Category: Opinion

  • Utibe-Abasi Bassey-Duke: Championing Gender Equality and Women Empowerment in Cross River State

    Utibe-Abasi Bassey-Duke: Championing Gender Equality and Women Empowerment in Cross River State

    Utibe-Abasi Bassey-Duke, a visionary leader and gender advocate, has dedicated her life to advancing gender equality, amplifying women’s voices, and driving sustainable development in Cross River State and beyond. Currently serving as the Special Assistant to the Governor on Gender Mainstreaming, her work has made significant strides in addressing gender disparities, empowering women, and influencing policy changes that foster inclusivity.

    A tireless advocate, Utibe-Abasi has played a pivotal role in promoting women’s political participation. In 2024, she was a key panelist at the UN Women’s “Advance Women’s Political Participation” event, where she championed the importance of increasing female representation in governance and leadership. Her insightful contributions have inspired numerous women to step into political and leadership roles.

    Under her leadership, the state has made progressive steps in gender mainstreaming. As Special Assistant to the Governor, she has spearheaded initiatives that ensure government policies, programs, and laws are examined through a gender lens. One of her key goals is to see the adoption and implementation of gender-sensitive laws and policies that address issues such as gender inequalities, power imbalances, and women’s participation in all sectors.

    Utibe-Abasi’s passion for health advocacy shines through her social enterprise, which focuses on increasing access to self-injectable contraception. Her innovative approach aims to serve 100,000 women within five years, providing them with accessible healthcare options through a private health network. This effort not only empowers women to take charge of their reproductive health but also addresses broader societal challenges related to family planning and maternal health.

    Read Also: Edo Governorship Election: Politicians, INEC Must Save Democracy

    Her work extends into the realm of peacebuilding and human rights through her involvement with the Women’s International League for Peace and Freedom As a member of WILPF Nigeria, she is committed to advancing the rights of women in conflict-affected regions, ensuring their voices are heard in peace and reconciliation processes.

    In addition to her gender advocacy work, Utibe-Abasi has shown dedication to uplifting young girls and boys In preparation for the 2024 International Day of the Girl Child, she organized an event under the theme “Elevating Girls’ Voices for Sustainable Development,” creating platforms for girls to share their stories and contribute to solutions that affect their lives. She encourages boys to champion gender equality through the International Day of Boy Child Celebration.

    Utibe-Abasi’s influence is also felt in the local community, where she was recently honored as a patron of the National Association of Akpabuyo Students Worldwide. Her message to the students emphasized the importance of using their platform to make a lasting impact on their communities.

    With a deep understanding of the power of government involvement in shaping a more equitable society, Utibe-Abasi continues to lead initiatives that promote gender equality, social justice, and women’s empowerment. Her remarkable work stands as a beacon of hope and inspiration for generations to come.

  • Odukpani Chairmanship Seat: Edem Darlington Best Prepared, Most Acceptable

    Odukpani Chairmanship Seat: Edem Darlington Best Prepared, Most Acceptable

    As Cross Riverians continue to anticipate the conduct of local government elections in the state, and with the State Independent Electoral Commission (CROSIEC) further stating that elections will hold before the end of December, 2024, permutations are rife as to who is most prepared, deserves to or should occupy the plomp position in the third tier of government across the 18 councils of Cross River State.

    In Odukpani local government area, names like Edem Darlington, Governor Bassey Otu’s Deputy Press Secretary (from Ikoneto ward), Etim Asido, a former councillor and secretary of the Governor’s family (Otu Mesembe House – Adiabo), Bassey Inyang, a Public Affairs Manager with Lafarge Africa PLC, Mfamosing Plant, and Eyo Nsa, have all been touted to be aspiring for the chairmanship position.

    Even a cursory look at the the aforementioned aspirants individuals records shows has laid bare who is better prepared for the position and more acceptable by the masses as well as those who are merely seeking political attention and/or swimming against the political tide.

    Etim Asido’s aspiration for chairman has already hit the brick wall being that he is the governor’s cousin. Political pundits have predicted that the odds are against him, knowing that Governor Otu will not want to be accused of nepotism where his direct relatibe becomes chairman of council.

