Tag: Cross River State

Gov Otu Charges New State Judges To Restore Faith In Judiciary

Governor Bassey Otu calls on judges to restore faith in the judiciary at the swearing-in of three newly appointed High Court Judges in the state; Hon. Justice Ama Edet Ekpo, Hon. Justice Theresa Ansa Agom and Hon. Justice Jarlath Ogar Agim in his office on Monday, January 8, 2024.

In his remarks, the Governor emphasized that the principle of separation of powers between the three arms of government is purely for checks and balances and not for opposition and friction.

“Meanwhile, as they are sworn-in today as members of the full bench at a time the judiciary nationwide is under unbridled public criticism; a lot of judicial expertise is expected from them.

“While the debate on the veracity or otherwise of the public claims rages on, the undisputed fact remains that the judiciary needs to re-invent itself through self-cleansing procedure. The National Judicial Council of Nigeria (NJCN) should not relent in banging the gavel on erring judicial officers.

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“The three judges sworn-in today must t therefore live above board to rekindle the faith and trust of the common man in the judiciary,” the Governor states.

He further states that, “The current symbiotic relationship between the Executive, Legislature and the Judiciary in the State is therefore worthy of commendation; as it has facilitated the seamless movement of the machinery of government. The resultant effect is the accelerated growth and development of the State. May I therefore sue for more of this cooperation for the good of the State.”

While acknowledging the three elevated judges for their hard work which necessitated their elevation, Gov. Otu expresses concern about the public criticism of the judiciary nationwide urging the judges to restore the trust of the common man

“The three judges so elevated today are carefully chosen among the legal luminaries in the State Judiciary. They are therefore found to be an embodiment of hard-work, sincerity, integrity and with a firm knowledge and understanding of the law.”

Furthermore, the Governor charged the Judiciary to assist the society in the decongestion of Correctional Centres through the effective use of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) option.

Earlier, in her remarks, the State Chief Judge, Justice Akon Ikpeme, advised the newly elevated judges to discharge their duties with the fear of God and in accordance to the rule of the law.

“You are coming into an arena which requires integrity, impartiality and efficiency. I charge you to give judgement with fairness and according to the Rule of Law.

“As you take your oath this afternoon, don’t just recite it as anything, listen to the wordings of the oath and keep to it,” Justice Ikpeme charged the new judges.

The swearing-in ceremony was attended by Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, the Deputy Governor, Speaker Elvert Ayambem, members of the State Executive Council, elder statesmen, members of the traditional council and the clergy.

January 8, 2024
Our policies not meant to inflict pain – UNICAL VC

By Christian Njoku

Prof. Florence Obi, Vice Chancellor (VC) of the University of Calabar, (UNICAL) has disclosed that the policies introduced by management of the institution were not meant to inflict pain on Students or staff.

Obi made the remark at the UNICAL Chapel of Redemption, Calabar, during the first Sunday of the year service.

The VC who was reacting to the recent increase of school fee in the institution said whatever policy they took at the management level was to ensure that the school and its students stood at par with other universities.

She said the increase in fee may have affected the students and parents financially with the hard times being witnessed in the nation, it was not to punish anyone.

Read Also: No president has supported Nigerian football like Tinubu – Minister

“We had to do it because that is the only way we can make UNICAL at least be at par with other universities.

“Our pride is that when we go out and people are talking about universities, UNICAL should be seen as a credible institution and not just to be used for negative examples.

“I admit that it has not been easy running this institution because some people don’t want change, however, any decision we take is for the good of the institution and not for personal interest,” she said.

She added that as an administration, they remained focused in driving the university to the right direction and would not be derailed.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that the management of UNICAL after an emergency meeting on Dec. 1 approved the adjustment of charges paid by students, a move which was rejected by the students, causing massive protest on Monday Dec. 4.

January 7, 2024
No president has supported Nigerian football like Tinubu – Minister

By Christian Njoku

Minister of Sports Development, Sen John Owan-Enoh on Sunday disclosed that no Nigerian president has supported the nation’s football as much as President Bola Tinubu.

Owan-Enoh made the remark at the Holy Family Catholic Church Ikom during a thanksgiving mass in his honour that was well attended by his friends and associates.

The minister who said he was committed to returning joy to Nigerian homes through sports, said they were working very hard to win the Africa Cup of Nations, (AFCON) holding in Cote D’Ivoire to ensure that joy spreads to every Nigerian home.

According to him “the coaches of the senior national team has not been paid for 15 months, the salary is over 1.3 million dollars.

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“The senior national team and other national teams, had backlog of unpaid allowance, unpaid promises and all of that piling up close to about N12 billion and the president has approved all of that payment.

