At 65, Rt. Hon. Orok Otu Duke’s Legacy of Service Continues to Inspire

Our Reporter | July 24, 2026

CALABAR - For some, a birthday is simply another milestone. For others, it is an opportunity to reflect on a life of purpose, service and enduring impact. As Rt. Hon. (Chief) Orok Otu Duke, PhD, the Cross River State Representative on the Board of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), celebrates his 65th birthday today, Cross River State honours a distinguished public servant whose contributions have left an indelible mark on governance, literature, culture, sports and regional development.

Born on 24 July 1961 in Calabar South, Cross River State, Rt. Hon. Orok Otu Duke has built a remarkable career defined by an unwavering commitment to public service and the advancement of society. Over the years, he has combined leadership with scholarship, creativity with administration, and public office with community service, earning the admiration of colleagues, associates and citizens alike.

His educational journey laid the foundation for a lifetime of excellence. After attending Saint Patrick’s College, Calabar, and the Hope Waddell Training Institute, he proceeded to the University of Calabar, where he obtained a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) degree in 1986 and a Master of Fine Arts in Media in 1991. His pursuit of knowledge culminated in the award of a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in March 2025, underscoring his belief that learning remains a lifelong endeavour.

Rt. Hon. Duke’s entry into public office came in 1992 when he was elected to represent Calabar I State Constituency in the Cross River State House of Assembly. His leadership qualities quickly earned him the position of Deputy Speaker, setting the tone for a distinguished career in governance. He later served as adviser and representative for Calabar South I and, in 2014, represented the Niger Delta Zone at the National Conference in Abuja, where he contributed to national conversations on governance and development.

His experience in public administration spans several strategic positions. As Special Assistant on Information and Culture, he played a pivotal role in establishing Cross River State’s modern radio and television stations between 1994 and 1996, strengthening the state’s communication infrastructure. Between 2015 and 2019, he served as Commissioner and Chairman of the Cross River State Sports Commission, where he championed sports development and youth participation. His appointment as NDDC Commissioner in December 2022 further expanded his contributions to regional development, and today, as the Cross River State Representative on the Board of the Niger Delta Development Commission, he continues to advocate for programmes and projects that improve the lives of the people.

Under his watch, Cross River State has continued to benefit from critical NDDC interventions aimed at improving infrastructure, healthcare and community welfare. From the installation of solar-powered streetlights that enhance security and economic activities, to medical outreach programmes, environmental sanitation initiatives and the distribution of relief materials and agricultural support, his commitment to ensuring that Cross River receives meaningful developmental interventions remains evident. His leadership reflects a firm belief that development should be measured by the positive impact it has on the lives of ordinary people.

Beyond public office, Rt. Hon. Duke is widely respected as a prolific writer, cultural advocate and intellectual. In April 2026, he released five books to a global audience, including Welcome To Uyo, a moving memoir inspired by his childhood experiences during the Nigerian Civil War, the poetry collections Winnowing and Treasures, the family novel Oluchi’s Journey, and Calabar Modern Stories, a collection exploring contemporary society through the lens of Cross River’s rich cultural heritage. These publications add to an already impressive body of literary works, including Clementines, Sentinels, Dances on the Plains, My Song and Ellipses. Through his writings, he has consistently sought to preserve history, celebrate culture and inspire future generations.

His passion for preserving cultural heritage is equally evident in his activities beyond the written word. As Band Leader of TINKORIKO, he has remained a passionate promoter of Calabar’s rich traditions, contributing significantly to the promotion of the state’s cultural identity. The group’s recent recognition within the Calabar Carnival calendar further reflects his enduring commitment to preserving and showcasing Cross River’s unique heritage. His traditional titles, Adaidaha of Efik Eburutu and Otuekong of Atakpa Ikot Effiom, are fitting acknowledgements of his standing within his community.

In sports, Rt. Hon. Duke has distinguished himself as a steadfast supporter of grassroots development. As Cross River State Sports Ambassador since 2007 and Chairman of the Cross River State Table Tennis Association, he has nurtured young talents through sustained investment in table tennis, particularly within the Calabar table tennis community and the Canaan Queens Table Tennis Club. His efforts have helped produce athletes who have gone on to represent both Cross River State and Nigeria on national and international stages.

