Legacy of Progress: Gov. Otu Committed to Completing Inherited Projects — Aide

Mark Idrah | 3rd October 2024

 

CALABAR — The Governor Bassey Edet Otu's led administration has reaffirmed its commitment towards the completion of critical projects inherited from the previous administrations in a move to ensure continuity and sustainable development in Cross River State. This commitment, described as part of the "Season of Sweetness" agenda, is said to showcase the governor's resolve to finish every project that holds significance for the state's growth and stability.

According to a statement made by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Projects/Programmes, Monitoring and Evaluation, Mr. Raphael Murphy, the focus is not only to deliver new projects but also to revitalize and finish those that have been stalled or left incomplete. According to Murphy, the governor's approach is centered on preserving state resources and maximizing the benefits of every investment made by past administrations.

"Governor Otu is determined to make a difference by bridging the gap between the past and the present. He believes that every project undertaken by the state must serve its intended purpose, whether initiated by his administration or not," Murphy stated.

Speaking on the ongoing remodeling and upgrading of several key government structures—including the governor's office, the state library, the governor and deputy governor's lodges, and the Local Government Service Commission—Murphy noted that the transformation is only a part of the larger agenda aimed at giving Cross River State a comprehensive facelift which he described as a 'tip of the iceberg.'

Additionally, the Department of Projects/Programmes Monitoring and Evaluation (DPPME), Department of Budget Monitoring and Evaluation (DBME), and Department of Public Transportation (DOPT) have all undergone significant upgrades, receiving new facilities and state-of-the-art equipment. These departments now reflect the new face of governance under Governor Otu's administration, enhancing their efficiency and capacity to deliver on the administration's goals.

"His Excellency is creating a legacy of progress by ensuring that no project is abandoned. It's not just about starting new projects; it's about delivering on what the people have already been promised and restoring their faith in government commitments," Murphy added.

He further emphasized that the governor's dedication to completing these projects is strategic, aimed at making Cross River more attractive to local and foreign investors by establishing a solid foundation of infrastructure and good governance.

"Many of the projects are already between 50% to 99% completed, and some are even set for commissioning. Cross Rivarians will soon see the tangible results of this administration's efforts to turn words into actions," he concluded.

With the successful facelift of key departments and Governor Otu's administration focused on continuity and tangible impact, the people of Cross River can expect a renewed sense of purpose in governance as the state continues its journey towards sustainable development and inclusive growth.

 

 

LG Election: Group Insist on zoning Yala Chairmanship to Ukelle South

CROSIEC Logo

A  Non political organisation, Yala Movement for Equity, Justice and Fairness has insisted on  the upholding of the 2010 zoning arrangement in Yala Local Government Area ahead of the forth- coming  local government election in the staite.

In a Press Statement signed by its Chairman, Hon Edwin Odey Aboyi and Secretary, Pastor Paul Ushang Ekwok, the organisation emphasised that respect for the 2010 zoning arrangement by the Committee headed by Barrister Ogana Lukpata will put pay to the tension and deliberate confusion currently ensuing in the local government area through the dragging of the position by politicians to their area

"The group has reviewed the political discussions in Yala which has generated so much tension and deliberate confusion in the polity and resolved to stand by the 2010 zoning committee report of Yala Local Government Area signed by Barrister Ogana Lukpata, Chairman/ member representing Wanihem ward, Mr Omaga Odo member representing Okpoma ward, Hon Matthias Oko, member representing Gabu ward, Hon Sam Anwegbe member representing Igede ward, Mrs Angelina Lifu, member representing Okuku ward,  Mr Joe Agida, member representing Echemofana ward, late Mr Otubala Omachi member, representing O"ward, Hon Dan Ugbama,member representing Wanikade ward, Hon Cyprian Uneji,member representing Ijiraga Ward, Chief Hon Mrs Theresa Ezama, member representing Yahe ward, Mr Johnson Ogiri, member representing Yache ward, Hon Emma Lifu ,member representing Ugaga ward and Chief Henry Onwe, Secretary/ member representing Mfuma/ Ntrigom ward"  The organisation wrote.

The group stated that the zoning committee fashioned an equitable and acceptable zoning by splitting Yala into five blocs and that should be respected.

"The zoning formula adopted by the committee split Yala into five blocs as follows: North Ukelle - Wanihem, Wanikade, Wanokom and Igede wards. South Ukelle - Mfuma Ntrigom and Ijiraga wards. Western Yala - Yahe, Okpoma and O"wards. Eastern Yala - Echemofana, Okuku, Ugaga wards and Yache and Gabu wards

A copy of the press statement byYala Movement for Equity, Justice and Fairness 

"In view of the fact that the entire Caucus in 2010 agreed that the position of Chairman of Yala should be  held on rotational basis  among the five blocs and in lieu of the fact that the last Chairman of Yala from Ukelle extraction was from North Ukelle bloc, the group has zoned the Chairmanship position in the 2024 election to South Ukelle and therefore requests all political parties participating in the forth- coming local government election to ensure their candidates are picked  from the two wards in  South Ukelle" The group concluded.

