Paradise News

Tag: Cross River State

  • Cocoa Farm Tussle: Investigate Police Brutality on Ichire Now, Lawyers Urge CP

    Cocoa Farm Tussle: Investigate Police Brutality on Ichire Now, Lawyers Urge CP

    By Our Reporter 

    A group of legal practitioners in Cross River has petitioned the Commissioner of Police in the State, Augustine Grimah, to urgently investigate the reported brutality meted out on a citizen, Ogo Ogar Ichire, by the police in Ikom, central Cross River.

    The lawyers, which is led by Barrister Sony Mgbe, said Ogo Ichire was “bound like a robber, gagged and then thrown into the boot of a car like luggage and taken to the police station and subjected to further torturous ordeal and detained in a cell with handcuff.”

    Barr Mgbe said the torture was linked to cocoa farm transaction which Mr Ichire leased out to one Mr Moses Uwaeme, and which the police did not properly investigate the propriety or otherwise of the claims presented to it before unleashing mayhem on Ichire, the owner of the cocoa farm.

    In a petition to the Police Commissioner, made available to our reporter in Calabar, Barr Mgbe, leading Barristers Felicia Nzuanke, Michael Omom, amongst others in the matter, faulted the lease agreement papers upon which the police acted to arrest and torture their client. He described the lease agreement presented by the lessee as fake.

    “Our client is the owner by customary inheritance of a large cocoa farm plot at Rotuk Farm Road, Okuni in Ikom local government area of Cross River state.

    “The clear understanding, custom and usage in the lease agreement was that the Lessee Mr. Moses Uwaeme was to clear the farm of weeds and shrubs at least thrice yearly to make the farm roomy and airy in order to boost productivity.

    “The Lessee was also to regularly spray the farm with such agro chemicals like gamalin 20, cocoa bre-sandoz, blue stone and allied chemicals but certainly not with carbite which is a burning and corrosive substance used by welders for iron works.

    “However, to our client’s dismay and chagrin, the Lessee did not do any of the above but was merely contented with wading through bushes and shrubs to pick cocoa pods and left the farm overgrown with weeds, algae and other parasitic climbers.

    “Our client did terminate the lease at its expiration in 2019 and retook possession and control of the farm.

    “Our client had been in active possession of his farm until the 2nd of March, 2024, when the said Moses Uwaeme using the Ikom Division Police invaded our client’s house in the dead of the night and picked up our client half naked to the station.”

    Similarly, a group, which addresses itself as Olulumo Heritage and Annals (OHA) of Olulomo kingdom in Cross River, has vowed to ensure justice is done over the mater.

    “The fact that they had preferred police intimidation and brutality in preference to the legal process of civil litigation seems to indicate that they have something to hide; that is to say that, they know that, the contractual document they are holding is actually a fake document.

    “What is amazing and disturbing is the fact that, further investigations by the Olulumo Heritage and Annals platform has revealed that one of our sons of Olulumo extraction, who is a practising State Counsel (a salaried employment) is getting himself deeply involved in this matter that falls strictly within the purview of private legal practitioners.

    “The heritage platform is, therefore, by this notice advising the State Counsel under reference or any other State Counsel who is meddling in this sordid matter to terminate their unlawful activities forthwith.

    “Our legitimate action against such meddlesome interference will be to place all matters of unethical conduct before the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee at the Body of Benchers in Abuja.

    “Let it be known that after this notice, we shall not hesitate to take this course of action as our next line of action in support of one of our compatriots who is currently facing persecution over his legitimate heritage that trancended to him from his father’s and forebears,” the group submitted.

    Efforts to speak with the State Public Relations Officer of the Cross River State Police Command, Irene Ugbo, did not yield any fruit as her telephone line could not connect as at press time.

