are the State Caucus (created by Article 12.10 of the APC Constitution); Local Government Area Caucus (created by Article 12.5 of the APC Constitution; and Senatorial District Committee (created by Article 12.2).
    The failure to activate these organs has led to disillusionment and perception of marginalization of the various tendencies that exist within the State Chapter of the Party.

    “For instance, the old members who have been members of the Party from 2013 to those who joined in 2017 on one hand and to those who defected from PDP in 2021 on the other hand are estranged and in a State of cold war because of the failure to activate these organs that would have used to harmonized these two tendencies and give each of them a sense of belonging.

    “4. LACK OF MEETINGS AND INCLUSIVITY:
    The State Exco led by Barrister Alphonsus Eba has a penchant of non-conducting or convening meetings of both the State Executive and Working Committees, which amounts to a contravention of the Party Constitution. See Article 25 of the APC Constitution,2022.

    “5. STIFLING OF INTERNAL PARTY DEMOCRACY:
    The State Exco led by Barrister Alphonsus Ogar Eba recently banned all members of the APC in Cross River State from holding meetings to ventilate their fundamental human rights to assembly, hold opinions and express themselves on matters concerning their well beings as members of the Party. This is against the fundamentals, traditions, and principles of Party democracy. Constructive engagement, consensus building, and discussions among Party members are requisite ingredients of democracy that should not be stifled under any guise.

    “6. LACK OF TRANSPARENCY AND ACCOUNTABILITY:
    The State Exco led by Barrister Alphonsus Ogar Eba has demonstrated a capacity and propensity for opaque and clandestine conduct and management of the affairs of the APC. Even though 2023, the campaign for the 2023 general election ended since March 2023 and the subsequent inauguration of the President, Governors, and members of the States and National Assemblies the State Exco has bluntly refused to render account for funds that are accrued to the party during the 2022 primary elections. Also, the State Exco has refused, failed, and / or neglected to account for other assets belonging to the Party, including the bus donated to the Party during the 2023 campaigns. Finally, refusal to call for a meeting to examine the fortunes of the Party after the 2023 general elections.

    “7. ARROGANCE:
    The Chairman, Barrister Alphonsus Ogar Eba, and his Exco have a predisposition of talking down and using uncouth and coarse language on elders and senior members of the party who critics their leadership style in extreme display of unbridled arrogance and haughtiness. For instance, one of the State Exco members recently referred to Chief Okoi Obono-Obla as self-claimed ex presidential aide.

    “It is on record that Chief Obono-Obla was a senior special assistant to President Muhammadu Buhari from April 2016 to 29 May 2019. Failure to activate the Constitutional Organs of the Party in the State. The State Exco led by Barrister Alphonsus Ogar Eba has deliberately failed, refused, and neglected to activate organs created under the Constitution to enhance internal democracy and fostering of transparency, accountability, smooth administration management of the affairs of the Party and participation of a wide and broad spectrum of the party.

    “8. Over 10,000 bags of Rice donated by Minister of Sports Development under the Renewed Hope Initiative of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration:
    Recently, the Minister of Sports Development donated over 10,000 bags of Rice under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu renewed Hope initiative for distribution to vulnerable people in the state. These bags of rice were handed over to the leadership of the APC in the state.

    “However, the leadership, when pressured to give account on how the rice was distributed, admitted in a letter written to Senator John Owan Eno dated 4 September 2024 by Hon. Emmanuel Edem Inyang, State Publicity Secretary, All Progressives Congress, Cross River State Chapter claimed that 732 bags of rice received, 196 bags were shared to the Ward Chairmen across the State, while 27 bags were shared to Chapter Executive members in each of the 18 Local Government Area Chapter Executive totalling 486 bags and 50 bags to State and Zonal Executive Committee members respectively.

    “This is not despicable and nauseous corruption, which is unbecoming of Barrister Alphonsus Ogar Eba’s Exco to decide to share these bags of rice only to party bureaucrats and executives rather to the ordinary members of the Party that it was meant.

    “In the light of the above, we pray His Excellency to cause Barrister Alphonsus Ogar Eba to proceed on suspension until the allegations made against him as encapsulated above is properly investigated or in the alternative a disciplinary proceeding should commenced by the appropriate executive Committee or organ of the Party against him.

    “Accept the assurances of my highest regards.

    “Yours sincerely
    Obol Okoi Obono-Obla.