    Inyang Bassey, here, has been termed a featherweight among them for being largely unknown by the political class nor the vast majority of Adukpani citizens. He has been perceived in some circles as crafty, braggadocios and self-centered, lacking the pulchritude of such ambitious office.

    In Elder Eyo Nsa’s case, concerns are being raised over his allegiance to forces working at cross-purposes to the government of the day, with a lot of people wary of him rocking the leadership boat should he be given the chairmanship opportunity. Nsa who belongs to the old political stock, also seems too elitist and lacks the acceptability of the other political actors in the area.

    Edem Darlington, the youthful, vibrant and farsighted Deputy Press Secretary to the Governor that is enjoying massive acceptability across all segments of the Odukpani masses. His tentacles, having blossomed in the private, and later heading the association of online journalists, sector before becoming an integral part of the governor’s virile media team.

    Coming from Ikoneto political ward, which is to produce the next Chairman, according to the gentleman’s zoning arrangement of Odukpani LGA, stands Edem in good stead to take the position. Having worked with the governor on a daily basis since the pre-election days until now, Darlington understands the Otu-led administration’s policy direction, especially to drive development in the grassroots. His mental alertness, humility, friendly disposition and progressive mindset pitches him above every other aspirant to the Chairmanship position of Odukpani LGA.

    Edem Darlington’s prospects for taking the Odukpani Chairmanship seat are looking promising, considering his experience and initiatives. As the Deputy Chief Press Secretary to Cross Rivers Governor, Senator Bassey Edet Otu, Edem Darlington has become a  totem in promoting the state’s tourism potentials and business opportunities. His brainchild, the “Think Cross River” phenomenon has deepened advocacy for patriotism, unity, and social justice, which resonates with both the government and the citizenry.

    Some of his notable strengths include:

    – Leadership Experience: As Deputy Chief Press Secretary, Edem Darlington has likely gained valuable experience in governance and administration.
    – Community Engagement: His role as Chairman of the Association of Cross River State Online Journalists (ACROJ) demonstrates his ability to engage with the community and promote local development.
    – Vision for Progress: Edem Darlington’s initiatives suggest he has a clear vision for the state’s progress and is committed to promoting social justice.

    While we all expect the best for our LGAs, I wish to beckon on all sons and daughters of Odukpani to realize that the expected best can and is palpably visible in their leading Chairmanship aspirant, Edem Darlington. Let us give him the opportunity to replicate the same hard work he is putting in the media management of the governor’s activities, policies, programmes and projects in our dear Odukpani local government area.

    K. A. O. Etta, writes from Calabar, the state capital.

  • Sending Soldiers To Chase Allottees From Cocoa Estate When There Is A Court Order  Is Bad – Mba Ukweni, SAN

    Sending Soldiers To Chase Allottees From Cocoa Estate When There Is A Court Order  Is Bad – Mba Ukweni, SAN

    Ntufam Barr. Mba Ukweni (SAN) is a Calabar based human rights lawyer. He speaks against use of military personnel to officials of the senator Otu’s administration to harass and intimidate allottees of 1,415 hectares which were allocated to them by the immediate past administration, notwithstanding the court order restraining the state government to do so. In this interview Ukweni gives insight on issues at stake.

    Can you introduce yourself?

    I am Ntufam Barr. Mba Ukweni, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, practicing law here in Calabar, Cross River State.

    There have been reports that military personnel have taken permanent residence at the government-owned cocoa estate in Etung, preventing allottees from the Ben Ayade’s  administration from accessing their farms. This is despite a court order restraining the state government from evicting them. What is your take on this?

    I don’t know who deployed the military there, but given the ongoing court proceedings, it’s safe to assume that the same people opposing the allottees are responsible. This is unlawful. The military has no business involving itself in civilian matters, especially where no war or security threat exists. These allottees entered into valid agreements with the government, paid for their allocations, and even have a court order permitting them to remain. Bringing in the military to evict them is outright lawlessness.

    It’s essential to uphold the rule of law. When government officials refuse to obey the law, they end up being consumed by the anarchy they create. Remember the #EndSARS protests? It was the same people in power who became the targets and had to hide. Maintaining law and order benefits them more than the common people, yet they act otherwise. The military’s presence is an extension of the Cross River State government’s unlawful actions.