  • C’River: Expert advocates use of forensic analysis for efficient gratuity payments

    C’River: Expert advocates use of forensic analysis for efficient gratuity payments

    By Christian Njoku

    Dr Damilola Fagboro, Director, International Academy of Forensic (IAF) on Thursday in Calabar asserted that the use of forensic analysis could help Cross River in efficient gratuity payment.

    Fagboro stated in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) at the sideline of the ongoing five-day training on “Forensic Analysis and Data Mining” for senior staff of Cross River’s Accountant General’s office.

    It would be recalled that the payment of gratuity was a challenge in Cross River for over 10 years until the administration of Gov. Bassey Otu came onboard and released N10 billion for the payment gratuities.

    NAN reports that there have been challenges with the payment for several of the retirees due to poor record keeping and irregularities.

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    The director said the use of biometric forensics would have seamlessly solved the problem of gratuities payment in the state if it was used.

    “With biometric forensics, the fingerprint, face, the day the gratuity was paid, the bank it was paid into and even if the person who should claim the gratuity is late, it would all be sorted.

    “When forensics is institutionalized, no one will have the confidence to come back for another gratuity when he had collected once,” he said.

    Speaking further, Fagboro said forensics was different from audit because of its  application of the principles of science and technology and it is required in every aspects of life to ensure credibility, not just in criminal cases.

    He however decried the issue of quackery which had bedevilled the profession, adding that training, certification and continuous development were the ways to go to enhance professionalism in the field.

    On her part, the Accountant General of Cross River, Mrs Glory Effiong said the training became necessary to bring her staff up to speed with the current realities of their positions and to enhance efficiency.

    “When I came in as the Accountant General, I noticed a huge training gap because a number of staff who were trained over the years had retired and the new hands had some level of deficiency.

    “It is important to state that if you don’t get your staff to know the basics in their  position, the day you need them to do simple bank reconciliation, they would remain there because they don’t know how to do it,” she said.

    She added that she expects better performance from the staff after the training.

    (NAN)

  • Cancer Centre takes fight against breast cancer to secondary schools in Cross River 

    Cancer Centre takes fight against breast cancer to secondary schools in Cross River 

    By Christian Njoku 

    Asi Ukpo Comprehensive Cancer Center has taken the fight against breast cancer to secondary schools in Cross River.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Centre which commenced its campaigns to schools in the month of Oct., generally accepted as the breast cancer month visited The Federal Government Girls College, (FGGC) Calabar on Oct. 18.

    Others were Saint Ane’s Highschool on Oct. 30 and Holy Child Secondary School on Nov. 7 to educate young girls on the dangers of breast cancer and how early detection could save lives.

    In an interview with NAN, on Thursday in Calabar, Mr Yegwa Ukpo, Executive Director of Asi Ukpo Cancer Center said they embarked on education of students because they were gradually seeing younger people coming forward with breast cancer diagnosis.

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    According to him, “if this kind of knowledge is instilled in the child it will be easier for the new generation of women to be able to get treatment when and as they should.

    “We also have the problem of stigma occasioned by culture, so, our campaigns are also to reinforce actions against the culture of denial of diagnosis while urging those engaging in faith and herbal cure to also visit an oncologist to increase their chances of healing,” he said

    Speaking further, Ukpo said cancer treatment was a multi-faceted and multi-disciplinary approach adding that even an oncologist does not handle cancer treatment alone without radiologists, medical physicists, radiotherapists, oncology nurses among others.

    He called on Nigerians especially the women and girls to be committed in carrying out proper personal breast examination which enhances early detection.

    On his part, Dr Maurice Nandul, a Clinical Oncologist with Asi Ukpo Cancer Centre said, targeting students was the way to go because they were young, still learning, capable of absorbing information and passing it across to others.

    Nandul said the challenge with cancer management in Nigeria was late presentation by a bulk of the patients, hence the need for regular screening which would go a long way in the fight against cancer.

    In their responses, the principals of the schools visited, thanked the centre for the enlightenment, adding that they would continue to reemphasize the information with students, especially that of personal breast examination.

