Paradise News

Category: Opinion

  • The Oden Ewa Effect: A Reality Show in the Exhibition of Gratitude by Doctoral Graduands

    The Oden Ewa Effect: A Reality Show in the Exhibition of Gratitude by Doctoral Graduands

    By Ofem Usani Joseph, PhD

    Gratitude is a virtue that speaks volumes about the character of those who possess it. In the academic journey, particularly at the doctoral level, the road is often lonely, rough, and demanding. It requires not only personal commitment but also the support of mentors, facilitators, and benefactors who make the journey bearable and successful. It is within this context that we must appreciate and celebrate The Oden Ewa Effect, a rare demonstration of leadership, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to academic excellence.

    For those unfamiliar with this phenomenon, The Oden Ewa Effect is more than just a phrase; it is a revelation  to the impact of a selfless individual who facilitated the completion of doctoral programmes for a group of scholars across Central Senatorial District who might otherwise have been stranded in the murky waters of uncertainty. This is not a mere act of generosity; it is an extraordinary commitment to the advancement of knowledge, a gesture that should be acknowledged, celebrated, and immortalized.

    In a society where many take kindness for granted, it is refreshing to see doctoral graduands publicly acknowledge the man who stood in the gap for them. Gratitude should never be an afterthought; it should be an intentional and dignified response to good deeds. Those who understand the weight of sacrifice recognize that the completion of a doctoral journey is not a trivial achievement. It is an intellectual war, fought with long hours of research, sleepless nights, countless revisions, and the emotional toll of scholarly pursuit. Therefore, those who enable such victories deserve more than just a passing acknowledgment,they deserve profound appreciation.

    Unfortunately, there will always be detractors: those who, either out of ignorance or sheer pettiness, attempt to downplay noble gestures. These individuals, blinded by their own inadequacies, may seek to commonize this grand exhibition of gratitude. However, history has shown that while cynics may talk, greatness remains undeterred. The truth is immutable: those who recognize and appreciate the efforts of their benefactors open doors for greater opportunities, while the ungrateful seal their own fate with arrogance and myopia.

    There is an invaluable lesson here for all, particularly for scholars, professionals, and anyone privileged to receive support in their journey. The true measure of a person is not just in their academic credentials but in their ability to recognize and honor those who played a role in their success. The Oden Ewa Effect should serve as a blueprint for future generations, a clear example of how intellectuals should conduct themselves in the face of great acts of kindness.

    To the graduating doctoral scholars, this act of gratitude is not just about today; it is about setting a standard for those coming behind. You are teaching others that in a world often filled with selfishness and entitlement, true leaders acknowledge their benefactors. You are showing that a good deed, no matter how grand, must not be forgotten.

    It is easy to receive help; it is noble to acknowledge it. The exhibition of gratitude we witness today is not an ordinary event—it is a reality show in its own right, one that should be televised, studied, and adopted as a guiding principle for those who seek success.

    To Hon. Oden Ewa, this is your moment; a well-deserved recognition of your impact. And to those who still fail to see the significance of this, perhaps it is time they learn that greatness is not in individual achievement alone but in the ability to lift others to their destined heights.

    May The Oden Ewa Effect continue to resonate, inspire, and remind us all of the power of gratitude.

    By Ofem Usani Joseph
    NCE(Dist), B.Ed(Hons); M.Ed(Dist); Ph.D(Dist); B.Sc(1st Class)

  • Like Mother, Like Daughter: Delight Ohen Replicates Prof. Susana Ohen’s Feat 28 Years After

    Like Mother, Like Daughter: Delight Ohen Replicates Prof. Susana Ohen’s Feat 28 Years After

    By Blessing Enagu

    In the world of academia, stories of brilliance and dedication often stand out, but few narratives are as compelling as that of Professor Susana Ohen and her daughter Delight Ohen.
    Spanning over two decades, this is a tale of excellence, perseverance and an unbreakable legacy of excellence at the faculty of Agriculture, University of Calabar (UNICAL).

    The University of Calabar 37th Convocation ceremony and 50th anniversary is quite a remarkable day in the academic journey of Delight Ohen, as she convoked with distinction, emerging as the Best Graduating Student of the Department of Agricultural Economics with an impressive CGPA of 4.16. This feat is not only a personal achievement but also a testament to hard work, resilience, and the pursuit of excellence.

