Contractor drags Otu to Court over Failed State Library Contract Deal

Governor Bassey Edet Otu's administration is currently facing charges for failing to adhere to a contract agreement with Henss Asset Company Nigeria Limited regarding the renovation and remodelling of the Cross River State Library Complex.

According to documents obtained by our reporter, the Cross River State Government, under Governor Otu, engaged Henss Asset Company Nigeria Limited to renovate and remodel the dilapidated State Library Complex in Calabar, located behind Millennium Park. The contract was awarded for N670,424,703.35 (six hundred and seventy million, four hundred and twenty-four thousand, seven hundred and three naira, thirty-five Kobo) 

The contract payment structure was outlined as follows:

Mobilization Fee: 30% of the total contract sum, amounting to N201,127,411.00 (two hundred and one million, one hundred and twenty-seven thousand, four hundred and Eleven Naira).

During Execution: 50% of the contract sum, amounting to N335,212,351.67 (Three Hundred and Thirty-Five Million, Two Hundred and Twelve Thousand, Three Hundred and Fifty-One Naira, Sixty-Seven Kobo), payable upon presentation of an interim payment certificate.

Completion Fee: 15% of the contract sum, amounting to N100,563,705.50 (One Hundred Million, Five Hundred and Sixty-Three Thousand, Seven Hundred and Five Naira, Fifty Kobo).

According to a statement by the management of Henss Asset Company Nigeria Limited, the company began work on the site in December 2023.  

In February 2024, the government paid the contractor the sum of  N164 million 2024 as the 30% Mobilisation fee instead of N200 million. it was later realised that about N36 million was deducted from the N200 million mobilization fee as taxes.

The management added that in April 2024, the state government had expected that the project will be completed and commissioned  in May 29 which the contracted pointed as impossible due delay in payment by the government and is not the agreed project delivery timeline. In April 2024, the government terminated the contractors' contract, claiming that they could not meet the commissioning date of May 29, 2024.

The management of Henss Asset Company Nigeria Limited argued that the slow pace of the job was due to the late release and paucity of funds by the government. Having tried to resolve the matter amicably with the government, all efforts proved abortive as the state Ministry of Special Duties took over the  project, and the state governor secured executive council approval to increase the contract sum.

This prompted the contractor to take legal action against the administration.

Court Intervention

 The contractor seeks that the court remedy the matter by ordering the Cross River State government to pay  the contractor for the work already done in the library and also pay the damages accrued.

On May 6, 2024, the Cross River State High Court issued an order that both parties should maintain the status quo pending the hearing and determination of the matter. This judicial directive was intended to prevent any actions that could alter the subject matter of the dispute and ensure that the legal process could proceed fairly.

Alleged Violation of Court Order

Despite the standing court order, the administration of Governor Otu has continued the renovation project through the Ministry of Special Duties. This continuation of work has been deemed a clear violation of the court's directive. By proceeding with the renovation, the administration is accused of undermining the authority of the court and disrupting the legal process.

According to sources, the standing order to maintain the status quo is crucial for preserving the integrity of the legal proceedings. It aimed to prevent any irreversible changes that could prejudice the parties involved. The administration's disregard for this order raises concerns about respect for the judicial system and the rule of law.

Delays in Legal Proceedings

In addition to violating the court order, the state government has repeatedly delayed filing its claims and processes in court. These delays have resulted in numerous adjournments, significantly hindering the timely resolution of the case. The contractor, Henss Asset Company Nigeria Limited, has expressed concerns about the impact of these delays on the case, emphasizing the need for a swift and fair judicial process.

Impact on the Contractor

The contractor is particularly worried about how these issues might affect the final resolution of the dispute. The continuation of the renovation project and the delays in court proceedings could potentially lead to irreversible changes, complicating the situation further. Henss Asset Company is now seeking payment of the monies owed and damages for the breach of contract. It is imperative that the judicial process is respected and allowed to proceed without interference to ensure a balanced and unbiased resolution.