    “CC:
    Senator Surajudeen Ajibola Basiru,PhD
    National Secretary
    All Progressives Congress
    National Secretariat
    40 Blantyre Cres, Wuse 2, Abuja
    Federal Capital Territory
    Nigeria”.

  • Governor Otu Commends President Tinubu, Assures NELFUND Management Team of Cross River’s Support

    Governor Otu Commends President Tinubu, Assures NELFUND Management Team of Cross River’s Support

     

    The Governor of Cross River State, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, has praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his decisive leadership in establishing the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) and ensuring its successful launch.

    Governor Otu made this commendation on Tuesday, when the Managing Director and CEO of NELFUND, alongside other top officials of the fund, paid him a courtesy call in Government House, Calabar.

    Represented by his deputy, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, Governor Otu stated that his administration views NELFUND as a critical platform created by the Federal Government to provide financial support for students of Cross River State in tertiary institutions nationwide, helping them pursue their education with ease.

    He emphasized that education remains a priority for his administration, reaffirming its unwavering support for the NELFUND management team in fulfilling their mandate, which aims to benefit many students across the state and the nation at large.

    In his remarks, the Managing Director and CEO of NELFUND, Mr. Akintunde Sawyerr, highlighted that the fund was established as part of President Tinubu’s commitment to alleviating the financial challenges faced by students and enhancing their educational experience.

    He commended Governor Otu for implementing policies that contribute to the intellectual and social development of the country.

    Mr. Sawyerr also informed that the disbursement process has begun and encouraged students to take advantage of the federal government’s initiative to ease the financial difficulties they face.

    In attendance at the visit were the Special Adviser to the Governor on General Duties, Barr. Ekpenyong Akiba, Special Assistant to the Governor on Students Affairs, Comr. Kelvin Eyam, President and the Senate President of the National Association of Nigerian Students, among others.

    ©Deputy Governor’s Press Unit, Calabar
    10/09/2024

  • Cross River Gov’t Initiates Technical Tender To Privatize Four State-owned Industrial Assets

    Cross River Gov’t Initiates Technical Tender To Privatize Four State-owned Industrial Assets

     

    In a move to stimulate economic rejuvenation and employment opportunities, the government of Cross River State has opened bidding for the privatization of four state-owned industrial assets that have been moribund for years now.

    These assets include the Boki and Nsadop Oil Palm Estates, Fish Hatchery in Ugboro, Bekwarra Local Government Area, Durafoam Industries in Ikom Local Government Area, and Ibonda Fish Hatchery in Odukpani Local Government Area.

    All the aforementioned assets are solely owned by the State Government without any liabilities, the State Privatisation Council has disclosed.

    The technical bidding session was conducted at the Cross River Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) office, where investors expressed satisfaction with the bidding procedures.

    During the event, Chief Bassey Okon, Chairman of the Cross River State Privatization Council, underscored the council’s dedication to meticulous evaluation of bids received.

    “We will carefully assess your technical expertise and capability to efficiently manage the companies to achieve the objectives of this privatization initiative,” he stated.

    The Privatization Council Chairman informed that after the bid evaluation, successful bidders will be invited to inspect the companies they are interested in and subsequently submit their financial proposals.

    Okon reassured participants that the process is designed to be transparent and adhere to due process, essential for upholding trust in the privatization exercise.

    Highlighting the government’s broader vision, Okon emphasized that the state is committed to creating a conducive environment for investors.

    “The privatization aims to enhance operational efficiency, create employment opportunities, and boost the state’s revenue base.

    “We are confident that the communities hosting these assets will benefit significantly in terms of employment and infrastructure development once the privatization is completed,” he remarked.

    He commended the state governor, Sen. Bassey Otu, for approving the privatization the moribund industries and noted that previous administrations had attempted but failed to privatize these assets.

    Mr. Sunday Ekeke, Chief Executive Officer of Sunfil Goldenroll Nigeria Ltd, a bidding company, commended the council for its transparency throughout the technical bidding process. He expressed confidence in the council’s commitment to transparency throughout the bidding process.

    As the open competitive bidding process progresses, the Cross River State Government remains committed to ensuring that the privatization of these dormant assets leads to sustainable economic growth and enhances the quality of life for its residents.