    Twenty-eight years ago, a young, determined undergraduate walked across the convocation stage at UNICAL, earning the coveted title of Best Graduating Student in the Department of Agricultural Economics & Extension, Faculty of Agriculture. That student was none other than Professor Susana Ohen, who, through sheer dedication and intellect, distinguished herself among her peers. At just 23 years old, she set herself on a remarkable trajectory, leading her to become a professor in agriculture and eventually the Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture at her alma mater.

    Read Also: I Did Not Receive Any Money To Support Emergency Rule—Umeh

    Her journey was not just about personal success but about paving the way for future generations. From her early days as a researcher to her impactful role in academia, Professor Ohen has been an inspiration to students, colleagues, and the entire agricultural sector.

    Twenty eight years after, history has repeated itself as her daughter, Delight Ohen, stands tall, replicating and surpassing her mother’s achievement with distinction at the age of 22.
    She has etched her name in the history of UNICAL, emerging as the Best Graduating Student in the Department of Agricultural Economics, Faculty of Agriculture. Her CGPA of 4.16 speaks volumes of her dedication, resilience, and passion for academic excellence.

    Delight’s choice of career is not by chance but deeply rooted in a passion and love for agriculture. She has always believed in the power of agriculture to drive economic transformation, ensure food security, and create sustainable livelihoods. For her, Agricultural Economics is more than just a discipline—it is a calling and a tool for impact. She has drawn immense inspiration from her mother, Prof. Susana Ohen, having witnessed firsthand how this field has shaped her mother’s success and allowed her to achieve greatness. Seeing her mother’s journey, dedication, and the impact she has made through agriculture, Delight was inspired to walk the same path, determined to make an even greater mark in the field.

    For Professor Susana Ohen, the moment is both emotional and fulfilling. “I feel fulfilled, excited, and grateful to God,” she says. She admits that she had some initial fears when Delight chose to study the same course, especially since it meant being in her professional space. However, she also had confidence in her daughter’s abilities. “She has always put in her best in everything she does,” Prof. Ohen reflects. While she knew Delight would be among the best, she did not expect her to emerge as the very best. This achievement has brought her immense pride and joy.

    Delight on her part is overwhelmed with gratitude to God and her parents for the grace and strong foundation that was laid.

    The story of this mother-daughter duo underscores the power of mentorship, determination, and the impact of a strong academic foundation.

    Delight’s achievement is more than a personal victory; it is an inspiration to younger students, a motivation to peers, and a beacon of hope for those striving for academic excellence. She has demonstrated that with focus, consistency, and the right attitude, greatness is attainable.

    As Delight steps into the next phase of her journey clinging 5 distinctive awards, her mother’s prayer and wish for her are clarity of purpose, open doors of opportunities, and a future filled with greatness. “May her path be illuminated with wisdom, and may she soar to even greater heights in her chosen field,” says Professor Ohen.

    As UNICAL celebrates this extraordinary milestone, the story of Professor Susana Ohen and Delight Ohen serves as an enduring reminder that true excellence is timeless—and sometimes, it runs in the family.

    Congratulations once again, Delight Ohen! The world awaits the impact of your brilliance. Keep shining!

  • From Food on the Table to Skills-in-The-Hands: The Prince Otu Approach

    From Food on the Table to Skills-in-The-Hands: The Prince Otu Approach

    By Nathaniel Otaba

    Over the last eight years, Cross River State witnessed an avalanche of appointments under Ayade’s administration, an initiative famously christened “Food on the Table.” This program enrolled hundreds of youths onto the state’s payroll, providing them with salaries for the duration of the administration.

    Upon assuming office, Sen. Bassey Otu introduced a more sustainable and enduring initiative, the “Skills-in-the-Hands,” aimed at empowering young Cross Riverians to create wealth and achieve financial independence, elevating individuals to heights they never thought possible.

    In a country where unemployment rates have reached unprecedented levels, leaving millions of graduates in uncertainty and susceptible to various crimes, including fraud, kidnapping and other serious offenses, the importance of empowering youths with skills and setting them up cannot be overstated. Equipping them for financial independence paves the way for economic freedom for countless unemployed youths across the nation.

