Sen. Jarigbe Felicitates Gov. Otu at 66, Hails His Inclusive Leadership and Vision for a Prosperous C'River

Ukorebi Esien | October 18, 2025

CALABAR – The Senator representing Cross River North Senatorial District, Distinguished Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, has extended warm felicitations to the Governor of Cross River State, His Excellency, Senator (Prince) Bassey Edet Otu, on the occasion of his 66th birthday, describing him as a visionary leader whose administration embodies humility, inclusiveness, and purpose-driven governance.

In a goodwill message personally signed by the lawmaker, Senator Jarigbe lauded Governor Otu's leadership style, noting that his tenure has been characterized by "a refreshing humility, unwavering dedication to the people, and a clear-eyed vision for a unified and prosperous Cross River State."

The senator commended the governor's commitment to inclusive governance, stressing that it has rekindled public confidence and hope across the state.

"Your commitment to inclusive governance is not just a policy but a palpable force, inspiring confidence and hope across the state," Senator Jarigbe stated.

He prayed for God's continued guidance, good health, and wisdom upon the governor as he leads the state towards greater development and unity.

"As you mark this significant milestone, we pray that Almighty God continues to endow you with robust health, profound wisdom, and renewed vigor as you guide our beloved state to its destined greatness," the message read.

Senator Jarigbe, on behalf of the people of Cross River North Senatorial District, his family, and constituents, wished Governor Otu a birthday filled with joy and fulfillment.

Governor Bassey Edet Otu, popularly known as "Sweet Prince", was born on October 18, 1959, and is marking his 66th birthday this year. His administration has continued to receive commendations for its focus on people-centered governance and efforts to build a more inclusive and economically viable Cross River State.

,,

Climate Action: C’River, PROWPMAN Partner to Restore 5,000 Hectares of Forests

Ukorebi Esien  |  October 17, 2025

CALABAR — In a major step toward advancing environmental sustainability and climate change mitigation, the Cross River State Forestry Commission (CRSFC) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Processed Wood Producers and Marketers Association of Nigeria (PROWPMAN) to restore 5,000 hectares of degraded forest reserves across the three senatorial districts of the state.

The MOU, signed on Thursday in Calabar by the Chairman of the Forestry Commission, Ntufam Rt. Hon.. (Dr.) George Oben-Etchi, and the National President of PROWPMAN, Chief Ademola Christopher Oyaleke, mark the launch of a Sustainable Green Project targeted at the Oban Group Forest Reserve in Akamkpa Local Government Area (South), Okon River Forest Reserve in Edondon, Obubra LGA (Central), and Yache Forest Reserve in Alifokpa, Yala LGA (North).

According to Chief Oyaleke, the initiative is designed to promote sustainable forest practices, enhance biodiversity, and contribute to Nigeria's climate action commitments under international environmental frameworks. He noted that the project will also support local community development through green jobs and forest-based livelihoods.

"This collaboration reflects our collective determination to restore degraded forest areas and promote responsible forest management," Oyaleke said. "With the unwavering support of the Cross River State Forestry Commission, PROWPMAN is recording its most successful afforestation effort yet in Nigeria."

In his remarks, the CRSFC Chairman, Hon. Oben-Etchi, described the partnership as a turning point in the state's effort to restore and sustain its forest heritage, assuring that the Commission would continue to operate transparently while documenting progress for future reference.

"We want Cross Riverians to know that conscious efforts are being made through tree planting to reclaim our forest reserves," he said. "With this MOU, we now have a working document and a reference point for generations to come."

The Director of Forestry, Mr Donatus Adie, applauded both parties for what he termed a "forward-thinking collaboration," urging other stakeholders, including NGOs, community-based organizations, and private investors, to emulate the initiative rather than rely solely on government intervention.

Similarly, the Secretary of the Forestry Association of Nigeria (FAN), Cross River Chapter, Dr Emmanuel Ugbong, commended the Commission for providing security and technical support during field operations. He expressed optimism that the project would significantly boost afforestation, regeneration, and ecosystem restoration across the state.

On behalf of PROWPMAN's Cross River Chapter, Mr Babatunde Williams disclosed that over 25,000 seedlings of different species have already been planted in Oban, Akamkpa LGA, as part of the 5,000-hectare pilot phase. He appreciated the Forestry Commission for its continuous partnership and support.

