Paradise News

Category: Opinion

  • SO, THE SKY STAYED (For Godswill Akpabio)

    SO, THE SKY STAYED (For Godswill Akpabio)

    We are now living
    Our dreams,
    Leaving
    Behind frustrated screams,
    From deliberate fools,
    Who are busy shuffling their hoofs.

    Heaven weighed our fate,
    So, the sky stayed.
    The black cloud disappeared
    And the bright sky reappeared.
    Those decisions that we made,
    Eventually showed in the victory parade.

    There is a renewed hope down the road:
    I am not looking back again,
    As I am not going back the other way.
    What we have found is not a momentary flicker –
    God’s favour is unending
    And will always need careful tending.

    We are now living
    Our dreams,
    Leaving
    Behind frustrated screams,
    From deliberate fools,
    Who are busy shuffling their hoofs.

    Orok Otu Duke
    Duke Town

  • Anticipate Tinkoriko Calabar Heritage 2025 – fostering social harmony among youths

    Anticipate Tinkoriko Calabar Heritage 2025 – fostering social harmony among youths

     

    Founded in 1993 by Chief Orok Duke, Tinkoriko – a sociocultural group, is a platform that fosters harmony among youths from diverse political, social, economic and cultural orientation. The group, with large membership, stands strongly against violence, cultism, drug abuse, kidnappings, human trafficking and other forms of societal vices.

    As the relevance of the group in the sociocultural milieu crescendo, Tinkoriko Calabar Heritage was officially registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission in 2018, with Prof. Emmanuel Eyo assuming the presidency of the group, while Chief Orok Duke hold sway as the Patron and Leader of Tinkoriko.

    The group has had a profound impact on its members over the years. Beyond entertainment, Tinkoriko, according to the President, Prof. Emmanuel Eyo, has been awarding scholarships to registered members. “We also contribute to the well-being of the less privileged and vulnerable individuals, visiting motherless baby homes to provide support.”

    The inclusion of Tinkoriko in the Carnival Calabar calendar, further underscores its relevance in contemporary society. Tinkoriko parade is arguably the second largest street procession in Cross River after the Carnival Calabar. The sociocultural group holds its annual parade on January 1st, which usually kicks off at Efut Street and passes through Hawkins, Chamley, Target, Mary Slessor, Marian Road, Barracks Road, 11-11 Round About, Calabar Road and finally terminates at the Watt Market Round About.

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    Rooted in traditional practices, Tinkoriko serves as a medium for conflict resolution and community engagement through artistic expressions such as music and dance. Tinkoriko emphasizes the importance of communication and shared experiences, allowing young people to connect with their heritage while addressing contemporary issues.

    By promoting cultural awareness and inter-group relations, Tinkoriko encourages collaboration among diverse youth groups, fostering understanding and reducing tensions. Its activities often involve traditional symbols and narratives that resonate with participants, reinforcing communal values and identity. As a result, Tinkoriko not only preserves cultural heritage but also cultivates a sense of belonging and unity among the youth, making it an essential tool for social harmony in a rapidly evolving society like ours.

    The 2025 Tinkoriko street procession will come up on Wednesday 1st January, 2025. The muster point is usually at Efut street by Egerton, Calabar. This event offers opportunity to more people, especially the youths to get involve towards building a strong and viable community where peace and social harmony prevails.

    All interested participants are encouraged to register their names, home addresses in Nigeria, phone numbers, along with their passport photographs from 15/12/2024 to be eligible for gifted Tinkoriko T shirts.

    Registration would take place at NO 51 Egerton Street Calabar South LGA. Other possible venues, include Headquarters of selected Local Govt Areas.

    “Tinkoriko, Calabar Heritage”
    (Season of Sweetness)

  • Celebrating a Remarkable Leader at 45: Hon. Ankpo Pius Edet

    Celebrating a Remarkable Leader at 45: Hon. Ankpo Pius Edet

    As our beloved son, Hon. Ankpo Pius Edet, marks his 45th birthday today, we, the people of Uyanga and Dusangha, join hands in giving thanks to God for His grace and to Governor Bassey Edet Otu for recognizing and elevating the exceptional talent of this distinguished leader.

