Ugep Polytechnic Rectorship: C'River Must Not Be Silenced Again

Community Report  | January 22, 2026

 "For a newly established federal institution, appointing a qualified indigene as Rector is not an act of exclusion but a strategy for stability, inclusion, and sustainable growth—especially when merit has been transparently established."

CALABAR – The ongoing process to appoint a substantive Rector for the newly established Federal Polytechnic, Ugep is more than an administrative exercise; it is a defining test of Nigeria's commitment to merit, equity, federal character, and institutional integrity. It is also a moment that calls for vigilance among all stakeholders in Cross River State.

There are now strong allegations that a process which was thoroughly and properly conducted in line with all extant guidelines and statutory requirements, producing a Cross Riverian who satisfied every provision and emerged as the recommended Rector, may be unlawfully circumvented. Reports indicate that despite the candidate's recommendation by the Governing Council and subsequent approval by Governor Bassey Edet Otu, an official at the Federal Ministry of Education is allegedly attempting to alter the outcome, raising grave concerns that such interference is driven by the mistaken and unacceptable notion that Cross Riverians are unfit to head federal institutions. If true, this would represent not only a breach of due process but also a troubling affront to equity and national unity

Meanwhile, across Nigeria, federal polytechnics are commonly led by qualified indigenes of their host states, a practice that has strengthened institutional stability and fostered community ownership. Institutions such as Auchi Polytechnic (Edo State), Federal Polytechnic Ilaro (Ogun State), Offa (Kwara State), Oko (Anambra State), Ekowe (Bayelsa State), Bida (Niger State), Nekede (Imo State), Kaduna Polytechnic (Kaduna State), and Yaba College of Technology (Lagos State)Federal Polytechnic idah in( kogi state) are all headed by rectors who are indigenes of, or firmly rooted in, their host states. These institutions have thrived, demonstrating that local representation and academic excellence are not mutually exclusive.

Ironically, Cross River State remains conspicuously absent at the national level of polytechnic leadership. At present, there is no Cross Riverian serving as a Rector of any federal polytechnic in Nigeria, not even in institutions domiciled within the state itself. This absence means that when critical decisions are taken at the Committee of Rectors of Polytechnics in Nigeria, Cross River State has no voice, no representation, and no institutional advocate at that strategic table.

For a new institution like Federal Polytechnic, Ugep, this reality makes the case for a qualified indigene Rector even more compelling. At its formative stage, the polytechnic requires leadership that understands the local environment, commands community trust, and can build strong partnerships essential for growth, security, and sustainability. An indigene Rector who has met all statutory requirements is uniquely positioned to provide such leadership.

It must be emphasized that advocating for an indigene Rector is not a call to lower standards. The Federal Polytechnic Act (as amended) and the guidelines of the Federal Ministry of Education clearly outline the qualifications for the office of Rector. Where a candidate emerges through a transparent, competitive, and merit-based process, and is duly recommended by the Governing Council, such a recommendation deserves respect and protection.

In this context, any attempt to alter or circumvent a concluded recommendation of the Governing Council, particularly by substituting a qualified indigene with a non-indigene, raises serious concerns. Such an action would not only undermine due process but would also amount to a direct affront to the efforts of the Cross River State Governor, who monitored and supported a free, fair, and credible selection process and gave approval based on merit. Allowing external interference to upturn that outcome would send a damaging signal about institutional autonomy and respect for state-level consensus.

This situation should serve as a wake-up call to all stakeholders in Cross River State, across party lines, the Governor, federal lawmakers, political leaders, business figures, senior party members, and all lovers of the state. Protecting the integrity of this process is not about partisan politics; it is about defending fairness, inclusion, and the collective dignity of the state within the Nigerian federation.

Beyond equity, the appointment of a qualified indigene Rector would also help address long-standing perceptions of marginalisation, particularly in the Obubra/Ugep axis. It would inspire confidence among young people, reinforce the principle that excellence is rewarded, and affirm that Cross River State will no longer be silent or invisible in key national education platforms.

