2027: ‘No Vacancy’ in Central Senatorial Seat, Yakurr Stakeholders Endorse Eteng Williams for Second Term

In a bold political statement ahead of the 2027 general elections, Ward Leaders, Women, Youths and Stakeholders across the 13 wards of Yakurr Local Government Area have unanimously declared that there is "no vacancy" in the Cross River Central Senatorial seat, endorsing Senator Eteng Jonah Williams for a second term in recognition of his impactful representation and ongoing developmental strides.

The endorsement, which took place at a stakeholders' breakfast meeting with the Senator held at Mkpani on Sunday, was attended by Honourable members representing Yakurr I and II State Constituencies, Hon. Cyril Omin and Hon. Mercy Akpama respectively, the Council Chairman, Hon. Yibala Inyang, councillors, State and LG appointees, the State Treasurer of APC, chapter chairman and 13 ward executives, and top party chieftains including Johnson Ugbor.

Declaring the meeting open, the chairman of the forum, Mr. Johnson Ugbor, said: "Politics is not about abuse and insults. It is about what you can attract to your people. Our Senator is a good person, and he has attracted some projects to us. All we need now is to pray and work for those representing us so that when it is your turn, another person will work for you."

Speaking at the event, Hon. Yibala Inyang, Yakurr Council Chairman, said all the fighting being heard is a distraction.

He stated, "Senator Eteng Williams has barely spent two years in office, and people are already stirring problems. Politics is about showing results, and what the Senator is doing now is the right approach. The Governor has not declared that elections have commenced nor has he endorsed anyone. This is a time for governance, so don't let anyone mislead you."

Furthermore, a motion for the adoption of Sen. Eteng Williams was moved by Hon. Mercy Akpama (Yakurr II State Constituency) and seconded by Hon. Cyril Omin (Yakurr I State Constituency), Speaking after the adoption, Hon. Mercy Akpama said: "All the five council wards in Yakurr II have decided to stand with their son. Ikom supported their son and he served for 12 years. So why can't we achieve the same for Sen. Eteng Williams? It is time for the Central to support a Yakurr son."

Also, Mr. Eton Eyong from Idomi Ward said: "Idomi stands with Senator Eteng. We just want the Senator to support us and take us to the promised land. Even if he runs a third time, the people of Idomi will support him."

Chief Ebali Brown from Ijiman Ward stated: "Politics is like food and everyone wants a share. People are fighting because the tree bears fruit. Continue the empowerment and work with politicians who have influence in their communities."

From Bikobiko Ward, Hon. Adolphius said: "The Senator should not be distracted. The person causing problems is from my ward, but he does not represent us. We are the grassroots, and we are with you. Please work with us, we are the ones who will deliver you."

Engr. Matthew Bassey from Ijom Ward said: "We've seen your impact in Ijom, and we are with you. You won all elections here, and we'll continue to support you. We are not bothered by what others say, Ijom is for you."

Mr. Cyril Itam from Ikpakapi Ward and a former SUBEB secretary said: "We've been neglected when it comes to appointments. Please come to our aid. We have no roads or electricity."

Chief Otabe Leko, State NULGE Chairman from Nko Ward, said: "Many people have worked and deserve to be acknowledged. This meeting is important, it shows a sense of belonging."

Hon. John Bassey from Ajere Ward said: "We already have the Council Chairman and we're satisfied with that. But the Senator should help build a structure for the school."

Hansome Offem Ubi from Ekori Ward added: "Politics is about going out to vote and bringing something home for your people. Even though you didn't win Ekori, you got meaningful votes in every polling unit. Politics isn't church, there will always be opposing views. Focus and work with the people, and we will deliver our polling units during elections."

Mr. Nnanna Abam from Epenti Ward said: "We control over 80% of the votes. If you give us a road, we'll give you 100% in 2027."

Elder Willy Akpama from Nkpolo Ward said: "We are APC and we appreciate all you've done for us. We have some political appointees, and we're working to strengthen the party for the next elections."

Tony Ekereke from Iyima Ward said: "We have no one speaking for us, and that's not right. Please look into our situation. Our school lacks staff. Kindly reach out to the Ministry of Education to help us and appoint someone who can speak for us in your absence."

Retired school Principal, Mark Osogi from Assiga Ward said: "We're grateful for this meeting. APC has no issues in Assiga, whatever our leaders say, we follow. We proved that in the 2023 elections. We need help with the Ekori–Assiga road."

Okoi Abam from Mkpani-Agoi Ward said: "In 32 years, we've never had a meeting like this. We're grateful. A Yakurr son shouldn't be removed after one term. Old Ikom had this position for over 24 years before it came to Old Obubra. It's our turn now, and we won't let it go. We want a ranking Senator."

Commending the convener, the chairman of ward chairmen in Yakurr APC, John Ikpi Okon, said: "We appreciate the Senator for bringing people together for this meeting. Please do this regularly. We commend you for the development you've brought to Yakurr. All the ward chairmen have passed a vote of confidence in Senator Eteng Jonah Williams for 2027."