    Hon. Ankpo Pius is a shining star, groomed in the fear of God and a testament to hard work, humility, and quiet diligence. Known for his reserved nature and unwavering commitment to progress, he has continually dedicated his efforts to uplifting our community.

    Before venturing into politics, Hon. Ankpo had already made remarkable strides in business, particularly in the chippings and haulage industry. With over 20 tipping trucks in his fleet, he provided employment opportunities for many, creating a ripple effect of prosperity in our community. It was this same dedication that caught the attention of former Governor Ben Ayade, who appointed him as a commissioner in the state executive council.

    In 2023, following the election of His Excellency, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, as Governor of Cross River State, Hon. Ankpo was once again called to serve, this time as Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure. Tasked with a zero-pothole mandate and massive infrastructural transformation, Hon. Ankpo has risen to the occasion, delivering an impressive array of projects within the last year.

    Key Achievements in Infrastructure Development
    Under his leadership, the Ministry of Works and Infrastructure has embarked on and completed several critical road projects, including:

    1. The construction and dualization of Esuk-Utan Road.
    2. The rehabilitation of Parliamentary Extension Road.
    3. The construction of Air Force Lieutenant Road and drains.
    4. The rehabilitation of Marian Road.
    5. The construction of Yellow Duke Road and a mini-bridge in Calabar South.
    6. The Oban-Nsan Road project in Akamkpa Local Government.

    Beyond the Calabar metropolis, Hon. Ankpo has extended infrastructure development to the Central and Northern parts of the state, including:

    1. The rehabilitation of Ndok Junction to Abakpa-Igoli-Monaya Junction Road in Ogoja.
    2. The construction of Ogoja Ring Roads in Ogoja LGA.
    3. The Akreha Road and Bridge Project in Yala LGA.

    These accomplishments demonstrate Hon. Ankpo’s unwavering commitment to realizing the “People-First” mantra of Governor Otu’s administration, laying a solid foundation for Cross River State’s infrastructural transformation.

    A Heartfelt Celebration
    Today, as we celebrate Hon. Ankpo Pius Edet’s 45th birthday, we extend our profound gratitude to His Excellency, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, for entrusting our son with such a vital portfolio. Hon. Ankpo’s achievements reflect his dedication, competence, and vision for a better Cross River State.

    We are immensely proud of his contributions and appeal to his friends and associates to continue to support him with prayers and goodwill. Hon. Ankpo Pius Edet, you are a beacon of hope and progress for our community and the state at large.

    Congratulations and happy birthday to our dynamic Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Hon. Ankpo Pius Edet!

    Signed:
    The People of Uyanga and Dusangha

  • Opinion: Austin Ibok, I pray knowledge finds you speedily

    Opinion: Austin Ibok, I pray knowledge finds you speedily

    I wish to begin by stating clearly that this response to a certain Austin Ibok’s lame write up is in my personal capacity as Edem Darlington, a private citizen, journalist and a proud Cross Riverian and not in my official capacity as an aide to the governor. This is because, before my appointment, I have always been a social crusader for good governance and because no single person remains in government forever,  I know very well that one day, I will leave and return back to the trenches, when that happens, I will continue to work for the good of our people.

    Having said that, let me say that even though Austin Ibok does not deserve the response of any intelligent and smart person, because of his puerile  write ups, however, it is important to properly educate the public so as to save some vulnerable Cross Riverians from falling into his falsity.

    Let me say that I look forward to educating Mr. Ibok about basic principles of advocacy, I honestly will  not mind giving him free tutorials so he can be well equipped. Apart from using Artificial Intelligence (AI) and CHATGPT to write, I believe the free tutorial will help him get better in his new found love.

    Ibok’s Fallacy and What the truth is:

    Ibok’s Fallacy

    1. He alleged that some staff of the forestry commission have not been paid:

    What the truth is

    In December 2023, the Cross River State Forestry Commission put out advertorial for the recruitment of forest guards, steps after steps, procedure after procedure, the Commission went through all due processes and eventually published names of successful candidates.

    Soon after that, a date was fixed for training of the successful candidates after which they went through all other processes before obtaining their appointment letters. All these took months.

    As usual, some dubious persons attempted to overbloat the list and because the governor is one who is given to details, he quickly noticed the misnomer and asked that the process be put on hold and after a thorough verification, the blanket was lifted just a few months ago.