There’s no better way to show support and leadership than what he has done as I go to Lagos to challenge the senior national team, I need them to know that the whole country will be waiting in anticipation of the outcome of AFCON 2023,” he said.

Speaking further, he noted that people say he has got the toughest job as the minister of sports development adding that it was only in sports that the nation was competing with other regions in the globe.

He maintained that following antecedents, the sports sector in the nation was difficult because every step you took as a leader was seen as controversial but to the glory of God, he was able to navigate that.

Owan-Enoh asserted that come 2027, he was going to support Tinubu and Gov. Bassey Otu of Cross because they have shown leadership and capacity to turn things around.

“Asiwaju has the intellect and capacity to turn things around let’s support him, if you support me, support the president and pray for him.

“I took a chance with him, when he told me to discontinue my litigation in Cross River, it was at a time nobody knew he will win but I stopped the litigation and he said John, you honoured me, God will honour you.

The reception of the thanksgiving which was held at the popular Ikom Township Stadium had in attendance, Mr. Peter Odey, Deputy Gov of Cross River, Mr Elvert Ayambem, Speaker Cross River House of Assembly among other dignitaries both from federal and state levels.

January 7, 2024
A Joyous Homecoming: African American Ladies Embrace Efik Roots

In a heartwarming ceremony in Calabar the port and capital city of Cross River, five African American ladies were officially welcome into the Abasi Ntiero Royal House, marking a significant chapter in their quest to reconnect with their Efik heritage. The event was graced by the presence of the Obong of Calabar, Edidem Ekpo Okon Abasi-Otu V, and witnessed the participation of Etubom (Arc.) Bassey Eyo Ndem, shedding light on the cultural inclusivity of the Efik people.

The Obong of Calabar expressed genuine enthusiasm for the ladies’ decision to trace their roots, stating, “It’s a welcome development. We don’t want to shy away from it. For those who want to trace their roots and have found somewhere convenient for them that they can actually fit in. Please don’t hesitate to do it. Do it. So I welcome all of you to Nigeria. I welcome all of you to Calabar. I welcome all of you to the palace of the Obong of Calabar.”

A representative of the American ladies conveyed their gratitude and sense of belonging, stating, “I feel that I am back home and I brought my sisters to be back home. Thank you very much for accepting us into your home.” The ladies, part of a community service-oriented association, chose to identify with their roots, seeking a deeper connection to their history and heritage.

During an interview with Chioma George from Chicago, Illinois, she shared her profound experience, describing it as an honor. She emphasized the significance of bringing her sisters to experience the same homecoming that had left a lasting impact on her years ago.

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Etubom (Arc.) Bassey Ndem, reflecting on the occasion, expressed immense pleasure at the accomplished American ladies identifying with the Efik culture. He acknowledged the emotional experience for the ladies and highlighted the importance of their return to their roots.

In response to questions about the status and inclusivity of the women in Efik culture, Etubom Ndem clarified, “They are now bonafide members of our family. They’ve been given the blessings of even our king, the Obong of Calabar. You saw us give them their membership certificate. They have every right now to be a part of the family, to vote and be voted for.”

The ladies, including Sandra Baker-Ekanem Abasi Ntiero, Amania Drane-Asari Abasi Ntiero, Brenda Camille Davis-Nkese Abasi Ntiero, Yvonne Taylor-Nkoyo Abasi Ntiero, and Dorletta Flucas Payton-Ekei Abasi Ntiero, hold notable profiles and backgrounds, reflecting a rich tapestry of achievements and community service.

The event showcased the cultural richness and acceptance within Efik traditions, providing a blueprint for other families to embrace and welcome those seeking to reconnect with their ancestral roots. The ceremony was not just a symbolic adoption but a deep and sacred initiation into the Efik family, reinforcing the spirit of inclusivity and cultural unity.

The ladies expressed their commitment to continuing their support for the Efik culture, promising to fly in from across the globe to participate in future cultural events. As they embark on this new journey, the Obong of Calabar encouraged other families to follow the path of openness and embrace individuals eager to reconnect with their ancestral heritage.

January 6, 2024
Recruitment: Police release physical screening date, venue for Cross River, others

The Nigeria Police Force, NPF has released physical and credential screening dates and venue for recruitment into the Force’s General Duty/Specialist (Constables).

According to a press release signed by SP Irene Ugbo, Police Public Relations Officer in Cross River on Tuesday, the physical screening date for the ongoing 2023/2024 recruitment is from 8th to 29th January 2024.

The statement also said the venue for Cross River is the Police Officers Mess, Moore Road, Calabar. The venue and date for other states can be found on the portal.