Speaking on behalf of the women's group, Ms. Rita Ogar Oden said: "We thank our leaders for their continued support for women in Constituencies I and II. We are proud and ready to mobilize when the time comes. We reject politics of bitterness and hatred. We also need a bus to help us move around. There is no vacancy in 2027."

In his response, Senator Eteng Jonah Williams thanked the people of Yakurr for celebrating Easter with him at his residence.

"This is a time to touch lives and thank God. I may not be able to address every challenge, but I will do my best. The Ekori Road project will soon commence under the NDDC, and within two years, we hope to have resolved about 70% of your concerns."

"It's not about what you lack, but your loyalty to the party. Whatever is due to you will reach you. I don't make noise—I know what to do."

"This time, politics is different. It's the first time members of the same party are fighting each other. Every Yakurr person is my brother or sister. I'll continue working for everyone to ensure our communities benefit from democratic dividends."

"The Yakurr people have never worn the Senate cap in the National Assembly until now. Let's protect it and use it to improve our lives."

He concluded by reaffirming his commitment to scholarships, human capital development, and infrastructural growth, noting: "Our Governor, Bassey Otu, loves Yakurr and is doing everything to empower us. I've heard you all, and my team and I will work harder to better the lives of our constituents."

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Israel Bolarinwa Emerges 2025 National Champion at Young Orators Competition

 Ukorebi Esien  | April 20th, 2025

IBADAN — Israel Bolarinwa, a 100-level Education student from the University of Ibadan, has been crowned the 2025 National Champion of The Young Orators Public Speaking Competition.

The competition, held in Ibadan, brought together 15 young speakers from across Nigeria for a week-long camp featuring intensive training and mentorship. Following the semi-final rounds, eight finalists advanced to the national stage on April 5, where Bolarinwa emerged as the overall winner. He will represent Nigeria at the International Public Speaking Competition scheduled for May 12–17, 2025.

The annual event is organized by the Peat Philips Foundation in collaboration with the Youth Development Agency and the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Student Affairs. Akinleye Olu-Phillips, Executive Director of the Foundation, reaffirmed the competition's commitment to building communication and leadership skills among Nigerian youth.

Participants benefited from expert coaching led by Oluwaseun Olamipo Dawodu, the national coach, who facilitated sessions aimed at enhancing public speaking competence. The competition also received support from Genesis Studios, whose media partnership contributed to the success of the event.

Now in its latest edition, The Young Orators continues to grow in scope and impact, serving as a platform for nurturing the next generation of confident and articulate leaders.

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NLC has abandoned us, Over 2500 protesting Civil servants cry out in Cross River

On the 21st of September 2020, the city of Calabar experienced what had been long anticipated by many who are sympathetic with the sufferings of citizens of Cross River State whose names were unjustly removed from the Cross River State payroll

The streets of Calabar saw these pained and unjustly treated citizens protest against perceived injustice meted by the state government against over 2500 staff of the state civil service.

According to video footages and pictures of placard seen by our correspondent yesterday, these affected civil servants are protesting the delisting of their names from the state payroll. these civil servants have evidences that they were duly engaged by the state government but deprived their emoluments and other legitimate financial dues. 

Some of the protesters who spoke with our correspondent noted averred as follows:

Nakanda Nakanda, informed that the affected civil servants were duly engaged six (2015), four(2017) and one (2019) years ago. Those engaged 6 and 4 years ago were given appointment, and confirmation letters and were payrolled but on September 2019 (another source says exactly 14 September) the Cross River State Government, CRSG, delisted over two thousand five hundred civil servants from the state payroll. 

While Alorye Ushie another affected civil servant said there was job advertisement in newspapers according to which they were duly engaged. Again another affected Civil servant Naku Stephen Ayima a graduate of Economics said he has his '...letter of appointment, permanent appointment letter, confirmation letter and pay slip.'

The over 2,500 protesting civil servants delisted from the Cross River civil service said the protest will continue today till the injustice and illegal delisting of their names from the state payroll for over thirteen months is addressed. 

This media House learnt that the matter has already been instituted at the industrial court. It is worthy to note that the illegal delisting affected over five hundred science and mathematics teachers, some legal officers etc and Six of those affected have already lost their lives while some are currently hospitalized for one ailment or the other.

Meanwhile, the Nigerian Labour Congress, NLC, have not been forthcoming to defend their cause. The Head of Service in the state was said to have walk out on the protesters yesterday when they protested to his office at the New Secretariat.

But the state government is alleging that the these affected staff were not engaged illegally. 

