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Tag: #Peter Odey

  • Odey Reaffirms Cross River’s Commitment to Partnership with NEMA on Disaster Management

    Odey Reaffirms Cross River’s Commitment to Partnership with NEMA on Disaster Management

    Cross River State Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, has reaffirmed the commitment of the state government to sustaining its partnership with the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to strengthen disaster risk reduction, emergency preparedness and response across the state.

    The Deputy Governor gave the assurance on Tuesday while receiving a delegation from NEMA, led by the Assistant Director of Operations, Abuja/Uyo Operations Office, Mr. Labaran Ahman, during a courtesy visit to Government House, Calabar.

    Odey commended NEMA for its proactive role in disaster management and its sustained collaboration with the Cross River State Emergency Management Agency (CR-SEMA). He described disaster preparedness as a critical component of the state’s efforts to safeguard lives and property, noting that the Governor Bassey Otu-led administration remains committed to building resilient communities through strategic partnerships.

    He assured the delegation of the state’s full support for NEMA’s programmes and activities, emphasizing the government’s readiness to continue working closely with the agency and other development partners to protect lives, preserve livelihoods and strengthen community resilience.

    The Deputy Governor also expressed appreciation to NEMA for choosing Cross River as the venue for key emergency management activities, saying the initiatives would enhance the capacity of emergency responders and improve the state’s preparedness for flood-related emergencies.

    Earlier, the leader of the delegation, Mr. Labaran Ahman, said NEMA was in Cross River on three strategic assignments aimed at deepening collaboration with the state government and enhancing disaster management efforts.

    According to him, the agency has completed an assessment of flood-affected communities in the Southern Senatorial District and has extended the exercise to Abi, Etung, Ikom and Obubra Local Government Areas to evaluate the extent of damage and identify appropriate intervention measures.

    Ahman further disclosed that NEMA, in partnership with CR-SEMA and other stakeholders, will next week conduct a flood disaster response simulation exercise at Marina Beach in Calabar South. He explained that the exercise is intended to test the operational readiness of emergency responders, improve inter-agency coordination and strengthen community preparedness ahead of the peak of the 2026 flood season.

    He also announced that Cross River State will host the South-South Zonal Workshop on the Review of the National Policy on Relief and Rehabilitation the following week. The workshop, he said, will bring together emergency management stakeholders from across the region to review existing policies, share best practices and strengthen Nigeria’s disaster management framework.

    The NEMA delegation included the Assistant Chief Accountant, NEMA Uyo Operations Office, Mr. Awoji Augustine, and the Director General of the Cross River State Emergency Management Agency (CR-SEMA), Mr. Efa Nyong.

  • C’River Deputy Governor, Ogoja Council Chairman Commission Kamgba Memorial Hospital

    C’River Deputy Governor, Ogoja Council Chairman Commission Kamgba Memorial Hospital

    By Sonnie Okem

    The Deputy Governor of Cross River State, His Excellency Rt. Hon. Peter Agbe Odey, Ph.D., alongside the Chairman of Ogoja Local Government Council, Chief Hon. Christopher Agbeh, has commissioned the 12-bed Kamgba Memorial Hospital at Idum, Mbube, in Ogoja Local Government Area, describing the facility as a major contribution to quality healthcare delivery in the state.

    Represented at the ceremony by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Food Security and Agricultural Development, Chief Emmanuel Anoh, the Deputy Governor commended the founder, Chief Dr. Joseph Odu Kamgba, for his visionary investment in the health sector, noting that the hospital complements the government’s efforts to provide accessible and quality healthcare services to the people.

    He said the establishment of the facility would ease the burden on government in the provision of essential social services while expanding access to quality healthcare, particularly for residents of rural communities. He described the project as a remarkable act of philanthropy that would reduce the cost and stress associated with travelling to urban centres for medical care.

    The Deputy Governor urged the management of the hospital to maintain high standards of professionalism, diligence, and compassionate service in delivering quality healthcare to the people.

    In his keynote address, the Chairman of Ogoja Local Government Council, Chief Hon. Christopher Agbeh, praised Chief Dr. Kamgba for his exemplary leadership, patriotism, and commitment to community development. He described the hospital as a practical response to the question, “What can you do for your government?” stressing that sustainable development is best achieved when citizens partner with government to improve the welfare of society.