His remarkable contributions across public service, literature, culture and sports have earned him recognition within and outside Nigeria. Membership of prestigious organisations, including the London Poetry Society and the Society of Nigerian Theatre Artistes, alongside honours from cities such as Detroit, Indianapolis and Windsor, Ontario, Canada, reflects the broad reach of his influence and achievements.

Yet, beyond the titles, appointments and accolades is a man whose enduring strength lies in his humanity, accessibility and commitment to service. Those who know him speak of a leader who values excellence, encourages younger generations and approaches every responsibility with diligence and humility.

As Rt. Hon. (Chief) Orok Otu Duke marks his 65th birthday, Cross River State celebrates not merely the passage of time but a life devoted to making a difference. His journey stands as a testament to the power of vision, perseverance and selfless service. Whether through governance, literature, sports or cultural preservation, his contributions continue to shape lives and strengthen institutions.

On this special occasion, family, friends, colleagues, associates and the people of Cross River State celebrate an accomplished statesman, scholar, author and cultural icon whose legacy continues to grow with every passing year.

Happy 65th Birthday, Rt. Hon. (Chief) Orok Otu Duke, PhD. May Almighty God grant you continued good health, abundant grace, wisdom and strength as you continue to serve Cross River State, the Niger Delta and humanity with distinction.

From Crisis to Classroom: How Prof. Francisca Bassey’s Quiet Diplomacy Helped End the UNICROSS ASUU Strike

Ukorebi Esien | July 21, 2026

CALABAR – For nearly two months, silence hung over the lecture halls of the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS). Classrooms were empty, students waited anxiously at home and on campus, and the uncertainty created by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) strike threatened to derail another academic session.

But behind the headlines, away from the public glare, a steady effort was taking place. At the centre of it was the Vice Chancellor of UNICROSS, Prof. Francisca Bassey, whose quiet diplomacy and persistent engagement helped bring the university back from the brink of a prolonged crisis.

The suspension of the strike on July 21, 2026, did not happen by chance. It was the result of weeks of negotiations, consultations, and bridge-building between ASUU, the university management, student leaders, and the Cross River State Government.

The strike began on May 19, 2026, when ASUU UNICROSS Branch declared an indefinite industrial action over unresolved welfare issues, salary arrears, and the non-implementation of agreements affecting academic staff.

The union listed 11 demands, including payment of earned academic allowances, promotion arrears, wage award arrears, cooperative deductions, and improved funding for the university.

For students, the strike meant another painful interruption to their education. For parents, it was a period of worry. For the university, it was a test of leadership.

At such moments, it is easy for positions to harden. Unions defend the welfare of their members, governments weigh financial realities, and institutions risk becoming trapped between competing interests.

Prof. Bassey understood that the only path forward was dialogue.

 Choosing Engagement Over Confrontation

Rather than allow the crisis to deepen, the Vice Chancellor kept communication channels open with ASUU leadership. Sources close to the negotiations said she maintained regular contact with the union, listening to their concerns and seeking ways to move discussions forward.

This approach became more visible as the strike entered its second month.

On June 17, Governor Bassey Otu approved the constitution of a seven-member Technical Committee, led by Prof. Uduak Effiong, to review the university’s working environment, staff welfare, and governance structure.

The committee provided a formal platform for examining the issues raised by ASUU, but it was the continued engagement by the university management that kept the process alive.

Carrying The Voices Of Students

One of the most significant moments in the crisis came on July 14, when Prof. Bassey led a delegation of student leaders to meet Governor Otu.

The meeting was more than a courtesy visit. It was an opportunity for the students to present their concerns directly to the Governor and to remind all parties of the human cost of the strike.

By taking student leaders to the meeting, the Vice Chancellor ensured that those most affected by the crisis were not left out of the conversation. It was a clear sign that she saw the dispute not only as a labour issue, but as a matter that touched the future of thousands of young people.

The Governor assured the delegation of his commitment to resolving the impasse and restoring normal academic activities.