In conclusion, appointing a qualified indigene as Rector of Federal Polytechnic, Ugep aligns with national best practices, strengthens institutional stability, restores Cross River State's voice in national polytechnic governance, and upholds the principles of merit and justice. Anything short of this would not only weaken the institution at birth but also erode public confidence in the fairness of federal appointments.

This is not merely about who occupies an office; it is about laying the right foundation for an institution and affirming the rightful place of Cross River State in Nigeria's educational leadership.

Wike’s Camp Suffers Setback as Court Dismisses Samuel Anyanwu’s Suit Against PDP

Ukorebi Esien  |  January 21, 2026 

ABUJA— The Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has dismissed the suit filed by Senator Samuel Anyanwu challenging his removal as the National Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), dealing a major setback to the camp of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, widely believed to have backed the embattled party chieftain.

Justice M. G. Umar, in a ruling delivered on Tuesday, struck out Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/254/2025 , Sen. Samuel Anyanwu v. INEC & Ors, in which the former PDP National Secretary sought judicial intervention to retain his position and restrain the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from recognising or acting on any PDP correspondence not bearing his signature.

Anyanwu had approached the court following internal party disputes and earlier judicial pronouncements, arguing that his tenure as National Secretary subsisted until December 2025. He also relied on a previous Supreme Court decision which held that the leadership of political parties is largely an internal affair.

However, Justice Umar dismissed the suit on multiple grounds. The court reaffirmed the long-standing position of Nigerian courts that issues bordering on the internal administration and leadership of political parties are non-justiciable and fall outside the jurisdiction of the court.

The judge further held that the suit amounted to an abuse of court process, noting that several cases on the same subject matter were already pending or had been determined at different levels of the judiciary, including the Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court.

In addition, the court ruled that Anyanwu's tenure had expired by effluxion of time, having been elected as PDP National Secretary in 2021. The court held that he could not lawfully continue to lay claim to the office beyond the tenure for which he was elected.

The ruling effectively nullifies Anyanwu's attempt to use the courts to sustain his hold on the PDP national secretariat and is seen as a significant blow to the political influence of the Wike-aligned faction within the party.

Although Anyanwu has persistently maintained that his term remained valid, he was among the high-ranking PDP members expelled from the party during the Ibadan National Convention held in November 2025.

The PDP currently recognises the Kabiru Tanimu Turaki-led National Working Committee (NWC), which emerged from the Ibadan convention and has since been accepted by the party as its legitimate national leadership.

Political observers say the judgment further strengthens the authority of the PDP's current leadership while narrowing the legal and political options available to dissenting factions within the party.

UJIBHADA: Ebokpo Begins Early Grassroots Mobilization for Otu in C'River

Ukorebi Esien | January 21, 2026 

CALABAR — In a move aimed at consolidating support for the re-election of Governor Bassey Edet Otu in 2027, the Commissioner for Agriculture and Irrigation Development, Johnson Andiambey Ebokpo, KSM, has unveiled the UJIBHADA Progressives Movement, a socio-political support platform designed to mobilise grassroots backing for continuity of the current administration in Cross River State.

The unveiling ceremony, which drew political stakeholders, party faithful and community leaders from across the state, also featured the inauguration of ward, chapter and local government coordinators to drive the activities of the movement at the grassroots level. The structure, according to organisers, is intended to ensure early mobilisation and sustained engagement ahead of the next general elections.

Speaking at the event, Ebokpo, who serves as the Director-General of the movement, said UJIBHADA was formed to galvanise widespread support for Governor Otu's second-term bid, stressing that continuity would guarantee the consolidation of the administration's people-oriented policies and developmental programmes.

Represented by the Deputy Director-General of the movement, Solomon Ekam, Ebokpo explained that "UJIBHADA," a term symbolising prosperity and good fortune, reflects the positive socio-economic direction of the Otu-led government and the need to sustain its reform agenda beyond 2027.

Providing an overview of the organisation, the Director of Special Duties, Dr. Cletus Omono, JP, disclosed that the UJIBHADA Progressives Movement is a duly registered political support group with coordinators across the 18 local government areas of Cross River State, ensuring a broad and inclusive reach.