Another PDP bigwig Dumps Party for APC in C'River, See Reason

Ukorebi Esien | 27th August 2024

CALABAR — A Stakeholder and Candidate for the State House of Assembly in the 2023 general election under the platform of the People's Democratic Party, Mr. Collins Njok Adiegbe has dumped his party for the All Progressives Congress. 

Adiegbe who sought to represent Akamkpa 1 state constituency in the Cross River State House of Assembly was received by stakeholders of the ruling party in Awi ward in an event well attended by the APC ward and State Excos as well as Commissioners, Village heads, Special advisers to the Governor, party faithfuls etc.

Mr. Collins Njok Adiegbe, who expressed happiness to be united with the progressive family, extolled the governor, Sen. Prince Bassey Edet Otu for leading the state aright. Adding that it was nessccery for him to join forces with the governor for the betterment of thre ward and Local Government Area.

"we are happy to be part of this new family, the All Progressive Congress, seeing what the governor have done, I think it will be best for me and my team to join force with APC in order to add more sweetness to wards, Local Government and the State." 

"Over there at the other party, we were not happy and fulfilled, that's why we decided to find a place where we'll put in our best for visible growth and results, we have come to stay, and support the party to win elections in order move to a greater sweetness."

Addressing the crowd, the ward Chairman, Prince Francis Itamba, expressed gratitude for a day of his dreams to have come to fulfillment, while he promised to give  Mr. Collins Njok and his followers a level playing ground that will accommodate both old and new members. He further acknowledged Mr. Collins Njok as a bulldozer that will join force with them to win elections for the party. 

Speaking with newsmen shortly after the event, the Hon. Commissioner  for Youths Development and Skills Acquisition, Hon. Barr. Ukam Ijom, expressed excitement over the massive defection of his friend Mr. Collins Njok and over a hundred others from his ward. Knowing Mr. Collins for who he is being a mover, he believes the political game in APC Awi and Akamkpa as a whole will experience positive change.

C'River Gov signs Statewide Agriculture Irrigation Initiative

By Asuquo Cletus Felix

The Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Otu, through the Ministry of Agriculture, has initiated a statewide irrigation project.

It was gathered that the initiative is in a collaborative partnership agreement Dam Tech Nigeria Limited, a consultancy firm tasked with overseeing the design, study, and procurement processes essential for the project's success.

In a press statement issued on Monday by Nsa Gill the Chief Press Secretary to Governor, it disclosed that the partnership

was signed by the Commissioner for Agriculture and Irrigation, Hon. Johnson Andiambey Ebokpo, who signed the agreement on behalf of the state in his office. 

According to him, the signage of the initiative  is in line with the Otu's administrative "vision to position Cross River as a leading seed-producing state". 

"This consultancy agreement places Dam Tech Nigeria Limited in charge of engineering design, studies, and procurement models needed to develop our statewide irrigation infrastructure.

"Despite our extensive floodplains, we've been unable to utilize this water effectively due to structural issues. This initiative aims to change that.

"Cross River State is now focused on commercial agriculture. We can no longer rely solely on subsistence farming with the amount of arable land we have. Our nine-point agenda prioritizes crop production and water management, to produce key grains like rice, maize, wheat, barley, and cowpea year-round.

"You have the unwavering backing of Governor Bassey Otu. We must ensure this project's success, especially as it aligns with the federal government's Sustainable Power and Innovation Initiative Project (SPIN-Project)."

The Commissioner also announced a forthcoming $15 million World Bank initiative aimed at supporting the state's irrigation infrastructure development. He credited this achievement to the state's proactive efforts in advancing irrigation practices.

He assured Dam Tech Nigeria Limited of the government's full support, emphasizing the importance of the project's success.

LG Polls in View as Otu Appoints CROSIEC Members

CALABAR —Governor Bassey Edet Otu of Cross River State has taken steps toward conducting local government elections in the State by appointing members of the Cross River State Independent Electoral Commission (CROSIEC). 

According to a statement signed by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Mr. Nsa Hill, the 8 man committee has Mr Ekong Edet Bocco as Chairman while Dr. Lawrence Edu Esq is Secretary of the committee. Other members include; Mrs Rose Banku Atep, Mr Adoga Joseph, Ipuole Eutendala Eno, Barr. Daniel Edet Dr.eyo Otu Eyo and Jlerry Adie Akabisong.

