Paradise News

Tag: Cross River State

  • 16 Days of Activism: Stand To End Rape engages media to amplify women’s participation in politics

    16 Days of Activism: Stand To End Rape engages media to amplify women’s participation in politics

     

    By Kelvin Obambon

    A civil society group, Stand To End Rape (STER), in partnership with the Cross River Ministry of Women Affairs, has engaged the media in the state to amplify women’s representation in politics through the creation of ‘Special Seats’ for women at national and subnational legislature.

    The Special Seat Bill advocated by STER, if signed into law, will increase the participation of women in politics, with a reservation of seats for women and the vulnerable. It is also a temporary bill that will last for 16 years, after which it will be reviewed.

    Speaking at a town hall meeting in Calabar on Wednesday, Elfrida Adeleye, Communication Officer, Stand To End Rape, said Cross River was one of the few states that had been supporting women in politics.

    Adeleye said if the media, government representatives, politicians, Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), political leaders, among others, join their voices and support the course, women will be occupying valuable seats as well as making valuable contributions to the growth and development of the nation.

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    “Why we keep coming here is because we’ve been having support from the Cross River State Government, especially the Honourable Commissioner for Women Affairs. We need the right people, so, we have to work with the right people to drive this message. We want to create a space where women can participate in politics, just like in Nursing, Medicine, and other fields.

    “In the National Assembly, gender issues are taking the back seat because we don’t have the right people there. With the Special Seat Bill, women will have a level playing ground. The bill is just for 16 years, and by that time, women should be occupying valuable seats. It is not just to increase the number but participation in national policies that drive development,” Adeleye said.

    Wife of Cross River State Governor, Rev (Mrs) Eyoanwan Otu, who was represented by Jeffrey Adamade, Special Assistant on NGOs (Office of the Wife of the Governor), said her office has been working with the Ministry of Women Affairs on different fronts. Otu promised to offer the best support she could to see that women are being represented in politics and in large numbers.

    On her part, Hon. Mercy Akpama, Member Representing Yakurr II State Constituency in the Cross River State House of Assembly, said she supports women’s participation in all forms of politics, urging them to come out and contest in various political positions.

    Akpama, the only female in the 25-member Assembly, said, “If you go to campaign grounds, you have women dancing, clapping, blowing whistles, but when it comes to making decisions, sharing of women, men dominate – women should not be used as jara.”

    Meanwhile, Cross River State Commissioner for Women Affairs, Mrs Edema Irom, said the town hall meeting came at the right time when the state is participating in the 16 days of activism to end gender-based violence.

    “For us as a ministry, we’re talking of 16 days of activism against gender-based violence, and one of the things is political participation for women.

    “You have to be prepared as a woman – even women inclusion in politics, you have to be prepared. Gender-based violence would drop if more women were included in politics. We must keep amplifying the voices of women every time we gather, this way, we’ll achieve our goals,” she said.

    Speaking also, Florence Inyang, Cross River State Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Women Leader, said women need more women who are already in the political sphere to carry others along.

    According to her, “I am of the opposition party but I am here because it concerns women. We need more people like the Commissioner for Women Affairs, as she’s always carrying everyone along.”

    Inyang also stated, “Women should start supporting women; that way, we’ll grow in politics,” noting that she was the first female ward chairman of her party and a councillor even as she contested against men.

    The town hall meeting also featured presentations, contributions, as well as questions and answers. It was organized by Stand To End Rape in partnership with the Cross River State Ministry of Women Affairs, with support from the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany Abuja.

     

  • 45th Convention: Knights of Saint Mulumba urges review of economic policies to ameliorate sufferings in Nigeria

    45th Convention: Knights of Saint Mulumba urges review of economic policies to ameliorate sufferings in Nigeria

     

    By Kelvin Obambon

    The Order of the Knights of Saint Mulumba (KSM) has lended its voice to widespread calls for review of current economic policies in order to reduce the sufferings Nigerians are experiencing at the moment.

    The call was made on Thursday during a press conference preceding the 45th Supreme Council Convention of the Order billed to take place in Calabar, the Cross River state capital, from Friday 29th November, 2024.

    Addressing the press, Worthy Supreme Knight, KSM Nigeria, Sir Dr Charles Mbelede, said the Order was deeply concerned about the current dwindling fortunes of the nation, with its attendant hardship and sufferings of so many Nigerians, especially the poor and vulnerable.