    Nsa Gill
    Chief Press Secretary to the Governor
    08/09/2024

  • Bekwerra New Yam Festival: We’ll continue To Prioritize The Welfare Of Traditional Rulers – Gov. Otu

    Bekwerra New Yam Festival: We’ll continue To Prioritize The Welfare Of Traditional Rulers – Gov. Otu

     

    Governor of Cross River State, Senator (Prince) Bassey Edet Otu, has pledged government support to traditional rulers across the state’s 18 Local Government Areas, with a focus on improving the socioeconomic well-being of Cross Riverians.

    The Governor, represented by his Deputy, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, gave this assurance during a visit to the Paramount Rulers of the Northern Senatorial District at the Bekwarra Local Government Council Headquarters on Saturday.

    He emphasized the vital role that traditional institutions play in maintaining peace and order and assured that the government remains committed to prioritizing the welfare of chiefs in line with the administration’s “People First” mantra.

    Governor Otu also outlined the government’s interventions in key areas such as road rehabilitation, healthcare, security, education, and agriculture across the five LGAs in the North. He assured the completion of ongoing projects and the initiation of new ones. He further encouraged the people of Bekwarra to embrace the Governor’s agricultural policies, aimed at boosting food production and security.

    Speaking on behalf of the traditional rulers from Northern Cross River, HRM Linus Ogbeche Odey, Paramount Ruler and Chairman of Bekwerra Traditional Rulers Council praised Governor Otu and Deputy Governor Odey for their leadership and foresight in implementing people-centered policies, particularly the ongoing road projects and the provision of farm inputs to farmers not just in the senatorial district but across the state.

    He assured the deputy governor that traditional rulers would continue to support government policies and program which he described as “grassroots and people-oriented”

    In his vote of thanks, the Paramount Ruler and Chairman of Obanliku Traditional Rulers Council, HRM Uchua Amos Uyimulam appealed to the Governor to restore the Northern Festival (Northfest), which serves as a rallying point for the five LGAs, and also to ensure the timely completion of the ongoing road project projects and initiation of new ones for the overall interest of the Northern Senatorial District and the state at large.

    The Deputy Governor was accompanied on the visit by the member representing Boki I in the Cross River State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Hilary Bisong, former House of Representatives member for the Obanliku/Bekwarra/Obudu Federal Constituency, Rt. Hon. Legor Idagbor, Commissioner for Finance, Mr. Michael Odere; and the Chapter Chairmen of the All Progressives Congress (APC) from the five LGAs in the North, among others.

  • 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

  • PDP Tackles Governor Otu On N70bln FG Intervention Funds, Demand Accountability And Transparency

    PDP Tackles Governor Otu On N70bln FG Intervention Funds, Demand Accountability And Transparency

    By Patrick Obia Culled From CrossRiverWatch 

    Opposition party in Cross River State, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has tackled Governor Bassey Otu of the All Progressive Congress (APC), on the over N70 Billion received from the federal government as interventions and palliatives Fund.

    In a press statement made available by the State Party Publicity Secretary, Mike Ojisi, called on the Governor to account for the money and be transparent.

    PDP claims that Governor Otu’s administration has received over N70 billion as Palliative/Intervention Fund, which is different from the over N150 billion received as monthly allocation between May 2023 to July 2024.

    The Party challenged that following the “excruciating economic maladies, biting hunger and astronomical hike in price of food and commodities” in the country, orchestrated primarily by the APC’s anti-people removal of fuel subsidy, one would thought Governor Otu, in line with his “People’s First” mantra, would have the needed decency and humane disposition to manage resources and allocations accrued to the state optimally.

    “It is therefore, exasperating waking up daily to the kleptocratic, avaricious, mindless and fraudulent schemes by the Otu’s administration, aimed primarily at asphyxiating the State and enriching few of his coevals and immediate family members, at the detriment of the good people of Cross River State,” PDP said, calling on Mr. Otu to account for the over 31 BIllion Naira received from the Federal Government’s NG-CARES Program Fund.

    While accusing the Governor’s wife of capturing local government funds, PDP calls on the Governor to at least, have the decency to live up to his “People’s First” mantra as lack of transparency and accountability in his government is humongously alarming. They charged Cross Riverians, anti-graft agencies, traditional rulers, religious and stakeholders to beam their searchlight on the dividends of Democracy.

