Paradise News

Tag: Cross River State

  • C’River: NLC, TUC, CSOs, others dissociate themselves from nationwide protest

    C’River: NLC, TUC, CSOs, others dissociate themselves from nationwide protest

     

    By Kelvin Obambon

    The organized labour, Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), market women, entertainers, commercial drivers, student bodies, youth organizations, among others have all dissociated themselves from the planned nationwide protest in Cross River State, urging their members not to take part in the event billed for 1st August, 2024.

    The various groups made their positions known during a press briefing at the Metro Hotel Calabar on Wednesday.

    Addressing the press, Comrade Olayi Gregory the state chairman of Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC), said workers in the state would not participate in the nationwide protest. He said the last ENDSARS protest took Cross River 25 years backwards and that the NLC does not want a repeat of such protest.

    Comrade Monday Ogbodim, the Trade Union Congress (TUC) state chairman commended Governor Bassey Otu for approving N10billion for the payment of gratuity. He urged Cross Riverians to give him a chance and not to embark on any action that would disrupt the peace in the state.

    He recalled the level of damage done to the state in the last ENDSARS protest, stating that Cross River cannot afford another protest.

    Ogbodim stated that the organizers of the protest are faceless, adding “such protest is likely to be hijacked.”

    Meanwhile, representative of Civil Society Network, Dr MacFarlane Ejah, called for a roundtable discussion with the government, stressing that the planned nationwide protest can easily get out of hand and degenerate into an uncontrollable violence.

    State Chairman of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Comrade Emmanuel Olayi, on his part, opted for constructive dialogue over protest.

    Nta Effiom Henshaw, speaking on behalf of commercial drivers, said that transport operators in the state would not support protest of any kind.

    He used the opportunity to thank Governor Otu for addressing issues of insecurity and infrastructure, especially in the state capital. He also lauded the government for the reforms undertaken in the transportation sector to enhance security.

  • C’River govt flags-off fertilizer distribution across the state

    C’River govt flags-off fertilizer distribution across the state

    By Ovat Lawrence

    Cross River State Government has flagged off distribution of fertilisers to farmers in the state in order to boost crop production and ensure food security in the State.

    Flagging the distribution in a symbolic exercise held in the premises of Ikom Local Government Council for farmers within the Central senatorial district, the Chairman, House Committee on Agriculture, forestry and and natural resources, Hon.Bette Philip Obi emphasized the administration’s  intentional focus in restructuring the state’s economy and improving the lives of Cross Riverians through the agricultural sector.

    He remarked that the free distribution of fertilisers is aimed at reviving unproductive soil for increased yield and to address food insecurity, while admonishing benefiting farmers not to sell the inputs but rather make judicious use of the inputs to enable them upscale crop production.

    Hon. Obi appreciated Governor Bassey Otu for facilitating the delivery of the fertilisers to the State and lauded Commissioner Johnson Ebokpo for setting up an inclusive committee with a well tailored template that will ensure a hitch free distribution in the State.

    Speaking earlier, the Commissioner for Agriculture and Irrigation development, Hon. Johnson Andiambey Ebokpo who was represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of agriculture and irrigation development, Mr. Ekpe Bassey reflected with nostalgia, the critical role played by the agricultural sector in sustaining the economy.
    He outlined a comprehensive
    approach adopted by the administration of His Excellency, Senator Bassey Edet Otu in transforming the sector ranging from the state- wide soil mapping / fertility test, land development, procurement of 108 Mini tractors for small holder farmers, launching of Project Grow which is designed to help farmers access finance, to the recent being the free distribution of NPK and Urea fertilisers to real farmers across the state.

    Ebokpo disclosed that  for the purpose of the symbolic distribution the Extension Agents of the Cross River State Agricultural Development Programme, made use of their data base and carefully selected two farmers each from the 43 wards of Ikom, Obubra, Boki and Etung Local Government Areas totalling 86 farmers.
    Speaking further, the Commissioner informed that a template will be followed for actual distribution in collaboration with heads of value chains, farmer groups, Heads of Local Government Administration, traditional rulers and other stakeholders for a seamless exercise. He therefore urged beneficiaries to make use of the rare opportunity provided to increase their production and fight the challenge of food insecurity in the state while appreciating His Excellency, Prince Bassey Edet Otu for his magnanimous tendency towards Cross Riverians.

