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Tag: Cross River State

  • NAPPS Cross River State clarifies misgivings amidst election controversy

    NAPPS Cross River State clarifies misgivings amidst election controversy

    In a recent announcement, NAPPS Cross River State addressed concerns raised by some members, refuting claims related to election guidelines, delegate composition, campaigning allegations, and more. The association urges members to remain focused, emphasizing support for a successful transition on February 5, 2024.

    Excerpts below as signed by 15 persons composing of the State Exco, Zonal Heads, Chapter Chairmen etc:

    After careful reflection, consultation, and deliberations, we the State Executive Council, Zonal Heads, Chapter Chairmen, and Critical  Stakeholders of NAPPS Cross River State, we wish to clear the air on certain misgivings by some persons in the Association under the appellation of NAPPS Stakeholders in Cross River State and we write to refute their positions as thus:

    1. Their position on Article 80 sub-section 3 of the NAPPS constitution is that election guidelines be released 60 days before an election. Indeed, the petitioners do not know the constitution they quoted as the provision states that SECOM is to release the guidelines 3 weeks before the election and this was released on the 8th of January, 2024 for the State election which is scheduled for 5th of February, 2024. This is 1 month and 3 days to the election.

    2. Their position on the composition and number of delegates by SECOM is defective as the composition of delegates for the election is already captured in the NAPPS constitution, Article 18, hence it would have been superfluous to restate what has already been stated.

    3. Their allegation of members of SECOM campaigning for candidates is laughable, especially as it’s been branded within an executive concern. Well, he who alleges must prove.

    4. That members who participated in the conduct of chapter elections resigned to contest in the state election. However, they did not specify whether this concerns electoral position or appointment. We wish that Article 79.5 can be referred to. We want to also state that the qualification to contest or not to contest rests on the shoulders of SECOM saddled with the responsibilities to do so.

    5. On the issue of zoning, this was a gentleman’s agreement.   Anyone who is not satisfied should go to the field as neither the executive nor SECOM has the power to stop anyone from contesting, as election is a test of one’s popularity.

    6. On the demand for the resignation of the president and the Constitution of a transition Committee, we wish to state that his tenure and that of the executive did not end in May 2023 as alleged.

    7. The Chairman of NAPPS has not shied away from rendering a proper statement of account.
    We therefore urge all NAPPS members to remain focused and go about their normal businesses. We implore you all to continue to support this administration to a Successful Transition on the 5th of February, 2024.

  • Editorial: Governor Bassey Otu’s Attendance at Davos 2024 – A Catalyst for Cross River’s Growth

    Editorial: Governor Bassey Otu’s Attendance at Davos 2024 – A Catalyst for Cross River’s Growth

    By Cross River South Consultative Forum

    The World Economic Forum (WEF) 2024 which held on January 14-19, 2024, themed “Rebuilding Trust,” offered significant commendation for the efforts of Professor Klaus Schwab and his partners. The conference, continuing the trust-building theme from WEF 2022, encompassed four vital sub-themes:

    -Achieving security and cooperation in a fractured world,
    -Creating growth and jobs for a new era
    -Artificial intelligence as a driving force for the economy and society and
    -A long-term strategy for climate, nature, and energy.

    Nevertheless, the annual meeting presented another dimension for commendations especially for Cross River governor, Bassey Otu. In the heart of the nation’s paradise lies Cross River state, a region rich in cultural diversity, economic potential, and natural beauty. Governor Otu’s participation in the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting 2024 in Davos has opened a promising chapter for Cross River, casting a spotlight on the state’s opportunities for growth and development.

    Governor Bassey Otu’s presence at Davos 2024 marks a significant stride for Cross River. His participation underscores the state’s commitment to engaging on a global scale. This move brings attention to the untapped potential within Cross River, offering a platform for economic partnerships, cultural exchange, and showcasing the state’s unique offerings.

    Economic Opportunities
    Cross River boasts immense economic potential, encompassing sectors like agriculture, tourism, and commerce. Governor Otu’s involvement in Davos provides an avenue to attract foreign investments, establish strategic partnerships, and explore avenues for sustainable economic growth. The state’s 18 Local Government Areas present a diverse range of opportunities waiting to be harnessed.

    The state is endowed with abundant natural resources including gold, uranium, iron ore, tin ore, manganese, titanium, limestone, salt, coal, muscovite, kaoline, crude oil, lead zinc, feldspar, quartz, barite, diamond, graphite, pyrite, talc schist, rutile, tourmaline, amethyst, spring water, granite, bentonite, clay, and iron ore (hematite).