    The state government has now admitted involvement by joining the fundamental rights lawsuit we filed on behalf of Dr. Oscar Ofuka. The Attorney General even applied to be part of the case, acknowledging that the state violated Ofuka’s rights. The government is behind this, and we now know whom we are up against.

    Given the current situation, what do you see as the way forward?

    We will pursue the necessary legal steps. Now that the Cross River State government has taken responsibility for the military presence at the estate, they will be held accountable for any harm done to our clients. The government has acknowledged its involvement, so it’s clear who is responsible.

    There is a petition against you from the Assistant Inspector General (AIG) of Police. What’s your response to that?

    The AIG wrote a petition to the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) claiming I went to the police station and released a murder suspect. I found this laughable. The President of the NBA sent me a copy of the petition, and I couldn’t help but laugh at the absurdity. It’s ironic that the same AIG, whom I restrained myself from petitioning for his disregard of the rule of law, is accusing me of such misconduct.

    You mentioned restraining yourself from writing a petition against the AIG. Can you clarify?

    Yes, I held back from writing a petition against him because it would likely have led to his removal from office. He blatantly disobeyed a court order to release Dr. Ofuka, even after the court bailiff and police officers repeatedly approached him. I had to personally intervene to ensure Ofuka’s release. Despite this, the AIG had the audacity to file a petition against me, ignoring the court’s order.

    Don’t you think your actions could be perceived as lawless?

    Absolutely not. It is the AIG and his associates who acted lawlessly by disobeying a court order. The police officers on duty were following the law, but the AIG chose to detain them for carrying out their duties. It’s absurd that the AIG thinks he’s above the law, yet he refuses to charge Ofuka, even after a court order was issued for his release.

    Those supporting the government claim that the documents presented by Dr. Ofuka regarding the cocoa farms’ lease are fake. How do you respond to that?

    Are they saying the documents prepared by the Attorney General of the state are fake? What about the money paid by the cocoa allottees into the government’s coffers? Is that fake too? The state hasn’t attempted to return the money, nor has the Attorney General denied preparing the agreements. The government took the allottees’ money, paid off the debts owed to landlord communities, and used part of it to regenerate the cocoa estate. Now they want to turn around and deny the allottees the opportunity to benefit from their investment? That’s fraudulent behavior.

    What do you believe is motivating the government’s actions?

    It’s simple: greed. The government is trying to evict the allottees so they can hand over the cocoa estate to their cronies. They’re using force to drive people off the land that was lawfully allocated to them. This is nothing but an abuse of power, and it’s unacceptable.

    Government’s actions are a clear case of fraud. After collecting money from the allottees, settling debts, and regenerating the estate, they want to deny these people the fruits of their investment. We won’t stand for this. We will continue to challenge these illegal actions in court.

    The main essence is for these same people that are pursuing them to drive them away from those estates and take over the estates from them and allocate to their cronies or make use of them that’s all. This is bad ! Who has ever heard that government would do businesses and stop in their own tenure, because one of the things I have been hearing is that those agreement were for six years, they were beyond the term of Ayade and so what?, when they collected money beyond six years to pay the land lord communities and to regenerate the estates, did they not know that the money government was collecting was going to be beyond six years? So, if the crops are now good enough for the people who legitimately paid  those money into coffers of the state government to reap from the benefit of their investment, and one begins to say they shouldn’t go there because a new government has come into power ,who told them that? Okay, a new government should go and plant their new estates, because it is not the new government that planted the estates. The cocoa estate was planted by previous administration of Okpara. Government they said it continuum.If the new government is saying that the previous government cannot entered into a contract beyond the tenure of that government, then the new government did not plant those estates, it should go and plant its own estates.

  • This 15-Day Content Plan Will Help You Improve Your SEO

    By Samy Thuillier

    Struggling to be consistent and rank on Google? I got you. Just follow the plan below:

    🚀 Day 1: Analyze and compile an ultimate guide on a broad topic relevant to your audience.

    Example: “The Ultimate Guide to Sustainable Living”

    🤔 Day 2: Compare two popular products or methods in your field (A vs B comparison).