    Chief Agbeh reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to quality healthcare, recalling that upon assumption of office, the council engaged medical doctors who provided free medical services across health facilities in the local government area. He pledged the council’s readiness to partner with Kamgba Memorial Hospital to expand access to affordable and quality healthcare for the people.

    Earlier, the founder of the hospital, Chief Dr. Joseph Odu Kamgba, said the vision behind the project was inspired by his determination to reduce preventable deaths in his community. He disclosed that the hospital took seven years to complete at a cost running into billions of naira and is equipped with modern medical facilities, including male and female wards, a standard diagnostic laboratory, and other essential equipment to provide comprehensive healthcare services.

    Also speaking, retired Commissioner of Police Gabriel Omara-Achong and Comrade Abang Anoh commended Chief Dr. Kamgba for his foresight, generosity, and unwavering commitment to improving healthcare delivery. They described the hospital as a landmark achievement that would significantly reduce the burden on rural residents who previously travelled long distances in search of medical care.

    The commissioning ceremony attracted traditional rulers, political leaders, government officials, health professionals, community leaders, and residents, all of whom applauded Chief Dr. Kamgba’s philanthropic gesture and described the hospital as a significant milestone in the advancement of healthcare services in Ogoja Local Government Area.

  • C’River Deputy Governor, CDI, Others Celebrate Mama Adalikwu at 88, Honour Late Husband

    C’River Deputy Governor, CDI, Others Celebrate Mama Adalikwu at 88, Honour Late Husband

     

    The Deputy Governor of Cross River State, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, the Chief of Defence Intelligence (CDI), Lieutenant General Emmanuel Parker Undiandeye, and other prominent personalities on Saturday joined family members and well-wishers to celebrate the 88th birthday of Mrs. Elizabeth Adalikwu while paying tribute to her late husband, Pa Peter Adalikwu, during a thanksgiving and memorial service at St. Charles Catholic Church, Obudu.

    Speaking at the event, Odey described Mrs. Adalikwu as a woman of remarkable faith, resilience, and virtue whose life has positively impacted generations.

    The Deputy Governor said the accomplishments and character of her children were a reflection of the discipline, hard work, and godly values instilled by Mrs. Adalikwu and her late husband. He noted that several of her children were either his classmates or close friends, making the occasion particularly significant to him.
    He described the memorial as a fitting honour for the late Pa Peter Adalikwu, whose legacy, he said, continues to inspire his family, the Obudu community, and many others. Odey also prayed for God’s continued blessings, good health, and long life for the celebrant.

    In his goodwill message, the Chief of Defence Intelligence, Lieutenant General Emmanuel A. Undiandeye, commended Mrs. Adalikwu for her unwavering faith, humility, and devotion to family. He described her as an exemplary mother whose children have continued to distinguish themselves in service to humanity and God, and prayed for God’s continued grace and strength upon her.
    Delivering the family’s tribute and vote of thanks, Dr. Paul Adalikwu, Secretary-General of the Maritime Organisation of West and Central Africa (MOWCA), explained that the gathering was organised to commemorate the memory of their father, Pa Peter Adalikwu, who died in 2006, while celebrating the 88th birthday of their mother.

    Describing Mrs. Adalikwu as the pillar of the family, Dr. Adalikwu paid an emotional tribute to her.

    “For 88 years, you’ve been the heart of our family. Your strength, your faith, and your love built the home we all cherish. I’m so proud to be your son. May the Lord bless you with good health, peace, and joy on your special day and always. We love you,” he said.

    He expressed gratitude to God for preserving their mother and thanked all guests for joining the family to celebrate her life and honour the memory of their late father.

    Also speaking, the Chairman of Obudu Local Government Area, Hon. Dr. Peter Akonfe Undiandeye, KSM, thanked God for Mrs. Adalikwu’s life and prayed for her continued good health and longevity.

    He also described the late Pa Peter Adalikwu as a respected patriarch whose legacy of integrity, love, and service continues to unite and inspire his family and the wider community.

    The thanksgiving and memorial service attracted senior government officials, military officers, clergy, traditional rulers, community leaders, family members, and well-wishers, who gathered to celebrate Mrs. Adalikwu’s milestone birthday and honour the enduring legacy of her late husband.