    (NAN)

  • Global Warming: Governor Bassey Otu Signs Bill To Establish Climate and Green Economy Commission

    Global Warming: Governor Bassey Otu Signs Bill To Establish Climate and Green Economy Commission

    The Cross River State governor, Sen Bassey Edet Otu has signed into law, a bill to establish a Climate and Green Economy Commission.

    The event which took place at the Dan Archibong lodge, the temporary office of the governor in Calabar, the state capital, was witnessed by top government officials including the state Deputy Governor, secretary to the state government as well as the leadership of the state house of assembly.

    The governor who said that the law was aimed at preserving the rich biodiversity of the state, maintained that it  marked “another bold step by my administration to engender a sustainable environment through the protection of the rich and yet fragile ecosystem of Cross River State..

    “For us in Cross River State, the environmental consciousness among the citizenry is simply our way of life. Almost all our actions are guided by the principle of “LIVING AT PEACE WITH NATURE”. This consciousness had greatly contributed to the mitigation of natural catastrophes that our geographical zone is proned to. We have halted and reversed community based deforestation activities by adopting sustainable farming practices.

    According to governor Otu, “the key element of the nature-positive strategy is the regeneration method, whereby we have undertaken the planting of millions of trees in our depleted forests. We have also adopted controlled-logging of wood in our rainforests. It is our considered opinion that when our forests and other biodiversity hotspots are restored and protected, carbon will be assimilated, biodiversity enriched and air purified for our wellbeing.

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    “The signing of the Climate and Green Economy Bill today is therefore a sign of our renewed drive towards the Nature-Positive Strategy (NPS).
    The Nature-Positive Strategy is a deliberate action of my administration to enhance the resilience of our forests by halting and reversing natural habitat loss; it is the foundation of our Green Economy,” he emphasized.

    Speaking earlier, the speaker of the state house of assembly, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem, appreciated the legislators for doing a great job by ensuring that relevant stakeholders were carried along in the cause of putting up the bill. He expressed satisfaction at the level of work done by members of the house, especially the house committee on environment, Hon. Ovat Agbor and members of his committee who worked tirelessly to ensure that a good job was done.

    Cross River State apart from hosting the largest rainforest in the country, has become the first sub-national to set up such an important commission, deliberately taking measures to address the issue of climate change.

    THINK CROSS RIVER Group
    7th November, 2024
    Calabar

  • Leo Club organizes fundraising to combat hunger among pupils in Cross River

    Leo Club organizes fundraising to combat hunger among pupils in Cross River

    By Joseph Abasi-Abasi

    The Calabar Canaan City Leo Club, affiliated with the Calabar Canaan City Lions Club, is set to initiate a Hunger Project as part of its 2024 fundraising efforts, targeting hunger issues faced by pupils in Cross River.

    This announcement was made during the investiture of Leo Bill Utsu as the club’s 41st President, along with his board of directors for the 2024/2025 service year.

    In his acceptance speech, Utsu emphasized various impactful initiatives aimed at addressing pressing community needs, affirming his administration’s dedication to making these projects both successful and sustainable.

    He stated, “Hunger is a major obstacle to learning for many children. Our Hunger Project aims to provide meals for underprivileged students at a local school, ensuring they receive proper nutrition to enhance their focus, learning, and overall potential.

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    “We also intend to support children in the Pediatric Ward of the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital, as we recognize the significant challenges they face.

    “This year, our commitment includes environmental preservation through tree planting efforts, waste management campaigns, and community clean-ups.

    Utsu called for partnerships with individuals and organizations that share similar goals, asserting, “By working together, we can significantly increase our impact and achieve far more collectively than we could on our own.”

    During the event, Calabar Canaan City Leo Club honored Lion Odudu Udofia, who represented Mr. Mfon Uwa, founder of Yiieldy Technologies Limited, with an award for innovation in agriculture.