In his keynote address, former council chairman of Obubra LGA, Dr. Bassey Eric Tom, urged members of the movement to remain united, disciplined and strategic in their engagements, noting that effective grassroots mobilisation would be critical to achieving success in 2027.

Also speaking, elder statesman and seasoned politician, High Chief Julius Mbina, highlighted the electoral strength of Obubra Local Government Area, calling on stakeholders to harness the voting capacity of the area to attract increased development and political relevance.

Goodwill messages were delivered by several stakeholders, including Mrs. Charity Orokwu, as the event attracted a wide spectrum of politicians, traditional leaders and party supporters who pledged their commitment to the ideals of the movement.

The high point of the event was the presentation of an Award of Excellent Performance to Ebokpo by the Director-General of AJEMO (Johnson Andiambey Ebokpo Movement), Mr. Ekawo Cyprian Awah. Presenting the award, Awah said the recognition was in appreciation of the commissioner's notable achievements within a short period in office and his contributions to community and state development.

Observers say the emergence of the UJIBHADA Progressives Movement signals the commencement of early grassroots political realignment ahead of the 2027 governorship election, with continuity of the Otu administration now gaining organised support across the state.

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40 year old man rope minor in Odukpani community

Community Report | November 29, 2025

ODUKPANI – A 40 year old man named Etim Okon has been accused of having series of canal knowledge a 14 year old girl in Okurikan community of Odukpani LGA. 

Etim who is a neighbour had been having sex with 15 year old child of his neighbour when the parents are not around .

According to Mr Cletus Bassey prevent team chairman of partners for peace in the Niger Delta, Cross River State Chapter,  the case was reported to his office in November 2024 and investigations are ongoing while the child has been relocated the perpetrator is still in police custody 

Ikom APC Sets Up Committee to Review 2023 Electoral Woes ahead of 2027

Ukorebi Esien  | January 19, 2026

IKOM – In a decisive move to forestall a repeat of its poor showing in the 2023 general elections, stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ikom Local Government Area of Cross River State have constituted a data and facts-finding committee to review the party's electoral challenges ahead of the 2027 polls.

The committee inaugurated yesterday in Ikom during a well-attended stakeholders' engagement convened by the Political Leader of Ikom and Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Elvert Anyambem, to critically examine the factors responsible for the party's underwhelming performance, particularly in the 2023 governorship election.

Anyambem noted that the initiative is aimed at identifying structural, organizational, and grassroots gaps that affected voter mobilization and coordination, with a view to repositioning the APC as a dominant political force in the local government by 2027.

The six-man committee is chaired by Mr. Odey Oyama, with Dr. Bassey Okim as Co-Chairman. Other members include Prince Eka William, Madam Achi Agbor, Mr. Kingsley Egumi Nnamgbe, Mr. Jones Nkwam,  while Hon. Asinya Ntan serves as Secretary.

According to results announced by INEC during the 2023 gubernatorial election, Sen. Bassey Edet Otu of the APC scored 12,883 while Sen. Sandy Onoh of the PDP scored 14,128

Inaugurating the committee, the Speaker explained that the committee's mandate is to carry out an objective assessment of the 2023 elections across wards in Ikom, engage party leaders and grassroots members, and submit practical recommendations that will guide corrective actions and future electoral strategies.

He stressed that the move is not targeted at witch-hunting any individual but is a collective effort to strengthen party unity, accountability, and performance ahead of the 2027 general elections.

In a related development and what many has described has a major political boost for the APC, nearly 1,000 members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) from Nnam Ward, a long-time opposition stronghold, formally defected to the ruling party. Party leaders described the defection as a clear indication of shifting political alignments and growing confidence in the APC within the local government.

Receiving the defectors, Rt. Hon. Elvert Anyambem assured them of full integration into party structures, noting that the mass defection further underscores the need to consolidate internal reforms and grassroots engagement.

Stakeholders resolved that the committee's findings would be shared with relevant party organs at the state level to ensure coordinated interventions capable of delivering improved electoral outcomes in 2027.

The committee is expected to commence work immediately, marking what party leaders described as a critical step toward rebuilding trust, strengthening party machinery, and restoring APC's electoral strength in Ikom.