    In his goodwill message, the Paramount Ruler of Ikom, HRM. Minen Takon Atamgba Mkpa, expressed gratitude to the Governor and optimism towards the Governor’s agricultural initiatives, pledging more support for the present administration.

    The event drew critical stakeholders from different value chains as they equally presented good will messages. Notably were the State Coordinator for Cassava Value chain, venerable Augustine Oqua, Head of Local Government Administration, Ikom Elder Jonah Ikpi, HOLGA of Obubra MR.Ibangha Ike, HOLGA of Etung ,MR. Tony Edeh, and The State Chairman CFAN, Dr. Tiku Ndep.

    Others were: State Chairman, farmers council of Nigeria, Mr. Owen Oyama, the National Secretary of CFAN, Comr.Bassey Agbor Njar, State Chairman Cocoa and Coffee value chain, Dr. Assam Assam among others.

    Some farmers who received the fertilisers thanked government for the timely distribution and called for more support to the local farmers.

  • Protest at Psychiatric Hospital Calabar over management interference in union’s affairs

    Protest at Psychiatric Hospital Calabar over management interference in union’s affairs

     

    By Kelvin Obambon

    Protest broke out on Tuesday July 30th, 2024 at the Federal Neuro Psychiatric Hospital Calabar following the alleged interference of the hospital’s management in the affairs of the Senior Staff Association of Universities, Teaching Hospitals, Research Institutes and Associated Institutions (SSAUTHRIAI).

    The protest which was at the behest of the National Executive Committee (NEC) of SSAUTHRIAI, was led by the Chairman of the union, University of Calabar Teaching Hospital branch, Comrade Dominic Effiong.

    Speaking on behalf of the protesters, Effiong said that the protest was to show solidarity with the Federal Neuro Psychiatric Hospital branch of SSAUTHRIAI, where there has been a face-off between the union and the hospital management to an extent that the sector chairman at the national who was incidentally a former chairman of the branch was arrested by the police.

    “The past chairman of SSAUTHRIAI, Federal Neuro Psychiatric Hospital branch, who also happens to be the sector chairman of the health sector, Comrade Ken Bassey, was arrested on the 25th of July, 2024 in a commando style by the Anti Robbery unit of the Nigeria Police Force as a common criminal.

    “When the information of his arrest got to us we did everything possible to ensure that he was released. When we got to the station we discovered that the bone of contention was the handing over of a bus. To me that’s not an issue. For a person of that caliber to be arrested in a union matter leaves much to be desired. Union issues should be resolved by members of the union,” he said.

    Comrade Effiong regretted that despite being a senior staff of the Federal Neuro Psychiatric Hospital, the management did not show any concern in the arrest of the sector chairman, which made it suspicious that the management had a hand in it.

    He further disclosed that there had been a failed attempt to conduct election for the Psychiatric Hospital branch of the union, which culminated in the setting up of a caretaker committee that the management had since refused to recognize.

    Corroborating the position of the SSAUTHRIAI Chairman UCTH, the sector chairman, Ken Bassey, in an interview with our correspondent, explained that his travail began when he was elected to the position of a sector chairman overseeing all federal health institutions in the country.

    “Before then I was elected the branch chairman of SSAUTHRIAI in 2015. My tenure was suppose to expire by September 2023. But in 2022, due to my wonderful performance in the union people all over the country asked me to step up to the sector chairman. I contested and won the incumbent in Ilorin, Kwara State. After 6 months I thought it wise that it will not be good as a christian to be holding two positions at the same time.

    “I decided on the 1st of May 2023 to relinquish my position as branch chairman to the vice chairman who became acting chairman. The branch election was supposed to hold on the 23rd of May but we suddenly discovered that the two candidates running for the position of chairman were from the same unit, which is against the union’s constitution. When the both candidates refused to agree for one person from the unit to stand in the election, the NEC disqualified the two of them.”