    Leveraging existing structures within the state, Governor Otu, in collaboration with the Nigerian Export Processing Zone Authority, mandated companies operating in the Calabar Export Processing Zone to train unemployed Cross Riverians and set them up in their respective fields of training.

    Read Also: CRGIA, Tourism Bureau Synergize to Promote Sustainable Tourism Practices in the State

    Skyrun International has completed its first batch of training for 20 Cross Riverians, selected from all 18 local governments, focusing on the production of appliances such as refrigerators and air conditioners. The participants have since been employed by Skyrun.

    Facilitated by the Cross River State Ministry of Youth Development and Skill Acquisition, this training is a continuous program, and to ensure high-quality outcomes, the number of participants per batch was reduced to 20.

    Just recently, the Cross River State government in collaboration with Skyrun International FZE inducted the second batch of trainees into the ‘Skills in the hands’ initiative.

    Additionally, Lafarge has concluded a nine month training program for 22 Cross Riverians in fabrication and welding. They have been provided with the latest welding machines and will proceed to travel abroad for further training.

    With the Bakassi Deep Seaport project underway, the potential for employment during and after construction is enormous. To ensure Cross Riverians benefit from these opportunities, plans are being concluded to send hundreds of youths abroad for various skill acquisition programs.

    The goal of the “Skills-in-The-Hands” initiative is to ensure that every youth possesses at least two skills, regardless of their educational background. This approach serves as a replacement for “Food on the Table,” equipping young individuals with the means to earn a living.

    Recently, 200 youths were sent to Goje, in Nasarawa State for an intensive two-week training program focused on production, processing, marketing, and branding within the agricultural value chain at one of Nigeria’s largest farms, CSS Farm. Each participant will be empowered to embark on their chosen agricultural value chain path. They were also provided with iPads containing comprehensive training materials and funding/marketing contacts for various agricultural enterprises. For instance, those interested in establishing poultry businesses can easily get contact information for suppliers of birds, feed, and  off-takers within their locality.

    The Senator Otu-led administration has trained over 200 youths in POS business, empowering each participant with a POS system and a startup capital of ₦150,000. The beneficiaries can be sure of daily earnings and becoming financially independent.

    In collaboration with the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), 20 Cross Riverians have received training in welding and fabrication, along with full equipment to facilitate their post-training work.

    The Skills in the hands initiative is also in collaboration with development partners with interest in Youth development, empowerment and entrepreneurship. They include UNICEF, USAID, UNFPA, UNIDO, UNDP, SMEDAN, Bank of Industry, Industrial Training Fund (ITF)

    With a target of training 5,000 youths in various skills during his first term, Governor Otu is focused in empowering young people to create wealth, thereby reducing crime and youth restiveness in the state.

    #thinkcrossriver

    Nathaniel Otaba,
    Special Assistant on Communication

  • The Difference is Clear: Protecting the Senate from Political Manipulation, Not Rewarding Falsehood

    The Difference is Clear: Protecting the Senate from Political Manipulation, Not Rewarding Falsehood

    Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki’s appeal for transparency and institutional protection is noted, but his attempt to draw a parallel between his own past case and the current false allegations against Senate President Godswill Akpabio is fundamentally flawed. The two situations are worlds apart in context, substance, and motivation.

    In Saraki’s case, the matter revolved around his official duties as Senate President—specifically, an accusation concerning the importation of an official vehicle. The claim was factually incorrect, and Saraki, knowing this, subjected himself to scrutiny to clear his name. It was an administrative and procedural issue directly tied to his office, and a swift resolution through the Senate Ethics Committee restored confidence in the institution.

    In contrast, what we have before us today is a case of personal, unsubstantiated, and conveniently timed accusations—claims of sexual harassment that supposedly took place over a year ago but surfaced only after the accuser was summoned for disciplinary action. There was no prior complaint, no record of distress, no mention to her husband, and no disclosure to female colleagues in the Senate. Instead, the accusation was unleashed only at the point of reckoning, in a desperate attempt to divert attention from legitimate disciplinary proceedings.