Conclusion

According to a source familiar with the development but not authorized to speak on the matter, the ongoing renovation, despite a court order to halt, and the delays in legal processes underscore the tensions and complexities of the case. The contractor's work was halted in April 2024 under the pretext that progress was slow and that the library was meant to be commissioned by May 29, 2024. However, the library has yet to be commissioned, and the governor has sought Exco approval to increase the contract sum by another N600 million and awarded to another contractor. This situation highlights the broader issues of governance, respect for the rule of law, and the administration's commitment to fair contractual practices.

C'River NYCN Inaugurate 2024 Youth Week Committee

Asuquo Cletus Felix | 31st July 2024

CALABAR —The National Youth Council Of Nigeria, (NYCN) Cross River State Chapter has Inaugurated a 12 man committee ahead of the 2024 Youth Week celebration.

The Inauguration which took place on Wednesday, at the State's Ministry of Youth Affairs in Calabar the Cross River State capital, had in attendance the Commissioner Of Youth  Development, Barrister Ijom Ukam, Youth Groups and Student Leaders. 

The  Daily News Nigeria  (TDN)  gathered that the youth week is an annual event where youths gather to celebrate their achievements.

Speaking in an interview with TDN,  shortly after the Inauguration, the Council's Youth Chairman Comrade Olayi Emmanuel disclosed that the members of the   committee, are "young men of timber and caliber, with a proven track record with youth development activities in the state".

He informed that although coming to power recently, he believed will deliver on the mandate given to them in order to ensure "A colorful youth week celebration".

"The Youth Week is an annual event where  young people from all walks of life gather to celebrate themselves and to push what they feel are their concerns to the authorities.

"The event is scheduled to be held from August 12, as the people who constitute the committee are 12. They are young men of timber and caliber with proven track records, in their various Local Government Areas."- He said.

On the issue of protest, he maintained that youths in Cross River State should "Embrace Dialogue" and not "Protest", but continue to support the Governor Otu's  administration, which he said "Is trying all it's possible best in providing good governance, through provisions of roads" as well as other social amenities.

He said "We as Cross River State Youth, we cannot protest, instead we believe in dialogue over protest, but we believe that it is a citizen's constitutional right to peaceful assemblies to protest.

"Although there are different narratives pushing that it is a peaceful Protest, we are aware of that fact but let's flash our minds back to what happened during the EndSars protest, the vandalism.

"Let's go back to the round table and dialogue peacefully, instead of protesting, let's continue to support the governor and his policies. He has done well in government, through the things he has done like roads, our State library, so we cannot protest but dialogue".

On his part, the Cross River State Commissioner for Youth Barr Ijom Ukam appreciated the committee charging them to work together in order to bring about "a colorful youth week celebration".

He noted that he will discuss with the Governor on the budget of the committee, towards ensuring a success of the celebration.

Duke Commends St. Patrick's College Alumni Association for Strengthening Community Bonds

CALABAR — The Vice Chairman and CEO of the Cross River State Planning Commission, Pastor Dr. Bong Duke, has hailed the leadership of the St. Patrick's College Alumni Association, Calabar Branch, for their initiative in strengthening community bonds and fostering a sense of shared heritage and pride

Dr. Duke, who is also an alumnus of the institution, made this commendation during a brief visit from the association's leadership to his office emphasized the importance of such initiatives in promoting unity and a sense of belonging among the alumni. He informed that the State Planning Commission is eager to support and participate in the 90th-anniversary celebration, recognizing it as a significant milestone in the history of St. Patrick's College.

"The upcoming 90th-anniversary celebration is not just a school event; it is a community event that brings together generations of alumni to honor an institution that has significantly shaped our lives," Dr. Duke added. "The Planning Commission is committed to supporting this celebration, reflecting our dedication to promoting unity and progress within Cross River State."

 "As an old boy of the institute, I am particularly proud of the efforts being made to celebrate our alma mater's rich history and legacy." Duke concluded. 

The visit, led by the Branch Chairman, Ntufam Bassey Asikpo, provided valuable insights into the upcoming 90th-anniversary celebration of St. Patrick's College, Ikot Ansa, Calabar, slated for November 2024. 

