When the Righteous Stay Away, Desperate Politicians Take Over, Says Akamkpa Chairman

Ukorebi Esien | November 26, 2025 

CALABAR- The Chairman of Akamkpa Local Government Area, Hon. Chief Felix Akposi JSK, has warned that democracy becomes vulnerable when responsible and well-meaning citizens fail to participate in elections.

Chief Akposi issued the warning during the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) sensitisation Workshop held in Calabar, led by the SA Community Relations Hon. Chief Ada Charles and Community Relations Officers (CROs).

Speaking to community leaders, youths, and stakeholders, the council chairman said voter apathy is one of the biggest threats to credible elections, stressing that low turnout only empowers desperate politicians.
According to him, "When the righteous stay away, desperate politicians take over. If good people refuse to go and vote, you give room for those who want to manipulate the system. But when people come out in large numbers, nobody can hijack the process."

Chief Akposi encouraged eligible residents, especially young people and first-time voters, to seize the opportunity of the CVR exercise to register, update their details, and prepare for the forthcoming local government elections.

He commended the Governor's representatives for bringing the sensitisation campaign to the grassroots, describing it as a timely and strategic move to strengthen civic participation across the state.

The Akamkpa chairman also urged traditional rulers, community groups, and civil society organisations to support the mobilisation effort, saying the true will of the people can only prevail when citizens play their part.

Speaking earlier, Hon. Ada Charles said the Governor, Sen. Bassey Edet Otu, has given clear instructions for a more aggressive, community-focused mobilisation, especially in rural and hard-to-reach areas. She charged the CROs and ward officers to take the message beyond town halls and into streets, markets, farms, creeks and local settlements.

According to her, Cross River can no longer afford the low voter turnout that has been witnessed in previous elections.

"This is not the time for half commitment. His Excellency wants every eligible voter registered. Go back and mobilize your people. Make sure no community is left out," she said.

The INEC Public Affairs Officer, Mr Godwin Oki, gave a technical briefing on the CVR process, explaining the roles of registration officers, the structure of the exercise, transfer of voter cards, and provisions for persons living with disabilities. He encouraged communities to use the window of the CVR to update their details, correct errors, and register first-time voters.

Traditional rulers who spoke at the event praised the initiative but appealed that INEC bring registration points closer to the people, especially those living in riverine and difficult terrains, particularly in areas like Calabar South, Bakassi and other remote communities. Market women and youth representatives also pledged support, noting that increased civic participation will strengthen development at the grassroots.

One Year of Servant Leadership: Hon. Augustine Edet Redefines Grassroots Representation in Calabar Municipality

Ukorebi Esien | November 10, 2025

CALABAR — In a rare display of transparency, accountability, and people-centered leadership, Hon. Augustine Edet, Councillor representing Ward 5 in Calabar Municipality, has rendered a comprehensive account of his one year in office, showcasing remarkable progress across key sectors of community development.

Guided by the People's First philosophy of His Excellency, Sen. Prince Bassey Edet Otu, and working in close partnership with the Mayor of Calabar Municipality, Rt. Hon. James Anam Okon, Hon. Edet has redefined grassroots representation through servant leadership, innovation, and inclusive governance.

At the heart of his performance is the Ward 5 Development Initiative (W5DI), a visionary, multi-sectoral plan focused on education, healthcare, infrastructure, empowerment, and environmental sustainability. This blueprint has become the foundation for the many tangible results Ward 5 residents now celebrate.

Education as a Cornerstone of Progress
As a representative of the people, Hon. Edet believes education is the bedrock of development in Ward 5. Within one year, he has facilitated the renovation of Ekorinim Primary School following a motion he sponsored in the Legislative Council and supported the near-completion of a new classroom block at Migrant Technical College, Ekorinim, executed by SUBEB and currently at 95% completion.

To tackle school dropouts and improve access to learning, he awarded over 34 scholarships to indigent pupils and students, distributed writing materials, and facilitated free JAMB registration for young school leavers under the Governor's Youth Empowerment Initiative.
He also sponsored motions to curb illegal trading activities within school premises, leading to Council interventions that protected the learning environment and secured school property.