    It is unfortunate that the said Austin has no iota of knowledge about the workings of the civil service (even after serving as Special Adviser to governor Ben Ayade ), otherwise, he would have known that as a civil servant, one will have to work for a few months before being paid.

    I can understand Mr Ibok’s intellectual poverty and destituteness, because when you lie to feed, you will have to live all your life lying. The gibberish Austin put out could be described as bare, empty and baseless allegations.

    2. Ibok’s allegations about staff of cultural center and audit office.

    For over 20 years, those beautiful dancers and thespians at the state cultural center worked hard to earn as low as N13,000. This is not a joke, some of them have been there as long as 30 years, not as permanent staff but as casual or contract staff.

    It was until governor Bassey Otu came on board that he began the process of ameliorating the agony of the people by directing the immediate employment of some of them. That process saw over 47 of them employed while about 24 of those who were employed but left abandoned were promoted including a deputy director.

    It was the governor’s magnanimity that motivated the Cross River contingents to the recently concluded National Festival of Arts and Culture (NAFEST) held in the FCT to clinch a silver gong  and return home victorious, having emerged second best overall winner in the country.

    The fact is that, the governor is a good man who leads with the fear of God by putting the people first.

    I will avoid the temptation of taking on Austin Ibok for now, I will allow him face the harsh financial condition he is currently going through in the United Kingdom where he ran to under the cover of his wife’s professional career and the humiliation of having to work as a security guard.

    It is only a fool that tests the depth of a river with both feet.

    EDEM DARLINGTON is my name and I am a proud Cross Riverian

    Caveat: The opinion express in this article does not in anyway represent the views or position of The Paradise News. It is entirely that of the writer.

  • Cross River South Consultative Forum Counters Austin Ibok’s Criticism of Governor Bassey Otu

    Cross River South Consultative Forum Counters Austin Ibok’s Criticism of Governor Bassey Otu

    Austin Ibok’s recent article, “Faith as a Cover-Up: Unmasking Governance Failures in Cross River State,” paints a cynical and distorted picture of Governor Bassey Otu’s administration. Ibok accuses the governor of using religious programs to conceal alleged governance failures, but his arguments lack substance and betray a deliberate attempt to misrepresent the facts. A deeper analysis of Governor Otu’s leadership reveals not only a consistent record of faith-based values but also tangible achievements that refute Ibok’s baseless allegations.

    Ibok’s assertion that Governor Otu’s religious initiatives are a recent ploy to distract from governance failures is unfounded. The governor’s pastoral background is well-known, as is his deep commitment to his faith long before assuming office. His wife, deeply rooted in religious values herself, has been a consistent pillar of this moral foundation. These attributes have shaped a leadership style that prioritizes moral regeneration in a society grappling with ethical decay.

    Critics like Ibok fail to appreciate that Governor Otu’s religious programs are not about diverting attention but about instilling moral discipline and ethical behavior. At a time when materialism and corruption dominate societal discourse, a values-driven leadership is a much-needed antidote. Governor Otu’s faith-based initiatives aim to inspire Cross Riverians to embrace a higher moral and ethical standard, a necessary step for long-term societal reform.

    Contrary to Ibok’s claim that religion is being used as a distraction, Governor Otu has paired his faith-driven approach with measurable achievements in key sectors. These accomplishments demonstrate his commitment to governance and development:

    1. Improved Workers’ Welfare
    Governor Otu’s proactive announcement of a new N40,000 minimum wage for state workers preceded similar decisions at the federal level. This underscores his administration’s sensitivity to economic realities. Additionally, a committee has been constituted to explore further upward revisions, reflecting the governor’s dedication to improving workers’ welfare.

    2. Revitalized Infrastructure
    Infrastructure development has been a cornerstone of Otu’s administration. Key projects include:
    – Dualization of the Zone 6 NNPC Tank Farm Road in Calabar.
    – Ongoing asphalt resurfacing of metropolitan roads in Calabar.
    – Road rehabilitations in Ikom and Ogoja.
    – Payment of compensation for the Odukpani-Itu-Ikot Ekpene Federal Highway to accelerate construction work.
    These initiatives aim to improve mobility, ease urban congestion, and boost economic activity.