    Example: “SEO vs. PPC: Which Yields Better Long-Term Results Nowadays?”

    🛠️ Day 3: Explain how to solve a common problem with a step-by-step how-to article.

    Example: “How to Secure Online Data in 5 Easy Steps”

    🔎 Day 4: Investigate the most recent controversial topics in your industry.

    Example: “The Most Controversial Commercials of 2024”

    📝 Day 5: List the top strategies that helped you overcome a major challenge (listicle).

    Example: “5 Strategies That Helped Me Double My Website Traffic in 1 Year”

    📐 Day 6: Introduce a framework or method you’ve developed for tackling an industry issue.

    Example: “The 5-Step Content Creation Framework for Higher Google Rankings”

    🎯 Day 7: Share several tactical approaches to alleviate a common pain point (roundup).

    Example: “7 Proven Tactics to Improve Your Email Open Rate”

    🌟 Day 8: Survey multiple experts on one critical question and publish their insights (roundup).

    Example: “What Top Marketers Predict for the Future of Digital Advertising”

    📘 Day 9: Create a tutorial that guides your audience through a complex process.

    Example: “Step-by-Step Tutorial: How To Build Your First Mobile App”

    🎬 Day 10: Newsjacking article – Mixing your topic with a recent news to generate more interest.

    Example: “What Taylor Swift’s Album Release Teaches Us About Scaling User Engagement”

    📚 Day 11: Detail lessons learned from a project or experience in a beginner’s guide.

    Example: “Beginner’s Guide to Using AI Tools for Everyday Tasks”

    Day 12: Highlight common mistakes in your niche and how to avoid them.

    Example: “Top 10 Social Media Posts You Should Not Create”

    📝 Day 13: Compile a list of free tools and resources that every beginner should know.

    Example: “15 Amazing Free Online Tools for New Bloggers in 2024”

    📖 Day 14: Narrate your personal or brand journey to inspire and connect with your audience.

    Example: “From Garage to Fortune 500: Our Company’s Journey”

    🧑‍🏫 Day 15: Provide a comprehensive resource list to achieve a specific goal (toolkit).

    Example: “The Complete SEO Toolkit: Everything You Need to Rank on Google in 2024”

    Why this works in SEO:

    ➜ Variety develops your authority on several topics
    ➜ Velocity helps you rank higher
    ➜ Value-packed posts establish your expertise

    Don’t overthink it.
    Just start posting.

  • Editorial: Rt Hon Orok Duke and Offiong Edem: A Legacy of Talent and Dedication in Nigerian Table Tennis

    Editorial: Rt Hon Orok Duke and Offiong Edem: A Legacy of Talent and Dedication in Nigerian Table Tennis

    Offiong Edem stands as a towering figure in Nigerian sports, with a remarkable career in table tennis that spans nearly two decades. Her journey to international acclaim began at the 2004 Athens Olympics, where she first showcased her immense talent. Since then, she has represented Nigeria with distinction at the London Olympics in 2012, the Rio de Janeiro Olympics in 2016, and the Tokyo Olympics in 2020. Most recently, in 2024, Edem proudly carried the Nigerian flag at the Paris Olympics.

    In the current table tennis rankings, Offiong Edem holds the top position in Nigeria and is ranked 89th globally among female players. Her illustrious career is marked by a remarkable collection of 15 medals, including six Gold, four Silver, and five Bronze, attesting to her consistent performance and dedication to the sport.

    At the Paris Olympics, Edem competed fiercely in the women’s singles event. She faced a tough opponent in Brazil’s Takahashi Bruna during the round of 64. Despite her valiant efforts, Edem was defeated 0-4, with the match scores being 11-8, 11-4, 13-11, and 12-10. This result placed her 23rd in the women’s singles rankings at the Olympics.

    Beyond her sporting achievements, Offiong Edem has made significant contributions off the table. She established the Offiong Edem Foundation, a philanthropic organization aimed at fostering personal development for young Nigerians through table tennis. The foundation’s mission is to empower street children by providing them with opportunities to pursue their dreams through sport. It offers training, mentorship, and support to help these young individuals excel both in table tennis and in life.