Also speaking, PROWPMAN Vice President, Chief Dosunmi Adetola, thanked the Governor of Cross River State, His Excellency Senator (Prince) Bassey Edet Otu, for granting approval and providing logistics support for the project's takeoff, describing the governor's gesture as a testament to his "People-First" environmental vision.

In his closing remarks, Hon. Oben-Etchi reaffirmed the Commission's commitment to ensuring that the partnership stands the test of time, adding that the project will substantially expand the state's forest cover and enhance its contribution to global climate goals.

"This collaboration will not only green our environment but also secure the future of our forest resources," he said.

The Sustainable Green Project is expected to serve as a model for other states, reinforcing Cross River's position as Nigeria's leading champion in forest conservation and climate resilience.

PFN @40: Uma Ukpai’s Vision for a United Pentecostal Front Lives On

Ukorebi Esien | October 16, 2025

CALABAR — As the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) marks its 40th anniversary, members across the country are reflecting on the enduring legacy of its founding father, the late Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai, whose vision of unity among Pentecostal churches continues to shape the fellowship's mission four decades later.

The PFN, which emerged from Rev. Ukpai's historic Greater Lagos for Christ crusade in the mid-1980s, has since grown into a formidable national faith movement with functional structures in all 36 states, the Federal Capital Territory, and most local government areas and wards.

The 40th anniversary celebration is being marked nationwide, with state chapters hosting Thanksgiving services and revival sessions. In Cross River State, the event will be held on Saturday, October 18, 2025, at Gold City Gospel Ministry, Calabar. Lagos will host its celebration at Redemption Camp on October 23, while Abuja follows on October 27.

Speaking ahead of the Cross River celebration, the State Chairman of PFN, Apostle Trinity Ogar, described the anniversary as a defining moment for Christians to recommit themselves to the gospel and to the founding ideals of unity and evangelism championed by the late Uma Ukpai.

"This unique occasion offers an opportunity for us to rededicate our lives to the teachings of Jesus Christ and to pray for the unity, survival, and peaceful coexistence of one another rather than engaging in ungodly acts that could derail our national growth and development," Ogar stated.

He urged Nigerian leaders to seek divine guidance in governance, noting that humility before God would help them make the right decisions at critical times.

Ogar also paid glowing tribute to the fellowship's founding fathers and pioneer leaders, including Rev. Dr Uma Ukpai, Archbishop Benson Idahosa, Pastor Ayo Oritsejafor, Bishop Mike Okonkwo, Dr Felix Omobude, and Pastor W. F. Kumuyi, among others, who, through divine inspiration, built the foundation upon which PFN stands today.

"Rev. Uma Ukpai dreamed of a united Pentecostal front that would speak with one voice in Nigeria," Ogar noted. "Forty years on, that dream lives on through the fellowship's strong structure and continued expansion across the nation."

He extended felicitations to the PFN National President, Bishop Dr Francis Wale Oke, the National Advisory Council (NAC), and the National Executive Council (NEC) for their leadership, while commending the National Vice President (South-South), Archbishop Emmah Isong, and the Cross River State Executive Council for their dedication to the work of the gospel.

Apostle Ogar further called on all PFN members, clergy, and believers across the state to attend the thanksgiving service, scheduled for 3:00 p.m. at Gold City Gospel Ministry, No. 9 Ikot Abasi Obori, off Calabar-Calabar Road.

He also acknowledged the fellowship's cordial relationship with the state government, traditional institutions, and other Christian blocs, expressing optimism that the next decade would witness greater unity and revival within the body of Christ.

As PFN celebrates 40 years of growth, the life and legacy of Rev. Uma Ukpai stand as a lasting reminder of how one man's vision of unity, evangelism, and faith can transform the spiritual landscape of a nation.

PDP Inaugurates Caretaker Committee, Move to Reconcile Aggrieved Members in C'River

By Ukorebi Esien | October 8, 2025

CALABAR – The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Cross River State has officially inaugurated an 18-member Caretaker Committee mandated to steer the affairs of the party for the next three months, with a clear charge to rebuild unity, restore trust, and reconcile all aggrieved members across the state.