    Cultural Wealth
    Beyond economic endeavors, Cross River’s cultural richness is a gem waiting to be discovered. With its diverse ethnic groups, traditional festivals, and historical landmarks, the state has the potential to become a cultural hub. Governor Otu’s participation at a global stage like Davos opens doors for cultural exchange programs and initiatives, further establishing Cross River as a center for artistic and traditional expressions.

    Climate and Geography
    Blessed with a tropical climate and a diverse geographical landscape, Cross River exhibits a wide range of climatic conditions. From the high plateaus of Obudu with cool temperatures to the coastal city of Calabar experiencing significant rainfall, the state’s varied environment reflects its ecological richness.

    Looking Forward
    As we reflect on Governor Bassey Otu’s presence at Davos 2024, the Cross River South Consultative Forum sees immense possibilities for our beloved state. This is not just a representation; it is an opportunity to redefine Cross River’s narrative, attract investments, and foster collaborations that will propel us into a future marked by sustainable development, cultural vibrancy, and economic prosperity.

    Cross River, with its unique blend of history, climate, and cultural diversity, is ready to take center stage. With Governor Otu at the forefront, the world glimpses the untapped potential within our borders. As we navigate the path ahead, let us unite in our aspirations for a Cross River that shines on the global stage, a beacon of growth, diversity, and limitless possibilities.

    Signatories:
    Eyo Nsa Ekpo Esq.,
    Hon Joseph E. Etene Esq.,
    Prof Emmanuel Eyo Esq,
    Hon Victor Okon,
    Sir Maurice Effiwatt,
    Hon. Ada Charles Egwu,
    Rev James Anam, and
    Hon Ani Esin.

  • Cross River: Slave History Museum is no vendor in Marina Resort – Curator

    Cross River: Slave History Museum is no vendor in Marina Resort – Curator

    By Christian Njoku

    Mrs Omawunmi Ofumaka, Curator of the Slave History Museum, domiciled in the Marina Resort Calabar, has disclosed that the museum was not a vendor in the resort.

    Ofumaka made the assertion on Friday during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Calabar.

    The curator was reacting to the statement of Mr Ojoi Ekpenyong Managing Director, Cross River Tourism Bureau that the museum should pay N100,000 monthly as electricity bill for being in the resort.

    She said while there were many vendors in the resort, carrying out different activities and making money, the museum was not a money making venture.

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    She said what museums do was to hold the culture and beliefs of the people of a particular society to prevent an extinction of their heritage, that was why states should support their museums.

    “When the former administration in the state built the museum and handed it over to the Federal Government, it was the mother of the resort to remind the people of the scourge of slave trade and not a revenue point.

    “It was a baby project of the administration of former Gov. Donald Duke and successive governments have come and supported the museum; we have never paid bills here and we are not on rent in the museum building,” she said.

    While commending Gov. Bassey Otu for his support to the Old Residency Museum in Calabar, she expressed her disappointment on the statement by the MD Tourism Bureau that the museum should pay so much, monthly for electricity.

    She said at the end of every month’s expenses, what was left with the museum was usually a little above N20,000 because not many people visited the museum and many who did beg to be admitted for as low as N200 sometimes.

    According to her, the National Museum and Monuments own over 46 museums in the nation more than half of which were built by states and non pays such amount for electricity to run the museum.

    She urged the state government to partner more with the Slave History museum to ensure the preservation of the cultural heritage of the people and not come up with policies that could destroy it.

    On his part, Mr Steven Azele, the Curator of the Old Residency Museum said the Slave History Museum was not a business centre but to provide services to schools and the community.

    Azele who was a former curator of Slave History Museum noted that former MDs of the Tourism Bureau had supported the Slave History museum and the present administration should continue on that part.

    He called on the government of Cross River to call the Tourism Bureau to order adding that if the Slave History Museum was closed down it would affect the resort negatively.

  • Matawalle: Tension In Calabar As Police Arrest Activist, Disrupt Press Conference

    Matawalle: Tension In Calabar As Police Arrest Activist, Disrupt Press Conference

      

    …Insists Tinubu should suspend Defence Minister

    A press conference convened on Thursday by the National Movement for Defence of Democracy and Good Governance (NMDDGG) in Calabar, Cross River State capital, ended on a sour note as police swooped on its President, Goddie Akpama, and whisked him away.