  • C’River Governor Otu Flags Off 10km Ugboro-Ukpah-Afrike Road Project in Bekwarra LGA

    C’River Governor Otu Flags Off 10km Ugboro-Ukpah-Afrike Road Project in Bekwarra LGA

     

    The Governor of Cross River State, Senator Prince Bassey Otu, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to delivering critical infrastructure that promotes economic growth and improves the quality of life of citizens across the state.

    Governor Otu, represented by his deputy, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, made this known on Saturday during the official flag-off of the construction of the 10km Ugboro-Ukpah-Afrike Road in Bekwarra Local Government Area.

    Addressing residents and stakeholders at the ceremony, the Deputy Governor described the project as another milestone in the implementation of the Governor’s People First agenda, noting that it reflects the administration’s resolve to fulfil its promises to the people. He said the road would improve access to rural communities, facilitate the transportation of agricultural produce, stimulate commerce, enhance access to healthcare and education, and create new economic opportunities for residents.

    Rt. Hon. Odey commended the Executive Chairman of Bekwarra Local Government Area, Hon. Egbung Odama, the Commissioner for Finance, Dr. Michael Odere, and the Member representing Bekwarra State Constituency, Hon. Omang Charles Omang, for their commitment and collaborative efforts in facilitating the commencement of the project.

    He called on community leaders, youths, and other stakeholders to cooperate fully with the contractor to ensure the smooth and timely execution of the project. He also charged the contractor to prioritise the use of local content by engaging qualified local labour and sourcing materials locally where practicable.

    In his welcome address, the Executive Chairman of Bekwarra Local Government Area, Hon. Egbung Odama, described Governor Otu as a promise keeper whose administration continues to translate campaign promises into tangible development. He noted that the road project reflects the Governor’s commitment to addressing the long-standing infrastructural needs of the Bekwarra people.

    Hon. Odama expressed appreciation to the Governor for including Bekwarra in his development agenda, describing the project as a clear demonstration of the administration’s People First philosophy. He expressed confidence in the successful completion of the road and appealed to the state government to also consider the construction of the Abuochiche–Akwurinyi Road.

    Also speaking, the Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Hon. Dr. Pius Ankpo Edet, assured residents that the project would be executed in line with approved engineering standards and completed within the lifespan of the present administration. He called on the benefiting communities to continue supporting the contractor throughout the construction period.

    On his part, the Commissioner for Finance, Dr. Michael Odere, affirmed that the Governor Otu administration had put in place adequate funding arrangements to guarantee the uninterrupted execution of the project until completion.

    In their goodwill messages, the Member representing Bekwarra State Constituency, Hon. Charles Omang; former Head of Service, Mr. Timothy Akwaji; the Paramount Ruler of Bekwarra Local Government Area; and the Chairman of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Cross River State Chapter, Comrade Emmanuel Olayi, commended Governor Otu for the strategic intervention. They pledged the full cooperation of the people and assured the government of a peaceful environment that would enable the contractor to complete the project on schedule.

    The high point of the ceremony was the ribbon-cutting performed by the Deputy Governor, formally marking the commencement of the project.

  • UNICROSS Students’ Protest and Fatal Motor Accident, No One Was Shot Says C’River Deputy Governor 

    UNICROSS Students’ Protest and Fatal Motor Accident, No One Was Shot Says C’River Deputy Governor 

     

    Earlier today, students of the University of Cross River State took to the streets to protest the tragic death of three of their colleagues in a motor accident, where a truck struck a bus conveying students returning from a friendly female football match in Uyo on Thursday, April 30, 2026, along the Itu-Odukpani Road. The Governor had earlier extended his deepest condolences to the families of the deceased, the students, and the entire university community over this painful and heartbreaking loss.

    The Office of the Deputy Governor of Cross River State wishes to correct the public record in the interest of truth, peace, and responsible dialogue.

    The protesters first went to the General Hospital, then proceeded to Millennium Park, and later moved to the Governor’s Office. At Millennium Park, they blocked vehicular traffic for an extended period until they were persuaded to reopen the road. At a point during the protest, the situation became rowdy after the leadership structure among the protesters broke down, and some individuals began vandalizing government property. In response, the police used tear gas to disperse the crowd and restore order. No one was shot. This fact must be clearly stated to ensure that misinformation does not distort the facts or unnecessarily inflame public sentiment.