Health and Community Well-being
Recognizing health as the foundation of community productivity, Hon. Edet sponsored motions for the renovation of the Ekorinim Health Centre, now billed for a total overhaul, and advocated for the rehabilitation of Diamond Health Centre to strengthen primary healthcare delivery.
Through his regular engagement with local health officers, he ensured consistent sanitation and maintenance of health facilities, interventions that have improved hygiene and access to essential medical services, especially for women and children.

Additionally, he provided direct financial and medication support to 15 residents to enable them access medical care, reflecting his compassionate and responsive leadership style.

Infrastructure Renewal and Market Development
Under his Ward 5 Development Initiative (W5DI), Hon. Edet prioritized the protection and development of public infrastructure. One of his most notable interventions was sponsoring a motion and petition that stopped illegal encroachment on the government-approved Ekorinim Model Market land, effectively safeguarding over 45,000 square meters of community property from private land grabbers.
He has also been at the forefront of advocacy for the construction of a modern Ekorinim Community Market, complete with standard stalls, drainage systems, solar lighting, public toilets, and waste disposal facilities.

Furthermore, he identified and recommended nine critical community roads for inclusion in the Municipality's development plan and has continued to engage authorities on the extension of streetlights to enhance safety and support nightlife businesses.

Environmental Sanitation and Peacebuilding
For twelve consecutive months, Hon. Edet has personally led the monthly environmental sanitation exercise across Ward 5, mobilizing residents, youth groups, and associations to participate actively in keeping the community clean.

His leadership extends beyond sanitation into peacebuilding and conflict resolution. He has mediated and resolved several youth-related disputes in Ekorinim, encouraged nonviolent grievance handling, and advocated for the establishment of vigilante groups and community policing to safeguard public facilities.
These actions have enhanced peace, safety, and civic discipline across Ward 5, making it one of the most stable wards within the Municipality.

Empowerment and Human Capital Development
True to his promise of inclusive representation, Hon. Edet has invested heavily in empowering his constituents. He has sponsored two youths for vocational training, one in driving and another in plumbing, to promote self-reliance and reduce unemployment.

He initiated a monthly widow-support scheme that provides stipends of ₦5,000 to several widows, extended small business grants to petty traders, and facilitated linkages for unemployed youths through the Agricultural Development Programme.
He also supported eight families with funeral assistance, demonstrating empathy and solidarity in times of loss.

Legislative Impact and Governance
Apart from giving his people visible representation, Hon. Edet's contributions in the Legislative Council have been far-reaching, as he has been very instrumental playing vital roles in the drafting of two major bills and sponsored several motions that have had direct impact on the people. The two bills are:
A Bill for a Bye-law to Establish the Calabar Municipal Empowerment and Social Welfare Programme, and
A Bill to Harmonize Levies, Tolls, Fees, and Other Charges within Calabar Municipality.

These legislative efforts are geared toward improving social welfare, reducing multiple taxation, and strengthening local government accountability. His active participation in public hearings and committee work has further ensured that the laws passed by the Council reflect the needs of ordinary citizens.

Partnerships and Collaboration
Throughout his tenure, Hon. Edet has maintained strong relationships with government ministries, departments, and agencies, including the Ministries of Education, Health, and Local Government Affairs. He has also worked closely with traditional leaders, community heads, and stakeholders within Ward 5 to foster unity and inclusive governance.
Regular meetings with ward executives and stakeholders have provided platforms for dialogue, feedback, and joint problem-solving, deepening citizen participation in governance.

A Message of Gratitude and Hope
Marking one year in office, Hon. Edet expressed deep gratitude to God for the grace to serve, to the people of Ward 5 for their trust, and to Governor Bassey Otu for empowering councillors to deliver effectively at the grassroots.