    If we take Saraki’s argument to its logical conclusion, we would be establishing a dangerous precedent—one where any gold digger or habitual liar can throw out an unsubstantiated allegation and expect the Senate to come to a halt while they are entertained. This is not just about Akpabio; it is about protecting the institution of the Senate from manipulation and blackmail.

    Read Also: Forum flays Akpabio, C’River senators over marginalization in federal appointments

    It is well known that Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has a history of making reckless and false allegations of sexual harassment against prominent figures, including Reno Omokri, Dino Melaye, and Yahaya Bello. These accusations always follow the same pattern: wild claims, media noise, and no evidence. Now, the same strategy is being deployed against the Senate President, not because she is seeking justice, but because she is desperately avoiding accountability for her own actions.

    Even more telling is the fact that she never brought this complaint to the floor of the Senate—not even when she claimed that her motion on Ajaokuta Steel was ignored despite being listed on the Order Paper. If she truly believed that she was being victimized because of an alleged sexual harassment incident, the proper forum to raise such a grievance would have been the Senate itself. The Senate only responds to and investigates issues formally raised within its chambers, not in a television interview. If she believes that addressing her grievances on TV is more effective than following due process in the Senate, then kudos to her. However, as a Senator, she should know better. The Senate is moved by reason and laws, not sentiments and drama, and those who seek redress must engage the institution through its established procedures, not through media grandstanding.

    Furthermore, it is critical to note that Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan was appointed as the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Local Content on the 21st of November 2023 before the alleged sexual harassment incident in Ikot Ekpene. If she had truly been a victim, why would the Senate leadership, under the same Akpabio she now accuses, assign her such a critical leadership role? This glaring contradiction exposes her claims for what they truly are: a politically motivated and diversionary stunt.

    Saraki rightly speaks about protecting the Senate’s integrity, but true protection of the institution means ensuring that its processes are not hijacked by baseless, opportunistic claims. If Natasha has any real grievance about events that occurred outside the Senate, let her pursue those through the appropriate legal channels—not use the Red Chamber and the media as a stage for diversionary theatrics.

    Let Due Process Prevail!

    The correct course of action is clear:
    1. Natasha should first answer to the Senate Ethics Committee for her misconduct.
    2. If she believes she has a valid sexual harassment claim, she should file a case in the appropriate legal forum, not use the Senate and the media as a shield against accountability.
    3. The Senate must resist the temptation to legitimize a distraction campaign designed to avoid legitimate scrutiny.

    Dr. Saraki’s appeal to precedent is misplaced. His case was about official duties and was addressed in a manner that reinforced institutional accountability. This case, however, is about a personal vendetta and a desperate attempt to escape disciplinary action.

    The Senate and Nigerians should not fall for this diversionary tactic. The Senate must stay focused, maintain order, and refuse to be blackmailed into legitimizing what is clearly an opportunistic and diversionary falsehood… senator onyekachi peter Nwebonyi (senate deputy chief whip)

  • Anambra 2025: Soludo has no credible opposition in race – APGA Chieftain, Okoye insists

    Anambra 2025: Soludo has no credible opposition in race – APGA Chieftain, Okoye insists

    By Ovat Abeng

    A Chieftain of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) and a former member of the Anambra State House of Assembly representing Anoacha one Constituency, Chief Azubuike Okoye, has insisted that governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, has no credible opposition in the November 2025 governorship election in the state.

    He said Soludo has silenced the opposition with his development works in the state, adding that APGA is going into the electoral process as a stable body.

    He said as a party, APGA is immensely proud of the governor’s outstanding achievements within a space of two years and eleven months in office, adding that, “one good turn”, should be the case of the Soludo’s administration.

    Okoye, who is currently serving as the board member of the State Local Government Service Commission and the National Coordinator of the Solution Vanguard, disclosed this while briefing Journalists at his office shortly after inaugurating the State, Zonal and Local Government Coordinators of the group at the premises of the Commission in Awka, on Thursday.

    Read Also: Owerre-Ezukala community leader eulogizes Soludo’s security efforts in Anambra

    He briefing noted that the Solution Vanguard was formed by the Commission in collaboration with workers across the 21 local government area of the State to champion the reelection campaign of governor Soludo come November 8, 2025 governorship election.

    He chided the opposition parties including the All Progressives Congress (APC), Labour Party (LP) and the Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP),  saying that every other political party has no match with APGA as a grassroot political party in Anambra State.