The committee, chaired by Rt. Hon. Bassey Eko Ewa, was inaugurated following the expiration of the tenure of the former State Executive Committee. Its mandate, according to a statement signed by Hon. Debo Ologunagba, National Publicity Secretary of the PDP, is to manage the party's affairs in Cross River State until fresh congresses are conducted to elect a new executive.

Speaking at the inaugural meeting held in Calabar, Rt. Hon. Ewa described the event as "a day for renewal, reconciliation, and recommitment" to the ideals that once made the PDP "the strongest political family in Nigeria." He emphasized the need to end internal divisions and rebuild the party from the grassroots.

"For too long, our great party in this state has been divided by personal interests and narrow leadership styles," Ewa said. "We must restore fairness, trust, and inclusiveness. The time has come to rebuild the PDP family in Cross River State."

The caretaker chairman vowed that under his leadership, the committee would prioritize reconciliation and inclusivity, stressing that the PDP must return to its democratic roots where "openness, justice, and collective decision-making" guide its operations.

He appealed to leaders, elders, and members, both active and estranged to return to the fold, noting that "the PDP is your home" and that unity is key to reclaiming the state from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

"We cannot remain divided. We must rebuild the structure of the PDP from the wards and polling units. It's time to bring everyone back under one umbrella and prepare to deliver Cross River from poor governance," he said.

Other party leaders who spoke at the event echoed Ewa's position, underscoring the urgency of genuine reconciliation and strategic rebuilding ahead of the 2027 general elections.

One of the members, Mr. Udie Mike, commended the National Working Committee (NWC) for intervening to restore order, describing the recent "parallel gatherings" as mere distractions that do not represent the authentic structure of the party in the state.

"We are the officially recognized structure of the PDP in Cross River State, constituted by the National Working Committee. Our focus is unity, not factionalism," Mike affirmed.

In the same vein, several stakeholders who took turns to speak, including youth leaders and chapter representatives called for renewed commitment to the party and sincerity of purpose in reconciling all factions, warning that without internal unity, the party risks further decline at the grassroots.

The meeting also addressed the controversy surrounding the recently suspended state congresses. The caretaker leadership clarified that the NWC, in line with its constitutional powers, postponed congresses in three states including Cross River to ensure fairness and proper reconciliation before fresh elections are held.

Members of the Caretaker Committee include:

Rt. Hon. Bassey Eko Ewa (Chairman), Dr. Bassey Joseph Adim (Secretary), Dr. Joe Ekpe Edet, Mr. Udie Mike, Dr. Lynne Bassey, Hon. Etim Okon, Barr. Ankot Cohbom, Mr. Ofana Raphael Odo, Dr. Onun Inyang Unoh, Barr. Ebaye Akunjom, Hon. Godswill Obindim, Barr. Edem Ekong, Mr. Raymond Abo, Mr. Moses Bisuakefe, Barr. Agabi Dominic Oko, Mr. Walter Nandi Esom, Mr. Ekpo Asuquo, and Pst. Victor Erig Takon.

The NWC has urged all PDP stakeholders in Cross River State to support the committee's peace efforts and work collectively toward restoring the party's dominance in the state.

"What unites us is greater than what divides us. Together, we can rebuild the PDP and return it to its winning ways," Ewa concluded to a round of applause.

Ukorebi Esien

Editor-in-Chief, 

The Daily News Ng

Lead Consultant

Achievers Center for Community Development Initiative

+2348161527978

Meet Prof. Offiong Efanga Offiong — An Aspirant for Vice-Chancellorship, University of Calabar

Professor Offiong Efanga Offiong, born on November 6, 1963, in Calabar, is a distinguished academic, seasoned administrator, and respected scholar. He holds a B.Sc. (Hons) in Chemistry and a PhD in Coordination/Inorganic Chemistry from the University of Calabar. His doctoral research was supported by a prestigious DAAD scholarship, enabling him to conduct laboratory work at Ludwig Maximilian University, Munich, Germany. He also obtained a Certificate in Equipment Maintenance from Bristol Polytechnic, UK.

Academic Career and Mentorship

Prof. Offiong began his lecturing career in 1985 as a Graduate Assistant and rose to the rank of Professor by 2002. Over the years, he has supervised seven Master's and sixteen PhD theses, one of which earned a National Universities Commission (NUC) Award for Best Thesis in Physical Sciences in Nigerian universities. Several of his mentees have risen to the ranks of Professors and Associate Professors, attesting to his commitment to academic mentorship and development.