"Let's join hands together and build Ward 5. Let's support our Governor, Sen. Prince Bassey Otu, and our Chairman to deliver the dividends of democracy. With continued support, the best of Ward 5 is yet to come,"

— Hon. Augustine Edet Nyong

Editorial
In just one year, Hon. Augustine Edet has proven that genuine representation at the grassroots can produce measurable impact. From education and healthcare to empowerment, infrastructure, and peacebuilding, his record of performance embodies the true essence of servant leadership.
As he embarks on his second year in office, residents of Ward 5 look forward to even greater strides under his watch, a testimony that with vision, empathy, and accountability, local governance can indeed transform lives from the bottom up.

Through his Ward 5 Development Initiative (W5DI), he has achieved progress in education, healthcare, infrastructure, empowerment, and environmental sanitation. His efforts include renovating schools, awarding scholarships, advocating health centre rehabilitation, empowering widows and youths, and promoting community peace and cleanliness.
As a proactive lawmaker, Hon. Edet backed bills to strengthen social welfare and harmonize levies, while maintaining transparency and active community engagement.
The editorial commends his servant leadership style, describing him as a model of accountable, people-centered governance. It also urges him to sustain the momentum in his second year and institutionalize his achievements for long-term impact.

I Still Carry the Scars of Fighting for Cross River: Ayade Reflects on Political Battles and Sacrifices

Ukorebi Esien | November 8, 2025

CALABAR - Former Governor of Cross River State, Senator Ben Ayade, has said he still carries the scars of the political battles he fought to protect the sovereignty and strategic interests of the state. Ayade, who governed the state from 2015 to 2023, made the remark in Calabar while addressing journalists shortly after arriving to attend the wedding ceremony of Governor Bassey Otu's son.  

Reflecting on his decision to defect from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2021, the former governor said his action was not driven by personal ambition but by a deep concern for the state's political and economic survival.

"As a leader, I saw what was coming. The crystal ball was clear. Nigeria was moving in a direction where Cross River risked being isolated if we didn't align with the center," Ayade said.
"So I made a conscious decision to lead the state into the APC, not because it was convenient, but because it was necessary. I knew the battle would be tough, and I carry the scars of that battle till today."

The former governor described his administration's decision to "socket to the centre" as a move born out of foresight and patriotism. According to him, aligning with the federal government was the only way to safeguard the state's interests and ensure its continued relevance in national politics.

"Cross River is a state that has suffered marginalization and economic deprivation for years. I believed that aligning with the federal government would help us access more opportunities. That decision came with consequences, political opposition, betrayal, and misrepresentation, but I have no regrets," he said.

Ayade, who also represented Cross River North in the Senate before becoming governor, said his loyalty to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the APC remains unwavering.

"I was one of the first to openly endorse President Tinubu, even before the APC primaries. I said it then, if Tinubu could fix Lagos, he could fix Nigeria. I believed in his capacity, and I still do," he said.
"President Tinubu knows me well; our relationship predates his presidency. He understands my intentions, and I believe he will surprise this country with his leadership."

Ayade's remarks, which came in a calm but reflective tone, appeared to convey both a sense of pride and pain, pride in his political foresight, and pain from the challenges he faced while trying to reposition Cross River politically and his subsequent loss of his second attempt to the senate during the 2023 general election. 

Political analysts interpret his comments as a subtle reminder of his contributions to strengthening the APC's hold in the South-South and a sign that the former governor still holds significant political capital in the region.

Addressing the Mammoth crowd that trooped out to receive him at the airport, the ex-governor, popularly known as the digital governor of Cross River State, said he was in the state not for political reasons but to attend the wedding of the governor's son. Ayade, describing the Governor as the leader of the party in the state, added that in due time, he will surely visit the state for politics.  

Observers also note that Ayade's appearance in Calabar and his engagement with journalists mark a quiet political reawakening, one that could signal a renewed involvement in the state's affairs ahead of future political realignments.
As he put it himself, "I carry the scars, but I also carry the satisfaction that I did what was right for my people."

Jarigbe: Exodus Looms as PDP Cross River North Stakeholders Declare Support for Tinubu, Gov Otu

 Judex OKORO  | October 29, 2025

CALABAR – A sweeping political shift is gathering momentum in Cross River North senatorial district, as influential stakeholders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have signaled plans to defect en masse to the All Progressives Congress (APC) in solidarity with Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe. 