    He was picked by police officers and taken to the State Command where he met the Commissioner of Police and made to sign an undertaking not to hold the protest conference or procession of any sort without due permission.

    Akpama was released after about two hours and told never to hold such a conference which was scheduled for the Chinese Restaurant Event Hall in State Housing Estate, Calabar.

    The action threw panic among journalists and activists as they discuss it in hushed tones.

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    The text of the briefing signed by Akpama and distributed among journalists before his arrest demanded that President Bola Tinubu should forthwith suspend and investigate a former Governor of Zamfara State and Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle just like he did to the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr.
    Betta Edu.

    Last week, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), said it would revisit the N70 billion case involving Matawalle.

    He said, “While we commend the expeditious actions taken against Dr. Betta Edu, our esteemed mentor, in response to allegations totaling N583 million, we are confounded by the continued tenure of the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, facing staggering money laundering allegations exceeding N70 billion, without undergoing the requisite investigations.

    “This glaring inconsistency raises fundamental questions about the principles of impartiality and justice that should be the bedrock of our nation.

    “We urgently call upon President Bola Tinubu to forthwith suspend Bello Matawalle as Minister, and we unequivocally demand the EFCC to reinitiate the investigation into the grave allegations against him.

    “The disconcerting reality is that our daughter faces repercussions for a comparatively trivial sum, while Bello Matawalle enjoys unhindered freedom despite facing monumental accusations. This exposes a disturbing pattern of gender bias and selective application of justice against women actively engaged in politics.

    “In response, we declare our intention to march from this location to formally submit a petition, emphasizing our insistence on equal treatment before the law.

    “We grant the EFCC a stringent two-week ultimatum to recommence investigations into Bello Matawalle’s alleged money laundering activities. Failure to comply will prompt us to rally our counterparts in the South South states, orchestrating a peaceful yet substantial protest at all EFCC offices within the region.

    “We ardently believe that the standards of justice and fairness applied to the southern part of Nigeria must be equally applicable to the North. The time has come for our nation to transcend the shackles of sentiment-driven politics, ushering in an era where justice is impartial, and equality prevails. Enough is enough.”

  • UNICAL holds first solemn assembly in 2024

    UNICAL holds first solemn assembly in 2024

    By Christian Njoku

    The University of Calabar (UNICAL), on Monday held its first solemn assembly for the year 2024 to herald a new academic session.

    Speaking at the service, held at the institution’s International Conference Centre on the theme “walk with me oh Lord”, Prof. Florence Obi, Vice Chancellor of UNICAL said the essence of the service was to hand the institution over to God.

    Obi said although it had become a tradition to seek God’s blessings at the beginning of every semester and session, there was a need for staff and students to personalize the theme of the service.

    “I thank God for sparing the lives of staff and students, I however charge you to continue to uphold the good name of the university which indicates the intention of the institution to walk with God and align with his ways.

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    “I also commend the Guest Speaker for accepting the invitation to share God’s precious words with the institution,” she said.

    Speaking on the theme of the event, the Guest Speaker, Rev. Fr. Francis Eworo,  said that God was ever prepared to walk with any individual or community if they were not distant from him.

    Eworo who focused his message on the book of Isaiah chapter one said for the walk to be enabled, men must repent of their sins, renounce evil, and turn back to God, changing their minds and direction.

    He described many assemblies of humans today as those in the days of Prophet Isaiah in Israel which were simply religious but did not know God.

    “Many worship assemblies are breeding rebellion and have become detestable to God.

    “I call on all staff and students to begin a needful walk with God, listen to and enjoy his company, align with his will and consequently produce much Christian fruit from their lives,” the clergyman said.

    The solemn assembly which was well attended by the the institution’s principal officers also had staff, student and a team of clergymen who officiated the service.

  • Cross River: Foundation distributes 570 bags of fertilizer, farm tools to vegetable farmers

    Cross River: Foundation distributes 570 bags of fertilizer, farm tools to vegetable farmers

    A group known as Rise and Thrive Humanitarian Foundation has distributed over 570, five kg bags of fertilizer to women vegetable farmers in the Anantigha area of Calabar-South Local Government Area.

    The donation which came in the form of an outreach initiative with the theme, “a blessing to humanity” saw the beneficiaries who were vegetable farmers in Anantigha come out in their numbers, singing and dancing in appreciation.