The following day, July 15, Prof. Bassey led the university management team and ASUU leadership to a closed-door meeting with Governor Otu at the Government House in Calabar.

Present at the meeting were members of the university management, ASUU UNICROSS Branch Chairman, Dr. Patrick Ushie, ASUU Calabar Zone Coordinator, Dr. Ikechukwu Igwenyi, and other union officials.

This was the meeting many stakeholders had been waiting for.

For hours, the parties discussed the grievances that had led to the strike. The Governor listened to the concerns of the lecturers and gave assurances regarding the resolution of the issues raised by the union.

What stood out was the Vice Chancellor’s role in bringing the parties together. She was not merely representing the university management; she was helping to create a space where trust could be rebuilt.

In industrial disputes, trust is often the first casualty. Once it is lost, negotiations become difficult. Prof. Bassey’s ability to keep all sides at the table was one of the reasons the talks did not collapse.

A Leadership Style Built On Patience

Those who have followed Prof. Bassey’s administration say her leadership style is not loud or confrontational. She is known for listening, consulting widely, and seeking consensus before taking major decisions.

That style was evident throughout the strike.

While public attention focused on the standoff, the Vice Chancellor continued to engage stakeholders quietly. She met with government officials, consulted with ASUU leaders, and worked with student representatives to maintain calm within the university community.

Even during the university’s Monthly Prayer and Praise Session on July 3, she publicly expressed concern over the strike and prayed for its peaceful resolution.

Such gestures may appear symbolic, but they reflected a leader who understood the emotional strain the crisis had placed on students, staff, and parents.

The Breakthrough

On July 21, ASUU UNICROSS Branch announced the suspension of the strike during an emergency congress held at the Calabar Campus.

The UNICROSS Media Team stated that the suspension followed a series of interventions by the Cross River State Government and the university management, as well as assurances given by Governor Otu during the meetings facilitated by the Vice Chancellor.

With the announcement, lecturers prepared to return to classrooms and academic activities resumed across the university.

For students, it was a moment of relief. For parents, it was the end of weeks of uncertainty. For the university, it was proof that dialogue can succeed where confrontation fails.

More Than Ending A Strike

The suspension of the ASUU strike is not the end of the challenges facing UNICROSS. The issues raised by the lecturers, funding, welfare, infrastructure, and governance, still require sustained attention.

But the crisis has shown that leadership matters.

Prof. Francisca Bassey did not resolve the dispute alone. The Governor’s intervention, the cooperation of ASUU, and the patience of students and other stakeholders were all important.

Yet her role was central. She provided the bridge between the university community and the government. She carried the concerns of students to the highest level. She kept negotiations alive when frustration could easily have led to a breakdown.

In the end, her quiet diplomacy achieved what many feared might take much longer: it moved UNICROSS from crisis back to classroom.

And sometimes, that is the true measure of leadership, not how loudly a leader speaks during a crisis, but how effectively they bring people together to solve it.

SANDY ONOR'S POLITICAL OUTBURST CANNOT DIM THE SHINING RECORD OF GOVERNOR BASSEY OTU

Fidelis Okang | July 21, 2026

ETUNG – Ordinarily, the recent media attacks by Senator Sandy Onor do not deserve a response. 

It is difficult to attach political significance to the comments of a man who, as the sitting Senator representing Cross River Central and the PDP governorship candidate in the 2023 governorship election, suffered a comprehensive rejection at the polls by losing his polling unit, ward, local government, senatorial district and ultimately the governorship election. 

That emphatic verdict remains the clearest reflection of the people's confidence-or lack thereof-in his leadership.

Rather than engaging in relentless criticism, Senator Onor should reflect on the reasons Cross Riverians overwhelmingly entrusted the leadership of the state to Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu. 

His political caterpillar has long somersaulted from the hills of Etara, and no amount of media rhetoric can alter the democratic verdict freely delivered by the people.

It is equally ironic that Senator Onor now seeks to position himself as an authority on governance. 

From his tenure as Chairman of Etung Local Government, to his appointments as Commissioner for Environment, Commissioner for Agriculture, his service in the Cross River State Civil Service Commission and later as Senator representing Cross River Central, Cross Riverians continue to ask what enduring legacy those years of public service produced.