    Mbelede lamented the dismal economic index and urged Nigerian leaders to up their games to reverse the trend, while opining that “a thorough review of the current economic policies are expedient to stave off the hopelessness of most Nigerians. We endorse wholeheartedly the Catholic Bishops Conference position on this matter, especially its strident call for humaneness in governance.”

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    Speaking about the event in Calabar, the KSM leader explained that “our conventions provide veritable platforms for introspection and reviews of the activities of the Order, during the year. It also provides insights and enablers for the continued growth and development of the Order.

    “Interestingly, this convention is holding nine years after the Calabar Metropolitan Council held a similar one here in Calabar. It is also heartwarming that the serene and beautiful environment of this city will provide a commodious setting for our deliberations.

    “The convention proper, begins tomorrow, Friday November 29th, 2024 with a Concelebrated High Mass at the Sacred Heart Cathedral Calabar, led by Archbishop Joseph Ekuwem, followed with the formal Opening Ceremony to be declared open by my humble self.

    “The theme of this year’s Convention, “Deepening Christian Spirituality and Family Values – Roles and Challenges” is not only apt, but it is germane to our Christian faith. The topic is expected to espouse the spiritual direction of believers and articulate the steps to take to avoid spiritual shallowness. We expect a robust discussion on this very interesting topic. The guest speaker will provide more insights on the theme.

    “The Order has consistently utilized the high profile nature of its Opening Ceremonies, for seasoned Prelates, Civil Society Organizations, the Academia, policy formulators and Analysts to give verve to topical national issues, with a view to providing leads and pragmatic solutions to the myriad of socio economic problems besetting our nation. Gentlemen of the Press, I consider it imperative to remind you that the Order is now 71 years, having attained the Platinum benchmark in June 2023.

    “The Order with its members have in their 71 years of existence etched themselves as leading lights, not just on christo – centric ideals, but on all spheres of human existence. It has within this period, recorded a trajectory of success, innovations and epochs, anchored on it’s thematic programmes of charity, defence of the Churches’ ordinances and faith. It has utilized its Media Advocacies in keeping Government on its toes by drawing attention to poor governance, and has remained a veritable voice of the voiceless.

    “KSM has consistently spoken against all forms of perceived injustices and incidents of oppression and gaging of the Press. KSM has also remained unassailable in its avowed options for the poor, needy, vulnerable and defenceless. Believing that only virtues promote nobility, the Order also consistently turns its searchlight on its members to ensure that they remained focused on its core values and ideals as enshrined in the Constitution and Mission Statement.

    “In order to divest the Order from utter dependence on dues, levies and donations, it has in the past couple of years ventured into some business concerns. Apart from its earlier foray into the hospitality business, the KSM Water Project at Owerri imo State has been injected with funds and has come on stream. Its Aura Gold brands are now competing with other brands in the highly competitive Water market. Our Bakery and Confectionary outlet in Onitsha was commissioned on October 28, 2023. The feasibility studies on the two business concerns indicate robust returns on the investments.

    “Utilizing its rich global network of contacts, the Order attracted Direct Foreign investments from an American based Partners, Kind One Initiative, under the aegis of Kind One International Well for Charity Project. KSM Nigeria was granted USD20,000.00 (twenty thousand US dollars) for part payment for the provision of articulated boreholes in four semi urban settings in the country. The projects sited in Odo Arawo Ijebu, in Ogun State, Makurdi in Benue State, Ozubulu in Anambra State, and Port Harcourt in Rivers State respectively, have been delivered and handed over to the beneficiaries.

    “Satisfied with the prompt delivery and quality of the projects, two additional ones have been approved by our partners for execution. We consider this initiative as praise worthy as these are projects that would ordinarily be provided by sub national governments, since they impact very positively on the well-being of the citizenry. Let me add that no foreign trips were embarked upon by officials of the Order in search of this foreign direct investment.”

  • GSS Akim Class of 2008 Hosts Back to School Mentorship and Donation Project

    GSS Akim Class of 2008 Hosts Back to School Mentorship and Donation Project

    The Old Students Association of Government Secondary School Akim Qua Town (GSS Akim), Class of 2008, successfully organized the first edition of their Back to School & Mentorship Project on November 27, 2024. The event, themed “Building Tomorrow Today,” aimed to give back to the school and inspire current students through mentorship and donations.

    The programme featured a mentorship talk, a quiz competition, and the distribution of school bags, sandals, and other essential educational materials to less-privileged students. The day concluded with an after-project class dinner.

    Speaking at the event, the National Interim President, Dr. Bassey Akaka, emphasized the importance of giving back to one’s roots. “It is our duty to help build the future by supporting the younger generation,” he said.