    In an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria, (NAN), the Director of the foundation, Mrs Cleo Adoga said she and her team were working on God’s instructions to help women and children.

    Adoga who is also the founder of the group said apart from distributing fertilizer and farm tools to the women, they had also taken their data to enable them carryout a follow up and further assist the women.

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    “When we came some time ago, we asked the women what they needed and they said they needed fertilizer to help them in their dry season farming for their crops to blossom.

    “That is how we came up with the fertilizer and farm tools which we have distributed to all of them, irrespective of state, ethnic group or even political affiliation because we are apolitical.

    “We expect that these women would be able to pay this little act of kindness forward because I am sure they will also meet people in need,” she said.

    She added that what she had done was like a calling and she was satisfied and successful by just putting smiles on the faces of the women and assuring them that no matter the present challenges in the world, they were not forgotten.

    On her part, one of the beneficiaries,  Mrs Kamado Veronica who spoke to NAN said it gets really tough for them in the dry season, adding that the price of fertilizer was gradually becoming beyond their reach.

    She thanked the foundation for its kind gesture noting that their work would get the necessary support for a better harvest.

    Another beneficiary Mrs Offiong Oku said the foundation has done wonderfully well, while stating that other well meaning Nigerians should follow suite and assist the needy in the society.

    Oku said the initiative would encourage the women farmers and improve in their farm work and enhance their harvest.

  • Cross River Revenue Service Aims to Actualize N296 Billion ‘People First’ Budget in 2024

    Cross River Revenue Service Aims to Actualize N296 Billion ‘People First’ Budget in 2024

    The Cross River State Internal Revenue Service (CRIRS) is expressing confidence in achieving the ambitious N296 billion ‘People First’ budget for 2024. Prince Edwin Okon, the Executive Chairman of CRIRS, conveyed this optimism during an appearance on CRBC’s Weekend Politics show hosted by Joseph Inyang.

    Mr. Okon assured the public that the CRIRS team, comprising both revenue and non-revenue generating units, is fully committed to delivering on their part of the budget. He emphasized the trust placed in his team and highlighted the collaborative effort underway to meet the financial targets outlined in the ‘People First’ budget.

    The budget, which focuses on prioritizing the welfare and development of the people, has set substantial financial goals for the state. Prince Edwin Okon, as the head of CRIRS, recognizes the importance of robust revenue generation to fulfill these budgetary commitments.

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    While addressing the public on CRBC, Okon outlined the dedication of his team, stating, “My team is trusted, and all hands are on deck, both revenue and non-revenue generating units, to ensure we deliver on our quota of the budget.”

    Cross River State has been known for innovative approaches to revenue generation, and the CRIRS has played a pivotal role in supporting the state’s economic initiatives.

    As the fiscal year progresses, stakeholders will keenly watch the performance of the CRIRS in contributing to the realization of the ‘People First’ budget, which aims to fund critical sectors for the overall development and well-being of the people of Cross River State.

  • Gov Otu Assures Nigerian Legion Of Concrete Action, Welfare Of Fallen Heroes’ Family

    Gov Otu Assures Nigerian Legion Of Concrete Action, Welfare Of Fallen Heroes’ Family

    Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State has assured the Nigerian Legion and the Armed Forces that his administration would go beyond the lip service ritual held every January 15 in remembrance of the nation’s fallen heroes by translating their desires to concrete action.

    The Governor, who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Anthony Owan Enoh, gave the assurance, Sunday, at the Armed Forces Remembrance Day church service, held at the Presbyterian Church, Hope Waddell Parish, Calabar.

    Expressing delight at the coincidence of activities for the 2024 Armed Forces Remembrance Day with his Supreme Court victory, Otu promised to “extend a hand of fellowship to widows and families of fallen heroes, ensuring that they share in the “bounty of the season of sweetness.”

    “The season of sweetness is not for the rich and highly places in the society, but for the common masses and downtrodden.

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    “Except the poor among us have something to feed, then the wealth of the rich cannot be enjoyed. The poor, sick and downtrodden must be catered for, for the sweetness of our administration to cut across all strata of the State,” Otu remarked.

    He further assured the Nigerian Legion of his administration’s commitment to capture its members and families of fallen heroes in the palliative and other welfare packages of the state government, adding that “throughout my tenure, you will celebrate and smile.”