“Theres No Agenda to Unseat Anybody, We need Credible and Transparent Governance in Ikom" – Ayambem Responds to Allegations

Ukorebi Esien | January 18, 2026

IKOM – The Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem, has dismissed allegations that he is plotting to remove the Executive Chairman of Ikom Local Government Area, Hon. Pst. (Mrs.) Mercy Nsor, describing the claims as false, misleading, and politically motivated.

Responding to widespread reports and public speculation, Ayambem insisted that his involvement in recent developments in Ikom is strictly driven by concerns over governance, accountability, and the overall interest of the people, not personal or political ambition.

"This is about governance, not politics," the Speaker said, stressing that there is no agenda to unseat the council chairman or install any preferred successor. According to him, claims that he is pursuing a third-term ambition or nurturing a governorship aspiration ahead of 2031 are "very unfounded" and do not reflect his political focus or intentions.

Ayambem explained that a series of stakeholders' meetings were convened by Ikom leaders to address growing concerns over the administration of the local government council, including financial management and service delivery. He noted that at a recent meeting attended by about 47 leaders from Ikom, both within and outside the state, issues bordering on alleged maladministration were raised.

The Speaker alleged that the council chairman failed to honour invitations to the stakeholders' meeting despite being in Ikom at the time, a development he said was viewed by many leaders as disrespectful and troubling. He further claimed that allegations of financial mismanagement, including the handling of council funds and revenue-generating agencies, were brought before the gathering.

According to Ayambem, the stakeholders resolved to set up a six-man committee to investigate the concerns raised, including factors responsible for Ikom's performance in the 2023 governorship election. He said the outcome of the committee's work would be formally presented to Governor Bassey Edet Otu for necessary action.

"The leadership of Ikom has a responsibility to ask questions and demand accountability. This process is not targeted at removing anyone but at correcting what is not right," he said.

The Speaker also rejected suggestions that his actions are linked to the 2027 elections, maintaining that the objective is to strengthen unity, governance, and political organization in Ikom ahead of future contests. He emphasized that no individual should be allowed to operate the local government as a sole administrator outside established laws and procedures.

On claims that the chairman enjoys protection due to her perceived closeness to the First Lady of the state, Ayambem dismissed such narratives, stating that the First Lady is known for her commitment to truth and accountability, regardless of personal relationships.

Despite the controversy, Ayambem maintained that peaceful engagement remains the preferred option, noting that the issues can still be resolved through dialogue if the council leadership addresses the concerns raised by stakeholders.

As the situation continues to attract public attention, political observers have called for calm, transparency, and strict adherence to due process to prevent further escalation. The unfolding developments in Ikom are expected to test the strength of local governance structures and stakeholder engagement in Cross River State.

Ikom Stakeholders, Councillors Rally Behind Chairman Amid Leadership Dispute

Ukorebi Esien | January 18, 2026

IKOM – Political tension continues to simmer in Ikom Local Government Area of Cross River State following allegations of moves to unseat the Executive Chairman of the council, Hon. Pst. (Mrs.) Mercy Nsor.

Several stakeholders and councillors in the LGA have reportedly closed ranks behind the chairman, insisting that she remains lawfully in office and has not violated any provision of the Cross River State Local Government Law or the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

The controversy follows claims by some political actors that the Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem, is exerting influence over local party structures and political processes in Ikom. According to sources familiar with developments in the area, concerns have been raised over meetings allegedly convened by individuals perceived to be loyal to the Speaker, which critics say are aimed at influencing the leadership of the council ahead of forthcoming party congresses.

Supporters of the council chairman have described the allegations of maladministration against her as unsubstantiated and politically motivated. They argue that oversight of the executive arm of the local government rests primarily with the legislative arm of the council, made up of elected councillors, and not with any single individual outside that structure.

Speaking on condition of anonymity, a stakeholder in Ikom questioned the legality of demands allegedly made for council financial records outside established constitutional and statutory procedures.

"Accountability is important, but it must follow due process. The councillors are constitutionally empowered to carry out oversight of the council's finances and administration. Any other approach raises serious legal and institutional concerns," the source said.