    While the concerns raised about healthcare facilities in the state and the completion of the Calabar-Itu Road are duly noted, the government makes it clear that the temporary breakdown of law and order should not be unfairly attributed to the State Government. The administration remains committed to addressing legitimate grievances through peaceful engagement.

    Acting swiftly and in the spirit of compassion and dialogue, the Deputy Governor immediately invited ten leaders of the student body to his office, where he personally assured them of the government’s concern and support. This included the use of his personal vehicles and security personnel to assist in evacuating injured accident victims to various hospitals for urgent medical attention.

    The Deputy Governor also addressed concerns raised about the General Hospital and the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital (UCTH). He explained that some of the accident victims were redirected from the General Hospital to UCTH not because the General Hospital was ill-equipped, but because it was overwhelmed beyond its capacity at the time. He has further directed the Commissioner for Health to remain fully engaged on the matter to ensure that all victims receive the best possible care, as the government has made full provision for their medical bills. He has also requested a full report on the state of the General Hospital so that any identified gaps can be promptly addressed.

    His Excellency urges the public, especially commentators, to avoid misinformation and exaggerated narratives capable of worsening an already painful situation. The government remains open to constructive engagement and continues to work in the interest of all citizens, including students and young people, whose welfare remains a priority.

    We once again commiserate with the families of the deceased and the university community, and pray for the repose of the souls of the departed students. May the injured recover swiftly and fully.

    Fred Abua, Esq.
    Press Secretary to the Deputy Governor
    04/05/2026

  • Odey Applauds Councillors’ Support, Calls for Continued Collaboration with Council Chairmen

    Odey Applauds Councillors’ Support, Calls for Continued Collaboration with Council Chairmen

     

    The Deputy Governor of Cross River State, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, PhD, has commended local government legislators (councillors) for their steadfast support of the Senator Prince Bassey Otu-led administration.

    Dr. Odey gave the commendation on Tuesday while receiving in audience leaders of the Local Government Legislative Assemblies at the Deputy Governor’s Conference Room, Government House, Calabar.

    Rt. Hon. Odey called on them to continue supporting and praying for the Governor, while encouraging strong collaboration with their respective council chairmen to ensure effective governance at the local government and ward level.

    He reassured the leaders of the state government’s continued collaboration with local government councils to guarantee efficient service delivery and the successful implementation of the administration’s people first agenda.

    He also advised political office holders to remain humble and mindful of the transient nature of power. “When you are at the top, do not become carried away, because the table can turn,” he cautioned, stressing the importance of humility, respect for others, and responsible leadership across all levels.

    Earlier in his remarks, the Councillor representing Utugwang North and Leader of the Forum, Hon. Eneji Sam Ashibi, expressed appreciation to the Deputy Governor for the audience granted to them.

    Eneji, who also serves as Leader of the Obudu Legislative Assembly, reaffirmed the unwavering loyalty of the legislative leaders to the present administration and pledged their continued support in advancing the policies and programmes of the state government at the grassroots level. He noted that the forum remains committed to promoting unity, stability, and effective legislative oversight within their respective councils.

    In their separate remarks, the leaders of the Biase, Etung, and Ogoja Legislative Assemblies, Hon. Egwu Egeh Umet, Hon. ThankGod Ekupnse Ojong, and Hon. Dr. Elizabeth Mbim, respectively commended Governor Bassey Otu for embarking on grassroots-driven projects across the state. They also applauded the Deputy Governor for his leadership and supervisory role over local government affairs.

    The legislators, however, appealed for improved welfare packages for councillors, including the provision of mobility to enhance their effectiveness. They noted that the lack of adequate resources has limited their ability to execute constituency projects and called for greater support to strengthen legislative functions at the grassroots level.

    A highlight of the visit was the observance of a minute’s silence in honour of their departed colleagues and the presentation of a commemorative portrait to the Deputy Governor.

    Deputy Governor’s Press Unit, Government House, Calabar

  • C’River Deputy Governor Peter Odey’s Northern Tour: When Government Listens BY FRED ABUA 

    C’River Deputy Governor Peter Odey’s Northern Tour: When Government Listens BY FRED ABUA 

     

    The Deputy Governor of Cross River State, His Excellency Rt. Hon. Peter Agbe Odey, PhD, has just concluded a five-day official tour across the five Local Government Areas of Northern Cross River- Bekwarra, Obanliku, Obudu, Ogoja, and Yala. The tour, held in commemoration of their 2025 New Yam Festivals, a cherished tradition in these agrarian Local Government Areas, wasn’t just a cultural visit, but it was empathy in action, a government willing to listen before acting.

