Gov. Otu Reduces Infrastructure Deficit in Cross River by Over 40% – Morphy

Mark Edra | 5th February 2025

CALABAR — Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Otu, has significantly reduced the state's infrastructure deficit by over 40% since assuming office in May 2023, demonstrating his commitment to driving development through strategic investments.

This was disclosed by the Special Adviser on Projects/Programs Monitoring and Evaluation, Mr. Raphael Morphy, during a spot assessment tour of key infrastructure projects. The tour, which marks the beginning of the department's 2025 Monitoring and Evaluation exercise, was conducted alongside the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Hon. Emmanuel Ironbar.

Mr. Morphy disclosed that Governor Otu's administration has prioritized infrastructure development to enhance economic growth, improve service delivery, and uplift the well-being of Cross Riverians. He emphasized that the governor's strategic interventions have addressed critical infrastructure gaps across various sectors, including road construction, healthcare, education, and digital economy initiatives.

"The ultimate goal of this administration is to accelerate infrastructure upgrades while boosting key investments that enhance workers' welfare, expand educational opportunities, improve healthcare access, and modernize the agricultural sector," Morphy stated.

Speaking on security infrastructure, the Chief of Staff, Hon. Emmanuel Ironbar, praised Governor Otu for his decisive actions, including the renovation of security office buildings, provision of operational vehicles, and expansion of road networks to enhance security response and economic activities.

Hon. Ironbar assured Cross Riverians that the governor remains committed to delivering more impactful projects, stressing that the ongoing efforts are just a glimpse of the comprehensive development agenda Senator Otu has set in motion.

#DPPME MEDIA

Accusation of Incompetence Against PFN National President, Ploy To Limit His Reelection Chances -- Archisbishop Isong

Archbishop Dr. Emmah Gospel Isong, is National Publicity Secretary, Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria PFN  who knows his onions as far as issues of  PFN are  concerned.  In this interview with National compass, Isong reacted to a piece authored by one Olalekan Bilesanmi where he alleged that Mama Idahosa,one of the  Nigeria's  mothers  of faith had drawn conclusion that Archisbishop Dr Wale Oke's reelected bid for the position of PFN National President would not scale through due to incompetence. NSAN NDOMA -NEJI brings you Excerpts of that Interview.

Question: Going by a publication by one Olalekan Bilesanmi of a certain National Daily who claimed to have spoken with some senior leaders of the PFN that a mother of faith accused Dr. WALE Oke of not keeping the fellowship vibrant and that as a result of that, the  PFN has gone down to voice mail.  Is this assertion true?

Answer: Yes I have seen that  national daily that featured one Mr. Olalekan Bilesanmi as a misfired write up. I wish to tell you that there is no storm in the PFN. and there are no schism in the great fellowship and our National President His Eminence, Archbishop Dr. Francis 'Wale Oke, is leading the fellowship robustly, in his leadership,we have found greater moment of unity and friendship. Never had the Pentecostal fellowship enjoyed this apex of relationship. To me, never had the fellowship been this vibrant. I don't know who the said journalist spoke with. I am the national publicity secretary, if anybody was to speak according to him to leaders of Pentecostal fellowship he should have mistakenly contacted me for that information. I think it's a roadside discussion. It's a street talk that doesn't hold water. 

Question: What is your assessment of the performance of the current National President of PFN?

Answer: Like I said there are five things that stand out for His Eminence Dr Wale Oke, since he became National President of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria, number one, is the atmosphere of peace and love, unity friendship in the fellowship. He has inculcated all across the 36 states of the federation both in the state chapters and local government chapters of the Pentecostal fellowship of Nigeria. Secondly Dr. Wale Oke, has been able to bring the fellowship to a point that we have raised strong leaders , young generation leaders, a new generation leadership called the generation next of PFN. That has never been.

Thirdly, for the first time, we have acquired a strategic portion of land for our second national Secretariat in Abuja. Our National Secretariat had been in Lagos in the past 40 years and now we are going to have another Secretariat in Abuja.

Fourth, Dr. Wale Oke, instituted a 40 days of prayer and fasting for our nation Nigeria. His prayerfulness and proactiveness has woken up the church.

Fifth, Dr. Wale Oke's divine wisdom has helped strengthened the administration of the Pentecostal fellowship of Nigeria as he carries along the National Advisory council , National Executive Council, never have we been so united.

Question: Is it true that PFN is having a biennial confab and election in Abuja come February 2025 if so, what are the preparations like ?