    Edem is also a pioneer member of the Canaan Table Tennis Club, an institution dedicated to nurturing and developing table tennis talent.

    Orok Duke, the esteemed chairman of the Canaan Table Tennis Club, is a cornerstone of Nigerian table tennis. His unwavering dedication and strategic leadership have been instrumental in the club’s success. Duke’s visionary approach not only focuses on nurturing talent but also on ensuring that players have the necessary resources and support to excel.

    His efforts go beyond the confines of the club, securing accommodations and sponsorships for competitions both within and outside Nigeria. Duke’s commitment to the sport and his players has created an environment where athletes like Offiong Edem can thrive, making him a highly respected figure in the table tennis community. His passion and hard work have left an indelible mark, inspiring countless young athletes to pursue their dreams.

    Through her foundation and active involvement in the Canaan Table Tennis Club, Offiong Edem continues to inspire and mentor the next generation of table tennis players in Nigeria. Her legacy extends far beyond her achievements, as she plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of the sport and making a lasting impact on the lives of many young athletes.

    This journey of excellence and mentorship would not have been possible without the unwavering support and visionary leadership of Rt. Hon. Orok Duke. As a staunch advocate for young talent, Duke’s efforts in discovering and nurturing athletes like Offiong Edem have not only elevated the sport of table tennis in Nigeria but have also provided countless opportunities for young athletes to pursue their dreams.

  • Honorable Moses Osogi’s Environmental Changes in One Year: Making Cross River State a Clean and Sustainable Model

    Honorable Moses Osogi’s Environmental Changes in One Year: Making Cross River State a Clean and Sustainable Model

    By Patrick Etim

    In a strong effort to make Cross River State the cleanest in Nigeria again, Honorable Moses Osogi, the Commissioner for Environment, has started a big project to improve the state’s environment. This important work has the support of the Executive Governor, Prince Bassey Edet Otu, who believes in teamwork and has brought in capable leaders like Commissioner Osogi. Together, they show that a clean and sustainable Cross River State is possible.

    A key part of Commissioner Osogi’s plan is to bring back the statewide sanitation program, which had been forgotten. This program encourages citizens to help keep their environment clean and healthy. Over the past year, Governor Otu has promoted the “PEOPLES FIRST MANTRA,” focusing on the need for people to take part in government decisions. This approach has given both men and women a voice in politics and encouraged community participation.

    With Commissioner Osogi in charge, the monthly sanitation program was successfully restarted, marking an important step in the state’s environmental efforts. The introduction of Special Mobile Courts across the state has helped enforce sanitation rules by monitoring and punishing those who do not comply. This strong enforcement has played a big role in keeping Cross River State clean.

    The positive effects of the sanitation program are clear. By promoting cleanliness, Commissioner Osogi’s work has greatly improved the quality of life for residents. The sanitation exercises happen on the last Saturday of each month in all 18 local government areas and involve everyone in taking care of the environment.

    In just over a year, Commissioner Osogi’s hard work has led to great results. The revival of the sanitation program has not only kept the environment clean but also encouraged residents to take responsibility for their surroundings. This renewed focus on cleanliness has helped restore the state’s reputation as a sustainable and welcoming place, setting an example for others.

    Commissioner Osogi has also worked closely with local communities to raise awareness about the importance of a clean environment. By partnering with government agencies, NGOs, traditional leaders, and traders’ groups, he has successfully gathered resources and support for important local initiatives.

    His impressive work has made him one of the best-performing Commissioners in the state, earning praise from both local and international organizations. His creative approach to environmental management has been recognized for its effectiveness and inclusiveness, making Cross River State a leader in environmental responsibility.

    Furthermore, Osogi’s focus on working together and consulting with others has helped tackle challenges and build support for environmental projects. By involving different groups in decision-making, he has created a sense of shared responsibility, ensuring these projects can last over time. His leadership is a great example of good governance and community involvement.

    The success of the sanitation program under Commissioner Osogi shows how effective environmental policies can make a difference. By prioritizing cleanliness and sustainability, he has not only improved the lives of citizens but has also established Cross River State as a leader in responsible environmental practices. His work as a champion for environmental care and public health will inspire future generations to take action for a cleaner and healthier environment.

