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. 

APC Has a Better Deal Ahead of 2027, Says Dansuki; Warns Power Brokers: “We No Go Work, Others Come Chop”

Ukorebi Esien | January 8, 2026

CALABAR - Former federal lawmaker and prominent political figure in Cross River State, Rt. Hon. Daniel Asuqo, popularly known as Dansuki, has declared that the All Progressives Congress (APC) remains the best political platform ahead of the 2027 general elections, while issuing a strong warning to party power brokers against sidelining loyal supporters after electoral victories.

Dansuki made the remarks over the weekend during a private gathering at his residence in Calabar, attended by friends, political associates, and supporters from across party lines, including the APC, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and the Labour Party.

Reaffirming his support for Governor Bassey Edet Otu, Dansuki said his decision to back the governor was based on conviction, shared struggle and political integrity, not opportunism or personal gain. He dismissed speculations on social media suggesting a strained relationship between him and the governor.

"I believe in the government I worked for. I believe in Prince Bassey Otu's government because it was the right thing to do," Dansuki said. "I will not allow that man to go and eat alone."

In a statement that resonated strongly with attendees, the former House of Representatives member criticised a political culture where individuals who laboured for electoral success are marginalised once victory is achieved.

"We no go work, others come chop," he said, stressing that political loyalty and early commitment must be recognised and protected.

According to Dansuki, rewarding opportunism at the expense of sacrifice weakens party structures and fuels internal discontent, particularly at the grassroots level. He cautioned that such practices, if left unchecked, could undermine party cohesion ahead of future elections.

Speaking on the direction of the APC in Cross River State, Dansuki maintained that the ruling party offers a better deal than its rivals, citing ongoing development efforts and governance style under Governor Otu.

"Politics is dynamic, but I know we have a better deal in APC today, seeing what we are seeing on the ground from what the governor is doing," he said.

He urged party members to stop attacking one another in the pursuit of political ambition, warning that pulling others down is not a sustainable path to growth.

"People must not run people down for them to grow. You are not going anywhere; it only looks like you are going somewhere," he cautioned.
Dansuki also appealed to his supporters to preserve long-standing friendships and family ties beyond politics, advising them not to fight personal political battles on his behalf.
Several speakers at the event, including party leaders and longtime associates, praised Dansuki for maintaining close relationships with his supporters despite not holding elective office. They described the gathering as a rare display of political maturity and cross-party camaraderie.

Some supporters openly projected Dansuki's future political relevance ahead of 2027, though he made no formal declaration of ambition. He, however, expressed gratitude for the continued support and stressed the importance of unity, loyalty and shared values.

"What matters is that we all believe in the same thing , a better tomorrow, and we walk towards it together," he said.

As political activities gradually build toward the 2027 general elections, Dansuki's remarks are seen as both a reaffirmation of loyalty to the APC and a subtle caution to party leaders that sacrifice, commitment and unity must remain central to the party's internal politics.