Answer:  Yes the PFN is having its 18th National Biennial conference at Glory Dome of the Dunamis church on Airport road, Abuja from February 11 -- 14 , 2025. It is within the period of that biennial conference the Elections will surely hold as we are being reminded by the writers of that unscrupulous article. PFN Elections is a very seemless and private excercise and is not for show. We don't advertise it. Is not like what we have in the world. Previously the process had produced credible leaders like Late Papa Benson Idahosa, Papa Adeboye, Papa Okonkwo, Even recently Papa Ayo Oritjasefor who had ruled for 8 years handed over to Papa Felix Omubude himself led the fellowship for 8 years, and Dr Wale Oke is just ending his four years and of course he is constitutionally entitled for another four years come February 2025 when the fathers of faith will gather to appreciate him for what he has accomplished.

Question: Are you seeing those accusing The National President of incompetence as a ploy to limit his chances for a second term ?

Answer: We don't campaign in PFN, nor lobby. We don't politicize our policy. But if the people that ran this article has that in mind, the it's just like a storm in the tea cup, because the Pentecostal fellowship of Nigeria, have their own wise, Holy Ghost way of choosing their leaders. Some one like Dr. Wale Oke rose within the ranks and file of the Pentecostal fellowship of Nigeria. He has been a state leader, he has been a regional leader, he has been even a National vice President ( South West ) , He rose to become a Deputy National President and now he is the National President. 

We have our own processes that throw up our leaders void of campaigns, void of rumblings, void of politicizing and backstabbing. We don't do that kind of politics. We don't even play open politics. It is when the fathers of faith gather and pray, of course like you see in the Acts 13 ,the Holy Spirit will speak and they will bring up the new leadership. It is very clear that they will choose the right person. They had never chosen wrongly.

All the past leaders that PFN have had are from God . We don't choose our leaders on the pages of newspapers. We choose our leaders from after prayers and intercessions.

Question: "Is it  really true that Mama Idahosa accused the PFN National President Dr. Wale Oke, of not keeping to his promises?"

Answer: No. No , No Mama Idahosa and Archbishop Wale Oke's relationship is very like mother and son's relationship. The incident somebody maybe be referring to happened last year during Dr. Oyedepo's 70th birthday. Mama was speaking as a mother and was teasing the national president like to say don't abandon me, don't forsake me ooh. And they laughed together. It wasn't something that should be on air. It wasn't something like an accusation. If you know Mama Idahosa very well. She does that to me and indeed every of her sons. We enjoy her motherhood and simplicity. She is one of the pillars and founding Matriarch of Pentecostal fellowship of Nigeria. She is a builder and an encouragement to all. She has a robust and sound relationship with the National President of PFN. Always supports the  President in all projects and programmes of Pentecostal fellowship of Nigeria.

Oden Ewa: Stop The Petty Script of Political Blackmail and Thuggery

Omini Oden | January 22, 2025 

Nigeria's politics has outgrown the era of using false propaganda and blackmail to climb the ladder of political power. Under the atmosphere of lack of popularity and acceptability, Commissioner Oden Ewa has continued to profoundly elevate his arrogance, clannishness, greed for power, and ignorance with the sponsored campaign of calumny and divisive politics in Yakurr Local Government Area. 

His insensitivity to the common good of the people alongside some self-acclaimed stakeholders have chosen to dissipate the last breath of their dying political career on profuse smear campaigns targeted at the Distinguished Senator Eteng Jonah Williams. 

Painfully for them, the more they are ranting, the more focused the Distinguished Senator on delivering his campaign promises of unprecedented development to the people of Cross River Central Senatorial District. 

Under his leadership in less than, one year and six months, Senator Eteng Williams has positively impacted his constituents with numerous projects. One notable example is the distribution of solar-powered streetlights across Communities in Cross River Central Cross River State. This initiative has not only enhanced security but also increased social and economic activities in our communities.

The senator's top priority has remained the well-being of his constituents. He has sponsored a bill to amend the Federal Medical Centres Act, which seeks to establish a Federal Medical Centre in Ugep. If passed, this bill will provide access to quality healthcare for the people of Cross River Central Senatorial District.

Senator Williams has also collaborated with the Cross River State Ministry of Health to provide free medical care to his constituents. Over 10,000 individuals have benefited from this initiative, receiving free medical treatment, including surgeries and deworming for children.

In addition to his healthcare initiatives, Senator Williams launched solar-powered borehole water projects across communities in the Cross River Central Senatorial District including the Ijom community in Ugep, Assiga, and Mkpani Communities in Yakurr Local Government Area alone. This project aims to provide access to clean water and boost health and community development in the district.