    3. Educational and Youth Support
    The payment of N440 million WAEC fees for over 16,000 students and procurement of 108 three-wheel agricultural tractors highlight the administration’s investment in youth and education. These programs directly address youth unemployment while enhancing access to education and agricultural productivity.

    4. Agricultural Development
    The 50,000-hectare rice farming project, supported by a N150 million monthly credit scheme, demonstrates Otu’s commitment to agricultural transformation. This initiative not only enhances food security but also creates jobs and revitalizes rural economies.

    5. Healthcare and Public Service Improvements
    Efforts to rehabilitate the Ikom General Hospital, upgrade the state library complex, and improve electrification networks show Otu’s focus on delivering essential services. These investments directly counter Ibok’s narrative of neglect and mismanagement.

    Ibok’s claims are riddled with contradictions and a lack of factual basis. His criticism of Governor Otu’s religious initiatives as a misuse of public funds is unsupported by evidence. Furthermore, his tendency to sensationalize reflects a deeper problem of credibility.

    One must question whether Ibok is even the true author of his critiques. His recent output appears too polished to align with his known intellectual capabilities. Could there be an “unseen hand scripting Ibok’s write-ups”? Is this a case of “the hand of Esau and the voice of Jacob”? Time will reveal the truth.

    Beyond this, it is worth examining Ibok’s political history. As someone described as a “political butterfly perpetually in search of nectar, lacking in substance, integrity, and ideology,” Ibok’s criticisms are better understood as an attempt to secure political patronage. His quest to fill a “bottomless pit of unending appetites” raises questions about the motivation behind his recent outbursts.

    Ibok’s misunderstanding of the role of faith in governance reveals a narrow perspective. In nations where societal values are weak, leadership grounded in moral principles can play a transformative role. Developed nations, which Ibok idolizes, have benefited from centuries of institution-building underpinned by ethical foundations. For Cross River State, Governor Otu’s approach offers a similar pathway toward progress.

    Faith-based programs, when properly implemented, can serve as catalysts for societal reform. Governor Otu’s initiatives are not about masking inefficiencies but about restoring ethical standards, countering societal decay, and fostering collective progress.

    Austin Ibok’s critique of Governor Bassey Otu is heavy on rhetoric but light on facts. It ignores the governor’s consistent record as a man of faith and his administration’s verifiable achievements. By coupling moral leadership with tangible development, Governor Otu offers Cross Riverians a balanced approach to governance that addresses both societal and infrastructural challenges.

    Cross Riverians must not be misled by politically motivated criticisms. Governor Otu’s leadership is not about using faith as a mask but about inspiring a collective sense of purpose while delivering measurable progress. It is time for citizens to reject cynicism and embrace the vision of a better, more prosperous Cross River State under Governor Bassey Otu.

    Signed:

    – Hon. Eyo Nsa Ekpo, Esq. (Chairman)
    – Sir Maurice Effiwatt
    – Prof. Emmanuel Eyo, Esq.
    – Apostle (Hon.) James Anam
    – Ntufam (Hon.) Victor Okon
    – Hon. (Mrs.) Ada Charles Egwu
    – Hon. (Chief) Ani Esin
    – Hon. Joseph Etene, Esq.
    – Hon. (Mrs.) Abigail Duke Orok
    – Barr. Bassey Mensah
    – Prince Edwin Okon
    – Ntufam (Hon.) Okon Owuna
    – Hon. Charles Atu

  • Marxist, Radical Feminist Professor Bene Madunagu Is Dead

    Marxist, Radical Feminist Professor Bene Madunagu Is Dead

    By Anietie Akpan

    The Nigerian left has lost one of its own. She is Professor Bene Edwin Madunagu who passed on, Tuesday at about noon sending shock waves to the marxists, radical feminists, the  University community, family and many others.

    Her husband, friend, activist and Marxist of the Nigerian Left, Dr Edwin Madunagu on Wednesday in their residence at number 9, Edem Edu close, off Jebs street in Anantigha, Calabar South  Local Government Area of Cross River State in South South, Nigeria, confirmed the death of his wife saying “she died at about noon on Tuesday”.