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Check below the full press release for details about the physical and credentials screening exercise.

ONGOING 2023/2024 RECRUITMENT INTO THE NIGERIA POLICE FORCE GENERAL DUTY/SPECIALIST (CONSTABLES) PHYSICAL AND CREDENTIALS SCREENING EXERCISE TO COMMENCE FROM MONDAY 8th-29th JANUARY, 2024 VENUE; POLICE OFFICERS MESS, MOORE ROAD, CALABAR.

1. The Cross River State Police Command wishes to inform members of the public that Physical/Credential screening exercise of all candidates who applied online will take place from 8th – 29th January 2024 at the various Commands Headquarters, Cross River State inclusive.

The Exercise is scheduled to hold from Monday, January 8, to Monday, January 29, 2024, from 7am daily.

Venue is Police Officers’ Mess, Moore Road, Calabar for indigenes of Cross River State.

Nationwide, kindly visit https://apply.policerecruitment.gov.ng/ to print their invitation slip from 25th December 2023.

2. All applicants are to appear at the screening centres in their clean white T-shirts and shorts with the following mandatory screening requirements, neatly arranged in two white flat files.

i. Recent passport photographs.

ii. Evidence of physical/mental fitness from Government recognised Medical Hospital.

iii. Evidence of Good Character from Traditional Ruler or Village/District Head of the Applicant.

iv. Certificate of Origin duly signed by the Local Government Chairman or Secretary.

v. National Identity Number (NIN) – slip printout

vi. Original and duplicate copies of credentials – O’ Level Result(s), Birth Certificate/Declaration of Age

vii. Print-out of application form

viii. Duly completed Guarantor’s form

ix. Invitation Slip

x. Two file jackets

3. Any candidate who fails to present the items (i-ix) mentioned in paragraph 2 above, will not be considered for screening.

4. Applicants are equally advised to pay attention to their scheduled dates and times, as well as other details and specific guidelines on the screening exercise.

For inquiries, call help desk No./Whatsapp: 08069794453, 09060483893

January 5, 2024
Ewa donates party secretariat, charges members on loyalty, performance

…Gifts N5m to party, 1, 000 bags of rice, other items to members

Members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Yakurr Local Government Area of Cross River State have been charged to be more dedicated and committed to the party, and ensure that the party continues to increase in visibility and gain more ground.

This charge was made Saturday by the Cross River State Commissioner for Special Duties and Inter Governmental affairs, Mr. Oden Ewa, at the unveiling ceremony of the LGA party secretariat building that he built and donated to the party.

Mr Ewa described an inherent spirit of public service as his motivation for embarking on the project. He noted that it was of utmost importance for a Local Government area such as Yakurr to have a befitting party secretariat as it was the local government with the largest number of party faithful in Cross River State. For that reason, it was only natural for the local government to have a fully functional secretariat that would enable members congregate at all times.

Mr. Ewa further tasked members to continue to support the party and ensure that it continues to be at the forefront in the minds of the people, not only in the LGA, but in the state as a whole. He also stressed that that their loyalty would be handsomely rewarded in the coming months with the dividends of democracy as the Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Edet Otu, had approved a series of projects for the LGA, to be implemented by his Ministry as a show of appreciation for the massive support given to the party in the 2023 general elections.

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The secretariat was formally commissioned by the State APC Chairman, Barrister Aiphonsus Ogar Eba, who was represented by Honourable Matthew Ebong. He commended Mr. Ewa for his commitment to the growth of the party in the state, for always showing concern for the welfare of his people, and for donating the building, which he said would be deployed to good use by the party.

In addition to donating the building, Mr. Ewa also donated the sum of N5 million to the party as a reward for outstanding performance during the Governorship Election of 2023, along with 1,000 bags of rice and other items that were to be shared by party members to celebrate the Yuletide celebration.

Also In attendance at the colourful event was the Deputy Governor of the State, His Excellency Rt. Hon Peter Odey, who made a donation of N500, 000 to the party.

Others present were the Honourable Member representing Yakurr I Constituency in the State House of Assembly, Hon. Cyril Omini, Commissioner for Aviation, Captain Eno Inah, Honourable Abubakar Efoli, other party stalwarts and traditional rulers.

January 2, 2024
Make sacrifices too in 2024, UNICAL don urges Nigerian politicians

By Christian Njoku

Prof. Grace Etuk, Head of Department, (HOD) Social Works in the University of Calabar, (UniCal) has called on Nigerian politicians to make sacrifices too in 2024.

Etuk made the call in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria, (NAN) on Monday in Calabar.

It would be recalled that President Bola Tinubu had earlier on Monday in his Presidential Address called on Nigerians to be hopeful and work better for the good of the nation.