    He stated that the disqualification of the candidates did not go down well with the management because according to him, one of them was fronted by the hospital’s leadership. For failing to have their way, Bassey said the management resorted to dealing with an exco that was dissolved and suspended over anti union activities, having refused to recognize the caretaker committee put in place by the NEC.

    On the issue of vehicle that led to his arrest by the police, the sector chairman explained that he was duly authorized to take the vehicle as a parting gift.

    “The vehicle is still impounded by the police even when I presented the documents that transfer the ownership of the vehicle to me,” he said.

    On his part, Comrade Dennis Ekpo, the caretaker committee chairman of SSAUTHRIAI Federal Neuro Psychiatric Hospital branch, said the inability of the union to conduct election was due to management’s interference, and that since the committee came on board the management of the hospital has disregarded it and bluntly refused to acknowledge its legitimacy.

    “Their reason is a very flimsy one. That the letters we got were doctored and gotten from somewhere in Calabar. We made efforts to reach out to some top management members who did not agree with the position of the Acting Medical Director. The medical director singlehandedly refused to recognize the caretaker committee. It has not been easy for the caretaker committee but we have kept the peace,” he said.

     

  • IPAC Chairman CRS Advices PDP and other 18 Political Parties From Participating In The Planned Protest

    IPAC Chairman CRS Advices PDP and other 18 Political Parties From Participating In The Planned Protest

    The Inter-Party Advisory Council Chairman in Cross River State Engr. Effiom Edet Okon has called on Political Parties of the State to stay off the nation wide protest billed to commence on the 1st of August, 2024 or any form of protest.

    The IPAC Chairman made this known in Calabar at the office of the SA Inter-Party Affairs when they meet on the 26th of July, 2024.

    Engr Effiom expressed empathy towards the State of the nation’s economy, and noted that protest ordinarily should not be viewed as a  problem but that the biggest issue will be hijacking the whole process tracing antecedence to records of what we experienced in Calabar in the previous ENDSARS protest.

    Effiom Edet analyzed the ENDSARS protest which culminated in the destruction of properties, theft, lost of lives and numerous ill-fated behaviors from most protesters, appealed to all Political Parties Leaders to send warnings to all their structures across the State to desist from joining the protest.

    He further cited another instance where the popular State owned newspaper corporation which he doesn’t want to mention name is yet to be revitalized, the then State library currently undergoing serious revamp and millions of naira already being sunk in to ensure it is fully revitalized to commence operation. He opined that such expenditure would go a long way to address needs in other grey areas such as human capital development, empowerment, etc.

    Finally, he advised all Political Parties in a general spectrum to shun irrational, uncalculated and evil driven form of protest and reassured them the readiness of the current administration to continually deliver dividends of democracy as a benchmark for THE SEASON OF SWEETNESS.

  • NYCN urges Cross River youths to stay away from nationwide protest

    NYCN urges Cross River youths to stay away from nationwide protest

    …Opts for constructive dialogue

    By Kelvin Obambon

    The National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) Cross River chapter has called on youths in the state not to participate in the proposed nationwide protest billed for 1st August, 2024.

    The call was made by the state chairman of the NYCN, Comrade Emmanuel Olayi, during a town hall meeting at the Council Secretariat in Calabar on Monday 29 July, 2024.

    Revealing the position of the youth body over the planned nationwide protest, Comrade Olayi stated that while the Council was not unmindful of the prevailing conditions in the country that trigger the call for protest, a more
    constructive approach through dialogue and engagement should rather be adopted towards addressing the issues.

    “I address you today as the Chairman of the National Youth Council of Nigeria, Cross River State Chapter, with a deep sense of responsibility and concern. In light of the prevailing challenges in our nation, there is a planned nationwide protest against bad governance. While the frustrations and grievances that fuel such actions are understood, I appeal to all youths in Cross River State to refrain from participating in this protest.

    “The recent history of protests, particularly the #EndSARS movement, provides a stark reminder of how well-intentioned actions can be hijacked by elements with malicious intent, leading to violence, destruction, and loss of lives and properties. We cannot afford a repeat of such tragic events.

    “While acknowledging the severe economic difficulties and the pressures faced by our people, I believe that protest, in this instance, may not be the most effective means of advocating for change. Instead, I call for a more constructive approach through dialogue and engagement.