    Looking calm but in deep pains he said, “yes what you have heard is true. Bene is gone… Bene was a bundle of humour, warmth and kindness”.

    Dr Madunagu, who apparently was not in the right frame of mind to grant any interview, managed to open up a little to yours truly whom he had known far back in the early nineties at a political convention in Jos and later in The Guardian Newspapers.

    Recounting her last days and last moment, Madunagu, a Marxist who had introduced Bene to socialist revolutionary movement and Marxism far back in 1975 in the University of Lagos, said “unfortunately ill-health was waiting for her at retirement”.

    His wife fondly referred to as Comrade Bene by the Nigerian Left and in the radical feminist politics, he said was “diagnosed of dementia as she suffered memory loss… leading to other complications. Yesterday (Tuesday) she died at about noon“ despite all medical interventions.

    As custom demands, “I have sent people to inform her family at Afaha-Essang in Abak Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State that their Adiaha (first daughter of the family) has passed pending further arrangements for her rites of passage. They should be on their way back now’.

    Comrade Bene according to him in his tribute during her 75 birthday in 2022, said, “in other spheres, she is called Bene, Ben, Mumsy B, and Aunty Bene. To those old enough to remember the name she was given at birth, and insist on calling her so, she is Benedict’s.

    “Even in ill-health, Comrade Bene Madunagu has challenged herself on several occasions to remember several events, participate in the reorganization and authenticate several processes that made possible the transfer of ‘Our Combined Archives and Libraries’ to the Nigerian Left. She also continued to inspire the Leftist and Leftist-Feminist Movements…”

    Bene who had taken part in several revolutionary movements in Nigeria like the popular “Ali Must Go” Nigerian Universities‘ students uprising, was born March 21, 1947. It is on record that her actual and purported roles in that movement cost her job in UniCal in 1978 and her PhD programme on a fellowship in University of Exeter, United Kingdom. She was stranded in London  and subsequently repatriated back to Calabar by the Nigerian Embassy. However she challenged her dismissal by the then military junta regime in court and won, and was reinstated in UniCal in April 1981.

    “We met in the University of Lagos (UniLag) as post graduate students. She studied Botany while I studied Mathematics”, Madunagu who holds a PhD in Mathematics and a professional revolutionary said recalling her days in a state of melancholy.

    “She left UniLag in 1975 with her Masters to the University of Calabar (UniCal), continued teaching Botony and in 1983, she went to the University of Ibadan and in 1986 got PhD in Phytopathology (Botany)  and returned to the UniCal. In 2003, she became a Professor and retired at age of 65 in 2012.

    “We have been together on the left as socialists and activists. We were involved in campus and union politics”, he opined.

    Comrade Bene as a one time Secretary of the Academic Staff Union of Universities, University of Calabar Branch (ASUU-UCB), and later the  Chairman for two terms and considering her staling and  fire brand resourceful tenures, members wished she could go  for a third term but as a comrade , she had to adhere to the constitutional requirement of two terms.

    She took part in the establishment of the Women In Nigeria (WIN) in 1982 and 1993 she and others founded Girls Power Initiative (GPI) with centres in Calabar and Benin.
    Later she became the founding Coordinator and Chairman of the Executive Board until she retired at Unical at the age of 65.

    Very active in women liberation front
    at national and global scene and traveled wide to accomplish her goals but only stopped traveling on account of ill health, Madunagu stated.

    Comrade Bene held a BSc degree in Botany from UniLag, MSc degree in Mycology (Botany) also from UniLag and a Doctorate degree in Phytopathology from the University of Ibadan.

    Comrade Bene in a worm embrace with her husband, Dr Madunagu after her presentation.

  • Political Marginalization In Oban Ward: A Call For Equitable Representation

    Political Marginalization In Oban Ward: A Call For Equitable Representation

    By Patrick Etim

    Oban Ward, nestled in the Akamkpa Local Government Area, is a unique tapestry woven from the vibrant threads of three distinct communities: Oban, Ekong, and Neghe. Each community contributes significantly to the ward’s rich cultural heritage, values, and beliefs, fostering a sense of unity and love that is commendable. However, as we shift our focus from traditional discourse to the realm of politics, a disconcerting pattern of marginalization emerges, particularly affecting the Ekong and Neghe communities.