She said it was not enough to ask ordinary Nigerians to sacrifice adding that leaders of the nation must be sensitive to the plight of Nigerians.

Read Also: Tinkoriko gave birth to Calabar Carnival – Orok Duke

“Sometimes our leaders should leave their hallowed chambers and do their day’s works on the streets of Lagos, Calabar or any city for that matter and see the plight of ordinary Nigerians.

“They should also be paid N50,000 or the N30,000 minimum wage monthly and see how that will carry them for the month, this should make them see clearly the clear picture of how Nigerians are surviving.

“It is time for Nigerian leaders to pick a que from some leaders in the western world by leaving too many cars, allowances and other unnecessary luxury for the good of the nation and ordinary Nigerians,” she said.

She said though she was no prophet of doom, Nigerians must be prepared for the worst in 2024, although she expects them to be hopeful too that things get better.

Nigerians should also draw close and work with God to help pull the nation through its present economic challenges.

January 1, 2024
Tinkoriko gave birth to Calabar Carnival – Orok Duke

By Kelvin Obambon

Rt. Hon. Orok Duke has disclosed that Tinkoriko, a sociocultural group known for its annual parade, gave birth to the popular Calabar Carnival.

Duke who is the founder of Tinkoriko made the disclosure in Calabar on Monday during the group’s parade that takes place every 1st of January.

Speaking in an interview with journalists on how Tinkoriko has faired in its 30 years of existence, Hon. Orok Duke said that “When we started we used to circulate around Egerton. It started as Tinkoriko Mission Hill, that’s ward 4 and 5. Then we expanded through Mayne Avenue because Gershom Bassey was there and he was a leader of some sort.

“So when transiting we used to touch Fenton with Essien Ayi there, and then through Edgerly then Mayne Avenue, but the route became too long. Of course Tinkoriko gave birth to the carnival. When Donald Duke resumed in 1999 he called me and said we should make it a state affair, but I told him we will not leave Tinkoriko.

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“I sponsored the bill for the creation of the Carnival Commission. I told him it could be expanded to include 1st of January. But over the years they used to stop on 31st of December. This is the first year that they have made the carnival run for 32 days to include Tinkoriko. Tinkoriko is now drawing the curtain of the 2023 carnival and it’s not going to stop.

“For now we are part of the Calabar Carnival calendar. We are thankful for that in our 30th year. Of course the governor has always been our grand patron for like 15 years now.”

He said that over the years, Tinkoriko parades have forged a bond of unity among youths from diverse social backgrounds, thus accounting for the peace and tranquility witnessed in the capital city, especially during the festive period.

“We are still using the platform to canvass against certain social ills and also using it to serve as a platform for the youths to ventilate their feelings.

“Tinkoriko is a provision of a platform for people who fly different colours to ventilate. The different colours here means whatever social standing you are. The simplicity of Tinkoriko is such that you don’t get initiated. You don’t wear costumes. It’s just your pair of canvass shoes, your jean trousers and then we give you t-shirts.

“Let me tell you – I use this as an example. If a young man plays Tinkoriko and sees another young man it will be difficult for you to go on a hit and kill that man the next day. We need more platforms for us to be meeting ourselves. Haven’t you seen the reduction of crime rate during the 32 days carnival?”

Also speaking, the President of Tinkoriko, Prof. Emmanuel Eyo, listed some of the achievements of the group to include the award of scholarship to registered members, outreaches to orphanages, the less privileged and vulnerable members of the society.

“Outside entertainment of our people and indigenes of Cross River State, we have been awarding scholarships to registered members. And before we display today we had gone to motherless baby homes to give them what we have. We are non religious. So we do not need to go and give money to the church. We give to the less privileged. Those who are vulnerable. To those who do not have,” he said.

Over 5,000 youths took part in the 30th Tinkoriko parade, making it arguably the second largest Calabar festival procession after the Carnival.

January 1, 2024
C’River Pioneers Queen of Humanity Contest, As Winner Takes Home N5m, SUV

In an unprecedented union of beauty and humanitarianism, the inaugural Queen of Humanity Cross River Beauty Pageant, initiated by Rev (Mrs) Eyoanwan Bassey Edet Otu, wife of the Governor of Cross River State, showcased a pioneering commitment to grooming young Nigerian girls in the act of compassion, care, and a profound humanitarian perspective. The organisers revealed the project’s vision during an interview on December 29, 2023, emphasizing the inclusive nature that saw contestants from diverse states of the federation.