    “I assure you that my team and I are committed to addressing your concerns. We are actively engaging with youths across the state to gather first-hand information about your challenges and aspirations. This grassroots approach ensures that we have a comprehensive understanding of the issues at hand.

    “We are advocating for the following measures to alleviate the hardships faced by our youths:

    “Reactivation of the Scholarships Board and Implementation: The leadership of the youths thank the government for reactivating the Scholarships programme and we also urge His Excellency to ensure that the scholarships are readily available and accessible to the youths of Cross River State to promote education and skill development.

    “Bursaries: Providing financial support to Cross River students and youths to ease their academic burdens and encourage higher education.

    “Agricultural and Entrepreneurial Aid: Offering funding and resources to support youth involvement in agriculture and entrepreneurship, fostering self-reliance and economic growth.

    “Job Opportunities: Creating employment opportunities for young people by advertising and recruiting into the State Civil Service.

    “Health Insurance Scheme: Expanding the Cross River Health Insurance Scheme to cover young Cross Riverians, including artisans and unemployed youths, ensuring access to essential healthcare services.

    “Infrastructural Development: We commend the current  administration for their strides in Infrastructural development and we urge them to Continue and even expand in key critical infrastructural projects to cover more rural areas, thereby improving living standards and economic opportunities for all.

    “Additionally, we call on the authorities at the local government level to engage with youths in their respective LGAs. Addressing the issues affecting youths at the grassroots level is crucial for fostering a peaceful and harmonious society. By working together, we can build a better Cross River State for everyone.

    “Above all, peace is sacrosanct. As a council and as leaders, we must do everything within our power to sustain peace. It is through dialogue, not protest, that we can achieve meaningful progress.

    “Rest assured, we will relay your concerns directly to the appropriate authorities with the urgency they deserve. Our goal is to ensure that your voices are heard and that concrete actions are taken to alleviate the hardships we all experience.

    “In conclusion, I appeal to your sense of responsibility and patriotism. Let us choose dialogue over protest, and constructive engagement over confrontation. Together, we can work towards a better Cross River State and a more prosperous Nigeria,” he said.

  • Breaking: Entertainers In Cross River Take Stand Against Planned Nationwide Protest

    Breaking: Entertainers In Cross River Take Stand Against Planned Nationwide Protest

    Stakeholders in Cross River State Entertainment space have taken a stand against the planned nationwide protest against economic hardship.

    The entertainers who converged at Prof. Eyo Ita House, Marian Road, Calabar, on Monday, unanimously declared that they and their fans would not join the proposed protest, and therefore called on people in Cross River not to participate.

    More details to come…

  • Fresh Judicial Battle In Cross River Over Assembly Speakership: As Joseph Odey Goes To Court

    Fresh Judicial Battle In Cross River Over Assembly Speakership: As Joseph Odey Goes To Court

    On  May 22, 2024 commotion stuck at the Cross River State House of Assembly in Calabar, when a motion for the removal of the Speaker of the House Honorable Alvert Ayambem, was moved by Honorable Effiong Ekarika representing Calabar -south-1 state constituency, and was seconded by Honorable Charles Omang representing Bekwarra State Constituency.

    The motion was later affirmed and supported by 17 out of the 25 Members of the state House of Assembly, thus declaring the Speaker Alvert Ayambem removed as Speaker of the Assembly, following allegations of misconduct, financial mismanagement and incompetence.

    However, on May 25, 2024, Governor Bassey Otu convened a meeting with all 25 House members on the matter, perhaps with a view to resolving the crisis, few days later, on May 27, 2024, media aid to the Speaker Matthew Okache, issued a statement, confirming that the Speaker Honorable Alvert Ayambem has been reaffirmed by all 25 law makers:

    The statement reads in parts: “Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem has been unanimously reaffirmed as Speaker of the tenth Assembly of Cross River State. The reaffirmation of Ayambem followed a rapprochement brokered by the state
    governor, Senator Bassey Otu and critical stakeholders with the 25-member Assembly in Calabar yesterday. Ayambem expressed his appreciation to the governor and the concerned stakeholders for showing extraordinary leadership during challenging times.”

