Skip to main content

Posts

Showing posts from September, 2024

Open Letter to His Excellency, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu: Political Marginalization of Awi Ward in Akamkpa 1 State Constituency

Your Excellency, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, Executive Governor of Cross River State, We are pleased to address this letter to Your Excellency and the esteemed stakeholders of Cross River State and Akamkpa Local Government Area. First and foremost, we commend your resilience and exemplary leadership over the past year. Your commitment to steering the affairs of Cross River State has not gone unnoticed, and we extend our sincere congratulations once again. As the governor of our renowned state,  we kindly implore your attention to our concern here, Your Excellency, Sir. Akamkpa Local Government is divided into two constituencies: Akamkpa 1 State Constituency and Akamkpa 2 State Constituency. Akamkpa 1 consists of the following wards: Iko, Uyanga, Akamkpa Urban, Mbarakom, and Awi. Over the years, every ward in Akamkpa 1 State Constituency, except Awi, has benefited from both elective positions and key appointments. Sadly, Awi Ward has been overlooked, and the facts speak for themselv

Solar Street Lights Installed at Basan-Mbube, Ogoja LGA: Chief Orok Duke Secures NDDC Intervention

In a significant step toward improving infrastructure in Ogoja Local Government Area (LGA), solar-powered street lights have been installed in Basan-Mbube, thanks to the efforts of Chief Orok Otu Duke. The project, facilitated by the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), aims to enhance safety and security in the community, bringing much-needed illumination to a previously poorly lit area. Chief Duke, the Cross River State representative on the NDDC board, played a pivotal role in attracting the intervention. Through his consistent advocacy for developmental projects in the state, the installation of these solar street lights marks a crucial accomplishment in providing basic amenities to underserved communities. Chief Duke emphasized that this project is only a part of broader initiatives aimed at improving the quality of life for residents across Cross River State. Residents of Basan-Mbube have expressed appreciation for the project. Anthony Okwe, a native of the community, share

Cross River State to Commence Comprehensive Public Utilities Needs Assessment Tour

The Office of the  Special Adviser on Public Utilities to the Governor of Cross River State announces a comprehensive statewide Needs Assessment Tour, commencing October 5th to 30th November 2024. Objective: To evaluate the functionality and non-functionality of Public Utilities in various offices, including: - Offices of political appointees - Heads of Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) - State-owned public institutions - Public recreational centers Scope of Assessment: The team will inspect: - Operational facilities - Generating plants (functional and non-functional) - Building conditions (dilapidated or otherwise) - Office equipment - Availability of office space. We kindly request the cooperation of the public, particularly from affected offices, to grant the assessment team access to their facilities. The assessment's findings will inform His Excellency's immediate actions and implementation of necessary upgrades. For inquiries or further information, please cont

Monthly Sanitation: Govt. decries low compliance in Abi , Yakurr LGAs

  By: Sylvia Okoi  The Cross River State Commissioner for Environment, Hon. Moses Osogi has decried the low level of compliance to the Statewide Sanitation Order in Abi and Yakurr Local Government Areas.  Osogi who made the observation during the supervision of the Statewide Environmental Sanitation exercise in the Central Senatorial District as part of deliberate efforts to ensure the implementation of the order across the 18 Local Government Areas, described the nonchalant attitude of motorists as unacceptable. While also frowning at the low level of participants by residents of the two area councils headquarters, Osogi expressed disappointment at their level of compliance, saying,  "I was thinking what we have been preaching has been replicated at the Urban Areas, but sadly it is not so. I must say that I'm disappointed and I really want to see a change in attitude by next month". The visibly angry  Commissioner disclosed plans to sustain supervision of the exercise ac