    The BOT Chairman, Charles Ekanem, commended the efforts of the Class of 2008 and encouraged the students to take advantage of the opportunities presented to them. “Education is the foundation of success, and we are here to support you on that journey,” he remarked.

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    The event also featured insightful talks from notable speakers, including former Girls’ Senior Prefect Mrs. Felicia Bassey, Mrs. Promise Osa, Michael Ogbor, Emeka Mboto, and many other alumni who graced the occasion.

    The school’s principal, Mrs. Amayo Edet, expressed profound gratitude to the alumni for their thoughtful gesture and urged them to continue making a positive impact in their various fields. She also advised them to maintain unity and avoid leadership struggles within the association.

    Students were thrilled by the donations and mentorship, expressing appreciation for the Class of 2008’s generosity and commitment to their growth.

  • 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.

  • Asuquo Ekpenyong: Senate holds investigative hearing on Odukpani-Itu road, summons Julius Berger, CCECC MDs

    Asuquo Ekpenyong: Senate holds investigative hearing on Odukpani-Itu road, summons Julius Berger, CCECC MDs

    As a follow up to the motion raised by Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong on the urgent need to investigate the slow pace of work on the Odukpani – Itu federal highway, an investigative hearing was held on Wednesday, 27th November 2034 by the Senate Committee on Works.

    Officials of the Federal Ministry of Works alongside the contractors in charge of the repairs – Sermatech, Julius Berger, and CCECC, were also summoned by the committee with a view towards unearthing all the challenges that have led to the delays.

    The hearing was also attended by the President of the Senate, His Excellency Godswill Akpabio, and other ranking members of the National Assembly. In his remarks, HE Godswill Akpabio urged the committee to conduct a thorough investigation into the issues, as repair of the road should be treated as a National emergency. He recounted several personal sad experiences, including the loss of a classmate who was forced to use the waterways as an alternative and, unfortunately, drowned.

    Read Also: Senate urges FG to make Odukpani-Itu road national priority after Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong’s motion

    Also speaking, Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong described the heart wrenching recent case of a lady who was forced to give birth in a bus due to induced labour as a direct result of the bumps and potholes suffered over several hours on the same road. He lamented that the almost permanent state of disrepair defied all human logic given the annual budgetary allocations to the project.

    Support was also given to all the views by Senators, Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe and Eteng Williams, all from Cross River.

    The committee also frowned at the absence of the Managing Directors of both Julius Berger and CCECC from the hearing and a motion was unanimously adopted summoning both MDs to appear at the next hearing, with a resolution stating that their failure to appear at the next hearing would immediately result in the issuance of an arrest warrant for both MDs.

    A minute of silence was also moved by the committee chairman, Senator Barinada Mpigi, in honour of all who had lost their lives as a result of the terrible state of the road.

  • Kulturama, massive platform to tell C’River’s story – MD Tourism Bureau

    Kulturama, massive platform to tell C’River’s story – MD Tourism Bureau

    By Christian Njoku

    Mr Ojoi Ekpenyong, Managing Director, Cross River’s Tourism Bureau has disclosed that Kulturama Festival would be a massive platform to tell the state’s story to the outside world.

    Ekpenyong said this on Tuesday in Calabar during a Press Conference on the festival scheduled to take place from Feb. 13 to Feb. 16, 2025.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Kulturama which is being organised by Delfaro Production in partnership with Cross River’s Tourism Bureau is a festival to showcase the rich culinary art, culture, and talents in Cross River.

    It would also have competitions, stunts from professional bikers and would be held at the popular Marina Resort, Calabar, during the Valentine period.

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    The MD who lauded the effort of the organisers of the event said the four day festival would be used to market Cross River, showcasing its tourism potentials to the whole world.

    “We are happy to partner with the organisers for this festival because this is exactly what Gov. Bassey Otu is looking out for, private sector partnership, we will try to make this a Year event.

    On his part, Kulturama Festival Director, Mr Harmony Ikwoh, said the festival became necessary to showcase the rich heritage of Cross River adding that the state had not really done itself justice in showcasing what it has.

    Ikwoh who doubles as the Managing Director, Delfaro Production, said the people of the state needed to start telling the right stories of Cross River’s food and culture.

    “If you pick up your phone and google Cross River and narrow it down to Cross River’s foods  the image search results shows that we have not really done ourselves Justice.

    “Around the country Cross River is known for its food, as Calabar kitchen is seen everywhere, unfortunately, many of these restaurants are run by people of other tribes especially Igbos, this is why we have come up with this concept.