    The statement reads

    The Peoples Democratic Party Cross River State, notes with appalling concern Governor Otus Inability to judiciously account for the over 70 billion Naira that has entered the State coffers as part of intervention fund released by the President to cushion the effect of the economic crunch beleaguering the nation. Consequent upon the removal of Fuel Subsidy by the Tinubu’s Administration and the subsequent meteoric increase in Federal allocation and other sundry intervention funds accrued to the state, Otu’s administration has received over N70 billion as Palliative/Intervention Fund, which is different from the over N150 billion received as monthly allocation between May 2023 to July 2024.

    Following the excruciating economic maladies, biting hunger and astronomical hike in price of food and commodities in Nigeria, orchestrated primarily by the APC’s anti-people removal of fuel subsidy, one would have thought that Governor Otu, in line with his much touted “People’s First” mantra, would have the needed decency and humane disposition to manage resources and allocations accrued to the state optimally. It is therefore, exasperating waking up daily to the kleptocratic, avaricious, mindless and fraudulent schemes by the Otus Administration, aimed primarily at asphyxiating the State and enriching few of his coevals and immediate family members, at the detriment of the good people of Cross River State.

    To examine the facts critically, we make bold to ask the APC led by Governor Prince Otu, to account for the over 31 BIllion Naira received from the Federal Government’s NG-CARES PROGRAM Fund. For emphasis, the NG-CARES Program with a financial arrangement called Program-for-Results (PforR), has provided over 31 bln Naira to Cross River State for five platforms namely; Cash Transfer, Community and Social Development Agency (CSDA), Enterprise Development Fund, FADAMA, and Public Workfare. Despite receiving over N31 billion between December 2023 and June 2024,Governor Otu has failed to account for the funds or provide tangible results.

    It is on record that Otu’s administration claims that 1,700 Persons have benefited from the fund. Assuming without conceding that this is true, it therefore raises concern about the utilization of the N31 Billion and how much was received by each of the beneficiaries.

    Additionally, the state has received three tranches of Electronic Money Transfer (EMTL), each not less than N7 Billion, as well as billions from import duty, Companies Income Tax (CIT),Petroleum Profit Tax (PPT), and Customs External Tariff Levies (CET).

    Rather than judiciously allocate these monies to programs and projects that are people-oriented and can ameliorate the plight of the people; Governor Otu’s Budget for 2024 includes questionable allocations such as;

    -N5Billion for Renovation of Governor’s office

    -N52.5million for printing 400 pieces of Almanacs.

    -N36.75million for equipping and restructuring the Assembly Clinic.

    To think that the production of mere almanacs cost more than the Assembly Clinics,underscores the point that Governor Otu and his cohorts have turned themselves into narcissistic kleptomaniacs.

    -N273 million for pilgrimage activities.

    -N157.5 Million for Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) African.

    -N262.5 million for CPA International.

    -N210 million for Health Programs for Ex- HOÀ members.

    -N52.5 million for air conditioners, Fans and Water Dispensers.

    Just recently, the July 2024 FAAC allocation for the 18 Local Government Areas in Cross RiverState was paid, which amounted to the sum of N 5.63 Billion. Assuming that the allocation is equitably divided, each LGA WOuld receive about N312.777 million, which could significantly impact on the development we are desperately yearning for in the State.

    It’s worrisome that even the Governor’s wife has been rumored to have captured Local Government funds leveraging on her experience as former Director in the Local GovernmentService. Till date, LGAS are not funded by the State Government except through IGR. Rather Than fund LGAS, the Governor’s wife is alleged to have erected gigantic edifices all over Calabar From her sudden mysterious wealth which is from corrupt enrichment from LG funds, while LGAs wallow in penury and Development Authorities have been rendered comatose with filthy streets. Yet authorities are preying on overtaxed petty traders struggling to make ends meet in a devastated economic environment.

    We therefore call on the Governor to at least, have the decency to live up to his own “People’s First” mantra as the lack of transparency and accountability in his Government is humongously alarming. We call on Cross Riverians, Anti-graft Agencies, Traditional Rulers, Religious and stakeholders to beam their searchlight on the government and demand for the true and dividends of Democracy.

  • Enoh, Ironbar, Akiba: Of Loyalty, Consistency And Power BY INYALI PETER

    Enoh, Ironbar, Akiba: Of Loyalty, Consistency And Power BY INYALI PETER

     

    The administration of Governor Bassey Otu has been making waves in the political sphere, and at the forefront of this wave are three individuals who have become synonymous with the government’s inner workings. Prof. Anthony Owan Enoh, Secretary to the State Government, Hon. Emmanuel Ironbar, Chief of Staff, and Barr. Akika Ekpenyong, Special Adviser on General Duties, are the triumvirate that have captured the attention of political enthusiasts and critics alike.