Research and External Engagements

A prolific researcher, Prof. Offiong has authored over 90 publications in reputable peer-reviewed journals and is well cited in high-impact academic databases. He has served as an external examiner for undergraduate and postgraduate programs in several Nigerian universities, including the University of Uyo, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, and University of Abuja.

Administrative and Union Leadership Roles

Within the University of Calabar, Prof. Offiong has held numerous key positions, including Sub-Dean and Dean of the Faculty of Science, Dean of Students' Affairs, and Member of the Governing Council (2000–2004). He has also served as Chairman and Zonal Coordinator of ASUU and as National Vice President of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), highlighting his leadership and advocacy experience in the academic system.

Public Service and Educational Reform

From 2007 to 2015, Prof. Offiong Efanga Offiong served as the Commissioner for Education in Cross River State. Under his leadership, the state's educational system underwent transformative reforms. WAEC performance improved dramatically, moving from 22nd place to 6th and 7th nationally in 2012 and 2013, respectively. He played a pivotal role in the establishment of the Institute of Technology and Management (ITM), Ugep, and in the reopening of the former College of Education in Akamkpa (now a university). He also chaired the Forum of State Commissioners for Education (2009–2015) and was a member of the Presidential Task Team on Education.

Global Recognition and Community Service

Prof. Offiong has earned several international fellowships and has participated in global academic exchanges. He has chaired many NUC accreditation panels and was a member of the Presidential Visitation Panel to Obafemi Awolowo University in 2021. He also serves his community through various leadership roles, including as the immediate past President of the Boys Brigade Nigeria (Cross River State Council) and as a Ruling Elder in the Presbyterian Church of Nigeria. He currently chairs the Education Committees of both the Obong of Calabar Executive Forum and the Presbyterian Schools in Nigeria.

Personal Life

Prof. Offiong Efanga Offiong is married to Prof. (Mrs.) Ame I. Offiong, a Professor of Finance at the University of Calabar. Their marriage is blessed with three children: Efanga, Asa, and Eme.

Offiong Efanga Offiong Declaration to be Vice Chancellor, University of Calabar 

His Vision for the University of Calabar

During his declaration of intent to contest for the position of Vice Chancellor, Prof. Offiong highlighted several critical lapses within the University system. He emphasized the need to restore academic freedom, improve employment practices, and invest in the training and development of both academic and non-academic staff.

Prof. Offiong stated:
"Most importantly, there must be a liberal academic environment. Nobody should be in a university system where their liberty is compromised. As a scholar, you need academic freedom."

He further decried the University's current low ranking in employability, noting that the University of Calabar did not rank among the top 10 institutions nationally. He stressed that such a situation must be addressed urgently.

"There is nothing wrong in retaining graduates to nurture their zeal and contribution to the same institution that shaped them," he remarked, advocating for a policy that encourages excellence and continuity within the university system.

Conclusion

Prof. Offiong Efanga Offiong brings to the race for Vice-Chancellor a wealth of experience in academia, administration, and public service. His vision reflects a passionate commitment to academic excellence, institutional reform, and the overall advancement of the University of Calabar.

SSA Youth Mobilisation Julius Kijuo Launches One Million New Voters Campaign

…Cross Riverians Applaud Governor Otu's Youth-Inclusive Governance


Ukorebi Esien | October 16, 2025

IKOM — The Senior Special Assistant to the Governor of Cross River State on Youth Development and Empowerment, Dr. Julius Kijuo, has officially launched a One Million New Voters Registration Campaign aimed at mobilizing and sensitizing youths across the state to participate actively in the electoral process.

The campaign, which kicked off in the Central Senatorial District on Wednesday, is a collaborative initiative between the Office of the Senior Special Assistant on Youth Development and Empowerment and the Cross River Youth in Politics for Good Governance.

Speaking during the flag-off ceremony at the Ikom Council Secretariat, Dr. Kijuo said the initiative was in line with Governor Bassey Otu's vision of promoting youth inclusion and civic responsibility in governance.

"Governor Otu believes that sustainable development begins with civic participation. Every eligible youth must see voter registration as a duty, not just a right. This campaign seeks to awaken that consciousness and increase Cross River's voting strength in future elections," Dr. Kijuo stated.

