Category: Opinion

  • Governor (Senator) Bassey Edet Otu: “We don’t need another hero”

    Governor (Senator) Bassey Edet Otu: “We don’t need another hero”

    “We don’t need another hero”, Is the title of an iconic song written in 1976 by the late singer, Tina Turner (1939-2023). A part of the lyrics of the song goes thus:

    Out of the ruins,
    Out of the wreckage,
    Can’t make the same mistake this time;
    We are the children,
    The last generation,
    We are the ones they left behind.

    And I wonder when we are ever gonna change,
    Living under the fear, ‘till nothing else remains.

    We don’t need another hero,
    we don’t need to know the way home,
    All we want is life beyond Thunderdome.”

    This particular song talks about love and compassion and further espouses the need for fighting for one’s right and beliefs. Tina Turner tells us a story about the yearning for freedom by a people, far and away from a present dystopia and how a chosen hero comes along and leads his people to victory – in ‘Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome.’

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    From my perch, I can easily discern the comportment,determination and compassion of Senator(Prince)Bassey Edet Otu, the Governor that we voluntarily and unanimously chose to lead us out of the present darkness in Cross River State. Nothing happens without a reason.

    I wish to hazard an informed guess in a bid to decipher, unravel and simplify our expectations and understanding of Our Governor, from the ongoings (so far) within the past one year. Let me reveal the methodology so far employed, by giving an insight in the Holy Book. It is all about the power of silence. Especially, when sharing every bit of our lives on social media is the norm. That is His Excellency’s secret formula.

    Proverbs 13:3, says; ‘he who guards his lips, guards his life, but he who speaks rashly will come to ruin.’ It’s a strategic guide for life. It is a truism that power and purpose don’t need immediate recognition from the crowds, they flourish in the quiet, in the unseen moments where your faith, determination and actions align towards your God-given purpose. Matthew 6:1 admonishes us to always guard our plans and protect them from evil eyes and naysayers. A focused leader would strive in an atmosphere where his plans can grow, like when Noah built his Ark in silence. His visible and discernible actions are already speaking louder than his words. The masterpiece will manifest – the signs abound.

    Everyone who embarked on this journey with, ‘Sweet Prince’, in our quest for equity, fairness and justice, in the socio-political firmament of Cross River State; who is a patriot and not a tainted ethnocentric bigot and who has gleaned through the ‘delicious and sumptuous’ economic packages that await us all, would gladly keep the faith. We should remember how, in unison, we gathered our loins, took the leap of faith, paid the price and snatched the victory.

    We are now witnesses to a new dawn;a consequential dismantling and demolition of old and worn out prejudices and an extension of our frontiers, with all of us singing, ‘Anchors Aweigh’. As the tide from the new spring continues to help us to heal and consolidate, I would urge us to remember that sweet melody, from our departed heroine, that reminds us that in such a season of sweetness (Res ipsa loquitur) – We don’t need another Hero.

    Rt. Hon. (Otuekong) Orok Otu Duke
    Commissioner/CRS Representative,
    N.D.D.C.

  • Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong: Exemplifying Purpose-Driven Leadership with a Golden Mind

    Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong: Exemplifying Purpose-Driven Leadership with a Golden Mind

    By Prince Charles Ekanem

    In moments of solitude, reflections on genuine leadership often stir the mind. One shining example of such leadership is Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong, whose actions resonate with purpose and integrity.

    The recent allocation of a 100 million grant to constituents stands as a testament to Senator Ekpenyong’s unwavering commitment to serving the people. While some representatives may succumb to the temptation of self-enrichment through dubious deals with banks and donors, Senator Ekpenyong’s steadfast dedication ensures that every cent is directed towards its intended purpose: the betterment of the community.

    Indeed, the potential for misuse looms large over such a substantial sum. Yet, under Senator Ekpenyong’s guidance, accountability and transparency prevail. His leadership serves as a beacon of hope, reminding us that true power lies in selflessness and service.

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    In a political landscape often marred by corruption and self-interest, Senator Ekpenyong’s golden mind shines brightly, illuminating the path towards genuine, purpose-driven leadership. As constituents, we are fortunate to have a leader who not only talks the talk but walks the walk, leading by example and inspiring others to do the same.