Earlier, Asikpo, on behalf of the Alumni Association, expressed gratitude to Dr. Duke for his unwavering support and for being an exemplary representative of St. Patrick's College. He reiterated the association's commitment to ensuring that the anniversary celebration will be a memorable event that highlights the college's contributions to education and community development.

The visit from the Alumni Association was brief but impactful, while revealing the deep-rooted connections and mutual respect among the old boys of St. Patrick's College. The upcoming anniversary celebration promises to be a remarkable event, bringing together alumni from various fields to celebrate their shared heritage and the enduring legacy of St. Patrick's College, Ikot Ansa, Calabar.

Police Promotes 7194 Officers

Asuquo Cletus Felix | August 1st 2024 

CALABAR —The Nigerian Police Force has approved the promotion of 7194 Inspectors who passed the Departmental Selection Board (DSB), to the substantive rank of Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP11).

In a statement by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, it said the newly promoted officers have been charged to put their acquired experience to maximum use in line with the modern standards of policing and discharge their duties in accordance with the provisions of the law.

"Following recommendation by the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D, NPM, the Police Service Commission(PSC) has approved the promotion of Seven Thousand One Hundred and Ninety-Four (7194) Inspectors who passed the Departmental Selection Board (DSB), to the substantive rank of Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP11).

"The newly promoted officers have been charged to put their acquired experience to maximum use in line with the modern standards of policing and discharge their duties in accordance with the provisions of the law."-It reads.

The Inspector-General of Police while congratulating the affected officers, reiterated the commitment of the Force under his leadership to improved welfare for officers and men of the Force, and ensuring promotions are timely and merit based.

Governor Otu Ban's Scrap, Scavengers Movement In C'River

Asuquo Cletus Felix | 31 July 2024

The Governor of Cross River State, Senator  Bassey Otu, has ordered the immediate ban on Scrap, and  Scavengers Movement in Calabar Cross River State capital.

Otu's directives was contained in a press release issued on Wednesday by Nsa Gill, the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor.

The ban is coming following a security report, showing the involvement of scrap dealers in the movement of stolen goods within the State Capital and its surrounding areas.

"Concerned about security reports showing the involvement of scrap dealers in the movement of stolen goods within the State capital and its surrounding areas, his Excellency the Governor of Cross River State, Senator Prince Bassey Edet has hereby ordered a ban on the activities of scrap scavengers and the movement of scrap within the State.

"Anyone found defying this order will be treated as a criminal. The government will not tolerate the use of scrap materials as a disguise for illegal activities. 

"Scrap scavengers, dealers have been notorious for sourcing and facilitating the movement of stolen goods among robbers, kidnappers and other criminals. This ban is until further notice."- It reads.

Duke Commends St. Patrick's College Alumni Association for Strengthening Community Bonds

CALABAR — The Vice Chairman and CEO of the Cross River State Planning Commission, Pastor Dr. Bong Duke, has hailed the leadership of the St. Patrick's College Alumni Association, Calabar Branch, for their initiative in strengthening community bonds and fostering a sense of shared heritage and pride

Dr. Duke, who is also an alumnus of the institution, made this commendation during a brief visit from the association's leadership to his office emphasized the importance of such initiatives in promoting unity and a sense of belonging among the alumni. He informed that the State Planning Commission is eager to support and participate in the 90th-anniversary celebration, recognizing it as a significant milestone in the history of St. Patrick's College.

"The upcoming 90th-anniversary celebration is not just a school event; it is a community event that brings together generations of alumni to honor an institution that has significantly shaped our lives," Dr. Duke added. "The Planning Commission is committed to supporting this celebration, reflecting our dedication to promoting unity and progress within Cross River State."

 "As an old boy of the institute, I am particularly proud of the efforts being made to celebrate our alma mater's rich history and legacy." Duke concluded. 

The visit, led by the Branch Chairman, Ntufam Bassey Asikpo, provided valuable insights into the upcoming 90th-anniversary celebration of St. Patrick's College, Ikot Ansa, Calabar, slated for November 2024. 