    Their influence in the government is undeniable, and it’s rare to have a conversation about Governor Otu’s administration without their names being mentioned. While some of these mentions may be laced with complaints about their perceived dominance, it’s essential to acknowledge that their consistency and loyalty to the Governor in the eight he was forced out of government were unparalleled and have ultimately, earned them the power and influence they wield today.

    For eight years, while Governor Otu was out of government, these individuals stood steadfastly by him, weathering the storm and remaining committed to his course. They were the modern-day ‘Joshua and Caleb’ of Otu’s vision, tirelessly working to keep the dream alive. I personally experienced their dedication, as the SSG would call me several times in a month to discuss the prospects of Gov. Otu’s governorship. The trio unapologetically believed in him, serving as his pillars of support when many deemed the dream impossible to achieve.

    Meanwhile, others who were once close to the Governor abandoned his ship, seeking greener pastures elsewhere when the milk stopped flowing. Now that the tables have turned, and it’s time for these loyalists to reap the rewards of their labour, some individuals are questioning their influence. They often focus on the privileges they enjoy today but forget to acknowledge the sacrifices they made during the eight-year wilderness. They want to enjoy the fruits of their success without having sown the seeds of consistency and loyalty that the trio did eight years ago.

    While it’s natural to have reservations about their level of control, it’s only fair to recognize that their investment in the Governor’s vision has yielded a tangible return. They have earned the right to enjoy the fruits of their labour, and instead of vilifying their influence, we should be learning from their exemplary consistency, loyalty, and dedication. Let us pray that they use their privileges to benefit the common good, alleviating the burdens of the people and supporting the government in fulfilling its mandate to develop the state.

    To my fellow young people, let us draw inspiration from the triumvirate’s consistency and commitment to a vision they believed in, even when the odds seemed insurmountable. Their story teaches us that loyalty, perseverance, and dedication pay off in the long run. As they wield their influence, let us pray that they do so with wisdom and integrity, ensuring that politics and governance are not compromised. Where we see them falter, let us offer constructive criticism, while continuing to support them where necessary, to help the Governor deliver on his promises and build a better future for all.

    To the trio, I offer these words of encouragement: may your privileged positions be a catalyst to etch your names in the annals of history with golden ink. May you wield your influence as a force for the betterment of all and not a select few. Strive to leave an indelible legacy that will forever be remembered as the triumvirate that helped Governor Otu elevate Cross River State to unprecedented heights. Don’t limit the benefits of your offices to only those within your circle, expand it. Never use your positions to oppress or for vendetta because as the table turned for you today, you don’t know whose turn is next.

    -Inyali Peter, Ph.D

    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.

  • Wife of Ayade’s Ex-Aide Seeks IGP’s Intervention Over Alleged Detention of Hubby By Gov Otu’s Security Adviser

    Wife of Ayade’s Ex-Aide Seeks IGP’s Intervention Over Alleged Detention of Hubby By Gov Otu’s Security Adviser

    Culled From Paradise News

    Wife of ex- Special Adviser to the Cross River State governor on Cocoa Development and Control, Mrs. Joy Ofuka, has charged the Inspector- General of Police, IGP, Kayoede Egbetokun, to wade into what she described as unlawful arrest and detention of her husband, Dr. Oscar Ofuka, by Gov. Otu’s State Security Adviser (SSA) Rtd. Maj. Gen. Okoi Obono.

    Ofuka’s wife gave the charge while reacting to detention of her husband, by the State Security Adviser to governor Otu in Calabar on Wednesday.

    Speaking in a telephone conversation with our Correspondent, Ofuka ‘s wife disappointment over what she described as use of political power to intimidate and oppress former aide to Gov. Ayade, stressing that no political office is occupied forever but as all would fade a way with passage of time.

    In her words, Ofuka’s wife said, “I still do not understand the gang up against my husband despite the effort which he sank to ensure that money owed cocoa landlords communities for sixteen years were paid.

    “I see this detention as a strategy to distract the ongoing court process to intimidate my husband so that allottees whose monies were used by the state government to defray the debt burden that was hanging on the government’s neck would come after my husband.