    Meanwhile, the above decision has since generated reactions from the public, the latest of which is a Court order  obtained by Mr. Joseph Odey, Director General of Youth Action Network (YAN), and an All Progressive Congress (APC) member in Cross River State, seeking to restrain Honorable Alvert Ayambem from being recognized as Speaker of the 10th Assembly of Cross River State.

    Odey is also seeking in Suit number HC/166/2024 between Joseph Odey and The Governor of Cross River State, Attorney general of the state, Clark of the House and all 25 Members of the house of Assembly, a declaration that the Speaker, remains removed, and should not be recognized as Speaker of the Assembly amongst other prayers.

    In his prayers to the court, Mr Joseph Odey is of the opinion that, “Cross River State is at risk of governmental disruption due to the absence of a duly elected Speaker of the House of Assembly. Without a validly elected Speaker, the laws passed by the House are invalid, hindering the Governor’s ability to govern effectively.

    “To uphold democratic principles, Cross River State must follow proper procedures in selecting its Speaker in line with the rules laid down by the House of Assembly for itself in 2011. The impeachment of Mr. Elvert Ayambem was lawful, but his continued role as Speaker is not; because he was not re-elected according to the Assembly’s rules.Governance requires following laid down rules and processes.”

    Mr Odey further buttresses that, “The Speaker cannot be chosen outside the House chamber. After Mr. Elvert’s impeachment, a formal election must take place within the Assembly to determine the new Speaker. To safeguard good governance and democracy, I have brought motions before the Cross River State High Court asking the Court to:

    “Restrain government officials from recognizing Mr. Ayambem as Speaker until this matter is heard and decided by the Court. Restrain Mr. Elvert Ayambem from acting as Speaker until the matter is heard and decided by the Court. A properly functioning legislature is necessary for effective governance and the progress of our state and I believe that the Court, in its wisdom, will ensure that we get a properly functioning House of Assembly once again.”

  • NDDC Provides Emergency Solar-Powered Street Lights to Uyanga, Iko Communities in Akamkpa

    NDDC Provides Emergency Solar-Powered Street Lights to Uyanga, Iko Communities in Akamkpa

    In a commendable effort to enhance security and improve the quality of life for residents, the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has installed emergency solar-powered street lights in the Uyanga and Iko communities of Akamkpa Local Government Area. This initiative, spearheaded by the NDDC under the leadership of Cross River State Representative Rt. Hon. Orok Duke, aims to address critical infrastructure needs in these areas.

    Street lighting plays a pivotal role in community safety and well-being. Properly lit streets are essential in deterring criminal activities, thereby creating a safer environment for residents. The installation of these solar-powered street lights is particularly significant in regions where electricity supply is erratic, offering a reliable alternative source of illumination.

    Rt. Hon. Orok Duke highlighted the broader vision of the NDDC in his reaction to our reporter. “The NDDC will continue to assist the state to bring relief to the state. As an interventionist agency, we are not limiting our scope. Street lights is a security measure to curb crime. We are looking forward to providing these lights to the hinterlands to serve as alternative source of electricity to our people and this is one of the thematic area of the commission,” he stated.

    Beyond enhancing security, the provision of solar-powered street lights brings numerous other benefits. It extends the hours of economic activities, allowing local businesses to operate longer into the evening. Additionally, it promotes social cohesion by enabling residents to safely participate in communal activities after dark.

    The initiative reflects the NDDC’s commitment to sustainable development in the Niger Delta region. By utilizing solar energy, the Commission not only addresses immediate needs but also promotes environmental sustainability. Solar-powered solutions reduce dependence on non-renewable energy sources, thereby contributing to the fight against climate change.

    Community leaders and residents of Uyanga and Iko have expressed their gratitude for the NDDC’s intervention. They noted that the new street lights have already begun to make a noticeable difference in their daily lives, providing a sense of security and improving the overall ambiance of their communities.

    The successful implementation of this project underscores the importance of collaborative efforts between government agencies and local communities. It sets a precedent for future initiatives aimed at improving infrastructure and enhancing the quality of life in rural areas.