Governor Bassey Edet Otu, on the other hand, has consistently allowed performance to define his public life. From the House of Representatives to the Senate and now as Governor, his leadership has been anchored on service, inclusiveness and development. 

He inherited a state weighed down by enormous debts, abandoned infrastructure, neglected public assets, declining economic activities and dwindling investor confidence. 

Rather than trade blame, he immediately set about rebuilding the state under his People First agenda.

Today, Cross River State is witnessing renewed investment in security, creating a more peaceful environment for businesses, investors and residents. 

This renewed stability has become the foundation upon which economic growth, tourism and social development are being rebuilt.

Recognising that tourism remains one of the state's greatest comparative advantages, Governor Otu has embarked on an ambitious programme to restore Cross River's position as Nigeria's premier tourism destination.

His administration has recovered and set to revitalise Tinapa as a strategic economic hub, accelerating the rehabilitation of the iconic Obudu Mountain Resort, driving the ongoing completion of the Obudu International Cargo Airport, brought live back to the Marina Resort and successfully returned Carnival Calabar to its celebrated 32 Days of Christmas Festival,not only in Calabar but across the three senatorial districts, once again attracting national and international attention.

As part of his long-term tourism and investment strategy, Governor Otu has also initiated efforts to expand the state's aviation capacity through the acquisition of three additional aircraft(more are coming) to fully realise the vision of Cally Air as a viable regional airline capable of supporting tourism, commerce and connectivity.

The administration has equally intensified efforts towards the actualisation of the Bakassi Deep Seaport, a transformational project expected to reposition Cross River as a major maritime and logistics hub in the Gulf of Guinea, creating thousands of direct and indirect employment opportunities while stimulating industrial growth.

In education, Governor Otu has reconstructed  the Cross River State Library into a modern 21st-century knowledge and learning centre befitting the aspirations of today's generation. 

His administration has also established the University of Education and Entrepreneurship Development, reflecting his commitment to producing graduates equipped with practical skills, innovation and entrepreneurial capacity.

Infrastructure development has remained a major priority. Across the three senatorial districts, numerous road projects are being executed and completed, while massive rural electrification programmes are extending electricity to previously hard-to-reach communities, thereby improving livelihoods and stimulating rural economies.

Governor Otu's economic empowerment programmes have equally placed financial resources directly into the hands of thousands of small and medium-scale entrepreneurs across the state, enabling businesses to grow, create jobs and contribute meaningfully to economic development.

In healthcare, his administration continues to demonstrate compassion through free medical services for children under the age of five and pregnant women, regardless of their state of origin or indigene status, ensuring that access to quality healthcare is driven by humanity rather than ethnicity.

His commitment to education is equally evident in the annual free payment of WAEC and NECO examination fees for eligible students, thereby reducing the financial burden on parents and encouraging educational advancement across the state.

To cushion the effects of prevailing economic realities, Governor Otu has also introduced periodic transportation subsidies amd sometimes free for civil servants and residents, easing commuting costs and reinforcing his administration's commitment to people-centred governance.

Furthermore, Governor Otu remains resolute in pursuing every constitutional, legal and administrative process necessary to restore Cross River State's status as an oil-producing state.

The successful realization of this objective would return the state to the league of beneficiaries of the 13 percent derivation fund, significantly boosting internally available resources for infrastructure, education, healthcare and economic development.

These are not empty slogans. They are measurable policies, ongoing projects and visible achievements that explain why Governor Bassey Edet Otu continues to enjoy broad public support across the state.

Indeed, Cross Riverians have humorously declared Governor Otu "Wanted." Wanted for restoring peace and security. Wanted for rebuilding roads and public infrastructure.

Wanted for reviving tourism. Wanted for repositioning Tinapa, Marina Resort and Obudu Ranch. Wanted for restoring the global prestige of Carnival Calabar. Wanted for expanding Cally Air.

Wanted for pursuing the Bakassi Deep Seaport. Wanted for reconstructing the State Library. Wanted for establishing a new university. Wanted for empowering businesses. 

Wanted for supporting education. Wanted for protecting mothers and children through free healthcare. Wanted for pursuing the restoration of Cross River's oil-producing status.