    He noted that the electoral process that unseat PDP in Edo State in favour of the APC in last election would not and never happen in Anambra State.

    “Here in Anambra State,, we have seen, we believe, and we acknowledge that Governor Soludo is indeed a talk-and-do leader.”

    “The governor’s unwavering commitment to the Onye Aghana Nwanne Ya philosophy of APGA is evident in his governance adding that the tremendous progress in Infrastructural development, education, healthcare, youth development (one youth, 2skills), most significantly, the fight against insecurity, spoke volumes of his dedication to the well-being of Ndi Anambra.

    “Under his leadership, criminals, kidnappers, and fraudulent elements have no hiding place in Anambra. Governor Soludo has taken bold steps in restoring peace and security, ensuring that the people of Anambra can live and thrive without fear.

    “Therefore, I urged other contesters to step down their ambitions and thrown their full support behind the incumbent governor, Prof Soludo to enable him actualized his vision of making Anambra a clean, green, smart, digital peaceful, secure, livable and prosperous state in Nigeria,” Okoye concluded.

  • Activist Cautions Against Unjust Victimisation Of Native Doctors By Soludo’s Gov’t

    Activist Cautions Against Unjust Victimisation Of Native Doctors By Soludo’s Gov’t

    By Ovat Abeng

    Mr Martins Nwabueze founder and CEO of Tilova For Africa a Charity and Equal Rights Group in America has called on Gov. Chukwuma Soludo not to make Native Doctors “Dibia” scapegoats  in his determined effort to fight criminality and restore sanity in Anambra.

    Nwabueze said on Thursday  it was wrong to challenge Native Doctors to show the ailments they cured as a means to separate genuine dibia from fake ones.

    He argued that not all Native Doctors were traditional medicine practitioners better known as herbalists.

    He said Dibia like medicine was an umbrella profession with different variants of areas of specialties adding that the government should profile them and judge them according to the specific job they claim to do.

    Read Also: Anambra insecurity: Scrutinize your cabinet members also, activist urges Gov Soludo

    He said herbalists were practitioners of traditional medicine known as “ndi nkpa-akwukwo na ngbologu” while other dibia are into divination, ” Igba afa” “Ilu agwu” ” ima ita” and others which do not involve medicine but utilization of supernatural powers.

    According to him, in traditional Igbo society Dibia involves divination, “Igba afa” and a dibia or native doctor may necessarily not be a herbalist or traditional medicine practitioner.

    “It is this confusion in understanding the differences between the duties of a dibia and a traditional medicine practitioner that always makes Soludo to demand that a dibia must say what disease he cures or treats to be considered genuine.

    “Not all dibia cure ailments, not all dibia are herbalist, some are strictly into divination, ” Igba afa” “Ilu agwu” ” ima ita” and others that do not involve medicine,” he said.

    Nwabueze wondered what criteria were  put in place to determine who the genuine or fake native doctors were.

    He said anybody linked to crimes should be arrested and prosecuted irrespective of their statuses  on the weight of evidence against them  and not on account of his or religion or social inclination.

    “What made them suspects, is ut because Soludo believes they are?I am worried that native doctors are being targeted by the Soludp administration unjustly.

    “Who.are the judges that will separate quacks from experts, what qualifications make one dibia quack and another expert?

    “Is Soludo going to gather his own Dibia so that their snakes and Akwa okuku’s snakes will fight each other to know which has more powers like the biblical Pharaoh and Moses incident?

    “And why are some pastors not in custody pending the outcome of investigations to determine which are quacks?,” he asked.

    Mr Nwabueze advocated a better and more practical way to positively influence and reorientate youths  through leadership by example, education, job creation, public enlightenment campaigns and fight against corruption, illicit drug circulation and abuse. would sanitse the state.

    He said the drug abuse epidemic which affected thousands of  youths in Anambra state should be a priority rather than arrest and detention of a few online native doctors creating content.

    “We must stop persecuting traditional religion practitioners because they are in the minority, it is unfair and it is unjust.

    “Societies work better when all are treated equally irrespective of their religious beliefs, sex, disease state, color or sexual orientations.