    Additionally, Lion Ifeanyi Ndokwu MJF, president of the Calabar Canaan City Lions Club, received an award for excellence in banking and leadership.

  • Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong Facilitates 202 Free Surgeries in CSDON/WSF Medical Outreach

    Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong Facilitates 202 Free Surgeries in CSDON/WSF Medical Outreach

    Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong, in collaboration with the Child Survival and Development Organisation of Nigeria (CSDON) and the World Surgical Foundation, has successfully completed a five-day, free Medical Mission at the Calabar Women and Children Hospital, Murtala Muhammed Highway, Calabar. The Mission held from Monday, October 28th, to Saturday, November 2nd, 2024, the outreach provided free surgical care to residents of Cross River South, exceeding its target with 202 surgeries performed.

    The medical mission offered a range of surgical interventions, including treatments for fibroid, goitre, lipoma, hernia, appendix, lumps, and other minor bumps. Additionally, free bus services were available to transport patients from designated locations across Odukpani, Bakassi, Akpabuyo, and Calabar South, ensuring accessibility for those in need. These buses facilitated daily pickups, enabling participation from various communities.

    Speaking on behalf of Senator Ekpenyong, his representative, Charles Ekanem, commended the collaborative effort between CSDON, the World Surgical Foundation, and local health workers. Ekanem emphasized the Senator’s commitment to enhancing healthcare access, particularly for vulnerable populations who might otherwise lack access to essential surgical care. “Senator Ekpenyong’s focus on healthcare outreach aims to improve community well-being and foster sustainable healthcare access in Cross River South,” Ekanem stated.

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    Gabriel Adim, representing the Child Survival and Development Organisation of Nigeria, highlighted the power of partnerships in delivering impactful healthcare services. “CSDON is dedicated to initiatives that support the health and survival of children and families,” Adim noted. “Through our collaboration with Senator Ekpenyong and the World Surgical Foundation, we can provide essential surgical interventions to those who might otherwise go untreated.” Adim also praised the volunteer medical teams and local coordinators for their commitment to the outreach’s success.

    Beneficiaries, including Felix Andem and Florence Ekong, expressed their gratitude for the free medical care. Andem, who underwent surgery for a hernia, shared, “This outreach has changed my life. I have been struggling with this condition for years but could not afford surgery until now.” Florence, who was treated for fibroids, echoed this sentiment, stating, “The free medical outreach came at the perfect time for me. I am grateful to Senator Ekpenyong and the mission partners for this life-changing opportunity.” Their testimonials underscore the positive impact of the outreach on the community.

  • 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.

  • C’River IPAC Congratulates Gov Otu, CROSIEC, and Newly Elected Council Chairmen on Successful LGA Election

    C’River IPAC Congratulates Gov Otu, CROSIEC, and Newly Elected Council Chairmen on Successful LGA Election

    The Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) in Cross River State, led by Chairman Engr. Effiom Edet Okon, has officially congratulated Governor Bassey Otu, the Cross River State Independent Electoral Commission (CROSIEC), and the newly elected local government chairmen and councilors following the successful conclusion of the state’s recent Local Government Council Elections.

    In a statement, Engr. Edet Effiom commended the peaceful and transparent election process, noting that the outcome is a clear reflection of the confidence citizens have in their leaders. “Your victories are indeed a reflection of the level of confidence the citizens repose in you, having undergone a peaceful and credible process conducted by CROSIEC,” Edet Effiom said. He described the election as a significant milestone in the state’s political landscape, with results that the hopes and needs of the people.

    The election, which saw council chairmen elected in all eighteen local government areas and councilors for 196 wards across the state, was conducted smoothly under the supervision of CROSIEC. Edet Effiom praised both Governor Otu and CROSIEC for their commitment to the success of the process, which he said gave every political party an equal opportunity to compete. Although IPAC had hoped for broader representation in some wards from other political parties, Edet Effiom emphasized that the election results demonstrate the democratic will of the people in majority.