Again, 'SUKI' Facilitates $400,000 Foreign Scholarship For 10 C'Riverians

In yet another groundbreaking achievement by the Senator representing Cross River South Senatorial district, Sen. Asuquo Ekpenyong, ten young scholars from the state are set to receive $400,000 to pursue different postgraduate degrees in some European and American Universities. The scholarship which is part of the second batch of the NDDC postgraduate scholarship programme will enable each scholar to receive $40,000, equivalent to N64 million, to support their academic endeavours. Recall that in the first batch, the Senator fondly called 'SUKI' facilitated $280,000 for seven young Cross River scholars who are currently pursuing degrees in several foreign universities. The second batch beneficiaries include Ernest Edim, who will study Msc. Data Science at the University of Salford, UK; Juliet Edem, Msc. Biomedical Science at the University of Salford, UK; Inde Immanuella Sikile, LLM Artificial Intelligence, Digital and Cyberlaw at Edge Hill University, UK; Egwu Sonia, Msc. Proje

Akpanke: A First-Timer With a Ranking Member Performance

  By Inyali Peter  The Nigerian National Assembly is a complex institution with sophisticated internal politics that often surpass those of secular politics. Its seniority system, similar to Nigeria's secondary school hierarchy, can intimidate newcomers, making it challenging for freshmen lawmakers to navigate. Many have argued that typically, it takes a full four-year term for members to grasp the environment, making re-election seem as the real opportunity to deliver significant impacts. Many lawmakers, past and present, have blamed their newcomers status for their inability to make meaningful impact in the House or Senate or bringing development to their constituencies. However, this excuse doesn't hold water for Rep. Peter Akpanke, who represents Obudu/Bekwerra/Obanliku federal constituency. To him, he understands the words of Arthur Clark that "to see the limits of the possible, you need to look beyond them into the impossible". Despite the intense discrimination

APC Directs Political Appointees, Civil Servants to Resign Ahead of Local Government Elections

  PRESS RELEASE Consequent upon the Publication of the Notice of Election/Release of Time Table by the Cross River State Independent Electoral Commission ( CROSIEC ), pursuant to the expression of intent and readiness of our great party, the All Progressives Congress (APC) to fully participate in the forthcoming Local Government Elections on the 26th of October 2024, and in line with the fundamental requirement for Aspirants who are Public Servants or Political Appointees to resign one month before the election, the State Executive Committee of our party has directed all Political Appointees, Civil Servants and Party Executives who intend to aspire for Chairmanship or councillorship positions *TO RESIGN*  before the close of work *TODAY 26TH SEPTEMBER 2024* and must present acknowledgment copy of the letter of resignation to the office of the State Legal Adviser at the State  Secretariat Headquarters of the party Before 6 pm Toda Members of the State Caucus as contained in Article 12.

Important Notice: Beware of Fake Facebook Account Claiming to Represent Hon. Cyril James Omini

  Hon. Cyril James Omini, the Member representing Yakurr 1 State Constituency at the Cross River State House of Assembly, has issued a warning to the public regarding a fraudulent Facebook account impersonating him. The fake account has been falsely claiming to offer ₦50,000 to 50 individuals. In a statement released today the 26th Day of September 2024, Hon. Omini clarified that the account in question is not associated with him and urged constituents and the public to disregard any such posts. "I want to make it clear that this account has no connection to me. I would never engage in such activities or solicit personal information or funds in this manner," he emphasized. The public is advised not to interact with this fraudulent account and to report it immediately to Facebook to prevent further deceit. Hon. Omini, known for his commitment to transparency and integrity, continues to prioritize the well-being and trust of his constituents. For any concerns or further inquiri

PDP Chairmanship Candidate, Hon. Elder Godwin Okponung, Unveils SHARE Agenda Ahead of Udung Uko 2024 Elections

  Ahead of the 5th October 2024 local government election in Akwa Ibom State, the People's Democratic Party (PDP) Chairmanship Candidate for Udung Uko Local Government, Hon. Elder Godwin Okponung, has unveiled an abridged version of his comprehensive policy document, aptly titled the ‘SHARE AGENDA.’ The SHARE AGENDA, a five-point blueprint supported by the Commyfill Foundation/Good Governance initiative, seeks to address pressing issues within Udung Uko Local Government Area and restore its fractured unity. The document focuses on key areas essential for the sustainable development of the region. According to Okponung, his policy highlights the following critical areas: 1. Security Management 2. Educational Advancement 3. Rural Development and Environmental Management 4. Agricultural Development and Food Sufficiency, Job Creation and Economic Diversification 5. Humanitarian Service, Health, and Human Capacity Development At the heart of the agenda is a commitment to revitalizing th