    Congratulations to Honorable Moses Osogi!
    Congratulations to Governor Prince Bassey Edet Otu!
    Congratulations to Cross River State!

  • Opinion: The Truth About Zoning of Ikom Chairmanship Position

    Opinion: The Truth About Zoning of Ikom Chairmanship Position

    By David Ojong

    Recent developments in the politics of Ikom has thrown up so many emergency groups agitating for their preferred interests. One of such, is the one headed by one Pastor Tony Bassey a decampee from PDP who has desperately tried to malign the truth.

    It is pertinent at this point to state the facts are there are so that those who are gullible don’t buy the wrong narratives trending in the media space.

    The truth is that Akparabong, Olulumo and Ofutop 1 wards are yet to have  elected council chairmen, while Olulumo and Ofutop 1 wards once had  appointed chief executives with full executive powers to pilot affairs for the  local government council, Akparabong had never in the history of the LGA had any opportunity to sit at the helms of affairs of the council Secretariat.

    In fact in the archives of Ikom LGA, it is  only Akparabong ward that does not have any of its sons or daughters picture displayed out of the 11 wards.

    In the past the slogan the Akparabong man hear is that, “You people have senator Victor Ndoma-Egba at the Senate, you can’t take the Senate and also take the local government council chairman position. Today Victor Ndoma-Egba is no longer in the Senate,  I think it’s high time the Akparabong man is given a chance as far as council Chairmanship position is concerned.

    In the build up to the 2023 general elections the APC Akparabong clearly stated what it wanted stressing that the chairmanship position was so dear to him, that accounted for the reason why the Akparabong man refused  to vie for the Cross River State House of Assembly seat on the platform of ruling All Progressives Congress APC notwithstanding the fact that they had many with proven integrity and capacity to vie for the Assembly seat on tbe platform of the APC, rather it’s party faithfuls threw their weight solidly behind Ikom Urban 1 ward to produce Comrade Agbor Bassey.

    Unfortunately the opposition PDP whose way of thinking and ideology did the contrary and decided to picked it’s candidate from Akparabong ward and that’s where the Politics of betrayal began. While Akparabong made a bold statement by voting massively for the APC and it’s candidates ( Senator Prince Bassey Otu and Agbor Bassey) the Olulumo and Ofutop APC members because of the struggle to cling to the Chairmanship position voted  for the PDP candidates that scenario led to emergence of the PDP candidate at the State House of Assembly, leading to loss of the CRHA State House of  Assembly seat by the APC.

    It’s rather shocking to hear people  begin to complain about Akparabong having an assembly member from PDP  whom they voted into power even when Akparabong voted against him.

    At this point should we reward political betrayal? What if our amiable Governor Senator Prince Bassey Otu, needed those two wards to cling to power in the last general elections, would he have become the state Governor today? Would we be talking about Chairmanship elections in the APC today? The answer is No!

    It is instructive to note that most if not all the aspirants from Olulumo and Ofutop 1 wards are people who were in the PDP and worked against the APC in 2023 and only came to APC after the Supreme Court ruling against their candidate.

    One begins to wonder, if their candidate had succeeded in the court of law,  would they be here today in APC or would have contested under the PDP? These are questions that are still begging for answers.

    About appointments, let’s not dwell on that as it’s at the discretion of the state  chief executive to appoints whoever  he chooses to appoint, so long as he finds the fellow worthy to drive his policies and programmes.

    What we need now as Ikom people is one with wealth of experience from any of the three wards, one who can connect with the state and work in tandem with the Governor’s people first Agenda to attract development to Ikom and not to allow any ethnic bigot with  a selfish intention to serve his community alone mount the saddle so that we don’t regret at the end of the day.

    What Ikom people need at the moment, is one with robust capacity to expand the fast growing town to decongest the city centre and not an ethnic jingoist whose major pre-occupation would be  to use the resources of the people to foster the selfish agenda of his immediate community.
    It would be wise for Akparabong, Olulumo and Ofutop see the need  to present their best brains and allow the people of Ikom elect whoever they think have capacity to lead the LGA to witness a turnaround.