Senator Eteng Williams has shown unwavering support for initiatives that develop young talents with the sponsorship of the Yakurr Unity Cup, a tournament that brought together all communities in the Yakurr Local Government Area fostering peace, unity, and development. He also sponsored the maiden edition of the Sweet Prince Otu Cup 2024 which brought together over 200 secondary school teams across the state, fostering healthy competition, talent development, and sportsmanship in our state. The competition was won by Govisco Secondary School in Ikom LGA. 

Senator Williams is also committed to empowering the youth through education. He has awarded foreign scholarships to 12 youths to pursue their postgraduate studies abroad including 5 beneficiaries from Yakurr. Additionally, he has provided scholarship grants to 21 indigent students at the Nigeria Law Schools.

The senator's efforts have not gone unnoticed. He has facilitated various training programs worth over 100 million naira for 1,000 constituents across the Central Senatorial District, with beneficiaries receiving 100,000 - 120,000 Naira in grants. 

In the area of agriculture, Senator Williams has distributed free fertilizers to rural farmers across the 66 wards of the district. 

We like to emphasize that there is no amount of blackmail that can downplay this purposeful leadership and unprecedented performance, the people of Cross River Central are currently enjoying. 

It is of credible note that the soaring reputation of Senator Eteng Williams has earned him the admiration of all across the entire State.

Indeed, light has come to stay in Cross River Central and there's no room for hired blackmailers and political thuggery. Those days have long passed, and our people are more exposed and aware now. 

Let us make it clear, while it is within Oden Ewa's right to aspire to any office of his choice, his campaign of calumny must stop, If he persists in his voyage, we will have no option but to open the cans of worms in his closet to the public. 

When Men slept, the Devil sowed tars!

Omini Oden Writes from Inyima, Yakurr LGA

Note: The views in this report are solely that of the Author, Omini Oden as they do not represent the position of The Daily News Ng

Environmental CSOs Demand Immediate Release of Activist Odey Oyama

Ukorebi Esien  | January 18, 2025

CALABAR —The environmental non-governmental organization (NGO) community in Cross River State has issued a global call for the immediate and unconditional release of Comrade Odey Oyama, a prominent environmentalist and human rights defender. Oyama, the Executive Director of the Rainforest Resource and Development Center and former Chairman of the Cross River Anti-Deforestation Committee, was arrested on January 15, 2025, by the Cross River State Police Command.

Reports indicate that Oyama's arrest, along with six others, occurred in Okuni, Ikom Local Government Area, during a forceful operation by the Okuni Area Command. Family members disclosed that police officials stormed the area, shooting sporadically, and arrested Oyama in a gestapo-styled operation that left residents scared. Following the arrest, Oyama and his colleagues were initially detained at the Ikom division before being transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department in Calabar

Concerns have been raised regarding the lack of transparency surrounding the charges against Oyama. Family members have reported that, more than 24 hours after his arrest, his offense has yet to be disclosed to him. Additionally, attempts by legal counsel to meet with Oyama have been obstructed. On January 16, 2025, the Cross River Command of the Nigerian Police Force refused Sunny Mgbe Esq, a counsel to Oyama, access to discuss with him, according to family members.

The environmental NGO community suspects that Oyama's arrest is connected to his consistent protests against illegal operations by Chinese entities in the Okuni Community Forest. They assert that this arrest represents a severe violation of fundamental human rights and undermines the critical role of civil society in holding corporations and governments accountable, as well as protecting the last remaining tropical rainforest in Nigeria, located in Cross River State.

In response, the NGOs have issued the following demands:

• The Cross River State Police Command should immediately and unconditionally release Comrade Odey Oyama and the six others arrested, dropping all charges against them.

• The Cross River State Government, particularly the Chief Security Adviser to the Governor and the Commissioner for Environment, should intervene and order their immediate and unconditional release.

• The Nigerian Government should ensure the safety and protection of human rights defenders and environmental activists across the country.

• The international community should condemn this act of repression and pressure the Nigerian authorities to uphold their commitments to human rights, as enshrined in national and international frameworks.

• Civil society organizations worldwide should amplify this call and advocate for the protection of environmentalists and defenders of community rights.

The NGOs emphasize that Oyama's arrest is an attack on freedom of expression, civic participation, and the fight for environmental justice. They stand in solidarity with him and all those who courageously work to protect the planet and its people from exploitation and harm.

Akak Advocates for Journalists' Financial Independence to Resist Political Manipulation

Ukorebi Esien  | January 18, 2025 

 

CALABAR – Mr. Ben Akak, a prominent businessman and former All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship aspirant in the 2023 Cross River State elections, has called for financial independence among journalists to shield them from being exploited as instruments of political division.