    Currently, the political landscape within Oban Ward is heavily skewed in favor of Oban, which has secured an overwhelming share of influential positions. The community boasts a Senior Personal Assistant to the Governor, a Personal Assistant to the Governor, a Member of the House of Assembly, a Councilor, a Supervisor in the local council, and a Personal Assistant to the Chairman of the council. Additionally, the current Chairman of the council (with due respect) is also a brother partly from Oban, further consolidating their political dominance. In stark contrast, Ekong has been allotted a single position as the Special Assistant to the Chairman, while the status of Neghe remains unclear, with reports suggesting that they may not have received any appointments at all.

    This disproportionate allocation of political power is not merely a matter of numbers; it encapsulates a deep-rooted political injustice that has persisted over the years. Historically, the narrative surrounding Ekong and Neghe has been one of underrepresentation and lack of education. However, the educational landscape has shifted dramatically, with an increasing number of university graduates emerging from these communities, challenging the outdated stereotypes that have long perpetuated their marginalization.

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    The consequences of this political imbalance are far-reaching. The residents of Ekong and Neghe, who collectively contribute around 65% of the votes during elections, find themselves disenfranchised and voiceless in the decision-making processes that affect their lives. This lack of representation undermines the principles of democracy and equality, fostering feelings of resentment and disillusionment among the populace. Political marginalization not only stifles the voices of the minority but also deprives the entire ward of diverse perspectives and ideas that could drive development and progress.

    Moreover, the concentration of power within Oban can lead to a lack of accountability and transparency in governance. When a single community holds a majority of political positions, there is a risk of neglecting the needs and concerns of the other communities. This can result in skewed resource allocation, inadequate infrastructure development, and failure to address pressing social issues that affect the entire ward. The absence of equitable representation hampers collective growth, as decisions made may not reflect the interests of all constituents.

    As we reflect on this pressing issue, it is imperative to advocate for a more inclusive political framework that recognizes and values the contributions of each community within Oban Ward. Political leaders and stakeholders must strive to dismantle the barriers of marginalization and ensure that appointments and political power are distributed equitably. By fostering a culture of inclusivity, we can pave the way for a more harmonious and prosperous future for all communities, where every voice is heard, and every citizen has a stake in the governance of their ward.

    In conclusion, the question of when this political injustice and marginalization will come to an end is not merely rhetorical; it is a clarion call for action. It is time to challenge the status quo, promote equitable representation, and honor the spirit of unity that defines Oban Ward. Only through collective effort can we hope to create a political landscape that truly reflects the diversity and richness of our communities, ensuring that every resident feels valued and empowered.

  • My purported suspension as Chairman of PDP – Barr Vena Ikem

    My purported suspension as Chairman of PDP – Barr Vena Ikem

    Yesterday was not a surprise but  I have already lost the zest for the office.

    I want to say that I was not “suspended “for any  reason other than political. I will publish hereunder only two of my chats with Senator Jarigbe to buttress the point and leave you to judge.

    He stated my crimes clearly to include:

    1. Support for Hon. Peter Akpanke!

    2. Rushing to Calabar to upturn the suspension of Hon. Adida Agabi and dozens of others suspended in Bekwarra on his orders !

    3. Seeing His Excellency Hon. Peter Odey too often!

    The text message.

    “Emana was Sen Sandy’s project. You supported it but today, Sen Sandy and I have gone past that and moved on. Why will I be having issues with you because of Emana. Where is the Emana today?”

    “Even life is not forever. You thought you were fooling me. You rushed to Calabar to reverse Adida’s suspension. You have been fighting me but I chose to ignore. I also found out that I was the only one with you in the Leadership. May God judge both of us. I will suffer the repercussions if I am at fault and vice versa. You stopped talking to everyone that stood by Obule because Peter lost out in his machinations to embarrass me. I will definitely not wait to be decimated.”

    My issue with you is simple – You listen to Peter’s lies. His romance with APC is legendary. There are clear signals that he would eventually move but you see nothing wrong with that. You knew of his bargains with APC and you only mentioned it in passing to me, after the election. You even called people to work with Peter against me in Bekwarra. You descended in to the arena, even as State Chairman. Peter thinks he can backstab. I won’t keep my back. There is an obvious fight and I have to face it. Peter and I can’t work together. We have to face each other and you are on his side. You also meet with Peter Odey very frequently. That’s not good for our Party and there were complaints from chairman everywhere.