  • Why Cross Riverians didn’t participate in protest – Barrister Akiba

    Why Cross Riverians didn’t participate in protest – Barrister Akiba

    The Special Adviser on General Duties to Governor Bassey Edet Otu of Cross River State, Barrister Ekpenyong Akiba, says Cross Riverians refused to partake in the nationwide protest that commenced on August 1, 2024, because of the respect they have for the governor who has been working vigorously round the clock to transform and reposition the state for the betterment of the populace.

    Speaking in an interview, Akiba maintained that Governor Otu earned the confidence of Cross Riverians from his purposeful leadership, commitment towards the fulfilment of his campaign promises and delivery of democracy dividends to the doorsteps of the people.

    He said it was for the trust the entire people of the state have in the governor that made them listen to his passionate appeal to remain calm, show patience and understanding by shunning the protest and embracing dialogue.

    His words: “In Cross River today (August 1), it’s been very peaceful and for me it was expected. It has been very peaceful not because residents and citizens of Cross River are not in support of the numerous questions that are being asked nationally, not because they are not affected by hardship, not because they not are not affected by the pump price of fuel and a number of societal and economic issues. But because most of these questions, if not all, are begging for answers nationally. The answers cannot directly be provided within our state.

    “Now, in the state, the people are in consensus that the governor right from his assumption of office has been able to display goodwill and purposeful leadership. He has been able to display reasonable and justifiable action. He has been able to present himself as an icon worthy of emulation in this generation. The people of Cross River State have seen that the potholes we witnessed a year ago are disappearing. The people have also seen that the weekly, sometimes daily kidnapping incidents in Cross River are disappearing.

    “The young people have seen that our famous state library complex that was ramshackle and not given attention has received 60% action. The people have seen the governor roll out 40 fishing boats and 40 transport boats to riverine communities to enhance their livelihood. In his empowerment efforts, the people have seen the governor through ITF (Industrial Training Fund) partnership, has trained young people in crop production, sewing, etc, and at the end of the training, they are empowered. The governor has partnered with a Chinese company to train young people in electrical electronics. The people have seen it.

    “The pensioners are saying that the governor inherited debt that was not his and has approved N10 billion for payment of gratuities. It has never happened. A governor came in to inherit that kind of debt and has the large heart to approve 10 billion naira so that our mothers, our grandmothers, our fathers should be able to earn what they have worked for. The people are saying if the governor has taken this kind of step should he not be supported? Should he not be prayed for? Should he not be encouraged?”

    Continuing, the special adviser on general duties added: “So in Cross River State, the Nigerian Labour Congress leadership, TUC leadership, NANS leadership, NACRISS leadership, Transport association leadership, market women leadership, civil society organisation leadership, name it, they have all come together to say that the governor in Cross River State has displayed readiness to deliver democratic dividends to the people, and there will be no need to embark on any protest that will not bring results. Because the questions that we want the federal government to answer are questions that can be answered without destroying, vandalising, and creating a situation that might lead to the loss of lives.”

    He noted that Cross Riverians completely agreed with the governor as indicated in his state broadcast that the massive destruction occasioned by the ENDSARS protest in 2020, and the heavy loss it brought upon Cross River, should be a good reason why a repeat of such shouldn’t be allowed.

    He thanked the people of Cross River for their understanding and commended the religious leaders, traditional rulers and other stakeholders who have given the direction of peace in the state.

  • For Fubara, It’s a “Take-It-Back” Punch against President Tinubu

    For Fubara, It’s a “Take-It-Back” Punch against President Tinubu

    …Mobilizes Own Protesters, Doles Out Millions of Naira

    By Iso Fiberesima

    The primary responsibility of government at all levels is to protect lives and property while balancing citizens’ constitutional rights. However, in the interest of safety and security, governments often limit the enforcement of these rights. This delicate balance was put to the test in Rivers State, where a recent protest exposed a matrix of governance, disloyalty, and rebellion.

    Despite President Ahmed Bola Tinubu’s federal government being open to peaceful protests, it has consistently advised against violent demonstrations, which can be hijacked by malicious elements. In line with this stance, government officials across the country, including state governors and appointees, have worked to minimize the impact of processions and rallies.