Cross River State to Hold Local Government Elections on October 26, 2024

  The Cross River State Independent Electoral Commission (CROSIEC) has officially announced the date for the highly anticipated local government elections. During a presentation at the Commission’s office in Calabar on Wednesday, September 25, 2024, CROSIEC Chairman Dr. Ekong Boco revealed that the elections will take place on October 26, 2024. Dr. Boco addressed party chairmen and stakeholders, emphasizing that the demand for revitalizing democratic structures at the local government level has reached a critical point.  He stated, “In response to this urgent call and in accordance with Section 197 (1) (b) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended), the Cross River State Government has reconstituted CROSIEC to oversee the 2024 Local Government Councils Election.” Reflecting on the Commission's history, he noted that since the return to democracy in 1999, four successful local government elections have been held, specifically in 2004, 2007, 2010, and 20

NSIYAN OGAR OKEY (DUBEST): A PROVEN LEADER FOR THE PEACE , PROGRESS AND GROWTH OF OBUBRA LGA

   Nsiyan Ogar Okey, popularly known as Dubest, has always been there for the people of Obubra LGA. During the communal crisis between Edodon and Ohumurutet, he not only stepped up but also personally rescued captives, an act that nearly cost him his life. His bravery was evident as he sustained severe injuries and had his vehicle damaged by warriors in the process. In the peace process between Onyadma and Nko, Dubest led the delegation at the request of the state security adviser. Thanks to his dedication, peace has returned to the region, allowing residents to sleep peacefully and move freely on the roads that was once hazardous to motorists. Moreover, Dubest played a pivotal role in initiating peace talks between Ofatura and Ovonum. He personally visited both communities, delivering relief materials, including bags of rice and financial aid, to those affected by the conflict. During the communal crisis between Alisi and Odongit, Dubest was leading from the front. Initiating peace pr

Gov. Otu's Health Sector Revitalization Gets NMA Commendation

  By Kingsley Agim  Governor Bassey Otu's efforts to revitalize the health sector in Cross River have earned commendation from the state chapter of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA).  The NMA said the Governor's tireless puissance for an improved health sector and the achievements recorded so far have been impressive. The Cross River NMA's plaudits were conveyed through its Chairman, Dr. Ezoeke Epoke, during a congratulatory visit by the Honourable Commissioner for Health, Dr. Henry Egbe Ayuk to the new Executives of the Association, recently, in Calabar. The NMA Chairman praised the Governor's unflinching resolve towards recovering the State's healthcare from its sorry past through deliberate efforts to strengthen human resources, anti quackery and health quality, and improvements in fiscal allocations for the sector as well as health access for vulnerable populations of the State, adding that the present administration is laying a solid foundation for a healt

Ekpenyong seeks Proactive Measures And Prompt Response To Flooding As Fear for Suspected Polio Outbreak Rises

  A public health expert and former Cross River state Commissioner for Health, Dr Janet Ekpenyong has called on all authorities to expedite actions in finding immediate solutions to the recent flooding across the country to  Prevent disease outbreak especially Diarrheal diseases and  other vaccine preventable diseases, such as  Wild Polio Virus. She stated this while appearing as guest on the SilverBird Television breakfast show while answering questions on the impact of the recent flooding activities in the country. Dr Janet Ekpenyong noted that, an urgent need for the resettlement of flood victims as well as the provision of their essential needs has become imperative to cushion concerns over outbreak of vaccine preventable diseases, air and water borne diseases. "There's need to resettle them urgently to protect them from diarrheal diseases such as, Cholerae, typhoid as these people have little or no access to clean drinking water, other challenges like malnutrition because

THE BENEFITS OF NYSC CAN NOT BE OVEREMPHASIZE _ Commander M O Ibrahim.