He urged young people, particularly first-time voters, to take advantage of the ongoing voter registration exercise to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) and be ready to elect credible leaders who will champion their aspirations.

Also speaking, the State Chairman of Cross River Youth in Politics, Amb. Jerry Odey, described the campaign as a landmark movement to galvanize young people toward active political engagement.

"Our target is to mobilize at least one million new voters across the three senatorial districts. This effort is not about party politics—it's about civic duty, awareness, and building a stronger, more participatory democracy," Odey explained.

Odey further called on political leaders, traditional institutions, religious organizations, and civil society groups to support the noble cause for the common good of the state.

Following the flag-off, the campaign team visited Favour School of Health Technology, Ikom, where they were warmly received by the Provost and management staff. The students, who expressed excitement over the initiative, commended Governor Otu for recognising the youth and creating opportunities for their inclusion in governance.

A representative of the school's management noted that the visit marked the first time the institution had experienced such direct government engagement, pledging full support for the exercise.

The launch event attracted youth leaders and representatives from all six local government areas in the Central Senatorial District, signalling the beginning of a statewide movement to promote electoral participation and good governance.

Calabar-based Hotel Threatens Legal Action After Former Employee's Viral Video

CALABAR – Kal Vegas Hotel & Suites has announced it is pursuing legal action following what it describes as a "defamatory" video circulated on social media by a former employee.

In an official statement released by the hotel's President/CEO, Barrister Elijah Udoh, the establishment identified the individual in the video as Gabriel Ekoro Nkanu, a former kitchen staff member.

According to the statement, Nkanu was employed on August 23, 2025, and "absconded from work" on September 30, 2025, after a dispute. The hotel stated that Nkanu was duly paid his salary for August 2025 and that his September salary was scheduled to be processed with other employees' salaries at the time of his departure.

The hotel's account of the events on September 30th details that Nkanu first reported three missing portions of chicken and was advised to re-check his records. Minutes later, he allegedly returned to demand his September salary immediately, caused a disturbance upon being informed of the payment schedule, and then left the premises.

The statement expressed concern that Nkanu had "recorded various videos during his short tenure," which were later used in what the hotel termed an "unethical social media attack."

The hotel also mentioned that the video was shared by another individual, Kandy Umoh, who is "unknown" to the establishment.

"Kal Vegas Hotel & Suites operates with the highest level of integrity. We do not owe any salary to current or former employees," the statement read, adding that the hotel is "pursuing all available legal mechanisms to address this defamatory act and seek proper redress."

The hotel reaffirmed its commitment to providing quality service to its guests.

Recall that a week ago a video footage Kandy Umoh with the statement "A cry for justice..." was published on Facebook. It generated numerous public reactions. A social media user said : "I know that what I have to say might not go down well but I'll just suggest he resigns. Don't stay and accumulate the debt. Peacefully walk away and don't scrub Another adviced "I'll advise he takes the case up in court and test his chances in court." "If you successfully received the salary bro Even if na mama put, find spot and work for yourself I hate seeing all this. Imagine making a full grown man feel this way," opined another.

Etta Hails Governor Otu Over Approval of Bahumono Ring Road

Ukorebi Esien  | October 12, 2025

CALABAR The Member representing Abi State Constituency in the Cross River State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Davies Etta, has commended Governor Sen. Prince Bassey Edet Otu for approving the construction of over 20 kilometres of the Bahumono Ring Road in Abi Local Government Area.

Etta described the Governor's gesture as a "breakthrough" for the Bahumono nation, noting that the road, which connects nine autonomous communities, will significantly boost rural development, improve access to markets, and enhance community integration across Abi LGA.

The lawmaker made the remarks on Friday, October 10, 2025, during a stakeholders' engagement and inspection visit led by the Commissioner for Works, Hon. Pius Ankpo Edet, at the Abi Council Hall. The session, which drew key stakeholders and community leaders, followed the Governor's official approval of the long-awaited project.

Rt. Hon. Etta, who led the Commissioner and his team on a site inspection of the proposed Bahumono Ring Road, expressed optimism that the project will open up new economic frontiers for farmers and traders across the area.

"This is a project that will change the story of Bahumono people. Our farmers will now have easier access to markets, our traders can move their goods faster, and our communities will experience a new level of connectivity and development," he stated.