    Similarly, the Programme Coordinator of Kulturama, Mrs Justina Ovat said it is their belief that the festival would increase visitors traffic to the state, promote its cultural heritage and project its cuisines.

    She added that it will also help in talent discovery in the state, as there would be different competitions ranging from culinary, art and other areas.

    (NAN)

  • Ikom Local Government Chair Inspire Youths By Committing To Support Newly Formed Youth Mobilisers Community

    Ikom Local Government Chair Inspire Youths By Committing To Support Newly Formed Youth Mobilisers Community

    To boost youth participation in governance, the Cross River State Government has inaugurated a 66-member Youth Mobilisers Community. The first phase began with the launch of the central senatorial district community over the weekend in Ikom.

    Coordinated by the office of the Special Adviser to Governor Bassey Otu on Youth Mobilisation, they will be responsible for driving the government’s policies and getting youths’ buy-in.

    Speaking at the launch, the Special Adviser to Governor Bassey Otu, Comrade Daniel Obo said the task before them is herculean. Warning that “Anyone not ready to serve, thinking it’s a money-making process should withdraw immediately.”

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    On more benefits of the Youth Mobilisers Community, Obo added “It is an avenue where young people can have and also assist in facilitating others to have access to government programmes at all levels meant for them.”

    He revealed that the launch will continue in the remaining two senatorial districts – north and south.
    The  Chairman of Ikom local government area, Pastor Mercy Nsor was elated about the initiative. She pledged to support the Youth Mobilisers Community.

    According to her, “I am standing here as the mother of the youths, boys and girls, to support you, especially in this season where we are building structures to strengthen the good works of His Excellency, Senator Bassey Edet Otu, and Her Excellency, Bishop Eyoanwan Otu.”

    Thanking the think-tank of the initiative, she asserted “I want to thank you all, especially our leader, SA on Youth Mobilisation, Comrade Daniel Obo Jr., for gathering here today for a good course, and I want to believe God that as you work with him to build the Central Youths, you will succeed.
    “I want to implore us to key into what this Town Hall Meeting would bring, its leadership and visions. On my own, I’ll discuss your visions with Her Excellency and I am sure she’ll give you the needed support.”

    The Chairman of the event, Hon. Kasetima Mentui, Councillor representing Ikom Urban Ward II and Deputy Leader of Ikom Legislative Council, and Hon. Markpeace Osim, Councillor representing Ofutop Ward II and Majority Leader of Ikom Legislative Council, also pledged their support for the inaugurated Community, charging other youths to make themselves available so that when opportunities come, they won’t be left behind.

    One of the youths, Abiam Douglas Ewa of Abo Ward in Boki LGA was supercharged by the town hall meeting as he revealed that this has deepened his faith in the current administration.
    The Guest Speaker, Dr. Agbor Onyi, presented a paper on the theme “Season of Sweetness Reloaded: The Place of the Central Youth.”
    Dr. Agbor gave the participants a peep at the opportunities that can be tapped from.

    Among the distinguished panellists are Honourable Markpeace Osim, Majority Leader of the Ikom Legislative Council; Wofai Eteng Otu, a champion for gender equality and DG of the Cross River State Political Network; Comrade Nji Nji, a vibrant voice for youth advocacy; and Samaroh Irek, CEO of Samasa Farms and a trailblazer in agriculture and entrepreneurship.

    Source: TheInvestigator

  • WIPF trains young women in Cross River State, charges them to actively participate in politics

    WIPF trains young women in Cross River State, charges them to actively participate in politics

    By Alisha Johnson

    As part of her effort to encourage and foster an inclusive governance, the Women in Politics Forum (WIPF) has trained and inducted young women in Cross River State into the young women in politics academy.

    With support from UN Women and Global Affairs Canada, the 3-day training held at Adsuit hotel, Calabar from Wednesday 20 to Friday 22 November, 2024, the academy aims to raise a critical mass of young women who are intentional about changing the political narrative.

    Speaking about academy, the President of WIPF, Barrister Ebere Ifendu explained that it was birthed out of a concern that women especially the young ones were not fully represented in politics “The idea behind this is that we discovered in the course of the work we do that young girls are marginalized in politics and those who are interested do not know how and where to start, so we decided to set up this academy to guide them, teach and build their capacity to be part of politics.