    Speaking on behalf of the Armed Forces, the Flag Officer Commanding, Eastern Naval Command, Rear Admiral O. K. Olumeri, said the Armed Forces Remembrance Day was a day to express gratitude to God for the opportunity to defend the unity and territorial integrity of Nigeria, reflect on those who paid the supreme price in their line of duty as well as remembrance of those putting themselves in harm’s way for the peace and security of the nation.

    While expressing gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for his support for the Armed Forces in his renewed hope agenda, Rear Admiral Olumeri also lauded Governor Otu for his untiring assistance to security agencies towards maintenance of law and order, peace and security of Cross River State.

    In his sermon titled “More than Conquerors,” with scriptural reading from Romans 8:37, 1Kings 3:1-15 and Mark 15:15-32, the Prelate and Moderator of the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church of Nigeria, His Eminence, Ekpenyong Akpanika said the Armed Forces Remembrance Day is a remarkable event held in recognition of the patriotic contributions of war veterans who paid the ultimate price for the peace and stability of Nigeria, as well as other peace missions overseas.

    The Prelate emphasised the need for Nigerians to “pray for those who laid down their lives for us to live.”

    The interdenominational service climaxed with prayers for the Armed Forces of Nigeria, the Nigerian Legion, fallen heroes and families left behind, Cross River and Nigeria at large.

  • Cross River community appeals to President Tinubu to reconsider Betta Edu

    Cross River community appeals to President Tinubu to reconsider Betta Edu

    By Solomon Azu

    The people of Ebom Eburutu kingdom in Abi local council in Cross River State have appealed to President Bola Tinubu to re-consider the allegations against suspended Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr. Betta Edu, who they described as their daughter.

    The appeal is contained in a communique issued after an enlarge meeting of the Abi Traditional Rulers Council held at the palace of Ovai Usa 1 of Ebom, HRH Ovai George Nkanu Egu.

    The communique which was personally read by the Ovai Usa 1 of Ebom kingdom stated that recently the community conferred a chieftaincy title on the suspended minister following her track record on the past offices she has held, stressing that her clean profile has proved that her travail, from all indications, has the hand of some highly-placed fifth columnists in government who are trying to pull her down.

    The monarch said while it is difficult to totally absolve her of wrong-doing in the present circumstances, her statement that her travails were orchestrated by political traducers, may have some basis after all. The communique however appealed to the President to temper justice with mercy and re-call her back.

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    According to the communique,
    “The only perfect being we have observed and noticed is the Almighty God. The functions of government include encouraging good things and good appointees and discouraging bad things and bad appointees.

    ”The case against Betta Edu, is just an allegation, and in the wisdom of the President, it is being investigated, it is after the investigation is completed and the report made available to the government, that the government will now take the final decision. So we should not be in a hurry and don’t allow any sickness like anxiety cirrhosis.”

  • S’Court Judgement: C’River PDP guber candidate concedes defeat, congratulates Prince Otu

    S’Court Judgement: C’River PDP guber candidate concedes defeat, congratulates Prince Otu

    The 2023 gubernatorial candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Cross River State, Senator Sandy Ojang Onor has bowed to the judgement of the supreme court that reaffirmed Senator (Prince) Bassey Edet Otu of the All Progressives Congress (APC) as the duly elected Governor of Cross River State.

    The supreme court of Nigeria had on the 12th day of January delivered judgement on the appeal of Sen. Sandy Onor of PDP challenging the victory of His Excellency Senator (Prince) Bassey Otu of APC at the Cross River State Governorship election of March 18, 2023, with the apex court confirming Sen (Prince) Bassey Otu of APC as Governor of Cross River State.

    In a letter dated 13th January, 2024, Senator Onor acknowledged the supreme court judgement that confirmed Sen. (Prince) Bassey Otu as Governor of Cross River State, congratulating him and his deputy Rt.Hon Peter Odey for their victory and further admonished all and sundry to give His Excellency, Senator (Prince) Bassey Otu and those who work with him all the support, advice and prayers that they will need to make Cross River State the dream home land that is cherished by all.

    In senator Onor’s scripted words’ “I write most sincerely to congratulate the Governor and his deputy for the successful journey from the primaries through the main elections and leading up to the final declaration at the supreme court, which typifies the entire gamut of every election cycle.”

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    “We call on all and sundry to give His Excellency Senator Bassey Otu and those who work with him all the support, advice and prayers that they all need to make Cross River State the dream homeland that we all cherish.” The statement added.