He further applauded Governor Otu's People First approach to governance, describing the Governor as a leader who listens to the yearnings of his people and takes decisive action to meet their needs.

In his remarks during the event, Commissioner for Works, Hon. Pius Ankpo Edet, reaffirmed the administration's commitment to delivering quality infrastructure across the state. He disclosed that all necessary preparations have been completed and that work will commence soon to ensure the timely completion of the project's first phase.

Hon. Ankpo also assured residents of prompt intervention on the Ediba–Ugep Road, which links Abi and Yakurr LGAs, noting that the state government will not delay repairs despite the federal government's "no-refund" policy on such roads.

The inspection exercise was attended by Hon. Moses Osogi, Commissioner for Environment, Rt. Hon. Davies Etta, community leaders, and other dignitaries.

The Bahumono Ring Road project, when completed, is expected to serve as a key infrastructure link that will facilitate trade, promote rural development, and strengthen social cohesion among the Bahumono communities in Abi Local Government Area.

C’River Assembly Moves to Curb Soaring Rent, Ban House Agency

Ukorebi Esien | October 15, 2025 

CALABAR — The Cross River State House of Assembly has resolved to take decisive legislative action to curb the soaring cost of house rents and address what it described as the exploitative practices of housing agents across the state.

The motion, titled "Matter of Urgent Public Importance on the Unreasonable Hikes in House Rent," was sponsored by the Member representing Abi State Constituency, Rt. Hon. (Dr) Davies Etta debated extensively during Tuesday's plenary session in Calabar.

Hon. Etta, in his lead debate, lamented that the state capital, Calabar, and its environs have witnessed an alarming surge in rent prices, with landlords and agents increasing rates arbitrarily without any corresponding improvement in the quality of housing.

"Houses built over 20 to 30 years ago, with leaking roofs, broken plumbing, and outdated fittings, are being rented for millions of naira. House agents now boldly advise landlords to increase rents not because of any renovation or upgrade, but simply because 'others are doing so.' This is exploitative, heartless, and economically destabilizing," Etta stated.

According to him, a single-room self-contained apartment along Marian Road now rents for as much as ₦1.5 million annually, while a one-bedroom apartment in Calabar South costs between ₦800,000 and ₦1 million. In Parliamentary Extension, E1, and State Housing areas, two-bedroom apartments now go for ₦2 million or more — far beyond the reach of civil servants, students, and small business owners.

Etta described the trend as a social and economic threat that could fuel homelessness, increase urban inequality, and endanger public stability. He therefore called for immediate government intervention to regulate rental prices and introduce a clear legal framework governing landlord-tenant relations.

In contributions to the debate, several lawmakers expressed outrage over the role of housing agents, accusing them of manipulating the property market for selfish profit.

Standley Nsemo (Calabar Municipality) described agents as "middlemen profiting from people's suffering," calling for strict regulation or outright proscription of their activities.

Francis Ogban (Biase) linked the rising rent crisis to increasing crime rates in the state, arguing that many youths are being driven into desperate situations due to unaffordable housing.

Omang Omang (Bekwarra) insisted that the welfare of Cross Riverians must remain the government's top priority, urging the Ministry of Housing to step up enforcement of fair rental practices.

Also contributing, Ashakia Pius (Obanliku) demanded the complete abolition of housing agents, stressing that their operations have worsened the living conditions of the average citizen. He argued that direct dealings between landlords and tenants would eliminate unnecessary fees and exploitation.

Lawmakers also expressed worry over the skyrocketing cost of building materials, particularly cement produced by Lafarge and iron rods from the Export Processing Zone (EPZ), both located within the state.

The Member representing Akpabuyo Constituency said it was unacceptable that materials produced in Cross River remain unaffordable to the very people of the state. He called on the state government to engage manufacturers and distributors to review pricing and consider introducing subsidies to make construction more affordable.

Similarly, the Member representing Obubra I Constituency urged the Assembly to review the role of property agents in tenancy agreements, noting that many exploit both landlords and tenants, inflating rent prices under the guise of "agency charges."

Responding to the motion, the Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem commended Hon. Etta for what he described as a "timely and people-centred motion." He assured that the 10th Assembly would prioritize the issue of affordable housing and ensure that both landlords and tenants are treated fairly under the law.