    You have held many more positions than me. You started before me and I must defer to you on that. You were not there forever and I won’t be Senator forever. There’s time for everything.”

    I plead guilty to all of them. As State Party chairman I cannot choose which of my members and executive especially elected officials to be friends with. I have had cause to ask Senator Jarigbe who I’m working against him for but he has had no response so far.

    As state Party chairman I have an obligation to resolve crisis amicably wherever it arises.
    As state Party chairman I have a duty to interact beyond my party. Especially as a citizen of this country and leader of my Party I cannot play politics of hatred, especially inherited hatred to please anyone. If the deputy governor of my state chooses to visit me I consider it an honor and will never turn him away because he is not a member of my political Party!

    Hon. Peter Odey and I come a long way. If not for politics he is some one we should see daily. I discuss the best interest of my Party with him whenever we see. And the best interest of our State because I always remind him that at my age i am an elder now and must think beyond partisan politics for which his new jocular nickname for me has become simply “elder”. If Senator Jarigbe expects me to hate The Deputy Gov because he hates him I will disappoint him several times over. I have passed that age. And I do not encourage our people to Play that kind of “politics.”

  • An Open Letter to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR,  On the Recent Federal Cabinet Reshuffle and the Status of Cross River State in the Federal Administration

    An Open Letter to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR,  On the Recent Federal Cabinet Reshuffle and the Status of Cross River State in the Federal Administration

    Cross River South Consultative Forum (CRSCF)

    An Open Letter to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR,
    On the Recent Federal Cabinet Reshuffle and the Status of Cross River State in the Federal Administration

    October 27, 2024

    His Excellency,
    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR,
    President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,
    Aso Rock Villa, Abuja.

    Your Excellency,

    The Cross River South Consultative Forum (CRSCF), representing the interests of Cross River State, extends warm regards to you and expresses our profound appreciation for your administration’s achievements within its first year. We recognize the strides you have made towards strengthening Nigeria’s economy and promoting inclusive development across the nation.

    Under your leadership, we have witnessed a historic doubling of aggregate government revenues to over 9.1 trillion Naira and a significant reduction in the portion of revenue spent on debt service, from 97% to 68%. Additionally, the clearance of $5 billion in outstanding foreign exchange obligations has provided the much-needed relief for businesses and the economy. These efforts, among others, have laid a foundation of stability and growth for our country.

    We also commend the resurgence of Nigeria’s oil and gas industry, with production increasing to 1.61 million barrels per day, as well as the signing of two Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) deals worth over half a billion dollars, underscoring your administration’s commitment to fostering a robust investment climate. Your launch of the Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) Initiative is another milestone, which we believe will pave the way for a more sustainable energy future.

    Moreover, your signing of the National Minimum Wage law, raising the minimum wage to N70,000 per month, has been met with relief by Nigerian workers, especially during these challenging economic times. We applaud your administration’s support for youth through initiatives such as the Student Loan program, the establishment of the Credit Corporation, and the removal of tariffs on essential imports. These reforms reflect your dedication to the well-being of all Nigerians.

    While we deeply appreciate these positive changes, we feel it is important to bring to your attention concerns regarding the recent cabinet reshuffle and its implications for Cross River State’s representation at the federal level. Our state, initially represented by Dr. Betta Edu in the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Senator John Owan-Enoh in the Ministry of Sports Development, now has a single representative, Senator John Owan-Enoh, who has been re-assigned as Minister of State in the Ministry of Trade and Investment (Industry). This adjustment, though positive in some sense, has caused concern among our people, as it tends to reduce Cross River’s influence within the federal administration.

    Cross River was until the recent victory of our great party in Edo State, the sole APC state in the South-South geopolitical zone, standing firmly by the party amid a complex political landscape and our Governor, Senator Bassey Otu has been consistent, clear and unambiguous in his vociferous support for the party, quietly midwifing her victories in Imo and Edo states as chairman of their campaign councils. Given this loyalty and our unflinching support for your administration, we humbly appeal for a reconsideration that would provide Cross River with another ministerial role to ensure our state’s concerns are adequately represented in the federal cabinet.