Recall that on October 22, 2025 Sen. Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, Senator representing Cross River North, had on October 22, 2025 visited Aso Rock Villa to officially inform President Bola Tinubu of his defection to the ruling party.

Jarigbe followed it up with a visit to Cross River State chairman of APC, Alphonsus Eba, Esq, also notifying him of his defection and readiness to work with the leadership to reposition the party in the northern senatorial district.

And in continuation of his consultation, Jarigbe convened a strategic meeting in Abuja with top PDP figures from the zone to review the political landscape and chart a new direction. 

The move, if finalized, is expected to significantly alter the political equation in the northern senatorial zone ahead of the next election cycle.

Discussions at the meeting held at in ROCKVIEW Hotel, Abuja on Tuesday, reportedly centered on aligning with what participants described as the "progressive direction" of the state under Governor Bassey Otu and the reform-driven agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Speaking at the meeting, Jarigbe siad he moved over to APC to assist President Bola Tinubu in repositioning the country for greater heights.

He said defecting to the ruling party will not stop him from empowering the constituents and embarking on people-oriented projects and to alleviate the sufferings of the zone, assuring the stakeholders of regular consultations and better days are ahead.

Speaking, the Cross River State PDP chairman, Venatius Ikem, Esq, commended Sen. Jarigbe for the bold step taken so far, promising to go back to the State Executive members for further consultations on the next line of action.

In a united front, the stakeholders pledged their support for Governor Otu's administration and President Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda. 

They further disclosed their intention to officially join the APC alongside Senator Jarigbe after wider consultations, describing the anticipated mass defection as a strategic realignment to give Cross River North a stronger voice in both state and national politics.

Present at the meeting include Hon. Godwin Offiono, representing Ogoja/Yala Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Chief Austin Edibe; former Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Tom Ogar and Mike Aniah, Esq; Dr. DornKlamz Enamhe, Dr. Paul Ibiala, Hon Peter Ignodor and several other party stalwarts.

Political observers describe this development as a major blow to the PDP in Cross River, especially in the North where the party once held an unshaken grip.

 If the planned defection materialises, it could effectively collapse the PDP's political structure in the zone and strengthen the APC's dominance as Governor Otu continues to consolidate his influence across the state.

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.

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Why Governor Otu called for an Emergency Exco Meeting

Emergency Exco: Governor Otu Approves N2.1bn for Education, Road Works at Bakassi Deep Seaport

Calabar, Nigeria – Cross River State Governor, Senator (Prince) Bassey Edet Otu, on Thursday, October 2, 2025, presided over an emergency session of the State Executive Council (Exco) where far-reaching decisions on infrastructure and education were approved.

The 10th Exco meeting for the year, held at the Governor's Office Complex in Calabar, focused on urgent interventions, particularly the commencement of works at the Bakassi Deep Seaport site and the strengthening of the state's basic education system.

Top among the approvals was the emergency construction of a 1.7-kilometre access road and a one-hectare helipad at the Bakassi Deep Seaport location. The projects are expected to pave the way for the groundbreaking ceremony of the much-anticipated seaport, which Governor Otu has described as a "game changer" for Cross River's economy.

On education, the council approved the release of N2.1 billion for the printing of Training and Learning Materials (TLMs) under the Hope Programme, a World Bank-assisted initiative aimed at improving foundational literacy and numeracy for primary school pupils. The programme also includes the provision of teachers' guides and training for over 11,700 teachers across the state.

The Commissioner for Information, Dr. Erasmus Ekpang, explained that the intervention will not only strengthen learning outcomes in primary schools but also guarantee a reimbursement of more than N17.7 billion from the World Bank.

Earlier, Governor Otu welcomed the new Head of Service, Barr. Orok Okon, to his first Exco meeting in his new role, praising his experience and charging him to bring added value to the state's civil service.

The Governor, in his remarks, reiterated his administration's People First agenda, urging commissioners to remain closer to the grassroots so that citizens can fully understand and benefit from government policies and programmes.