The legislative arm of the Ikom Local Government Council is said to have reaffirmed its support for the chairman, noting that no formal resolution, impeachment process, or official report of wrongdoing has been presented against her. Councillors have reportedly maintained that they have not identified any breach serious enough to warrant disciplinary action against the executive chairman.

Some stakeholders have also expressed concern over what they described as selective stakeholder engagements, alleging that several prominent political leaders and former officeholders from the area were not invited to recent meetings relating to Ikom affairs. They argue that such exclusions undermine the credibility of decisions taken at those gatherings.

Despite the growing political debate, there has been no official communication from the state government or the Cross River State House of Assembly indicating that any lawful process has been initiated to remove the Ikom council chairman.

Observers have called for restraint, transparency, and strict adherence to constitutional provisions to prevent the situation from escalating. They stress that any concerns about governance in Ikom Local Government Area should be addressed through appropriate legal and institutional mechanisms.

As of the time of filing this report, Hon. Mercy Nsor remains in office, with her supporters insisting that she continues to enjoy the confidence of the council legislature and a significant section of stakeholders within the LGA.

Two Men Die After Machete Fight in Odukpani

Ukorebi Esien | Community Report| January 13, 2026

CALABAR - Two men have lost their lives following a violent machete fight in Akpap Okoyong community, Odukpani Local Government Area of Cross River State.
The incident, which occurred on Tuesday, was the result of a disagreement between the two men, identified as Edet and Effiong, residents of the community. According to an eyewitness who spoke on condition of anonymity, the altercation began when Effiong went to Edet's residence after a misunderstanding between them.

The source said Effiong reportedly arrived at Edet's house armed with a machete and met him peeling plantain. An argument ensued, during which Effiong allegedly attacked Edet with the machete, inflicting severe injuries. In an attempt to defend himself, Edet was said to have picked up another machete within his compound and struck Effiong.

Both men sustained deep cuts during the confrontation and were immediately rushed to a nearby health centre in the community. However, they could not receive adequate medical attention due to the lack of facilities and equipment to manage the severity of their injuries.

They were later confirmed dead, reportedly from excessive blood loss and dehydration.

At the time of filing this report, the exact cause of the disagreement that led to the fatal clash remains unknown. Residents of Akpap Okoyong community have been thrown into mourning by the tragic incident.

Efforts to obtain official comments from the police were unsuccessful as of press time, but it was gathered that security agencies have been informed of the development and investigations are expected to commence.

The incident has once again drawn attention to the rising cases of violent disputes in rural communities and the urgent need for improved healthcare facilities and effective conflict resolution mechanisms at the grassroots. 

Alleged Plot to Oust Ikom Council Boss: CRHA Speaker Fingered

Ukorebi Esien | January 18, 2026

IKOM - Tension is rising in Ikom Local Government Area following allegations that the Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly (CRHA), Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem, is behind an alleged plot to remove the Executive Chairman of Ikom LGA, Hon. Pst. [Mrs] Mercy Nsor, through what critics describe as a "backdoor ouster."

Multiple political sources and stakeholders in the area claim that the alleged move is aimed at replacing the elected chairman with the Vice Chairman, Hon. Maurice Ekpando, who is said to be politically aligned with the Speaker. The development has triggered widespread concern, with many describing it as an attempt to seize control of the political structure of Ikom LGA outside established democratic and legal processes.

According to insiders familiar with the situation, pressure is allegedly being mounted on relevant authorities using vague and unverified allegations against the chairman. Critics argue that no formal breach of the Local Government Law or the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria has been established to warrant such a move.

The controversy has drawn strong reactions from major political stakeholders in Ikom, including former Senator Victor Ndoma-Egba, legal practitioners, former lawmakers, and community leaders, who are said to be firmly backing Hon. Mercy Nsor. They credit her administration with maintaining peace, stability, and steady development since assuming office.

Adding weight to the resistance, the legislative arm of the Ikom Local Government Council, led by Hon. Moyo Efale, has publicly aligned with the chairman. The eleven elected councillors reportedly insist that Hon. Nsor has not violated any provision of the Local Government Laws or the Nigerian Constitution, effectively dismissing claims used to justify her alleged removal.