    Reflecting on the challenges of local governance, Engr. Edet encouraged the newly elected officials to be prepared for the tasks ahead. “The governance of the local government is a Herculean task,” he noted, “but with the grace of God, your wealth of knowledge, and experience, I believe you will deliver on your campaign promises for the betterment of Cross River State.” He urged the officials to focus on sustainable development initiatives that address the pressing needs of the people, building on the framework established by the Gov. Otu administration to support industrial, social growth and to put the people first.

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    Engr. Edet Effiom expressed confidence that the elected leaders, with their varied expertise and commitment to service, would bring new solutions to local issues. “Evidently, your vision has received wide acceptance through the ballot, and I am convinced that your mantra will start manifesting in indelible footprints of development,” he added, pointing to the mandate given by the people as  leaders’ readiness to drive positive change.”

    In closing, Edet Effiom called on the new council chairmen and councilors to prioritize people-centered initiatives, describing their election as an opportunity to set exemplary standards in leadership and community development. He wished them success in their new roles, concluding with a prayer for their guidance and wisdom in serving Cross River State.

  • Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong Rallies Support for Cross River South APC Candidates Ahead of Local Government Elections

    Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong Rallies Support for Cross River South APC Candidates Ahead of Local Government Elections

    …Joins Final Ward-to-Ward Campaigns with Calabar Municipality and Calabar South Candidates

    In support of the upcoming local government elections, Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong joined Pastor Patrick Archibong, popularly known as Pato, on his final campaign tour to Idang and St. Mary Primary School in Ward 11, Calabar South Local Government Area. During this visit, Senator Ekpenyong engaged with party members and voters, urging them to back the APC candidates in Saturday’s election.

    The senator also joined Apostle James Anam, the APC flag bearer for Calabar Municipality to engage with the electorate across parts of Satellite Town.

  • Cross River Students Entrepreneurship, Employability, and Mentorship Summit (CR-SEEMS) 2024

    Cross River Students Entrepreneurship, Employability, and Mentorship Summit (CR-SEEMS) 2024

    The Government of Cross River State proudly presents the Cross River Students Entrepreneurship, Employability, and Mentorship Summit (CR-SEEMS) 2024, designed celebrate the 2024 international students Day, empowering students with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in the ever-evolving business landscape

    – Date: 19th November, 2024
    – Venue: Metropolitan Hotel, Calabar
    – Arrival: 18th November, 2024
    – Departure: 20th November, 2024
    – Reviews & Follow-up Engagement: 21st November, 2024

    CR-SEEMS 2024 aims at,

    1. Foster entrepreneurship and employability skills among Cross River students.
    2. Provide mentorship opportunities with successful entrepreneurs and industry experts.
    3. Promote innovation, creativity, and leadership.
    4. Enhance networking opportunities among participants.

    Key Features

    1. Inspiring keynote addresses from renowned entrepreneurs and thought leaders.
    2. Interactive workshops and masterclasses on entrepreneurship, business planning, and skill development.
    3. One-on-one mentorship sessions with experienced professionals and practical Follow-up for start-up.
    4. Funding opportunities for innovative ideas.
    5. Networking sessions with potential investors, partners, and collaborators.
    6. Scholarship opportunities

    Who to attend
    – Students from tertiary institutions in Cross River State
    – Young entrepreneurs and start-up founders especially in Agricultural related field, Tech, fashion/lifestyle etc.
    – Aspiring business leaders and innovators
    – Educators and professionals interested in entrepreneurship and mentorship
    Don’t Miss this Opportunity
    Join us at CR-SEEMS 2024 and take the first step towards becoming a successful entrepreneur, leader, or innovator. We look forward to seeing you in Calabar!

    To participate, register online at https://bit.ly/crseems2024

    Contact us @
    Email: sastudentsaffairs@crossriverstate.gov.ng
    Phone: 07034349137, 08066357571, 08107138131
    Website:

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