  • Torchlighting the Candidature of Emmanuel George Ndoma, Aspirant for NYCN’s State Deputy Chairmanship

    Torchlighting the Candidature of Emmanuel George Ndoma, Aspirant for NYCN’s State Deputy Chairmanship

    Comrade Emmanuel George Ndoma is a native of Ikom Local Government Area. He is a community-centred individual committed to serving and uplifting communities through impactful programmes and he’s deliberate about seeking and creating opportunities in Cross River State and beyond by leveraging his extensive experience in community and organizational leadership to implement impactful initiatives. He loves Community service.

    Emmanuel George Ndoma holds an M.Sc. in Health and Radiation Physics from Akwa Ibom State University, complementing his Bachelor’s degree in Physics from CRUTECH (now UNICROSS), along with a Senior Secondary School Certificate (SSCE) from St. Joseph Comprehensive Secondary School, Ugep.

    As a candidate for the  NYCN state elections, his objective is crystal clear: to provide effective and supportive leadership to the emerging Chairman. Being a young individual with a dynamic mindset, he is confident in his God-given abilities to initiate the necessary change and represent everything that the Youth Council stands for in Cross River State.

    These include: assisting the emerging Chairman and the government in driving community development initiatives, advocating for youth-related issues, and creating opportunities for young people to thrive in various sectors of life. This vision is firmly rooted in his principle of progress and inclusivity, aligning seamlessly with the overarching vision of the NYCN.

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    The NYCN-CRS leadership, the emerging Chairman, and the entire Youth of CRS require a reliable, dedicated, supportive, trusted, and seasoned administrator as their Deputy Chairman. Someone with a keen understanding of our political landscape and its challenges.

    Emmanuel George Ndoma is committed to injecting fresh perspectives and innovative solutions to propel the NYCN vision forward. Ndoma’s candidacy represents a fusion of youthful ambition and seasoned insight, aimed at revitalizing our governance structures and amplifying the voices of those traditionally underrepresented in political discourse. This is the change we need, and with him in the coming administration, we can make it happen.

    Ndoma runs a global platform called RESET. A platform that has recorded tremendous success in reaching out to participants from 27 states and 3 African countries since it was founded in 2018. RESET has inspired several young people and organizations who are actively participating in nation-building both within and outside the State.

    In 2021, Ndoma was elected the Public Relations Officer for the National Youth Council of Nigeria NYCN, Ikom Chapter and he’s also a member of the State planning committee of NYCN Sport Fiesta.

    Interesting to mention, that Emmanuel George Ndoma is also an alumnus of the School of Politics, Policies and Governance (SPPG) where he obtained a certificate in Public Leadership and Policy; the Electoral College where he completed a course on Politeracy and Governance; and the Tekedia Institute, among others. Ndoma is a member of Toastmasters International and a member of the Nigeria Institute of Physics (MNIP).

    Furthermore, he has participated in several trainings such as: Intensive Capacity Building and Development of Local Content on the Use of Synthetic Aperture Radar for Tackling Environmental and Security Challenges in the Niger Delta Region, Nigeria, 2023; The COVID-19 Contact Tracing by John Hopkins University in 2022; Global Leadership Summits; Imperatives of Cutting-Edge Research in Rebranding of Universities by Researchers Journal of Science and Technology (REJOST). Ndoma has authored and coauthored academic articles in high-impact journals. Ndoma has received several commendation letters and certificates including from National Youth Services Corps (NYSC) for his transforming initiatives in nation-building and Community Service/Development.

    This portfolio represents his unwavering commitment to serving the Cross River State Youth and our community while being a perfect and integral ingredient to the leadership of NYCN. From his proven track record of achievements to his comprehensive platform aimed at addressing the needs of our constituents, Ndoma is very ready to serve the Youth leadership and the entire Youth with a high sense of passion and purpose.

    Therefore, as he embarks on this journey, let us not allow another change-maker to slip the corridors of youth leadership. Let us all support Comrade Emmanuel George Ndoma to emerge as State Deputy Chairman, NYCN-CRS. Together, we can make a positive difference and create a thriving community that we can all be proud of!