Speaking informally with members of the press in Calabar, Akak emphasized the need for journalists to diversify their sources of income and explore other legitimate ventures. This, he said, would reduce their susceptibility to undue influence from politicians seeking to use the media for selfish and divisive agendas.

"Some politicians will try to use you to destroy others. Distance yourselves from such individuals," Akak warned. "Always think about the future. Ensure that when you return home, you can find peace within yourself, knowing you've upheld your integrity."

Akak noted that journalism plays a vital role in society, particularly in representing the less privileged. He urged media practitioners to embrace their responsibility as the voice of the voiceless while contributing to societal peace and harmony.

"Journalists are the hope of the common people, especially those who are less privileged," he said. "Your work helps build the fabric of the community and fosters greater peace. Beyond reporting, use your profession to nurture meaningful relationships and create bridges that unite rather than divide."

The former aspirant also highlighted the importance of personal growth and skill diversification, cautioning journalists against relying solely on their profession without pursuing additional opportunities for financial security. "Don't practice journalism for years without tilting towards other opportunities to expand your economic horizon. Failing to do so may lead to disillusionment in the future," he advised.

 

The grassroot politician urged journalists to maintain their independence, integrity, and commitment to societal unity, reminding them of their pivotal role in shaping a more peaceful and inclusive society.

C'River: Former Permanent Secretaries Advocate Financial Regulation Training for Civil Servants

CALABAR — Two former Permanent Secretaries of the Cross River State Ministry of Finance, Dr. Effenji Ferdinand Odey and Barr. Gabriel Ikang, have called for improved training on financial regulations for civil servants in the state. They made this appeal during a courtesy visit to the current Permanent Secretary, Mr. Ajah Francis Ajah, on Friday, January 10, 2025, at his office in Calabar.

The duo commended the ministry's achievements under the leadership of Mr. Ajah and stressed the importance of sustaining the progress made. Dr. Odey, who previously served as Director of Commerce before his appointment as Permanent Secretary in 2004, narrated his experiences in advancing the ministry's goals. Barr. Ikang, a seasoned public servant and Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (FCA), also reiterated the need for capacity building in the civil service.

In his response, Mr. Ajah appreciated the former Permanent Secretaries for their visit and their continued interest in the state's development. He assured them that their recommendations align with Governor Otu's "People First" agenda and promised to prioritize the training of civil servants in financial regulations.

End.

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2025 Armed Forces Remembrance Day: C'River Honors Veterans, Advocates Unity and Support

Ukorebi Esien  | January 8, 2025

CALABAR —The Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Calabar's Navy Barracks hosted the inter-denominational service for the 2025 Armed Forces Remembrance Day, where Cross River State paid tribute to the nation's military heroes, past and present. Governor Prince Bassey Otu, represented by his deputy, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, called on citizens to uphold the values of sacrifice, unity, and service, which the armed forces exemplify.

Governor Otu emphasized the need for sustained care and respect for veterans and their families. "As we honor the 2025 Armed Forces Remembrance Day, we reflect on the sacrifices of our men and women in uniform who safeguarded our sovereignty and fostered peace and freedom. Let us ensure their contributions are never forgotten, and their families receive the care they deserve," he said.

Highlighting the significance of the event, the governor referenced the sacrifices made during the Nigerian Civil War, the World Wars, and ongoing battles against insurgency, particularly Boko Haram. He also urged Cross Riverians to embody the harmony and progress envisioned by those who laid down their lives for the nation's unity.

Delivering the homily, Rev. Fr. Raphael Adelana spoke on "How to Truly Honor Our Fallen Heroes," urging the Armed Forces and the nation to prioritize peace and conflict prevention. He criticized the societal impact of greed, corruption, and substance abuse, calling for collective efforts toward a peaceful and prosperous Nigeria.

The solemn service included intercessory prayers for peace and unity, a reading of scriptures by Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem, Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, and a heartfelt thanksgiving led by Deputy Governor Odey. The Nigerian Navy Catholic Women Choir provided stirring music, while service commanders, veterans, and their families joined in honoring the fallen.

The event was a clear sign of Cross River State's commitment to remembering the sacrifices of the armed forces and fostering a society built on the pillars of peace, respect, and shared progress.

How Commissioner For Tourism Slaps Man for Recording in Public

LAGOS — Toke Benson, the Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, was allegedly involved in a public altercation with an unidentified man who she reportedly slapped for recording her in a video shared by Sahara Reporters 

According to the video which is now viral, Commissioner Benson was in the process of directing security operatives to remove someone from a facility when she noticed the man recording her actions. 