    As the NDDC continues to roll out similar projects across the Niger Delta, it remains committed to addressing the diverse needs of the region. The provision of solar-powered street lights in Uyanga and Iko is a testament to the Commission’s dedication to fostering development and ensuring the well-being of all residents.

  • Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong Facilitates Distribution of Fertilizers to Farmers in C’River South

    Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong Facilitates Distribution of Fertilizers to Farmers in C’River South

    The Senator representing C’River Southern Senatorial District, Distinguished Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong has facilitated the distribution of 1200 bags of fertilisers to farmers across the 7 local government areas in the District.

    In a bid to help improve the productivity of their farm produce in the next harvest, and to ensure that the distribution trickled down to the core farmers, the exercise was credibly done with the farmers themselves.

    According to Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong, “One of the major problems we have in the Country is shortage of food; so, we are trying to boost food production in Nigeria.

    “The fertilisers are not to be sold, do well to make good use of them. The aim is for you to have increase in your harvest.”

    Comrade Oqua Edet Oqua, Director General of his 2023 election campaign revealed that, “This is to support the local farmers in Southern Senatorial District so that their yields can be more.

    “I am sure he is doing this to also bolster up the Governor’s effort on assisting the farmers in Cross River State – as a partner in progress.”

  • Engage in constructive dialogue with govt, Cross River South Consultative Forum reacts to planned protest

    Engage in constructive dialogue with govt, Cross River South Consultative Forum reacts to planned protest

    RE: Nationwide Protest on 1st August 2024

    The Cross River South Consultative Forum (CRSCF) acknowledges the constitutional right of citizens to peacefully assemble and protest. This right is a cornerstone of democracy, providing a lawful avenue for citizens to express their grievances and advocate for change. However, in light of the planned nationwide #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria protest on 1st August 2024, we are calling on all indigenes and residents of Cross River State, especially those in Calabar, the state capital, not to participate in any protests, demonstrations, or anti-government marches for the following reasons:

    1. Security Concerns: The primary responsibility of any government is to ensure the safety and security of its citizens. Given the current state of insecurity in various parts of the country, large gatherings pose a significant risk of escalation and potential violence. The safety of our people cannot be compromised.

    2. Economic Stability: The aftermath of the EndSARS protest in 2020 saw extensive destruction of property and businesses in Cross River State. This resulted in significant economic setbacks and a loss of livelihood for many residents. The planned protest has the potential to cause similar disruptions, further compounding the economic challenges we currently face.

    3. Constructive Dialogue: It is essential to address grievances through constructive dialogue and engagement with relevant authorities. The CRSCF encourages all concerned citizens to utilize available channels for dialogue and advocacy, ensuring that their voices are heard in a manner that promotes unity and progress.

    4. Historical Precedent: The EndSARS protest, while well-intentioned, led to widespread devastation in our state. The looting, vandalism, and destruction of public and private property have left scars that are still healing. During the EndSARS protest, properties of prominent Cross Riverians were specifically targeted for destruction and looting. We must learn from our past and seek alternative ways to effect change without endangering lives and property.

    5. Potential for Hijacking: No matter how well-intentioned, the possibility of subterranean forces hijacking the protest to unleash massive destruction and looting of public and private properties is real. This risk cannot be ignored.

    6. Government Commitment: The government of Cross River State, led by Governor Bassey Otu, remains committed to addressing the issues of bad governance, insecurity, unemployment, and hunger. Efforts are ongoing to implement policies that will bring about sustainable development and improve the quality of life for all citizens. Constructive engagement with the government can yield more effective and lasting solutions.

    Finally, while the CRSCF respects the right to peaceful protest, we believe that the planned #DayOfRage demonstration on 1st August 2024 is not in the best interest of our state and its people. We urge all organizers and participants to prioritize peace, security, and constructive dialogue in our collective pursuit of a better Nigeria.

    We call on all citizens to join hands in building a more secure and prosperous Cross River State and Nigeria at large.

    Signed,

    Hon. Eyo Nsa Ekpo, Esq
    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
    Barr. Bassey Mensah
    Chief Felix Idem
    Prince Edwin Okon
    Ntufam (Hon) Okon Owuna
    Hon Charles Atu