  • No vacuum in the leadership of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Says Obono-Obla

    No vacuum in the leadership of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Says Obono-Obla

    On 22 May 2024, something that startled political pundits happened in the Cross River State when the people were hit with the breaking news that the Speaker of the House of Assembly has been removed.

    However rumour mongers started speculating that because the removed Speaker was not replaced the removal of the previous speaker would not stand.

    There is No Rule in the Rules and Regulations of the Cross River State House of Assembly that says when the Speaker of the House of Assembly is removed, another Speaker must automatically with alacrity elected to replace the one removed.

    The Cross River State House of Assembly is independent and indeed a sovereign. Its proceedings are internally regulated by the Assembly.

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    Therefore the insinuation that the removed Speaker remains in office because another Speaker was not elected on 22 May 2024 when he was removed upon a resolution signed by 17 members is bunkum and constitutionally a balderdash.

    four and not more than forty members.
    Section 92 (1) and (2) (a)(b) and (c) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,1999 provides as follows:
    (1) There shall be a Speaker and a Deputy Speaker of a House of Assembly who shall be elected by the members of the House from among themselves.

    (2) The Speaker or Deputy Speaker of the House of Assembly shall vacate his office –

    (a) if he ceases to be a member of the House of Assembly otherwise than by reason of the dissolution of the House;

    (b) When the House first sits after any dissolution of House; or

    (c) if he is removed from office by a resolution of House of Assembly by the votes of not less than two-third majority of the members of the House of Assembly

    Section 92 (c) (c) of the Constitution is very explicit, the Speaker stands removed from office if he is removed by a resolution of votes of not less than 2/3 of the members of the House of Assembly.

    In other words, the Speaker or Deputy Speaker shall vacate his office in three circumstances namely:
    (a) when he ceases to be a member of the House of Assembly;
    (b) the House sits after dissolution; and
    (c) If he is removed by a  resolution of votes of not less than 2/3 of the members of the House of Assembly.

    Finally, there is no vacuum in the Cross River State House of Assembly because the Deputy Speaker is still in office as he was not affected by the removal  Speaker.

    Section 95(1) and (2) of the Constitution is handy and therefore comes into aid.
    Section 95 (1) and (2) of the Constitution provides as:
    (1) At any sitting of a House of Assembly, the Speaker of that House shall preside, and in his absence the Deputy Speaker shall preside.
    (2) In the absence of the Speaker and Deputy Speaker of the House, such members of the House as the House may elect for a purpose shall preside.

    In the light of the above, there is no vacuum whatsoever in the leadership of the Cross River House of Assembly presently.

    The Deputy Speaker will preside over the House whenever it reconvenes and a new Speaker will be elected there after.

    Chief Okoi Obono-Obla

  • International Day of the Boy Child: CPS to C’River Assembly Speaker Urges Society to Recognize Boys’ Emotional Needs

    International Day of the Boy Child: CPS to C’River Assembly Speaker Urges Society to Recognize Boys’ Emotional Needs

    The Chief Press Secretary to the speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Mr Matthew Okache has called on society to recognize the emotional needs of the boy child, he made this known today on International Day of the Boy Child, his statement, aimed at acknowledging the often-overlooked struggles of young boys, emphasized their emotional well-being and the importance of recognizing their inherent worth.

    Okache pointed to the societal expectations placed on boys to remain strong and silent, often at the expense of their mental health. He expressed concern over the tendency to overlook the emotional needs of boys, urging society to offer them the same compassion and care given to others.

    “Too often, society expects you to be strong and silent, to bear your burdens without complaint. But the truth is, you are human. You feel pain, you face fears, and you deserve the same care and compassion as anyone else,” Okache stated.

    Okache’s message focuses on the importance of acknowledging boys’ feelings and experiences. He reassured them that their dreams, tears, triumphs, and trials were all significant and worthy of attention.

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    “It might feel like the world has forgotten to protect your innocence, to cherish your spirit, but know that you are not alone. Some believe in your worth and are fighting for your right to be heard and loved. You are seen, you are valued, and you are deeply cared for, even when it doesn’t seem that way,” he said.