Earlier, Asikpo, on behalf of the Alumni Association, expressed gratitude to Dr. Duke for his unwavering support and for being an exemplary representative of St. Patrick's College. He reiterated the association's commitment to ensuring that the anniversary celebration will be a memorable event that highlights the college's contributions to education and community development.

The visit from the Alumni Association was brief but impactful, while revealing the deep-rooted connections and mutual respect among the old boys of St. Patrick's College. The upcoming anniversary celebration promises to be a remarkable event, bringing together alumni from various fields to celebrate their shared heritage and the enduring legacy of St. Patrick's College, Ikot Ansa, Calabar.

Palliative: Osogi Flags off distribution of food items, Cash disbursement in Abi

Hon. Moses Osogi, Commissioner for Environment, Handing over cash to Ward Representatives during the flag off 

By: Sylvia Okoi 

CALABAR — In a conscientious effort to cushion the effect of the current economic realities in the country, the Cross River State Commissioner for Environment , Hon. Moses Osogi has flagged off the distribution of the Federal Government Palliative in Anong-Bahumono communities in Abi Local Government Area.

Speaking at the flag off exercise, Hon. Moses Osogi declared that the palliative was targeted at providing succor to rural dwellers admist the economic hardship.

In his words, " The palliatives provided here today is absolutely to cushion the effect of hardship in the land. Cross River State is an exceptional State in Nigeria, the Governor gave an order to Commissioners , House of Assembly Members and all stakeholders to ensure transparency in the distribution process and that's why I'm physically present to ensure adequate and equitable distribution."

Affirming Governor Bassey Edet Otu's magnanimity and also assuring his people of better days ahead, Osogi stated that the government is People oriented and steadily putting up measures aimed at alleviating all forms of sufferings. 

He called on Abi residents to shun all acts of violence and demonstrate their maximum cooperation to government so as to enable it to implement its laudable programmes that would transform them socio-economically.

While also admonishing them to stay clear from all manner of planned protests, he cautioned them against the devastating impact of protest Endsars which according to him slowed down developmental strides in the state. 

He further warned against stealing, hurding and selling of palliative, threatening that anyone who indulges in corrupt practices during the process in Abi would be prosecuted.

In the same vein, the Honorable Member representing Abi constituency in the State House of Assembly, Hon. David Ettah thanked the Federal Government for providing palliative in acknowledgment of the current economic challenges, Informing that long term measures are being put in place to bring about economic stability .

The Deputy Leader of CRSHA, stated that Governor Bassey Edet Otu has promptly disbursed the palliative as received from the Federal Government, with a charge to leaders of Local Government to accompany an effective process for grassrooters.

Also speaking, the Community Relations Officer (CRO) Abi L.G.A Mr. Collins Enyi who admitted taking delivery of the items from Calabar to Abi spoke in cognisance of the good will of the present administration calling for more cooperation from grassrooters, pointing out that the Government has better plans for the citizens. On the distribution formula, he added that the items will be shared in equal proportion across the various council wards.

Highpoint of the event was the symbolic handing over of palliative items which comprised 740 bags of 10kg of rice, 60 bags of 25kg of rice, 100 bags of 10kg of garri and 100 bags of 10kg of beans and five hundred thousand Naira only to the various representatives of the 10 (ten) Council Wards in Abi L.G.A  

Remarkably, Homage was paid to His Royal Highness Ovai Godspower Amos Elemi Eni, Clan head of Anong - Bahamono for traditional blessings before the commencement of the distribution.

Those who witnessed the ceremony were the Chapter Chairman, APC Abi L.G.A, Pastor Joshua Ikpoke, Special Adviser to the Governor on Local Government Affairs, Hon. John Iteh, Special Adviser to the Governor on Utility Mr. Jerome Egbe , other Stakeholders and Community Members

C'River State Tackles Economic Hardship: Rt. Hon. Davies Etta Distributes Federal Palliatives in Abi LGA

Rt Hon. Davies Etta Deputy Leader, Cross River State House of Assembly and member representing Abi State constituency flagging off the parlleliattive distribution 

CALABAR — In a significant effort to alleviate the current economic hardship, the Honorable Member representing Abi constituency in the Cross River State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Davies Etta, led the flag-off for the distribution of Federal Government palliatives in Abi Local Government Area. The distribution was a collaborative endeavor aimed at providing immediate relief to the constituents.