    Admonishing the participants she said “the narrative is that we have a low percentage of women in politics so we expect that this young women will take the political community by surprise by contesting and winning at a time people are not is giving them an opportunity. They should be able to create that space for themselves and participate generally in other aspect of politics”. She also seized the opportunity to call on the government at all levels and legislative bodies to respect the gender policies and pass the gender bills (respectively) to enable the women contest and win election, emphasizing the readiness of women to take up leadership positions.

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    One of the facilitators, Ijeoma Udensi expressed optimism that the new generation young girls will do better to bring about the desired change, this is even as she applauded the mentorship initiative by the Women in Politics Forum which she believes will go a long way to promote inclusivity and give the young girls the opportunity to soar on the the shoulders of the elders.

    Also speaking, the state coordinator, Women in Politics Forum, Glory Ndem, while appreciating the forum for coming to the state, said the training is a foundation that will strengthen the young women and build self confidence amongst them to make a difference “we encourage our young girls to go out there and make a difference and take the lessons as a foundation to build upon”

    Some of the participants expressed their gratitude to the Forum for giving them an opportunity to participate in such an insightful workshop while pledging to effectively utilise all they have been taught to effect a positive change in the leadership position both on campus and the circular world.

    Other dignitaries and facilitators in attendance were; Hon Rita, Mr Austin Aigbe, Pst Victoria Emah-Emah, Anthony Onomwem (UN Women representative) etc.

    The training also featured an election of members into vacant offices in the Young Women in Politics Forum, Cross River Chapter.

  • 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.

  • C’River: Olayi lists achievements as NYCN state chairman, prioritizes inclusivity

    C’River: Olayi lists achievements as NYCN state chairman, prioritizes inclusivity

     

    By Kelvin Obambon

    Comrade Emmanuel Olayi, state chairman of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Cross River chapter, has highlighted some of the achievements recorded five months into his administration.

    Olayi who spoke during the NYCN stakeholders meeting/leadership roundtable held at the Youth House in Calabar on Friday, disclosed that the council in collaboration with the Cross River State Ministry of Youth Development, has mobilized 1,000 young persons for a 3-month ICT training sponsored by the World Bank.

    He said the NYCN under his leadership was able to appeal to youths in the state not to join the nationwide hunger protest in October by working collaboratively with relevance agencies to dialogue with young persons. This, he added, had contributed to maintaining peace and tranquility in Cross River. He said the council had compiled and presented to the government a list detailing challenges faced by young people across the state.

    The council chairman further stated that “as a team we thought it wise to organize a free medical outreach for the host community. Over 100 persons from this community where the Youth House is located, benefitted from the medical outreach. Medications, counselling and health education were given to them. As offshoot of that we were able to identify persons who needed surgeries. Good enough we had the presence of the governor’s wife who immediately absorbed those persons into her free healthcare.”

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    He also said that the state chapter of NYCN had engaged and made representation on the Calabar-Itu road before the Minister of Youth Development and was optimistic that the Minister had followed it up with relevant federal government agencies responsible for the repair of the road.

    “We also requested that through her office she should relate with other ministers who are responsible to support agriculture. We informed her that the previous administration had done something on ‘Back To Farm’ which is geared towards helping young people. She accepted to take that to the Honourable Minister.

    “As an offshoot of that engagement, as I speak now we have about 25 young persons who have been in a camp in Port Harcourt for two weeks. They’ve been training them on different agricultural value-chain, and we expect to receive them tomorrow (Saturday). The feedback I got is that the programme has been rewarding,” he said.

    On the concluded local government elections, the NYCN chairman informed that “we advocated for young people to participate, and I am happy to announce that across party lines, young persons have been given privileges to run for office and a number of them have been elected. A number of them have also been selected as vice chairmen and they are currently serving. That’s a plus to us.”

    Emphasizing inclusivity as the thrust of the current NYCN leadership, Comrade Olayi announced that the council would unveil a structure to cater for people with special needs on the 3rd of December, 2024. He also said that plans were on to organize a youth summit in 2025, where young persons would engage with the government as an offshoot of the dialogue the council had during the nationwide hunger protest.

    In her remarks, the director of youths in the ministry of Youths Development, Jane Frances Kamgba, commended the youths for conducting themselves in a peaceful manner during the NYCN election, urging them to continue to be orderly as they represent the future of Cross River.

    She also commended the Chairman of the Council, Comrade Emmanuel Olayi for showing leadership in his engagements within and outside the state. She said the ministry would continue to support the NYCN to enable it achieve its mandates.

    There were also good will messages from stakeholders of the Council made up of past chairmen and leaders, Voluntary Youth Organizations among others.