  The 13 Brigade Commander of the Nigerian Army, Calabar, Commander M O Ibrahim, stated that the benefits of NYSC to the Nation can never be overemphasized owing to her immense contribution to nation building. The Commander made this statement  in his office while playing host to the  NYSC State Coordinator Cross River State, Mrs Oyenuga Mojisola Joke, during her courtesy visit. Commander Ibrahim maintained that the Scheme has come to stay and her  collaboration with  Nigerian Army in  instilling discipline and providing security to Corps members and the Staff in the state and the country at large. Earlier in her speech, the NYSC Coordinator, Mrs Oyenuga Joke, applauded the the Army Commander for his collaborative effort for the success of the just concluded 2024 Batch B Stream 11 Orientation exercise. She however, solicited for a steady cooperation and collaboration to ensure that the Corps members are well protected both in the Camp and around their Corps lodges in the state. In a re

Gov Otu Gets Congratulatory Reception After Edo Guber Victory

  By Uchino Amatey Following the All Progressive Congress (APC)'s triumph in Saturday's gubernatorial election in Edo State, Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Otu, was warmly received on Monday at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport by his Special Adviser -  Cross River Liaison Office in Abuja, Mrs. Sarah Archibong, and staff of the Liaison Office. Mrs. Archibong congratulated Governor Otu on his outstanding performance as Chairman of the APC Edo State Governorship Campaign Council and the resounding victory achieved in Edo State. She noted that Otu's winning streak, which has followed him from Cross River to Imo and now Edo, is a testament to his exceptional leadership and ability to deliver positive outcomes wherever he goes. Governor Otu, visibly excited, extended his congratulations to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on the APC's victory in Edo State. He said the victory further demonstrates the success of the administration's renewed hope agenda for t

SENATOR PRINCE BASSEY EDET OTU ; A Paragon of Political Sagacity and Dexterity

  In the contemporary political landscape of Nigeria, few figures command as much respect and admiration as Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu. The Executive Governor of Cross River State and the only All Progressives Congress (APC) Governor in the South-South region, Senator Otu is a titan whose political journey is a sterling example of dedication, strategic acumen, and visionary leadership. Senator Otu's storied political career began in the hallowed chambers of the House of Representatives, where he served for two tenures, distinguishing himself as a representative of the people and a formidable advocate for national progress. His articulate contributions, legislative initiatives, and unwavering advocacy for his constituents marked him as a leader of not just significant influence but also of profound commitment to the public good. After two successful terms in the House of Representatives, Senator Otu transitioned to the Senate, where his legislative prowess and political dexterit

C'River School of Health Holds Matriculation as Omini Sponsors School Fees for 40 Students Amidst Economic Challenges

  During the weekend Hon. Cyril Omini had the distinguished honour of chairing the Matriculation Ceremony at the Cross River State College of Nursing Sciences, Itigidi. In a significant announcement during the ceremony, ten students will receive full scholarships to support their nursing education, courtesy of Her Excellency, Rev. (Mrs.) Eyoanwan Bassey Otu, the First Lady of Cross River State. This initiative highlights the state’s unwavering commitment to fostering educational opportunities for young healthcare professionals. Hon. Omini further revealed his support for the nursing students, stating that he is covering the school fees of 40 students.  "In light of the prevailing economic challenges, this is to ensure that financial difficulties do not become a barrier to the dreams of these young individuals," he emphasized. These efforts are seen as a crucial step toward strengthening the healthcare system in Cross River State by empowering the next generation of nurses.  &

Otu congratulates Edo APC governor-elect, Okpebholo, hails conduct as free, fair

Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Edet Otu has welcomed the triumph of the All Progressive Congress (APC) in the recent gubernatorial election in Ede State with open arms, extending his heartfelt congratulations to the Governor-elect, Senator Monday Okpebholo. In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Nsa Gill, Governor Otu lauded the active participation of the people of Edo State in the election, emphasizing that their votes have unequivocally echoed, underscoring the robust foundation of democracy in our nation. “The outcome of the election underscored the importance of citizens exercising their democratic prerogative and the consequential impact it wields on the political landscape of our nation”, Otu quipped. Furthermore, Governor Otu expressed his gratification in the alignment of both Cross River State and Edo State under the aegis of the All Progress Congress, stressing that “it as a promising indication of unity and collaboration that will fortify the Sou