  • Continued trial of Nnamdi Kanu, a collective trial of Ndigbo-Ohaneze youth

    Continued trial of Nnamdi Kanu, a collective trial of Ndigbo-Ohaneze youth

    By Ovat Abeng

    The Igbo social-cultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide Youth Wing, has described the continued trial of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the proscribed Indigenous people of Biafra (IPOB) by the Nigeria Government, as a collective trial of the people of the southeastern Nigeria (Ndigbo).

    The organisation made the assertion in a statement signed and made available to Journalists in Awka on Tuesday by it National Publicity Secretary, Mazi Chika Art Adiele while reacting to the jurisdiction of Kanu’s alleged terrorism case when he re-appeared before Justice Binta Nyako of the Federal High Court Abuja for the resumed hearing of the IPOB leader protracted case.

    It was gathered that despite Kanu’s insistence that Justice Nyako has no jurisdiction over his case, the judge adjourned the matter indefinitely.

    Recall that Kanu was brought into Nigeria in June 2021 and has since been detained and tried for alleged terrorism. His trial was stalled after Justice Nyako recused herself from the case following an oral application by the defendant on September 24, 2024.

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    Reacting further, the organisation said, “Our attention was yet again drawn over another charade at the instance of one Hon Justice Binta Nyako, who to all intent and purposes is bent on subjugating Mazi Nnamdi Kanu to perpetual trial without any form of justice.

    “It is an absurdity that the rule of law is punctured in a most brazen manner by this dishonorable Judge who obviously is playing a prepared script.

    “As a people, we strongly feel that Justice Binta Nyako, by her actions and inactions has deployed warped logic to obfuscate an irrefutable facts that Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, is a full blooded citizen of Nigeria and his right is inalienable.

    “We cannot fathom why she is deliberately persecuting Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, when the facts are before the LAW, thereby deploying subterfuge, self hatred and destructive tendencies just to feed her ego.

    “However, we are here to remind her that Justice delayed is Justice denied and so we demand that Mazi Nnamdi Kanu is released without further delay and full compensation paid to him.

    Anything short of this will leave us in the belief that this is a collective trial of Ndigbo.

    Igbo Youths are a peace loving people and Justice Binta Nyako must not take our quest for the rule of law as a sign of weakness. Let Justice Prevail,” the statement concludes.

  • 2027: Why Senator Eteng Williams Cannot Be Distracted

    2027: Why Senator Eteng Williams Cannot Be Distracted

    Some persons who have continually licked their wounds from the 2022 Cross River Central Senatorial District primaries election, like a bull in a China shop, are busy fueling political distractions with 2027 politics. Unfortunately, they live with the mantra ‘If not them, then it can’t be another person’.

    They are more concerned with what is known as stomach infrastructure and where the next meal is coming from and sometimes they act with emotions in an attempt to discredit the works of the Senator representing the good people of Cross River Central Senatorial District, Senator Eteng Williams.

    In barely 18 months, Senator Eteng William has embraced a more grassroots model of economic development, in line with President’s Tiinubu Renewed Hope initiative prioritizing the delivery of social services and safety nets to the most vulnerable. Among the various successes recorded included a direct cash transfer of N100,000 to over 550 constituents including students, widows, and people living with disabilities. These are temporary measures to curb the current economic hardship.

    In addition, he has delivered solar powered street lights projects to the following benefiting communities: Yakurr LGA (Ekori, Ugep, Mkpani, Inyima, Assiga, Nko), Obubra LGA (Obubra Urban, Oderegha/Ovukwa, Ofumbungha/Yala, Isobo Otaka
    and Isobo Biko-Biko), Boki LGA (Wula Ekumpuo, Okwabang, Agba Osokom and Katchuan Irruan), Etung LGA (Nsofang, Ajassor, Abia) and Abi LGA (
    Adadama) and more to come in line with his ‘Project Light Up Central’ Initiative.

    Also, his solar-powered borehole project in communities across Central Senatorial District is in the completion stage, the benefiting communities include Bendeghe-Ekiem, Etung, Ediba, Abi, Olulumo, Ikom, Ababene, Obubra, Ijom, Ugep Assiga, Yakurr, Aduma, Mkpani, Afaben, Mkpani and Boje, Boki.