The committee whose appointment will need approval from the. Cross River State House of Assembly will be saddled with the responsibility of conducting the local government elections. 

This development comes in the wake of a recent Supreme Court ruling that underscores the necessity of democratically elected local government administrators for states to receive federal funding.

Recall that few weeks ago, the Supreme Court sitting in Abuja had ruled in favor of the Federal Government, asserting that state governors no longer have the authority to manage local government funds. The judgment further stipulated that states without democratically elected local government officials would be denied federal allocations. 

It is believed that this ruling has intensified the urgency for Cross River State to hold local government elections, aligning with the federal mandate for local governance autonomy.

As sources close to the All Progressives Congress party leadership and the governor had previously informed our reporter that governor had prepared a list of caretaker committee members for the 18 local government areas (LGAs) in the state. However, the recent judicial pronouncement appears to have shifted the administration's focus towards organizing elections.

The appointment of CROSIEC members is a crucial step in the electoral process, as the commission is responsible for overseeing the conduct of local government elections in the state. This move signals the government's commitment to upholding democratic principles and ensuring that local government administration is carried out by duly elected officials.

As the state gears up for the upcoming elections, the focus will be on ensuring a transparent and credible electoral process. The Cross River State government is expected to provide necessary support to CROSIEC to facilitate the smooth conduct of the polls.

UNICROSS Ban End-of-Examination Celebrations

UNICROSS Main Gate 

Asuquo Cletus Felix

CALABAR — The management of the University Of Cross River State, has ordered the immediate ban of  signing out celebrations across its campuses, during the upcoming final year examination.

This was contained in a circular issued by the varsity management on Wednesday, directed to all staff, Students' and the general public titled "Sustaining Peace And Security On Campus".

The Management said the ban is aimed at forestalling a breakdown of law and order within the university campuses.

"This is to inform all staff, students and the general public that the University management is aware of the usual post examination celebration especially by final year students and the negative /unwholesome consequences such celebrations usually have on the university environment.

Copy of the Circular baning, Jubilation on Campus after Final year Examination 

"Consequently management has directed that there shall be no signing out or pouring of water on one another by the student after the examinations in the campuses and the environs.

"Reckless driving in motorcades with loudspeakers will not be tolerated within the campuses. Flying of colours by any group within the campuses or the environs shall not be tolerated.

Students should not loiter around the examination areas if they are not part of the examination". The statement reads in parts.

P- Square: Peter writes an Open to his Twin Brother Paul

My dear brother Paul,

Just like I have told you several times, I am not in any competition with you or anybody else. However, seeing you grant countless interviews where you constantly discredit my efforts in the group that we both created and built together really speaks volumes. In your recent interviews, you claimed that you wrote and sang 99% of all P-SQUARE songs and discredited me by saying that our song with TI "EjeaJo," which I wrote, was a failure. You went as far as using the YouTube views to discredit me once again.

You never acknowledged the other songs like "Get-Squared," "Bizzy Body," "Personally," "Roll It," "Temptation," "Alingo," "More than a Friend," "Shekini," "Say Your Love," "Gimme Dat," "Senorita," "IGBEdu," and a few others. Were these songs also considered failures as well?

  

Every time I have spoken in interviews about P-SQUARE, I have always used "we" and "us" because I saw us as a team. But whenever you speak, it's always "I" and "me," even when I'm standing right beside you. It's as if I never existed.

My brother, neither of us is the most talented artist in the world, but you fail to understand that God gave us this talent and even granted us another chance to excel after our last breakup. Instead, you chose to turn the most awarded and decorated music group in Africa into a laughingstock again.

One thing you need to understand clearly is that the fans didn't fall in love with P-SQUARE because of who sang or danced the most. What made us special was the magic that came from our combined effort - us two! P-SQUARE was a force, and the fans fell in love with P-SQUARE because of our uniqueness and unity. We both have talent, no doubt, and I have often praised you in our interviews for your songwriting ability. I have also praised anyone who has ever written a song for us or even for me as Mr. P. But instead of showing gratitude for my kind words, you seem to find satisfaction in rubbing it in my face, forgetting that it is by God's grace that we have come this far.

 

 Rather than joining forces with me to reclaim our number 1 spot in the music industry, you chose to team up with Jude to claim the number 1 spot in the P-SQUARE group, always looking for opportunities to marginalize and humiliate me.

You are always claiming to be P-SQUARE's songwriter, composer, producer, singer, backup vocalist, in fact you are everything including P-SQUARE's video director, band, promoter, manager, even the choreographer. You are the Author and Finisher of P-SQUARE! In fact, I dash you 100% of everything instead of the 99% you claim.