Reacting to this, she attempted to seize the phone from the individual, which appeared to result in her slapping the man. 

The man expressed his dissatisfaction and questioned the reason for the slap, while cautioning the commissioner not to repeat such behavior in the future. 

Click here to see the video 

https://youtube.com/shorts/N4suPZDVDqo?si=-sm0eQYOxOn_pwHT 

C’River to Establish Two New Higher Institutions of Learning

Ukorebi Esien|  January, 10 2024 

…Gov. Otu Signs Bills for State University of Education and College of Agriculture

CALABAR — Cross River State is set to establish two new higher institutions following the signing of landmark bills by Governor Bassey Otu. The institutions include the State University of Education and Entrepreneurship in Akamkpa and the State College of Agriculture in Obubra.

The new schools, created under the Cross River State University of Education and Entrepreneurship Law 2024 and the Cross River State College of Agriculture Law 2024, were formalized during a State Executive Council meeting at the Traditional Rulers' Council chambers in Calabar on Wednesday.

Governor Otu assured that governing councils and principal officers for both institutions would be appointed soon to ensure their swift operationalization. He commended the State House of Assembly for its proactive role in reviewing and passing the bills, highlighting their dedication to advancing education and development in the state.

The State University of Education and Entrepreneurship will replace the former State College of Education in Akamkpa, while the State College of Agriculture will transition from its status as a campus of the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS).

The bills were presented for assent by the Clerk of the House of Assembly, Mrs. Kate Ubi, Esq., and the Commissioner for Education, Senator Steven Odey.

In addition to signing the bills, the State Executive Council approved five new executive draft bills for consideration by the House of Assembly. These include:

Cross River State Roads Fund Law, 2024

Cross River State Rural Access Roads Authority Law, 2024

Cross River State Lotteries and Gaming Agency Law, 2024

Cross River State Water User Association Law, 2024

Amendment of the Cross River State Counterpart Fund Law, 2024

These proposed laws are designed to enhance infrastructure, governance, and public services across the state.

Governor Otu expressed optimism that these legislative initiatives would accelerate socio-economic development, reaffirming his administration's commitment to driving impactful growth in Cross River State.

Economic Challenges: Tinubu's Minister Appeals for Patience, Assures Nigerians of Relief Plans

Ukorebi Esien | January, 8th 2025

CALABAR — As Nigerians grapple with the economic strain from recent government policies, there is growing concern over how long citizens will have to endure the challenges before experiencing the promised benefits. Speaking during a media interaction, the Minister of State for Industry, Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Investment, Sen. John Owan Enoh, acknowledged the current economic hardship while outlining the administration's long-term plans for recovery.

Sen. Enoh, a seasoned politician and former senator, House of Representatives member, and one-time governorship candidate for Cross River State, emphasized President Bola Tinubu's understanding of Nigerians' struggles. Noting that the administration inherited significant financial and structural challenges, including the alarming printing of ₦30 trillion by the previous government, a move he described as having caused severe damage to the economy. Coupled with global economic pressures, these issues have left Nigeria in a fragile state.

However, Sen. Enoh expressed optimism about the president's bold economic reforms, including the tax reform bill, which he called an "enabler" for industrial growth and economic transformation. He argued that the bill is crucial to achieving the president's ambition of a $1 trillion economy, despite the initial backlash it has faced in some regions. "This administration is about defining moments," he said, urging Nigerians to remain patient and supportive of the government's policies.

Notable among the policies expected to yield dividends are student loans and automobile credit schemes. The minister revealed that ₦25 billion has been disbursed under the student loan initiative and ₦20 billion allocated to revive Nigeria's auto industry. Although he admitted these amounts are just starting points, he expressed confidence in their potential to drive significant change.

Furthermore, the federal government is working to revive key industries, including refineries in Port Harcourt and Warri, to reduce Nigeria's reliance on imported fuel. According to Sen. Enoh, these efforts are expected to ease some of the economic burdens in the coming months.

Despite these assurances, the minister refrained from making concrete promises about when Nigerians would begin to see significant improvement. "My hope is that by mid-term, some of the benefits of what the president has been trying to put in place will become evident," he said cautiously, underscoring the importance of patience and resilience.

As the administration approaches its mid-term mark, the spotlight remains on its ability to deliver on its promises. For millions of Nigerians, the question is not just when the economy will recover but whether the sacrifices being made today will lead to a better tomorrow.

Sen. John Owan Enoh's background as a seasoned policymaker and advocate for economic transformation lends credibility to his call for patience. However, Nigerians continue to look to the administration for immediate measures to alleviate their suffering amid the promise of brighter days ahead.