Speaking at the event, the wife of the governor extolled her desire to see that the world is a better place for all, hence the creation of the Queen of Humanity Cross River Pageant. In her words, “this pageant will be a panacea to all forms of ills facing the young, the old, the needy and the less privileged in our immediate environment, being Cross River State and Nigeria as a whole.”

She challenged the contestants to brace up for the task ahead, as her office remains committed to training and supporting them to become worthy humanitarian ambassadors.

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Dr. Inyang Asibong, the Special Adviser, Events, Projects and Program Office of the Wife of Governor, re-echoed the essence of the pageant, stating that having a sense of Humanity, has since eroded the minds of young girls, that the pageant was created to correct the abnormally.

In an interview with the press, the Special Adviser, Events; Governor’s Office, Mr. Effiong Asuquo Ekpenyong reiterated the Sen. Otu’s led administration willingness to use events of this nature to promote event tourism in the state.

Victor Ekpo, the pageant consultant, stated, “Since we are preaching humanity, Her Excellency sponsored 20 forms for 20 lucky Nigerian girls. We went into camp with 29 contestants.”

The pageant project team underscored the pageant’s commitment to inclusivity, reflecting the central theme of humanity that transcends regional boundaries.

Sharing insights into the transformative camp experience, Ekpo explained that the pageant started with a call for sales of forms… After that, the camp opened in Calabar, with camp orientation, master classes, catwalk sessions, and a city tour to experience the sights and sound of Calabar.”

“The contestants were groomed on humanitarian awareness and how to show love and care – knowing that the world will be a better place when we all live for each other.

“After the show of glitz and glam, the event saw Margaret Ekpo, with opportunity, as a virtue name win the coveted prize of Five Million Naira and an SUV Car, she was crowned as the Queen of Humanity 2023. The first runner-up, Vivian Edem-Anwan Effangha, received the title of Queen of Humanity Cross River Tourism and a consolation prize of two million naira, awarded her by the Wife of the Governor; Rev. Mrs. Bassey Otu”.

The organisers explained why the girls were tagged virtues of humanity like gift, love, kindness, favor, hospitality, help, and we tagged them according to qualities of humanity, not by where they are from.

That’s the new innovation brought up by the working team. The Queen of Humanity Cross River 2023 emerges not just as a beauty queen but as a symbol of compassion and humanitarian values, redefining the landscape of pageantry in Nigeria with credible and impactful initiatives.

The finale was held on December 27 at the Calabar International Conference Centre (CICC).

The event gathered the who is who in both public and private sectors, the Wife of the Governor of Cross River State, Rev. Mrs Eyoanwan Bassey Otu, the deputy governor of Cross River State, Rgt. Peter Odey, the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Hon. Emmanuel Ironbar, members of the state Executive Council, and members of the diplomatic Corp graced the occasion, with a tantalizing performance by one of Nigeria’s finest musician, Mr. Suny Neji.

December 30, 2023
Orok Duke, relatives bid farewell to late niece

By Kelvin Obambon

Rt. Hon. Orok Duke, Cross River State Representative in the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) and his relatives, have bade farewell to their niece, late Miss Ako Etim Esien Ekpe, who passed away on the 5th of November, 2023 after a protracted illness.

Speaking during the funeral service for the deceased in Calabar Saturday, Duke lamented that Ako died of breast cancer, having battled the illness for about three years which she finally succumbed.

According to the NDDC top shot, “Ako was diagnosed of cancer, but for three years they didn’t pursue treatment diligently. When I was informed three years after, we went to Asi Ukpo and spent close to N2million. But the thing had spread from her two breasts to the stomach.

“Cancer can only be effectively manage at the first two stages, but once it gets to the third stage there’s no way, except miracle from God. Even with the limited modern facilities we have in Nigeria, you can only detect cancer when it gets to the third stage. That’s why most of the people end up dying. It is that bad.”

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He expressed sadness over the demise of young Ako who was in her prime, adding that “we did everything we could. I moved her to Teaching Hospital and she was in oxygen everyday till she died.”

Meanwhile, a biography of the deceased read by one of the siblings indicates that the late Ako Etim Ekpe was born into the family of Etim Esien Ekpe of Ubon Obong Simon Esien Ekpe of Eseku Abarisong, Odukpani Local Government Area on the 5th November, 1991.

She attended Henshaw Town Primary School Calabar, where she obtained her First School Leaving Certificate in 2006, and Henshaw Town Secondary School, Calabar, for the Senior Secondary School Certificate in 2013.

The deceased worked at the Cradle Bay Nursery and Primary School, Calabar, until her death. She was described as very humble and personable – attributes she is remembered for.

The Ako was finally laid to rest at the Hawkins cemetery, Calabar.

December 30, 2023