Above all, wanted to continue delivering purposeful leadership till 2031 because the people can see and feel the dividends of good governance.

Governor Bassey Edet Otu remains focused on building a stronger, more prosperous and united Cross River State. 

Political distractions will come and go, but enduring legacies are built through vision, discipline and unwavering commitment to the people.

Written by Hon.Fidelis Okang,

Convener, Coalition of Etung Youth for Good Governance

OPINION: Only Enemies of Cross River Will Seek to Undermine Otu's Administration

In every democracy, criticism is not only inevitable but also necessary. Every responsible government requires the voices of critics to identify shortcomings, improve policies, and ensure that governance remains responsive to the aspirations of the people. Constructive criticism strengthens democracy because it keeps leaders accountable.

However, there is a clear distinction between constructive criticism and a deliberate campaign of destruction. There is criticism born out of patriotism, and there is criticism driven by bitterness, political vendetta, and what many now describe as the "Bring Him Down Syndrome."

It is this second category that concerns us. In recent times, there has been an orchestrated campaign of attacks against the Governor of Cross River State, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, his wife, Bishop Eyoanwan Otu, and the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Hon. Emmanuel Ironbar. While no public office holder should be shielded from scrutiny, it is unfortunate when criticism abandons facts and becomes an instrument of personal destruction.

The Governor inherited one of the most difficult administrations in the history of Cross River State. He met a government battling severe financial constraints, a civil service system in decline, decaying infrastructure, neglected public assets, mounting debts, and an economy that had virtually lost its competitive edge. Yet, in less than three years, the story has continued to change.

One of the most remarkable achievements of this administration is the restoration of peace and security across Cross River State. There was a time when residents could hardly sleep with both eyes closed. Cult clashes, gangsterism, armed robbery, kidnapping and violent crimes had become almost a daily occurrence. Businesses were relocating, investors were staying away, and many citizens genuinely feared for their safety.

The EndSARS protests represented perhaps the lowest point in the state's security history. Public and private properties worth billions of naira were destroyed.

We recall that at the height of that crisis, the then Governor left the state during the night while the unrest was still ongoing, leaving what we considered to be a leadership vacuum at one of the most critical moments in Cross River's history. As members of DACRISS Community Development Initiatives and other concerned Cross River stakeholders, we immediately mobilised ourselves in Abuja, reaching out to respected elder statesmen and influential Cross River leaders, including Senator Liyel Imoke, Senator Gershom Bassey, Senator Bassey Otu (before his election as governor), Chief Hilliard Eta, Chief Ndidem Egba and other prominent sons and daughters of the state, appealing to them to intervene and help restore calm back home.

Today, Cross River tells a different story. Kidnapping has reduced significantly. Criminal gangs have been dismantled in many communities. Peace has returned across most parts of the state. Even armed groups operating within the Bakassi axis embraced the state's peace initiative by surrendering weapons. Investors are returning because confidence in the security of lives and property has improved considerably.

These achievements were not accidental. They are products of deliberate leadership, effective collaboration with security agencies, and a government committed to restoring law and order. The transformation is equally visible across critical sectors of the economy.

Governor Otu inherited only two aircraft under the Cally Air initiative. Today, that fleet has increased to six aircraft, significantly improving air connectivity into Cross River State. At present, Calabar receives multiple commercial flights daily, making the state more accessible than at any other period in recent history. There was a time passengers could be stranded in Calabar for three or four days because flights were cancelled with little or no alternatives. That frustrating experience has largely become history.

Beyond aviation, funding has been secured for two of Cross River's biggest economic dreams—the Bakassi Deep Seaport and the Superhighway. These projects are expected to fundamentally transform the state's economy by opening new opportunities for maritime trade, logistics, manufacturing, agriculture and foreign investment.

Infrastructure development has equally received unprecedented attention. Across the state, over one hundred kilometres of roads have either been constructed or rehabilitated, connecting rural and urban communities while easing transportation.

The Governor's Office, which had deteriorated into an embarrassing condition with leaking roofs and dilapidated facilities, has been remodelled into a befitting seat of government. The abandoned State Library, which had become a haven for reptiles and hoodlums, is today being transformed into a modern knowledge and innovation centre for young people.