I blame myself for not responding to your tweet claims in April 2015 that you wrote and sang all of P-SQUARE's songs. I didn't respond to these false claims for the sake of peace, as advised by family and friends, and now I am paying dearly for it.

So, my brother, let me ask you: Is Rudeboy or Mr P bigger and more successful than P-SQUARE today? Are we individually selling out arenas and stadiums like P-SQUARE used to? Are we topping world music charts with our songs as solo artistes? 

Do we command crowds and entertain massive audiences like P-SQUARE?

I often find myself wondering, what do you truly gain by constantly disrespecting and belittling me all the time. You have disrespected my wife, disrespected my family, disrespected my talent, disrespected my ideas, and even sided with Jude when he was clearly trying to oppress me. Now, it feels like you have taken it even further by trying so hard to turn the fans against me by making them believe I'm jealous of you.

You have been doing everything for the fans to hate me, but guess what? They will never hate me; instead, they will hate us both because we have disappointed and failed them.

I hope you are happy now. I genuinely wish you nothing but the best, bro! As for those who believe these lies and false narratives and come to my page to drop negative comments, I understand because you have been fed the wrong narrative for a long time. Please allow me to focus and do my music in peace.

As for the EFCC matter, 

I will address it before the end of today. Stay tuned! Peace✌🏾

                                                        

  PETER OKOYE.

C'River First Lady Rev Mrs. Eyoanwan Otu Aids Military Widows with Cash and Palliatives

Rev. Mrs Eyoanwan Otu, 
First Lady of Cross River State 

CALABAR — Rev Mrs. Eyoanwan Otu, wife of the Executive Governor of Cross River State, has pledged the government's commitment to improving the welfare of widows of fallen military and paramilitary heroes.

The first lady made this known during the monthly prayer and fasting program organized by the Association of Military and Paramilitary Widows, titled "When Military Widows Party," held at The All Christian Fellowship Center on Justice Ayade Crescent, she addressed the widows' plight.

Speaking through her representative, Apostle Dr. Mrs. Queen Eton Essien, Rev Mrs. Otu acknowledged the numerous reports of mistreatment faced by these widows. "We received reports that many of you were ill-treated and driven out of barracks after your husbands died, with some even denied their husbands' entitlements," she said. "Today, Her Excellency has sent me to tell you to cry no more. She heard your humble plea and has come to identify with you, sending us to make these presentations on her behalf. She promises to attend future editions of this program in person."

Rev Mrs. Otu encouraged the widows to let go of past grievances, support their children, and assured them of a better future under the Cross River State government.

Bishop Stella Archibong, also speaking at the event, urged the widows to stand up for their children's rights, reminding them that they are not alone. "I came to encourage you not to allow yourselves to be pulled down. Ensure you stand up for your children, knowing that you have God and the wife of the governor standing step by step with you. We ask God to bless her and enable her to do even more for you," she said. "Gather your strength and virtue, protect your children, and remember that the prayers of widows avail much. May the God of all creation grant you succor."

The event featured intercessory prayers for the state, the governor, and his wife. Over 100 participants received physical cash support and palliatives, including bags of rice, beans, and garri. In appreciation, the coordinator presented gift items to the governor's wife.

Photo Gallery: 

C'River Govt Denies Inviting Retirees For Physical Verification

Asuquo Cletus Felix 

CALABAR — The Cross River State Government has denied inviting retirees of Batch A up to 2019 to report for a physical verification exercise, from Monday 12th to Tuesday 20th, August 2024.

In a Public Service Announcement issued on Sunday by Obol Dr. Innocent E.Eteng noted that the said announcement "did not emanate from the office of the Head of Service nor the office of the Secretary to the State Government".

The denial is coming after many media establishments (Not The Daily News) had reported that the SGF had ordered state retirees to report for verification exercise.

"The attention of the Head of Service has been drawn to a fictitious press release dated August 9,2024, requesting retirees of a contrived Batch A up to 2019 to report to the office of the Accountant General for a physical verification exercise from Monday 12th to Tuesday 20th August, 2024.

"The said announcement is false and did not emanate from the office of the Head of Service, nor the office of the secretary to the state Government or any other office of Government.

" Cross River State pensioners and indeed the public should disregard the directives as it is the handwork of mischief makers and fraudsters."

It further added that arrangements have been made by the gratuity payment committee to ensure "a seamless exercise".

"Arrangements are being made by the gratuity payment committee to ensure a seamless exercise soon and the public shall be informed approximately.

"Retirees and the general public are advised never to part with their hard-earned money to anyone who claims ability or links with any person or authority to facilitate gratuity payment."

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.