Egbe Expresses Grief Over Devastating Flood at Unicross Quarters, Pledges Government Support

  The Special Adviser on Public Utilities to the Governor of Cross River State Engr. Dr. Jerome Egbe KSM, expressed deep sadness over the devastating floods that hit the University of Cross River Quarters today  September 22, 2024, causing significant property damage and displacing staff. In a statement to Detailings News, Egbe sympathized with the victims and urged staff to evacuate affected buildings to prevent further property loss and ensure the safety of their families. “The flood has reached window level and poses a serious threat, especially to children,” he warned, noting that F and G lines of the quarters were severely affected. Egbe affirmed that the government, led by His Excellency Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, is committed to providing assistance to ease the suffering of the displaced staff.

Abuja Hotel: “He asked me if I was afraid of death” – Victim Narrates Her Ordeal In The Hands of Suspected Yahoo Boy

  The woman seen in a viral video undressed and tied to a chair at the Top View hotel in Abuja has narrated her ordeal in the hands of a suspected fraudster, identified as Joseph Efe. The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) FCT Command paraded the 30-year-old suspect on Friday, September 20 after the video of the incident went viral. The FCT Commandant, Olusola Odumosu said Efe specialises in luring ladies on dating sites called ‘coded runs’ with the intent to rob them of their phones and make withdrawals from his victims’ bank accounts. Efe during his confession before the newsmen, said that he met the victim on a “h00kup site” before inviting her to the hotel. Narrating her ordeal to journalists , the woman, Olivia Ijeoma Chukwuemeka, admitted that she had been on the hookup site called “coded site.” ”I met the suspect (Efe) some months ago. I live in Enugu but visit Abuja for other business reasons,” she said. “When I got to the hotel, the suspect asked me if I was afra

Abia State University Offers Automatic Employment to First-Class Graduate with One Condition

  The Vice Chancellor of Abia State University, Prof. Maxwell Ogbulu, has announced automatic employment for Nrs. Njoku Judith Ngozi, a Nursing Science graduate who achieved a first-class degree. However, the employment comes with one condition: she must remain at the university to help groom other exceptional students like herself. Prof. Ogbulu, while making the announcement, emphasized that Nrs. Ngozi will not be allowed to "Jakpa" (a colloquial term for leaving the country). Instead, she is expected to stay and contribute to the academic excellence of the institution by nurturing future talents.

LG POLL: ABSIEC Unveils Official Timetable Ahead of Local Government Election Scheduled for November 2

  The Abia State Independent Electoral Commission (ABSIEC) has officially announced the timetable for the highly anticipated 2024 Local Government Chairmanship and Councillorship Elections.  The commission's decision is in line with the provisions of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), which empowers state electoral commissions to conduct local government elections. According to the ABSIEC, the upcoming election is set to take place on Saturday, November 2, 2024, and will be a significant opportunity for grassroots leadership across the state to be reshaped. Below is a detailed breakdown of the election timetable as released by the Commission: 2024 LOCAL GOVERNMENT ELECTION SCHEDULE: 1. NOTICE OF ELECTION: The official notice for the election will be issued on Saturday, September 21, 2024. 2. POLITICAL PARTY PRIMARIES: Political parties will conduct their primaries from Wednesday, September 25, 2024, to Friday, October 4, 2024. 3. SUBMISSION OF LI

Transformational Leadership: The Key to Sustaining Grassroots Democracy in Yakurr Local Government

  BY JACKSON OFEM (2020 APC MKPANI-AGOI WARD COUNCILORSHIP CANDIDATE) THE RETROSPECT It’s quite unfortunate we find ourselves in a world where frivolities are gaining more expression than realities. A world where ineffective representation is sub-changed for effectiveness. A world where the voices of the masses are short-sleeved for the gains of just but a few. A world where hostility takes the place of freedom. How then can we consolidate the gains of our democracy in such cruel atmospheric conditions for the common man? If there remained a significant time to crave for change aimed at fostering the true ideals of the democracy our founding fathers handed over to us, we have to start from the grassroots. And the time is now. AFFIRMATIVE: Yakurr is a great nation that has over time set the political precedence of Cross River State and the Nation at large. In the first republic, Yakurr produced one of the finest and most pragmatic governors, Chief Dr. Clement Ebri in the new Cross River