    “Let me state categorically clear that there was no dime paid into my husband’s private pocket instead all the money used by the state government to settle the cocoa landlords communities passed through the state government account through the smart gov. platform as authorized by the court’s consent judgment.

    “This is why I am calling on the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, PhD whom I am quite sure hates oppression, not to allow this evil perpetrated against my husband to continue.

    “Even though am not a lawyer, I know too well that once a matter is in court, no one is allowed to arrest someone, unfortunately, the reverse.

    “The harassment and intimidation by the State Security Adviser who is out to see my husband dead is unacceptable.

    “He cannot use his position to oppress my husband like that. What crime or treason did my commit, that you took him to Afi Army Barracks at Ikom local government area, whisked him to Akim Barracks and finally to Federal Housing police station and to Zone 6 Police Commands Calabar in less than 48 hours?

    “Is he a terrorist to be treated the way he was being mal-treated? These are questions that State Security Adviser needs to answer.

    “His kids and I are really traumatized. The entire family have been in serious pain since all these started.

    “We have not been able to sleep in the last three days. We are indeed so emotionally drained.

    “My husband has not siphon any money belonging to the state government, all the cash that accrued from lease of government cocoa farms were paid into Cross River State government’s account and not to his private pocket. So why the oppression and harassment?

    “Government they say is a continuum, what is the rational behind this arrest and detention?

    “Is it because they tried to evict the allottees that got farms through my husband and legitimately paid money into the coffers of the state government and at the same time and the plot by certain individuals to evict the allottees out from the farms failed following court injunction order?

    “I called on Cross Riverians, well-meaning Nigerians that my husband did no wrong, except for the fact that he was only an agent to the immediate past administration led by Prof. Ben Ayade.

    “To the best of my knowledge, money realized from lease of farms were money used by the immediate past administration to defray 16-years old debt that previous administrations owed the cocoa landlord communities as royalties for the land that the communities donated to state government to cultivate its cocoa estate.

    “First they interrupted the court processes, secondly they alleged that a worker who died in the estate was masterminded by Ofuka, the question how?

    “Why not allow the police to carry out a thorough and independent investigation? From what we gathered the deceased died in plot 59/64 which is a bid far away from the cocoa plot that concerned my husband.

    “Besides that, the master of the deceased can attest to the fact that my family do not have any problem with him, the cocoa plot which the master of the deceased work is not even in contention with my husband.

    “I urged the State Security Adviser whom I know has integrity not to hinder the ongoing investigation, but to allow the police to do their job by carrying out a thorough investigation without prejudice, rather than resorting to intimidate our family members.

    “What they are doing is a ploy to distract and scare off beneficiaries allottees that genuinely paid for farms so that they will be afraid to access the farms.

    “When a matter is in court, as law abiding citizen, we allow justice to take its course. It’s barbaric for anyone to begin to harass and intimidate one whom they are in court with.”

    However, the State Security Adviser, Rtd. Maj. Gen. Okoi Obono, who reacted to the allegations during a telephone call with our Correspondent, denied issuing any order for the arrest and detention of Ayade’s ex-aide Ofuka, stressing that the allegations were not true but lies.

    “I am not responsible for his arrest and detention,” he said.

  • Civil Societies, NGOs Fumes As Governor Otu Snubs Again In Recent Appointment Galore

    Civil Societies, NGOs Fumes As Governor Otu Snubs Again In Recent Appointment Galore

    Culled From CrossRiverWatch 

    Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) in Cross River State, are fumed over Governor Bassey Otu’s continuous snub in his recent appointment galore.

    The CSOs voiced their dissatisfaction in a press statement signed and issued by Civil Society/NGO leader in the State, Leader Ben Usang, questioning why the governor failed to appoint at least a Special Adviser despite the State having the Department of Civil Society/NGOs, created during the administration of former Governor Imoke.

    Governor Otu on Monday, July 8, 2024, rolled out at least 212 appointees into his government, raising an eyebrow if he has towed the path of his predecessor Ben Ayade.

    Leader Ben who doubles as Development Facilitator, Human Dignity Advocate, Social Justice activist, and Public Affairs Commentator opines that it “obviously indicates no interest or priority by government” to engage effectively with Civil Society/ NGOs contrary to the requirements of many Development Partners that support the State in its budgetary provisions.

    He said his administration can better harness the needs, expectations, and opinions of ordinary citizens, CSOs, and NGOs for the success of his administration and an upward trajectory in the development of the State.