    The Chief Press Secretary emphasized the importance of vulnerability, urging boys to embrace their emotions as a source of strength. “Stand tall, embrace your emotions, and know that your strength lies not just in your resilience, but in your vulnerability,” he added.

    Okache concluded his message with an empowering reminder of the boys’ potential to effect positive change in the world. He encouraged them to rise, be kind, and make a difference, assuring them that their journey is important and their story worth telling.

    “You are the future, and the world needs your light. Even when it feels like no one is standing up for you, remember, that you have the power to rise, to be kind, and to make a difference. Your journey is important, and your story is worth telling,” he concluded.

  • Implement Jonathan’s 2014 Confab report or conduct referendum to end agitations in Nigeria – Lawyer tells Tinubu

    Implement Jonathan’s 2014 Confab report or conduct referendum to end agitations in Nigeria – Lawyer tells Tinubu

    By Ovat Abeng

    A lawyer and human right activist, Barrister Sir Anthony Kelechi Agbasiere, has urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to implement the 2014 CONFAB report of the former President Goodluck Jonathan’s Administration or conduct a Referendum to end agitations in Nigeria.

    He noted that any of the two recommendations, would help solve the country’s marginalization stigmatization.

    Addressing a press conference to mark his 40th birthday in Awka, the Anambra State Capital over the weekend, Agbasiere, pointed out that while leaders like Julius Nyerere of Tanzania championed the cause of a unified nation in their countries, Nigeria’s founding fathers seemed to prioritize ethnic politics over national cohesion.

    He argued that the are agitations across the six geopolitical zones of the country, particularly, in the South East, because of lack of equality and just, hence the need for the 2014 CONFAB implementation or referendum in Nigeria, as been done in other part of the World.

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    According to him, he was very young when the 1999 Constitution was created, but has now come of age to question the government and to say whether he agrees to or not; hence his declaration and dissociation of himself from the said agreement in the Constitution preamble and introductory part that says; “We the people of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, having firmly and solemnly resolved to live in unity and harmony as one indivisible and indissoluble sovereign nation under God, dedicated to the promotion of inter-African solidarity, world peace, international co-operation and understanding

    “And to provide for a Constitution for the purpose of promoting the good government and welfare of all persons in our country, on the principles of freedom, equality and justice, and for the purpose of consolidating the unity of our people

    “Do hereby make, enact and give to ourselves the following Constitution:-”

    He also stressed that “the country christened Nigeria was mistakenly amalgamated” in 1914, maintaining that the country is full of inequalities, while its Constitution is riddled with flaws.

    Beginning with the pre-1914 amalgamation era, he went memory lane on the history of the country, state creation (most of which he said were done by military dictators from the northern region), and constitutional development, pointing out what he believes are anomalies, mistakes, flaws and unrealistic assertions he observed in them, and most of which were carried over to the present-day Nigeria, as is seen in its structures and operation.

    Comparably analysing the provisions of some sections of the 1999 Nigerian Constitution and the present structural reality in the country, the celebrity lawyer declared, without mincing words, that the Southeastern geopolitical zone is being grossly marginalized.

    He noted that the implementation of the 2014 CONFAB report would also served as major steps towards ending what he described as the unfair and unjust treatments being meted out to the people of the Southeastern geopolitical zone of the country, which is the only region with the lowest number of states in the country.

    “Sometime in 1967, Lt. Col. Yakubu Gowon created 12 states from the existing four regions. But, instead of creating 3 states from each of the 4 regions, he created 6 states from the North where he came from, and, of course, gave himself one. This was where the injustice in Nigeria started. Other military dictators who came after him also toed the same path, and today, we have 36 States and the FCT,” he said.

    He, however added that, with the provision of the 1999 Constitution which says that each state shall provide 3 senators, plus the FCT (which give a total of 109), the implication is that the Northern alone that has 19 states has a total of 57 senators, while the remaining come from the the remaining regions.

    This imbalance, he said, also reflects in the number of House of Representatives members from the various zones, with the Southeast having the lowest (with its five states), to the point that even the lawmakers from the Northern region alone can form a quorum and take a decision at each Chamber of the National Assembly, even without the presence, votes or opinions of the people from the Southeast region.