    However, Rivers State, known for its loyalty to the central government, took a different approach. Governor Fubara allegedly ignored calls from the Federal government to mitigate the risks associated with the protest. Instead, the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Mr. Edison Ehie mobilized youth groups, including past and present student union leaders, to meet with the Governor, ostensibly to plan a “peaceful” protest.

    It was gathered that each of the leaders of these groups received N300,000 from taxpayers’ funds on the first day. A subsequent meeting took place, where Mr. Siminialayi addressed the youths and told them to disregard warnings not to participate in the protest from “enemies of the state.” Each attendee received N500, 000, totaling N150 million for 300 youths. Various groups received N6 million each to mobilize for the protest, which went ahead despite resistance from the anti-rally orders of the Commissioner of Police in the state.

    In what appears to be a shocking revelation, Rivers State Governor, Mr. Siminalayi Fubara, has indicted President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, criticizing his low democratic scorecard and failure to manage the economy and stem the tide of inflation. Governor Fubara threw a jab at President Tinubu, while responding to a crowd of protesting youth, who gathered in front of the Government House, Port Harcourt on August 1, 2024.

    Governor Fubara espoused his views, saying, “I am in your protests. The demands are germane. Hardship. Bad governance. Before this government came, the exchange rate was below N300.00, but under this government, it is now N1, 600. The cost of living cost of food, house rent, and high cost of medical bills.” He continued, “I am thanking you because you are here to demand a better Nigeria. Like I told you yesterday, I already know your problems. Our youth, I know that you are hungry. I agree with you that there is hunger. Before you leave here, I will give you a small thing, at least, to take and buy pure water and bread. Aluta Continua.”

    The planned protest was hijacked by the Governor and his Chief of Staff to prove a point to the Federal Government that he had the support of the youths. Governor Fubara wants to show that it is time for revenge against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who he now perceives as his political enemy. During the protest, Governor Fubara acknowledged the successes of the protest, confirming he knew it would be non-violent. He aligned with the youth, while blaming the Federal Government for the people’s suffering due to failed policies.

  • I challenge Senator Eteng Jones Williams to take Trinity Jesam off the streets of Calabar, University Don fumes

    I challenge Senator Eteng Jones Williams to take Trinity Jesam off the streets of Calabar, University Don fumes

    A lecturer in the University of Cross River (UNICROSS), Dr. Fabian Njah Bassey, has tasked the Senator representing the Central Senatorial District, Senator Eteng Jones Williams, to take one of his loyalists, Dr Trinity Jesam off the street of Calabar.

    Dr Bassey who lectures in the Department of Mass Communication, threw the open challenge to the Senator via a post on his Facebook account, while replying to a post made by Trinity.

    Trinity Jesam had taken to his Facebook account to share a post about the federal lawmaker’s attendance at the Niger Delta Development Commission’s (NDDC) Executive Management Engagement with Niger Delta Ethnic Nationalities and Selected Stakeholders, in which Senator Eteng Williams commended the interventionist agency for launching the Youth Internship Scheme that would pay N50,000 monthly to 10,000 youths from the region.

    But reacting to the post, Dr Bassey lamented over issues of infrastructure, poor social and economic conditions and low level of human capital development that have plagued the Central Senatorial District and therefore wondered how N50,000 stipend would bring a turn around in such situation.

    According to him, “This isn’t what we want at the moment. We want sustainable development. Our people are dying of hunger and starvation, our youths are roaming the streets without jobs, our children are out of schools because their parents can’t pay their fees, our farmlands are uncultivated due to insecurity, our cars are crashing due to bad roads, our hospitals are ill-equipped, our schools are underfunded, etc. And they come to engage youths with a paltry N50,000 monthly but reserve the best of jobs for their children.”

    He regretted that “Even the writer of this article is not gainfully employed but he’s been writing articles to promote this Senator Eteng Jones Williams right from his days as Honourable Member of CRSHoA. I challenge the Senator to take Trinity Jesam off the streets of Calabar and get him a job for the numerous publicity services he’s rendered to promote his activities. Until then, let nobody tell me anything regarding his “good” works.”