Urban renewal efforts have continued across Calabar, while strategic projects like the Governor's Lodge in Ogoja demonstrate a commitment to bringing governance closer to every part of Cross River State.

The health sector has equally witnessed remarkable improvements. The Infectious Disease Hospital has been upgraded into a General Hospital while construction of another modern General Hospital is ongoing in Ikom. Across the health sector, investments are gradually strengthening healthcare delivery and improving access to quality medical services.

Agriculture has also received renewed attention. Young people are increasingly embracing farming as government continues to create opportunities for increased food production, job creation and rural development.

Environmental sanitation has equally improved remarkably. Those who lived in Calabar a few years ago will remember when virtually every major street had overflowing refuse dumps that remained unattended for several days, leaving the city with offensive odours and diminishing its reputation as Nigeria's tourism capital.

Today, Calabar is cleaner. The city has regained much of its beauty, restoring confidence among residents, tourists and investors alike. Cross River State has also re-emerged as one of Nigeria's most attractive destinations for tourism, holidays and business.

The vibrant Christmas season witnessed in recent years is evidence of renewed economic activity and growing public confidence. Hotels are busier. Businesses are thriving. Investors are returning. Tourists are once again choosing Cross River as their preferred destination. This resurgence did not happen by accident.

It is the product of deliberate planning, focused leadership and a government determined to rebuild Cross River State. This is not to suggest that the administration is perfect. No government is.

There remain challenges that require attention, and constructive criticism should always be encouraged.

However, it is deeply unfortunate that some of the loudest voices attempting to discredit this administration today either remained silent during the years of decline or actively served in governments under which many of these challenges became entrenched.

Fairness demands consistency. If they could not speak with equal courage when Cross River was declining, they should at least acknowledge genuine progress when it occurs.

The attacks against the First Lady, Bishop Eyoanwan Otu, are equally disappointing. Her work has remained largely humanitarian—supporting women, children, vulnerable families and disadvantaged communities across the state.

From Obanliku to Bakassi, numerous beneficiaries can testify to her interventions in healthcare, women empowerment, education and social welfare. She has stood firmly beside her husband, not merely as a wife but as a compassionate mother and advocate for the less privileged.

Her contributions should be assessed based on impact rather than political sentiment. Likewise, Hon. Emmanuel Ironbar has demonstrated exceptional capacity as Chief of Staff.

His coordination of government activities, administrative discipline and commitment to the Governor's vision have contributed immensely to the stability and effectiveness of this administration. The Ironbar family has long earned respect within Cross River State, and political disagreements should never descend into personal attacks or attempts to tarnish reputations built over decades.

No public official is above criticism, but criticism must remain factual, responsible and fair. Governor Otu has assembled one of the most competent teams seen in recent years. Together, they continue to steer Cross River State towards recovery, growth and renewed prosperity.

At this point, what this administration requires is not distraction but support. Cross River has suffered enough setbacks. We cannot afford another era where politics becomes more important than development.

It is only those who place personal ambition above the collective interest of Cross River State that would seek to deliberately undermine genuine progress through destructive criticism.

Constructive criticism builds governments. Destructive criticism destroys societies. As citizens, we must choose wisely.

History will remember those who stood for truth, fairness and progress—not those who sought to pull down every effort simply because it did not serve their personal or political interests.

Today, Cross River is rising again.

Let us protect that progress.

Let us support what is working.

Let us criticise responsibly.

Above all, let us put Cross River first.

Mr. John Offiong

Chief of Party, DACRISS Community Development Initiatives_

Liyel Imoke at 65: Celebrating a Reformer, Nation Builder and Mentor

 Rasheed Olanrewaju | July 10, 2026

Some leaders are remembered for the offices they occupied. Others are remembered for the people, institutions and possibilities they created long after leaving office.

As Senator Liyel Imoke turns 65 on July 10, the occasion is more than a celebration of age. It is an opportunity to reflect on a journey defined by service, reform, institution building and an enduring commitment to raising the next generation of leaders.