    “Where is the justice in Nigeria?” he asked

    Continuing, he said, “Yes, if I’m not mistaking, one of the things that the CONFAB resolved is that there should be additional state in the southeast. It is so unjust that out of the entire 36 states or the 6 geopolitical zones, it’s only southeast that has 5, while others have more. What type of nonsense is that? It is not fair now. It is subjugation.

    “So, southeast should be given sense of belonging. That’s my position on that.”

    On the feasibility of referendum in addressing the perceived injustice, he said “The country is already the way it is, you understand? Referendum needs consensus. And then, for you to get that consensus, you need that of the north, you need the west, the south, and all the rest of them.

    “So if you don’t get all these things, it cannot come, it cannot work. You understand? That’s the problem. So, my own is, let us follow the dictates of the constitution, even though flawed. The 1999 constitution is flawed. I have said it time and again, military dictators cannot create states for us.

    “Many of the 36 states in the country were created by military dictators from the North, just to favour the North.”

    Continuing, he said, “The 1999 Constitution is a product of the military, and the military is a product of coup. So, Illegality cannot beget legality. But, like I said earlier, an illegitimate child can be legitimized.

    “And one of the ways you can legitimize that is by people to come together and say, Yes, we got this thing wrong, but now, let us rectify it. Let us impose some legality on it. …Mine is: If you see something wrong, you say something right. I have seen that this is wrong, and I have said that. So, let our representatives and people in the constituted authority move back and do something about that.”

    While thanking God for gift of life, Barr. Agbasiere, who is also a Knight of Saint John International, philanthropist and Founder of the NGO, The Siere Foundation, also appreciated everyone who has impacted his life in one way or the other, while also restating his commitment to continue giving back to humanity and making the society a better place.

    In their separate goodwill messages, an APC Chieftain, Engr. Johnbosco Onoukwo and the MD/CEO, Pool King Global Investment Ltd., Hon. Gabriel Chukwunwendu described the celebrant as a humanist and one of the outstanding, impactful and brilliant lawyers Anambra State has ever produced, given his commitment to justice, giving voice to the oppressed and giving back to society.

    The birthday party was witnessed by the mother and wife of the celebrant, Lady Mary Agbasiere and Pharm. Makuo Agbasiere respectively.

    The well-attended event was also graced by his mother and wife Lady Mary Agbasiere and Pharm. Makuo Agbasiere respectively and other dignitaries and top government functionaries, as well as celebrities and entertainers from different parts of the country.

  • Calabar Residents Grieve as Historic Monolith Sculpture is Torn Down

    Calabar Residents Grieve as Historic Monolith Sculpture is Torn Down

    The recent demolition of the iconic Monoliths sculpture at Zone 6 roundabout in Calabar has left residents and art enthusiasts in shock and disbelief. The sculpture, which stood as a symbol of Calabar’s cosmopolitan identity and rich heritage, was designed and built by the late Pastor Anthony Akinbola, a renowned Nigerian artist who has many works in other cities in Nigeria and has done exhibitions even in the United States.

    For many, the Monoliths roundabout was more than just a piece of art; it was a testament to Calabar’s status as a center of unity for Cross River State. The sculpture celebrated the world-famous Monoliths found in Alok and other northern parts, showcasing Africa’s ancient civilization and cultural legacy.

    The demolition of the Monoliths sculpture has sparked outrage and sadness among residents, who see it as the loss of a cultural landmark and a piece of their identity.

    “It’s a tragedy that such a precious work of art has been destroyed,” lamented one resident. “The Monoliths roundabout was more than just a sculpture; it was a symbol of our history, unity and heritage.”

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    Others expressed frustration over the lack of consultation and transparency surrounding the decision to demolish the sculpture. “Why wasn’t the community consulted before such a drastic action was taken?” questioned another resident. “We should have been given the opportunity to voice our opinions and express our concerns.”

    The demolition of the Monoliths sculpture also reignited discussions about the importance of conducting Social Impact Analysis before embarking on such projects. Many believe that if proper consultations and assessments had been carried out, the demolition could have been avoided or mitigated.