"This is not about governance; it is about control," a stakeholder who spoke on condition of anonymity said. "You cannot remove an elected chairman through political manipulation. That is an assault on democracy."

The allegations have also fueled broader political debates, with some observers linking the reported move to long-term political calculations and power realignment within the state. Others warn that such actions, if pursued, could destabilize not just Ikom LGA but local government administration across Cross River State.

Responding to the allegations, the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem, was quoted as offering a detailed account of events surrounding a recent stakeholders' engagement in Ikom. According to him, "a whole lot isn't going on right in Ikom," noting that concerns were raised by community leaders over the council's administration. He explained that a stakeholders' meeting was convened to address unresolved issues from an earlier engagement held two weeks prior, where it was resolved that the chairman should account for certain matters. The Speaker said the follow-up meeting, which reportedly drew 47 Ikom leaders from across the country, including Abuja and Enugu, went ahead despite the absence of the council chairman. "The chairman did not attend, did not send a representative, not even the vice chairman or secretary, and no excuse was communicated," he said, adding that she was reportedly in Ikom at the time. He further claimed that allegations of maladministration were raised at the meeting, including concerns over revenue generation and the handling of funds sent to the council by the state government. "This is not about removing anyone by force," the Speaker was quoted as saying. "I came as a leader of Ikom to listen to what the people had to say and to allow the chairman an opportunity to explain these allegations. I have documents and evidence that these issues were discussed by the leadership." He stressed that the gathering was intended to ensure accountability and that "Ikom cannot be run like a sole administration without explanation to its people."  He emphasized that the concern of stakeholders was that Ikom Local Government "cannot continue to be run like a sole administration without accountability," adding that the leadership felt compelled to act in the interest of transparency and good governance.

As the situation unfolds, residents of Ikom LGA remain on edge, calling for transparency, adherence to due process, and respect for the people's mandate. Political analysts warn that any attempt to forcefully remove an elected local government chairman without due process could set a dangerous precedent in the state.

Breaking: NYCN Chairman, Emmanuel Olayi, Others Involved in Auto Crash

Ukorebi Esien | January 9, 2026

 
CALABAR - The Chairman of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Cross River State chapter, Comrade Emmanuel Olayi, on yesterday narrowly escaped death alongside four others after their vehicle was involved in a road traffic accident while en route to a central youth engagement in the state.

The accident occurred between 3:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m along the Nko/inyima axis of the Ikom-Calabar expressway enroute Obubra LGA, as Olayi and members of his team were travelling ahead of the main convoy to the next engagement point. The trip was part of the Central Youth Engagement Tour organised by the Cross River State Commissioner for Special Duties, Hon. Oden Ewa.

Speaking with journalists from his hospital bed, Olayi explained that the red Toyota Corolla conveying him, three aides, and a driver suddenly skidded off the major expressway despite the driver's efforts to regain control. The vehicle veered into a nearby bush, tumbled repeatedly, and eventually crashed into a tree.

According to him, the impact left the occupants with varying degrees of injuries. Olayi said they sustained injuries in the head, neck, and chest, while one of his aides was temporarily unable to use his legs immediately after the accident. He, however, confirmed that no life was lost in the incident.

The NYCN chairman disclosed that commercial motorcycle riders in the area were the first to respond to the scene, assisting in opening the damaged vehicle and rescuing the occupants. They were initially taken to the General Hospital, Ugep, where they received first aid before being transferred by ambulance to the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital (UCTH) for further medical attention.

Olayi clarified that his vehicle was the only one involved in the crash, noting that it was travelling ahead of the main convoy at the time of the accident. Other vehicles in the convoy later stopped after the victims had been moved to safety.

As of the time of filing this report, Olayi and the other occupants of the vehicle were responding to treatment at UCTH, while the damaged vehicle remained at the crash site pending recovery. Further details on the cause of the accident were still emerging.
The incident has drawn concern from youth leaders and stakeholders across the state, with many expressing gratitude that no life was lost and wishing the victims a speedy recovery.