"This Assembly belongs to the people. We will continue to stand with them to create balance, fairness, and affordability in housing across Cross River State," Ayambem said.

The Speaker also noted that the Assembly will not tolerate any exploitative practice that undermines the dignity of citizens or widens economic inequality in the state.

At the end of deliberations, the House resolved to mandate its Committee on Housing and Urban Development to liaise with the Ministry of Housing, landlords' associations, and relevant stakeholders to design an actionable framework for rent regulation and the review of agent operations.

The committee is expected to present recommendations that will lead to the drafting of a Property Rental Regulation Bill, setting clear standards for rent increases, tenancy rights, and building material pricing.

Lawmakers unanimously emphasized that housing is not a luxury but a basic human necessity, warning that the current trend of unregulated rent hikes, if not urgently checked, could push more Cross Riverians into poverty and social distress.

Biakpan Reaffirms Commitment to Peace, Seeks Enforcement of Supreme Court Judgment in Boundary Dispute with Etono II

Ukorebi Esien  | October 14, 2025

CALABAR — The Biakpan Traditional Rulers Council and Concerned Citizens of Biakpan Community in Biase Local Government Area of Cross River State have reaffirmed their commitment to peace while calling on the state and federal governments to enforce the Supreme Court judgment that finally settled the long-standing boundary dispute between Biakpan and Etono II communities.

Speaking during a press briefing held in Calabar on Monday, October 14, the Biakpan leaders said their silence over time should not be mistaken for weakness or acceptance of false narratives, stressing that they remain bound by law, truth, and conscience in their pursuit of peace and justice.

In a joint statement signed by Onun Dr E. B. Enun, Onun Lawrence E. Ekpezu, Onun Obu Obu Enang, and Chief Godwin Ekpezu, the community said it has become imperative to "set the records straight" regarding the ownership and administration of the disputed land, as misinformation continues to circulate in the public space.

"We are constrained by good conscience and our sincere desire for peace and development in our community to once again tell the true story about this conflict, our pains, losses, and the facts as determined by competent courts of law," the statement read in part.

The Biakpan leaders recalled that the High Court of Calabar, in Suit No. C/6/73, had in 1986 declared that "the land occupied by Etono II village is part of Biakpan communal land under the headship of the Paramount Ruler of Biakpan."
That judgment was subsequently upheld by the Court of Appeal in 1989 and affirmed by the Supreme Court in 1996 in Ojah vs. Ogboni (1996) 6 NWLR (Pt. 454) 272 (SC).

They noted that, despite the finality of the Supreme Court's decision, the Etono II community has continued to flout court orders, violate peace accords, and provoke unrest, including the recent destruction of the Brotherhood of the Cross and Star cathedral at the "New Jerusalem" in Biakpan during the period of an existing peace accord signed on August 1, 2025.

"Even in the face of these provocations, we have chosen peace over retaliation. But peace without justice is a mirage," the statement emphasised. "We therefore call on the Cross River State Government and all relevant security agencies to ensure the full enforcement of the subsisting Supreme Court judgment as required by Section 287 of the 1999 Constitution."

The community commended Governor Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu for his swift intervention in the recent hostilities and expressed confidence in his administration's commitment to truth and fairness in resolving the crisis.
They also appreciated the Chairman of Biase Local Government Council for supporting peace efforts at the grassroots.

The Biakpan Traditional Rulers Council further appealed to the Inspector-General of Police, Director of State Security Service, National Human Rights Commission, and Attorney-General of the Federation to intervene and ensure the arrest and prosecution of those responsible for killings, arson, and destruction of properties in the area.

The community maintained that all administrative pronouncements and government communications since 1996, including letters from successive Secretaries to the State Government and the 2007 Press Release by the Donald Duke administration, have consistently recognized Etono II as part and parcel of Biakpan, sharing common ancestry and communal land ownership.

"We seek peace anchored on truth, equity, and respect for the rule of law," the statement concluded. "No community is bigger than the State, and no one should be allowed to undermine the authority of the Nigerian Constitution."

The Biakpan community pledged to continue cooperating with government authorities, security agencies, and peacebuilding organizations to restore lasting harmony in Biase Local Government Area, while insisting that justice must remain the foundation for sustainable peace.