    With a consistent message, “I have come to celebrate the new yam with you, and to listen, so government can meet your actual needs,” Dr. Odey moved from community to community, palace to palace, play ground to play ground, not with empty promises, but with real interventions and tangible impacts.

    While over #150 million was committed to support cultural celebrations across the five LGAs, the Deputy Governor brought more than just goodwill. He delivered life-changing interventions worth over #250 million, addressing core community needs – ultramodern boreholes for clean water, agricultural inputs, youth employment opportunities, and local development projects.

    In Obudu, for example, he responded immediately to a request from the women of Utukalu by donating ₦5 million for fertilizers and pesticides. It was a practical and timely response to a pressing agricultural need.

    Everywhere he visited, traditional rulers, critical stakeholders, youth groups, women, and people living with disabilities welcomed him warmly, expressing gratitude not just for the immediate support, but for the visible impact of the Senator Prince Bassey Otu-led administration—notably in rural infrastructure, electrification, agriculture, potable water, and job creation.

    Yet, the consistent refrain was: “We want more.” But this was not a complaint. It was a sign of trust, a belief that government is truly, ‘People First’ and capable of delivering beyond their expectations.

    Often underestimated because of his gentle demeanor, Dr. Peter Odey is a man of deep capacity, thoroughly prepared for leadership. With a background in law, sociology, international relations, and conflict management, he brings depth and intellect to leadership. His journey, from grassroots development work in the NGO sector to high-level public service-has been guided by a singular mission: uplifting his people.

    And during this tour, he was never alone. He was accompanied by a delegation of political leaders and stakeholders Northern Cross River, a strong signal of continued unity, respect, and shared vision.

    Among his entourage were LGAs was member representing Obudu Bekwarra and Obanliku in the Federal House of Representatives, Hon. Chief Peter Akpanke, LGAs Council Chairmen, State Chairman of the Party, Alphonsus Eba, serving and former members of the Cross River State House of Assembly, serving and former commissioners, Special Advisers, Directors-General, and other top government officials. Others were High Chief Higgins Peters, Chief Peter Ojie, Chief Dr. Tony Undiandeye, Ntufam Fidelis Ugbo, Signor Omang Idiege (Ada Bekwarra II), and critical stakeholders from the north.

    The love was massive, as evident in the large turnouts of community people at the various venues. Their message was unmistakable: Cross River State has a government that listens, and a Deputy Governor who delivers.

    Fred Abua, Esq.,
    Press Secretary to the Deputy Governor of Cross River State.
    03/09/2025

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

  • 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.

  • Strengthening Community Ties: Dr Peter Odey’s Strategic Tour of Northern LGAs BY FRED ABUA

     

    Rt. Hon. Dr. Peter Odey, Deputy Governor of Cross River State, recently embarked on a strategic tour of the five northern Local Government Areas (LGAs) of the state. The aim: to engage directly with citizens and better understand their needs and expectations. This initiative reflects a clear commitment to people-focused governance and aligns with Governor Bassey Otu’s People First agenda.

    Dr. Odey’s outreach signals a shift toward responsive, grassroots-based leadership. Rather than applying generic solutions to complex local issues, the tour provides an opportunity to design policies and programs that are tailored to the realities of each LGA. It addresses a long-standing challenge in governance—misdirected development efforts that result in underused or abandoned infrastructure due to the absence of proper needs assessments.

    By listening to community voices and responding directly to their concerns, the administration is laying the groundwork for more effective, sustainable, and inclusive development.

    So far, the tour has covered two of the five LGAs. During these visits, community leaders and stakeholders have openly shared their challenges and priorities. A recurring theme in their feedback has been widespread appreciation for Governor Otu’s rural development initiatives, particularly visible infrastructure projects that are transforming rural communities and revitalizing long-neglected public assets.

    Among these projects are the construction of the Yahe–Ebo–Wanokom–Benue Border Road in Ukelle, the Ndok Junction–Abakpa–Igoli–Moniaya Ring Road, and the Ndok–Mbube Road in Ogoja. These strategic developments have significantly improved road connectivity, expanded access to remote areas, and unlocked new economic opportunities.