EDO ELECTION: POLICE ARREST POLITICAL THUGS, RECOVER FIREARMS IN OVERNIGHT RAIDS, VOWS TO DEAL WITH ILLEGAL ARMS BEARERS AND TROUBLEMAKERS

  In a significant move to curb electoral violence ahead of the Edo State elections, the Nigeria Police Force has arrested two political thugs in an overnight raid. The suspects, identified as 43-year-old Edwin Obanor and 41-year-old Audu Tajudeen, a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) from Ugbogbo quarters, Igara Akoko, Edo State, were apprehended for alleged involvement in political thuggery. The police also recovered firearms and other dangerous weapons from the suspects during the raid, reinforcing their commitment to ensuring peaceful elections in the state. This crackdown on criminal elements involved in the electoral process comes as part of heightened efforts by security agencies to prevent violence and maintain law and order. The Edo State Commissioner of Police commended the officers involved in the operation for their swift action and reiterated the force's resolve to deal decisively with anyone caught bearing illegal arms or fomenting trouble during the electio

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO A REMARKABLE LEADER, JONATHAN OMINI

Jonathan Omini is truly an embodiment of excellence, standing tall as a businessman, politician, philanthropist, sports ambassador, and esteemed community leader. His unwavering dedication to the growth and development of the Ekori community and Yakurr Local Government Area has left an indelible mark. Through his visionary efforts, Jonathan has become a trusted figure in both private and public service, proving through his extensive track record in politics, business, and sports that he is a diligent and dependable man of integrity. His selflessness is evident in the countless lives he has uplifted, particularly in Ekori, where he has offered hope through charity and empowerment initiatives. His brainchild, the Kofononnoh Yakurr Solidarity Cup, now in its 9th edition, has helped young talents reach international football leagues, showcasing his commitment to the youth. In 2022, his legacy of giving back continued with the construction and donation of the Ekori Magistrate Court, a monum

Wanikade Ward Celebrates Likpee Ukelle, Affirms Gov Otu As "God Fearing Leader With Natural and Unique Sense of Justice"

  Wanikade Ward  has celebrated Likpee Ukelle with an applause to the Governor for being a God fearing leader with a natural and unique sense of justice as hallmark of his governance.  The Likpee celebration held on the 18th of September 2024 provided common ground for the Wanikade people to reach out to the other 13 wards of Yala in solidarity and brotherhood concerning the chairmanship position which  naturally goes to the ward being the only ward amongst the six wards of Ukelle that has not produced a chairman of Council elected or appointed since the inception of Yala Local Government Area. Likpee Ukelle celebration afforded the people of  Wanikade Ward an opportunity to offer thanksgiving by calling themselves together to thank God for having Senator Prince Bassey Otu as Governor of Cross River State especially in the firm knowledge that the governor  fears God who is always just and fair to human kind. In an assurance about the elusive chairmanship position for which Wanikade rem

Odukpani Chairmanship Seat: Edem Darlington Best Prepared, Most Acceptable

  As Cross Riverians continue to anticipate the conduct of local government elections in the state, and with the State Independent Electoral Commission (CROSIEC) further stating that elections will hold before the end of December, 2024, permutations are rife as to who is most prepared, deserves to or should occupy the plomp position in the third tier of government across the 18 councils of Cross River State. In Odukpani local government area, names like Edem Darlington, Governor Bassey Otu's Deputy Press Secretary (from Ikoneto ward), Etim Asido, a former councillor and secretary of the Governor's family (Otu Mesembe House - Adiabo), Bassey Inyang, a Public Affairs Manager with Lafarge Africa PLC, Mfamosing Plant, and Eyo Nsa, have all been touted to be aspiring for the chairmanship position. Even a cursory look at the the aforementioned aspirants individuals records shows has laid bare who is better prepared for the position and more acceptable by the masses as well as those w