The allocated items included 740 bags of 10kg rice, 60 bags of 25kg rice, 100 bags of 10kg garri, 100 bags of 10kg beans, and ₦500,000, which were handed over to the ward leaders representing the ten council wards in Abi LGA.

Rt. Hon. Davies Etta, who is also the Deputy Leader of the Cross River State House of Assembly, expressed his gratitude to the Federal Government for acknowledging the economic challenges faced by the people and providing the necessary palliatives. He emphasized that long-term measures are being implemented to ensure economic stability in the region.

Ettah noted that Governor Bassey Edet Otu, known for his People's First agenda, has promptly facilitated the disbursement of these palliatives as received from the Federal Government. He charged the local government leaders to ensure an effective distribution process that reaches the grassroots, while calling on constituents to be patient with government as Sen. Bassey Otu as efforts are in place to bring the state back to its pride of place.

"Under the leadership of our People's First Governor, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, Cross River State is witnessing a transformation. His unwavering commitment to mitigating the current economic challenges through various people-centered programs and projects is truly commendable"

Speaking at the flag-off ceremony, Hon. Moses Osogi, Commissioner for Environment, noted the importance of the palliatives in providing relief to rural dwellers amidst the ongoing economic difficulties. He stated, "The palliatives provided here today are absolutely to cushion the effect of hardship in the land. Cross River State is an exceptional state in Nigeria, and the Governor has ordered Commissioners, House of Assembly Members, and all stakeholders to ensure transparency in the distribution process. That's why we are physically present to ensure adequate and equitable distribution."

The Community Relations Officer (CRO) of Abi LGA, Mr. Collins Enyi, who oversaw the delivery of the items from Calabar to Abi, spoke about the goodwill of the current administration and called for more cooperation from the grassroots. He assured that the distribution formula would ensure equal sharing of the items across the various council wards.

 Homage was also paid to His Royal Highness Ovai Godspower Amos Elemi Eni, Clan Head of Anong-Bahamono, for traditional blessings before the commencement of the distribution.

The ceremony was witnessed by several dignitaries, including the Chapter Chairman of APC Abi LGA, Pastor Joshua Ikpoke, Special Adviser to the Governor on Local Government Affairs, Hon. John Iteh, Special Adviser to the Governor on Utility, Mr. Jerome Egbe, other stakeholders, and community members.

C'River Youth Council Chairman Urges Youths to Refrain from Planned Nationwide Protest

Comr. Olayi Emmanuel, Chairman of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Cross River State Chapter

July 28, 2024 | Ukorebi Esien 

CALABAR — The Chairman of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Cross River State Chapter, Comr. Olayi Emmanuel, has made a heartfelt appeal to the youths of Cross River State to abstain from participating in the upcoming nationwide protest against bad governance. This appeal comes amidst mounting tensions and economic difficulties faced by the Nigerian populace.

In a press statement released on July 28, 2024, Comr. Emmanuel expressed his understanding of the frustrations and grievances that have led to the call for protests. However, he urged the youths to consider the potential consequences of such actions. Drawing from the painful memories of the #EndSARS movement, which saw well-intentioned protests descend into violence and destruction, Emmanuel emphasized the importance of avoiding a repeat of such tragic events.

"While acknowledging the severe economic difficulties and the pressures faced by our people, I believe that protest, in this instance, may not be the most effective means of advocating for change," said Comr. Emmanuel. He called for a more constructive approach through dialogue and engagement, assuring the youths that his team is committed to addressing their concerns.

The Chairman outlined several initiatives being advocated for to alleviate the hardships faced by the youths of Cross River State:

Reactivation of the Scholarships Board and Implementation: A renewed effort to ensure scholarships are accessible to promote education and skill development.

Bursaries: Financial support to ease academic burdens and encourage higher education.

Agricultural and Entrepreneurial Aid: Funding and resources to support youth involvement in agriculture and entrepreneurship.

Job Opportunities: Creating employment opportunities within the State Civil Service.