For more than three decades, Imoke has remained a consistent figure in Nigeria’s public life-combining quiet influence, strategic thinking and a belief that true leadership is measured not only by achievements recorded today, but by the foundations created for tomorrow.

Born on July 10, 1961, at the University College Hospital, Ibadan, Imoke was shaped by a family legacy rooted in public service. His father, the late Dr. Samuel Imoke, was one of Nigeria’s distinguished nationalists and public administrators who served in key ministerial positions in Finance, Labour and Education between 1953 and 1966. His mother, the late Mrs. Comfort Imoke, was a respected nurse, midwife and pioneer in community and public health.

Those early examples of discipline, excellence and service would become the values that defined his own leadership journey.

Educated across Nigeria, the United States and the United Kingdom before being called to the Nigerian Bar in 1988, Imoke built a strong academic and professional foundation.

He attended Santa Maria Primary School, Enugu; Ireti Primary School, Lagos; Government Primary School, Itigidi; Maryknoll College, Ogoja; and Federal Government College, Enugu.

He later earned a degree in International Relations with a minor in Economics from the University of Maryland, College Park, studied Law at the University of Buckingham, England, and completed postgraduate legal studies at the American University, Washington, D.C.

Before entering politics, he practised law in Washington, D.C. and Lagos while also pursuing business interests across various sectors.

At just 30 years old, Imoke became one of Nigeria’s youngest senators-an early indication of a leadership path that would later span legislation, policy reform and executive governance.

Throughout his years in national service, Imoke became associated with reforms aimed at strengthening institutions rather than simply managing systems.

This was particularly evident in Nigeria’s power sector, where he served as Special Adviser to the President on Public Utilities, Chairman of the Technical Board of the defunct National Electric Power Authority (NEPA), and later Minister of Power and Steel.

He played a significant role in some of Nigeria’s most important electricity sector reforms, including the Electric Power Sector Reform Act of 2005, the establishment of the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), the unbundling of NEPA and the conceptualisation of the National Integrated Power Project (NIPP).

Earlier, he also chaired the board responsible for winding down the Oil Minerals Producing Areas Development Commission (OMPADEC), helping pave the way for the establishment of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).

These reforms reflected a consistent theme in his career: building systems capable of outliving individuals.

That same philosophy guided his tenure as Governor of Cross River State from 2007.

His administration pursued reforms in public financial management, procurement, healthcare, education, environmental sustainability and local government administration while strengthening transparency and accountability in governance.

Major initiatives including Summit Hills, the Greater Calabar Urban Renewal Programme and the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) strategy reflected his vision to diversify Cross River’s economy and position the state for long-term growth.

Yet perhaps one of the defining features of the Imoke administration was its focus on people.

For him, development was not complete if it did not reach the communities farthest from power. His government prioritised rural development, expanding access to roads, healthcare, education, agriculture and social intervention programmes across all 18 local government areas.

Governance was not limited to the capital; it was taken to where people lived.

His calm, deliberate and methodical leadership style became known by many as “Imokeism”- a reflection of a leader whose influence often came not from volume, but from vision.

His trademark Chief Obafemi Awolowo-style cap also became part of that identity. In a personal conversation, Governor Imoke once shared that being born in Ibadan inspired his fondness for the iconic cap, which eventually became closely associated with his public image.

Known affectionately by many as “Avatar,” Imoke’s greatest investment was never only in infrastructure but in human potential.

He understood that roads and buildings may transform communities, but educated, empowered and ethical people transform nations.

Having had the privilege of working under Senator Liyel Imoke throughout his eight years as Governor of Cross River State, I witnessed firsthand that this belief was not a political slogan but a principle he consistently lived by.

Perhaps the clearest expression of this philosophy came after public office.

In 2011, he established The Bridge Leadership Foundation, dedicated to mentoring and developing young leaders across Nigeria.

Through leadership programmes, mentorship, civic engagement and personal development initiatives, the Foundation has impacted more than 62,000 young Nigerians, mentees and trainers.

The Bridge represents a powerful continuation of Imoke’s belief: that the greatest achievement of leadership is not creating followers, but preparing other leaders.