    The statement reads: “Just recently, the Governor of Cross River State, Senator(Prince) Bassey Edet Otu, made another set of appointments into key positions of the State Government. Obviously, the appointments were made to fill existing vacancies and perhaps to strengthen the machinery of Governance in the state.

    “While it remains my personal view that it has become very imperative for all strata of government in our nation to deliberately cut the cost of governance, at this point of economic challenges, through minimizing the number of political appointees and instead according priority to filling up vacancies in the civil/public service of the state, I will, however, differ to the Wisdom and love for the state the Governor is reputed to have by his decision to further expand the size of his government by this latest tranche of the appointment he just made. I now look forward to the appointments translating to a HIGHER QUALITY OF GOVERNANCE centered on the primary interest of the people of the State.

    “Having stated the above, I must highlight here that the Governor in this latest appointment once again failed to appoint a Special Adviser, Civil Society/NGOs, a development I presume could be simply an unintentional oversight on the part of the Governor or as a result of the Governor’s attention not being drawn to the existence of a Department for Civil Society/NGOs in the state.

    “The Department of Civil Society/NGOs was created during the Administration of Former Governor Imoke. It has since had several Special Advisers, beginning with Mrs. Margaret Ebokpo, a seasoned NGO practitioner with a background in Women’s Rights and Political participation.

    “From the onset, the Department of Civil Society/NGOs became a critical agency of Government in coordinating the activities of Civil Society/NGOs in the State especially as it has to do with engagements with government and in Multistakeholder forums organized by the Government and other partners of Government including international development partners seeking to consult Non-State Actors or to fund their activities in the State. The department was also vital in registering Civil Society Organisations and Self Help Groups, facilitating capacity building for them amongst other vital services to the third sector. In that period, discussions and the way forward started on having a One Stop registration for Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) in the state, taxation as pertains to CSOs, Civil Society Commission, increasing women’s political participation, electoral reforms, and many other policy issues that were of interest to many of the CSOs working or operating in the state.

    “Under Former Governor Ayade, the Department’s activities and relevance were sustained. The then-governor appointed A Special Adviser for the Department as his predecessor did and even went ahead to appoint Special Assistants to work with the Advisers. Among the many achievements of the department at this time included the Joint organizing and holding of the International NGO Day with some Civil Society Organisations and the participation of representatives of CSOs in major State functions, donor engagements, and public policy development through the department’s facilitation.

    “Despite the foregoing, more than one year after, the current administration led by Prince Bassey Edet Otu, there is no appointment of a Political Head for the Department which obviously indicates no interest or priority by government to engage effectively with Civil Society/ NGOs contrary to the requirements of many Development Partners that support the State in its budgetary provisions. The scenario has led to a huge void creating room for a lack of policy and program coordination of the Voluntary Sector at government level using a sustainable framework that leads to positive outcomes.

    “At this point, it is instructive to state that though some actors in the Civil Society of the State, including yours truly, have now adopted a recommendation for the Establishment of a Legislation backed Commission for Civil Society/NGOs, which will transform the department to a Commission and thereby headed by a Commission Chairman assisted by Commission members, we however still believe that there is need, for now, for a Special Adviser to be appointed for the Department as it currently exists subject to when a Commission will come to replace the Department upon assent by the Governor of the enabling legislation. To actualize our goal for a commission, the Special Adviser will be critical in functioning as a liaison between CSOs and Government so we arrive at provisions in the legislation that is acceptable to all stakeholders within a meaningful and realistic timeframe.

    “It is imperative to note that during the just concluded South South Regional Conference on Improving Regulatory Environment for CSO operations in Nigeria held on the 27th of June, 2024 in Calabar, calls were made by Civil Society actors to have an Executive legislative mechanism for the State that will improve the regulatory and developmental environment for CSO operations at the state level in line with constitutional provisions and precedence that exist in other states in the country especially Benue State that has a law for the Voluntary Sector activities which was upheld as valid in a Court of Appeal Judgement.

    “On this note, I am calling on the State Governor who is pro-people in his mantra to immediately appoint a Special Adviser for Civil Society/NGOs so his administration can better harness the needs, expectations and opinions of ordinary citizens and Civil Society Organisations including Non Governmental Organisations( NGOs) for the success of the administration and an upward trajectory in the development of the State and which gives the State a positive image among international development community.”