    Governor Donald Duke’s approach to public art projects was highlighted as a positive example. During his tenure, Duke made efforts to engage the public and raise awareness about the significance of art and culture in shaping the identity of Cross River State. The successful launch of the Cross River logo, preceded by a public awareness program, demonstrated the value of community engagement in public art initiatives.

    In contrast, the recent fiasco surrounding Governor Ayade’s attempt to change the colors and symbols of the state emblem served as a cautionary tale. The lack of public consultation and the abrupt nature of the decision led to widespread confusion and backlash from residents.

    As Calabar mourns the loss of the Monoliths sculpture, residents are calling for greater transparency, accountability, and community involvement in future public art projects. They hope that lessons will be learned from this incident and that steps will be taken to preserve and celebrate the cultural heritage of Cross River for generations to come.

  • Nigeria can be free from bad leadership, crime only when we work with God – Knight Ezenwaji

    Nigeria can be free from bad leadership, crime only when we work with God – Knight Ezenwaji

    By Ovat Abeng

    The President, Awka Diocesan Council of Knight, Anglican Communion, Anambra State, Sir Prof. Emmanuel Emelummadu Ezenwaji, has said that Nigeria can be free from bad leadership, crime, only when we work and pray to God Almighty alone.

    He argued that the quest for power and worth among some Nigeria leaders including religious leaders has deviated their hearts from worshipping God in totality.

    Ezenwaji, who made his position known while speaking to Journalists at the just concluded 2nd session of the 13th Synod of the Diocese, held at the Church of Pentecost Awka, on Sunday, regretted that Nigerians are enduring immense suffering as the prices of essential commodities soar to higher and higher every day.

    According to him, over 75 percent Nigerians are still living under poverty despite Churches spread across the nook and cranny of this country.

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    “The unbearable pain of poverty and hunger that Nigerians are facing may result into unbearable situation that may unseat the peace of the nation-Nigeria. Hunger is so much in the land. Over 75 percent of Nigeria population are poor and the only solution to all this problems is for us to rally-round God Almighty for help.

    “The people are multi-dimensional poor. I strongly believe that if the Church is good, the entire nation would be good.

    “As a leader, when you are cut-cornering, you are cheating on the nation and the nation would not moved forward as well.

    “This is a country that pray so much. This is a country that has a lot of Churches and this is the same country where evil multiples everyday. So, something is wrong somewhere and it is because the Churches are not doing  very well to arrest the situation.

    “It is only when the Churches starts doing well that is when God will hear our cry like he heard the cry of the Israelites in the Bible, when they were in wilderness.

    “The Church should do more on her responsibilities of building up people with Godly character, people with good morals and with this measure, there will be no crime for the government to fight on.

    “So, prayers and working with God remains the only solution to Nigeria problem,” he added.

    Ezenwaji also called on the church leaders to intensify efforts in the ministry of children so as to catch them young into noble characters as they grow into maturity.

    It was gathered that the 3-day Synod with the theme “Running the Christian Race: Implications for the church in perilous times” attracted the presence of over 25 Bishops, hundreds of clergy, traditional rulers, government functionaries among others.

  • For things to get better in Nigeria, political leaders must be selfless – Prof Irefin

    For things to get better in Nigeria, political leaders must be selfless – Prof Irefin

     

    By Kelvin Obambon

    For Nigeria to attain all round prosperity, social and political stability, the country’s leadership at all levels must work according to God’s plan, and imbibe in themselves the virtues of love, peace and selflessness while discharging the tasks of governance.

    This was the view of His Grace, Archbishop (Prof.) David Irefin, international chairman of Brotherhood of the Cross and Star (BCS) New World Missionary Crusade Fellowship.

    Irefin who stated this in Calabar on Saturday on the sidelines of the Fellowship’s 48th anniversary, declared that the crisis people are facing all over the world is as a result of man’s deviation from God’s ordained path, hence the New World Missionary Crusade Fellowship of the BCS has come to redirect people’s step towards the right track.

    “When you look at the whole world there’s nobody who is serving God, and that is responsible for what you are seeing, what you are hearing. Anybody who serves God must have peace. Before Adam committed sin against God did you hear that Adam was sick? Or Eve was sick? Did they complain about sun? About the rain? No. But since man fell from that grace, we started having problems. God is physically here now. If we don’t take this message to the world, the whole world will be destroyed.