    Further, Your Excellency, as you consider upcoming federal appointments, we request that Cross River citizens be given key opportunities in federal boards, commissions, parastatals, and ambassadorial roles. This enhanced representation would not only be a testament to your administration’s inclusive approach but also boost the morale and support of the Cross River people.

    We also respectfully urge that attention be directed toward completing the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, a project with transformative potential for Cross River’s economy and regional integration. We are confident that this and other infrastructure projects will stand as enduring legacies of your tenure in our state.

    In closing, we once again express our gratitude for your remarkable leadership. The people of Cross River State, through the CRSCF, appeal for fair and strengthened representation within your administration. We are confident in your dedication to a united Nigeria and remain committed to supporting your vision for a prosperous nation.

    Thank you for your time and consideration of this appeal. May your administration continue to thrive and bring lasting progress to all Nigerians.

    Yours sincerely,

    Signed:

    Sir Maurice Effiwatt

    Prof Emmanuel Eyo, Esq.

    Apostle (Hon) James Anam

    Ntufam (Hon) Victor Okon

    Hon. (Mrs) Ada Charles Egwu

    Hon. (Chief) Ani Esin

    Hon Joseph Etene, Esq

    Hon (Mrs) Abigail Duke  Orok

    Barr. Bassey Mensah

    Chief Felix Idem

    Prince Edwin Okon

    Ntufam (Hon) Okon Owuna

    Hon Charles Atu

    Hon. Eyo Nsa Ekpo, Esq – Chairman.

    For and on behalf of the Cross River South Consultative Forum.

  • Cross River APC Legacy Group Disclaims Unauthorized Meeting in Ogoja, Reaffirms Support for Governor Otu

    Cross River APC Legacy Group Disclaims Unauthorized Meeting in Ogoja, Reaffirms Support for Governor Otu

    The attention of the Cross River APC Legacy Group has been drawn to a purported meeting allegedly scheduled for October 31, 2024, in Ogoja, by individuals claiming to represent the Cross River North APC Legacy Group. As the State Chairman of the Cross River APC Legacy Group, I, Hon. Eyo Nsa Ekpo, Esq., wish to categorically state that no such meeting has been sanctioned by the leadership of the Legacy Group in Cross River State.

    This purported meeting, called without consultation or authorization from the group’s leadership, is both unauthorized and mischievous. We consider it an attempt by certain faceless elements to misuse the name of the APC Legacy Group in Cross River State, possibly as a guise to undermine the goodwill and stability our group enjoys with His Excellency, the Governor of Cross River State. It is disheartening that such efforts are being made to use the group as a tool for divisive purposes, particularly when our focus remains on supporting the Governor and contributing positively to the growth of our state.

    The Cross River APC Legacy Group stands firmly behind the Governor, recognizing his commendable leadership and efforts to inclusively carry the group along, especially in the ongoing appointments and preparations for the forthcoming Local Government elections. The Governor’s consideration for the Legacy Group’s involvement reflects his commitment to acknowledging our contributions and ensuring a cohesive and united APC in Cross River State.

    Furthermore, it should be noted that the APC Legacy Group operates with established leadership structures across the state, including in the northern senatorial district. Any member with concerns or issues is encouraged to use the proper channels to relay them. Bypassing these established channels is not only disrespectful but also undermines the unity and purpose of the group. Any unauthorized use of the name “APC Legacy Group” by individuals or factions within the state constitutes a breach of trust and is in clear violation of our organizational protocols.

    We, therefore, advise all members of the Legacy Group, especially those in Cross River North, to disregard the purported meeting on October 31, 2024. Such unauthorized gatherings serve only to disrupt our collective mission and sow unnecessary discord within the party.

    The Cross River APC Legacy Group remains committed to supporting the Governor’s developmental agenda and ensuring that the APC remains strong and united in service to the people of Cross River State.

    We urge all members to remain vigilant and committed to the group’s ideals, focusing on our shared goals and vision. Let us continue to work together, supporting our leaders through the proper structures, for the benefit of Cross River State and the APC.

    Thank you.

    Signed,

    Hon. Eyo Nsa Ekpo, Esq.
    State Chairman
    Cross River APC Legacy Group