Health Insurance Scheme: Expanding coverage to include young Cross Riverians, ensuring access to essential healthcare services.

Infrastructural Development: Continued efforts to improve infrastructure in rural areas, enhancing living standards and economic opportunities.

Comr. Emmanuel also called on local government authorities to engage with youths in their respective areas, emphasizing the importance of addressing grassroots issues to foster a peaceful and harmonious society.

"Above all, peace is sacrosanct," he stated. "As a council and as leaders, we must do everything within our power to sustain peace. It is through dialogue, not protest, that we can achieve meaningful progress."

The Chairman assured the youths that their concerns would be relayed to the appropriate authorities with urgency, aiming to ensure that concrete actions are taken to address their hardships. He concluded his statement by appealing to the youths' sense of responsibility and patriotism, urging them to choose dialogue over protest and constructive engagement over confrontation.

Commissioner for Youth, Barr Ijom-odum Ukam and other stakeholders during the Town Hall Meeting 

C'River Assembly Crisis Deepens as Joseph Odey Challenges Speaker's Reaffirmation in Court

L-R: Rt. Honorable Alvert Ayambem, Speaker Cross River State House of Assembly and Mr Joseph Odey, DG of Youth Action Network, and APC member in Cross River State.

CALABAR —The political turmoil within the Cross River State House of Assembly has intensified as Joseph Odey, Director General of the Youth Action Network, YAN and an APC member, filed a lawsuit to contest the reaffirmation of Honorable Alvert Ayambem as Speaker. 

Recall that sometime in May, 17 out of 25 members of the Cross River State House of Assembly had in a dramatic event voted to remove Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem,as Speaker of the 10th Assembly and days later Governor Bassey Otu was said to have broker a subsequent agreement that saw the reinstatement of Ayambem as Speaker.

The statement by the Speaker's Media aide that restored Ayambem reads in parts: "Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem has been unanimously reaffirmed as Speaker of the tenth Assembly of Cross River State. The reaffirmation of Ayambem followed a rapprochement brokered by the state governor, Senator Bassey Otu and critical stakeholders with the 25-member Assembly in Calabar yesterday. Ayambem expressed his appreciation to the governor and the concerned stakeholders for showing extraordinary leadership during challenging times."

Meanwhile, the above decision has since generated reactions from the public, the latest of which is a Court order obtained by Mr. Joseph Odey, Director General of Youth Action Network (YAN), and an All Progressive Congress (APC) member in Cross River State, seeking to restrain Honorable Alvert Ayambem from being recognized as Speaker of the 10th Assembly of Cross River State. 

Odey is also seeking in Suit number HC/166/2024 between Joseph Odey and The Governor of Cross River State, Attorney general of the state, Clark of the House and all 25 Members of the house of Assembly, a declaration that the Speaker, remains removed, and should not be recognized as Speaker of the Assembly amongst other prayers.

In his prayers to the court, Mr Joseph Odey is of the opinion that, "Cross River State is at risk of governmental disruption due to the absence of a duly elected Speaker of the House of Assembly. Without a validly elected Speaker, the laws passed by the House are invalid, hindering the Governor's ability to govern effectively.

"To uphold democratic principles, Cross River State must follow proper procedures in selecting its Speaker in line with the rules laid down by the House of Assembly for itself in 2011. The impeachment of Mr. Elvert Ayambem was lawful, but his continued role as Speaker is not; because he was not re-elected according to the Assembly's rules.Governance requires following laid down rules and processes."

Mr Odey further buttresses that, "The Speaker cannot be chosen outside the House chamber. After Mr. Elvert's impeachment, a formal election must take place within the Assembly to determine the new Speaker. To safeguard good governance and democracy, I have brought motions before the Cross River State High Court asking the Court to: 

"Restrain government officials from recognizing Mr. Ayambem as Speaker until this matter is heard and decided by the Court. Restrain Mr. Elvert Ayambem from acting as Speaker until the matter is heard and decided by the Court. A properly functioning legislature is necessary for effective governance and the progress of our state and I believe that the Court, in its wisdom, will ensure that we get a properly functioning House of Assembly once again."