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    “The nature of the world is violence, fornication, stealing, killing, vengeance. This is why the world can never be stable. The owner of this earth has rules to guide us on how to live here. God did not create the world for violence and oppression. All the politicians and traditional rulers you see now are oppressing their people. The resources that’s available they claim it all to themselves. It is in their own interest to stop looting because very soon when the Holy Spirit will look at Nigeria the center will not hold.

    “When our Lord Jesus Christ came he demonstrated it and said that if you want to be a leader you have to be a servant. Christ never looked for his own good. He was looking for the good of the oppressed. God is sending us to go tell political leaders to stop what they are doing. They should work for the interest of their people. In a good state, until the least person has what to eat, a governor of the state is not supposed to think about what he’s going to eat. Just as in your house. If your children have not eaten, will you eat? No.

    “All the resources belong to all of us. So anybody who is to organize and allocate these resources must share it to everybody. But you cannot do it unless you are selfless and accept to practice the teachings of Leader Olumba Olumba Obu, because it is basically on love for one another, forgiveness, humility, patience, long-suffering, mercy, tolerance and peaceful coexistence,” he said.

    The Archbishop, however, went on to highlight the achievements of the BCS New World Missionary Crusade Fellowship, to include bringing people together for a common good, creating awareness about the presence of God on earth, advocating for good governance, redirecting people to serve God, among others.

  • Hon Stanley Bassey Okon Nsemo Leads Efforts for Comprehensive Development Master Plan in Cross River State

    Hon Stanley Bassey Okon Nsemo Leads Efforts for Comprehensive Development Master Plan in Cross River State

    Hon. Stanley Bassey Okon Nsemo, representing Calabar Municipality, spearheads a landmark initiative to foster holistic development across Cross River State. Joined by esteemed co-sponsors including Hon. Kingsley Ntui, Hon. Samuel Neji Abang, Hon. Okon Nyong Owuna, Hon. Bassey Effiong Bassey, Hon. Charles Omang Omang, and Hon. Eyo Bassey, this coalition of dedicated leaders presents a visionary proposal aimed at charting a prosperous future for the state and its 18 Local Government Areas (LGAs).

    “Today, we stand at a critical juncture in our state’s history. It is imperative that we forge a path forward that is rooted in inclusivity, sustainability, and resilience to actualize the people’s first mantra,” remarked Hon. Nsemo during his impassioned address on the floor of the house.He outlined the following key points:

    a) The master plan is crucial for providing a roadmap for the state’s development over the next decade, ensuring coordinated efforts among stakeholders and steering the state in the right direction.

    b) It will take into account the specific needs and priorities of each Local Government Area, ensuring that development is tailored to the specific needs of each local community.

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    c) The plan will enable the State to attract investment and development assistance from national and international partners.

    d) The master plan is necessary to address key challenges facing Cross River State, including the need to diversify the economy and create more sustainable sources of income.

    e) It will include a major focus on improving the state’s infrastructure, addressing another significant challenge in the State’s development.

    The proposed master plan will encompass all important areas such as Agriculture, Education, and Infrastructure. Furthermore, it will be designed to be flexible, allowing for investment to thrive and providing investors with the freedom to express themselves.

    This comprehensive blueprint will not only align developmental endeavors but also ensure synergy among stakeholders, fostering a unified approach to progress.

    Moreover, the master plan embodies a forward-looking perspective, aimed at diversifying the state’s economy and mitigating vulnerabilities stemming from over-reliance on oil and gas. Through strategic interventions and targeted investments, Cross River State endeavors to cultivate resilient economic foundations, capable of withstanding global fluctuations and encouraging sustainable prosperity.

    Hon. Stanley Bassey Okon Nsemo and his esteemed co-sponsors call upon the Cross River State Government, alongside relevant stakeholders, to rally behind this transformative initiative. With collective determination and strategic foresight, the envisioned master plan promises to herald a new era of progress and prosperity for Cross River State and its cherished communities.

    The People’s Media