At 65, the question is no longer only what one man has achieved, but how many lives his work will continue to influence.

The next chapter of his legacy may well be his most important- building institutions that will produce ethical, visionary and transformational African leaders for generations to come.

Beyond the offices he has held, Senator Liyel Imoke’s legacy can be seen in stronger institutions, courageous reforms, empowered communities and the many people who continue to carry lessons learned from his leadership.

His story reminds us that public service is not merely about occupying positions; it is about leaving behind systems, values and people capable of building beyond you.

Happy 65th birthday to His Excellency Senator Liyel Imoke, CON- a reformer, nation builder and mentor whose legacy continues to inspire generations of Nigerians.

Rasheed Olanrewaju Zubair, ANIPR, FMBI, B.Sc., M.Sc., MBA, PGD, PhD (in view), is a Senior Journalist, Public Relations and Strategic Communications Expert. He writes from Abuja, Nigeria.

The Rape and Plunder of C'River Waterboard Land: “That is the way that the cookie crumbles”

Orok Duke | July 1, 2026

CALABAR – “That's the way the cookie crumbles,” is an idiom used to accept an unfortunate or disappointing situation that cannot be changed. The phrase and its attendant and underlying philosophy means that things don't always go as planned, and one simply has to accept the outcome and move on. 

I am writing, not to analyze, condemn or justify the indecent and vulgar misappropriation of WaterBoard land and property, but to shed more light on this festering sore that seeks to affect and infect us all.

Before the immediate past administration embarked on the shameful act of usurping Cross River State for selfish and personal aggrandizement, all those concerned were forewarned and advised properly. But they were too adamant and ensconced in personal and tribal frolicking to care or give a hoot. That is why we are where we are.

When former Governor Clement Ebri approved the allocation of a small portion (the fringe) of the Land in WaterBoard land in 1992, it was for the private residence of the late Deputy Governor, Her Excellency, Mrs Cecilia Ekpenyong. This action had followed the proper delineation and delimitation of the fringe segment of the Land, excluding the sections that accommodated some Senior Civil Servants and Some personnel of the Nigerian Air Force (Kefas and Agboneni).

The preponderance of public opinion is that the CRSG, should revoke all rights and fully recover and retrieve the Cross River State WaterBoard land. Coveting that property to that extent is unconscionable. I am also urging His Excellency, Governor (Prince) Bassey Otu, to bite the bullet and recover all usurped public land, without caring whose horse is gored. Those of us who took a rain cheque over the poisoned chalice of WaterBoard land, had our reasons.

I want every citizens of our state to ruminate over the following and empathise over the present water situation, thus:

1. Most of the houses and structures are built over a labyrinth of water pipes, thereby stultifying the efforts of the government to provide portable and drinkable water to all our homes.

2. Since there are no sewage treatment plants in the area, individuals have devised their own methods of disposal of human waste (into the water treatment plants and structures, through hundreds of soak away pits and septic tanks). 

3. All the Donor Agencies have discontinued their support because of non-adherence to the basic requirements needed to sanitise the architecture and infrastructure of Public Water Supply (European Union, ADB, World Bank etc).

4. Some people have played politics and blamed our Governor over Public Water issues, in response, the government is doing the needful and the same people are criticising still. Must we play politics with serious issues, all the time? 

In conclusion, I will appeal that the axe of justice that would fall, should not be selective. Any structure that is erected on a waterway, on top of water pipes or near our water treatment plants, that allow their disposed human waste to seep through the drinking water that is meant for the public, should be demolished without let. Even as some other people are still buying land and houses in the WaterBoard premises, let the falling of dry leaves, serve as a warning to the green ones.

“A boy came back from school, he opened the fridge, saw a bottle full, he drank it and was no more: For what he thought was H2O, was H2SO4”.

My people say that, “until the rotten tooth is pulled out, the mouth would have to chew with caution”.

For Barrister Alphonsus Eba and all those whose houses are standing on our drinking water pipes, releasing faeces and other effluent matters into the WaterBoard water treatment plants, etc, let Justice Rain Down - That is the way that the cookie crumbles.

Rt. Hon. (Chief) Orok Otu Duke, Ph.D

Duke Town