    On-road construction, work is ongoing in the Mkpani – Lebang Road, and the 2km Mkpani Ring road has already been awarded for construction. He is also constructing a 3-classroom block in Aduma Primary School, which is at the roofing stage, and several projects at various levels of completion. Just like pregnancy, projects have different phases of gestation before delivery.

    On legislative duties, with a strong background spanning over 12 years of experience, his performance has been superlative. Senator Williams has over five strategic bills to his credit, including the Mineral and Mining Act (Amendment) Bill, this seeking to establish clear guidelines and regulations in the mining sector to curb the management of illegal mining, host community development and environmental protection as well as make the mining sector more viable, create more job opportunities, and attract foreign investment.

    Senator Williams is fully concentrating on delivering on his mandate and attracting growth and development to Cross River Central Senatorial District. The time for politicking is not yet here, and when that time comes, he will be ready for everyone and his achievements will speak for him.

    @Hope Obeten

  • NDDC N100m Christmas palliative: Opinion Leaders demand accountability

    NDDC N100m Christmas palliative: Opinion Leaders demand accountability

    Dear Chairman, Senate House Committee on NDDC, and Cross River State Reps in NDDC, Stakeholders of Cross River State here present, Cross Riverians, Gentlemen of the Press and all other relevant leaders of the State.

    This is a Press Statement made by opinion leaders today, Friday, 7th February 2025 here in Calabar.

    Last week the social media as well as political spaces were filled with information of the N100,000,000 released by NDDC to Cross Riverians for Christmas celebration. It was revealed that this money was meant for women and youths of Cross River State, but as we speak the disbursement is still uncertain.

    During the frenzy, a list of Ten (10) out of Fifty (50) beneficiaries were exposed, and till date, the remaining forty (40) are still kept under the carpet.

    We call on our Cross River State NDDC Reps and Our Senator the chairman House Committee on NDDC to give Cross Riverians a detailed information on the whereabout of the 100 million and make publish of the list of  beneficiaries most especially registered and established one on or before 14 days. They are representing us, and it is pertinent that the do the needful; which is, transparency and accountability.

    Otuekong Commrade Kingsley Ikpeme
    For on behalf of Opinion Leaders.

  • Anambra: The danger of a single story: the case of Chief Jeff Nweke

    Anambra: The danger of a single story: the case of Chief Jeff Nweke

     

    Renowned novelist Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie once warned about the dangers of relying on a single narrative.

    In her iconic TEDx talk, “The Danger of a Single Story,” Adichie emphasized the importance of diverse perspectives and the risks of perpetuating stereotypes and misconceptions.

    The recent kidnapping allegations against Chief Jeff Nweke, a respected titled man in Awka, are a stark reminder of the dangers of relying on a single narrative.

    As a community leader who has tirelessly worked to provide security in his community and environs, these allegations seem unbelievable and paradoxical.

    Read Also: Big Ben Kidnap: The man, girlfriend were with us for 3 weeks – Says Awka Hotel Manager

    It is astonishing that a man who actively sought justice by placing bounties to uncover the truth behind the recent Nibo massacre is now facing such serious accusations.

    No wonder, community leaders from Ezinano Awka have come out in his strong defence.

    As the investigation unfolds, it is crucial that we avoid the pitfalls of a single story, which can lead to misinformation, misjudgment, and devastating consequences.

    The rush to judgment, fueled by malicious publications and unverified information, is a recipe for disaster.

    Law enforcement agencies must conduct a thorough and impartial investigation, gathering all relevant facts, parties and testimonies before drawing conclusions. Anything less would undermine the pursuit of truth and justice.

    Moreover, the public must be cautious not to perpetuate a single narrative. We must strive for a balanced discourse, considering multiple perspectives and experiences.

    The case of Chief Jeff Nweke serves as a reminder of the importance of nuance and critical thinking in our public discourse.

    As we navigate this complex issue, we must remember that the pursuit of truth and justice is a marathon, not a sprint.

    It requires patience, diligence, and a commitment to fairness and accuracy.

    Ultimately, the Chief Jeff Nweke story is a wake-up call to be more mindful of the stories we tell and the narratives we perpetuate.

    It’s a reminder that truth is often complex and multifaceted, requring an open mind.