    Governor Otu has also demonstrated a strong understanding of ‘government is a continuum’ by his commitment to building on inherited foundations and completing major projects initiated by previous administrations. A prime example in the north is the Obudu Cargo Airport, which has progressed to advanced stages of completion under his leadership.

    In Yala LGA, one stakeholder expressed deep appreciation, pledging total support for the Governor and his deputy ahead of the 2027 elections. He highlighted the administration’s magnanimity, particularly its inclusion of several Yala indigenes in key federal and state appointments. “The Yala people are committed to returning kindness for kindness,” he affirmed.

    As the tour continues across the remaining LGAs, it is clear that Dr. Peter Odey’s initiative is achieving more than administrative outreach. It is reinforcing trust, promoting inclusion, and reaffirming the principle that effective governance begins with the people.

    The Northern tour which was deliberately planned to coincide with the new yam festivals could not have been better timed; His Excellency’s entourage will be celebrating the festivals with fanfare in all the LGAs. He has doled out N15,000,000 to N25,000,000 to stakeholders of each LGA ranging from women and youths to traditional rulers.

    Today, in his Idum-Mbube community, the Deputy Governor is celebrating ‘Bitchong Ifife’ as the festival is called in the local parlance. This gesture is an indication of the government’s commitment to cultural heritage and community engagement. As Dr. Peter Odey immerses himself in the local culture, thankfully enjoying traditional delicacies like pounded yam with bansan soup and palmwine, it is clear that this tour will achieve more than just governance, it will lead to the building of stronger relationships and fostering a sense of community.

     

    Fred Abua Esq.

     

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

  • Bekwarra LG Crisis: Acting Governor Odey Brokers Peace Between Chairman And Councillors

     

    Acting Governor of Cross River State, Rt. Hon. Dr. Peter Odey, has intervened in the political crisis unfolding in Bekwarra Local Government Area following the impeachment notice issued to Council Chairman, Hon. Theresa Ushie, by the councillors.

    On March 20, 2025, nine out of ten councillors initiated impeachment proceedings against the council Chairman of Bekwarra LG, Hon Theresa Ushie, citing allegations of financial mismanagement, lack of transparency, and abuse of office. The accusation deepened as accusations of unilateral decision-making and poor communication between the executive and legislative arms dominated discourse at the meeting.

    Responding swiftly, Acting Governor Odey convened an emergency stakeholders’ meeting on March 24, 2025, followed by a second session on March 28, 2025, at his temporary office in the Glass House, Calabar.

    After extensive deliberations, it was observed that the crisis primarily stemmed from a breakdown in communication between the Chairman and the Councillors. Acknowledging this, Hon. Ushie offered an apology for any lapses and reaffirmed her commitment to working harmoniously with the legislators and other stakeholders in the local government.

    In his address, Acting Governor Odey urged all political stakeholders to set aside their differences and focus on governance and service delivery to the people of Bekwarra. He emphasized the need for due process, collaboration, and dialogue in resolving conflicts, stressing that effective communication and inclusiveness should be prioritized to prevent future disputes.

    Acting Governor Odey, leveraging his experience as a former UNDP advisor and legislator, adopted a family-oriented approach to resolving the crisis but cautioned that such interventions may not always be available. He called on all public officeholders to be proactive in their duties and embrace dialogue and consultation as essential tools for conflict resolution.

    Concluding, He stressed that impeachment should not be trivialized or used as a political weapon, as it is meant to be a last resort

    In their separate remarks, the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem, State Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, Barr. Alphonsus Eba, and Chief of Staff to the Governor, Hon. Emmanuel Ironbar, emphasized the importance of peace and unity. They urged stakeholders to support the State Governor’s “People First” mantra, noting that no society thrives in a disharmonious environment.

    Also present at the reconciliatory meeting were the Deputy Speaker of the House of Assembly, Hon. Sylvester Agabi, Member representing Bekwarra State Constituency, Hon. Charles Omang Commissioner for Local Government Affairs, Chief Victor Felix-Idem; Commissioner for Finance, Dr. Michael Odere; Head of Personal Staff to the Acting Governor, Dr. Chris Ojiokpong, Bekwarra LG APC Chapter Chairman, Thomas Odama, and the Local Government Vice Chairman, Hon. Egbung Odama, among others.

    Fred Abua, Esq.,
    Press Secretary to the Acting Governor of Cross River State
    28/03/2025