Sen. Eteng Williams Deepens Youth Engagement, Appoints Youth Aide Amidst Calls for Greater Inclusion

Eteng Williams in a warmth handshake with 
With the Cross River State Youth Council Chairman, Comrade Emmanuel Olayi

Ukorebi Esien | 19th April, 2025

IKOM — In a renewed effort to strengthen youth inclusion in governance, the Senator representing Cross River Central Senatorial District, Sen. Eteng Jonah Williams, has appointed Comrade Gifted Nelson as Special Assistant on Youth Affairs. The announcement was made during an interactive session with the Cross River Central Chapter of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), held Saturday at Gold Palm Hotels, Ikom.

The meeting, which brought together key youth stakeholders, including the State Chairman of NYCN, Comrade Emmanuel Olayi, and executive council members from the Central Senatorial District, served as a platform for the youth to express their expectations and aspirations from the political class.

Addressing the Senator, Comrade Olayi emphasized the need for consistent engagement, representation, and economic empowerment of young people in the region.

"Youths are not just beneficiaries of governance; we are contributors to the democratic process. Our capacity and passion for development must be harnessed by leaders who truly believe in inclusive growth," he stated.

While commending Senator Williams for previous youth-oriented interventions, Olayi called for the institutionalization of more sustainable youth programs and the establishment of open communication channels between the Senator's office and youth constituencies.

In his response, Senator Williams acknowledged the strategic role of young people in nation-building, noting that such interactive forums are essential for effective representation.

"Governance should not be a monologue. It should be a dialogue between leaders and the people—especially the youths who are vital stakeholders in the development chain," Williams remarked.

He described the appointment of Comrade Gifted Nelson as part of a broader strategy to institutionalize youth voices in legislative decision-making and constituency relations.

"This is not just an appointment; it is a bridge for greater collaboration. Gifted Nelson will serve as your eyes, ears, and voice within my office," the Senator added, assuring that further engagements with youth bodies across the district would be prioritized going forward.

The development has been widely interpreted as a political masterstroke and a response to growing public expectations for youth-centric governance, especially as conversations around inclusive politics and participatory democracy gain momentum in Nigeria.

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C'River PDP in Turmoil: Party Accuse Vena Ikem of Betrayal, Demand Ouster Over Alleged APC Ties

Ukorebi Esien | April 15, 2025

CALABAR — The Cross River State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has been plunged into fresh crisis as members of the State Executive Committee (SEC) accuse Chairman, Barr. Venatius Ikem, of betraying the party by allegedly aligning with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), a move they claim is crippling the PDP's opposition strength and fueling internal disintegration.

In what appears to be a coordinated uprising, 21 out of 36 State Executive Committee members, led by the zonal officers and party stakeholders from the three senatorial districts, demanded Ikem's immediate removal, citing gross misconduct, financial opacity, and autocratic leadership. They allege that his continued stay in office threatens the future of the party ahead of the 2027 general elections.

At the centre of the storm is an allegation that Ikem has been "playing both sides" by allegedly fraternising with high-ranking APC leaders. Although the aggrieved officials did not publicly name those involved, they argue that this unholy alliance has rendered the PDP ineffective in its watchdog role. "Our chairman has compromised the soul of our party," a top party official stated under anonymity. "He is too cosy with those we are supposed to oppose. How then can we challenge bad governance?"

In a statement made available to TND, Hon. Rita Ekpenyong, Assistant State Secretary (South), disclosed that the SEC had, in accordance with the party's constitution, issued a communiqué mandating Ikem to appear before the committee on April 10, 2025, to answer to the weighty allegations. "He ignored the invitation and also refused to honour a seven-day grace period. That is a clear show of disrespect to the same body that gave him a mandate," she stated.

A cross-zonal investigative team, she said, visited the party secretariat and submitted its findings to the larger SEC, prompting the move for disciplinary measures.

Comrade Egbe Awo, Assistant Organising Secretary (Central), described Ikem's leadership as "a one-man show," alleging that party decisions were often taken without consultation. "He takes unilateral actions and later stamps them as SEC resolutions. That's not democracy; it's dictatorship," he said. Awo also condemned what he called "threatening memos" issued to loyal party members, adding that Ikem's silence in the face of growing disenchantment has worsened the crisis.

In addition to poor leadership style, the party boss is also being accused of financial mismanagement. According to the petitioners, the chairman has handled party funds in a non-transparent manner, often working with a small circle of confidants without any formal budgetary disclosures. "There is no documented system for revenue or expenditure. We demand a detailed financial account of the party's income and expenses since September 2021," one member said.

During an extraordinary meeting on March 28, the SEC resolved to escalate the matter to the PDP National Executive Committee (NEC), invoking relevant sections of the party's constitution to demand Ikem's removal. The resolution was also copied to key party figures, including former governors Donald Duke and Liyel Imoke, and serving senators Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, Sandy Onor, and Gershom Bassey.

The crisis has reportedly triggered an exodus of party members. Prominent among them is Barr. Attah Ochinke, former House of Reps candidate for Ikom/Boki, and several local officials, many of whom accuse Ikem of employing "divide-and-rule" tactics that have alienated the grassroots.

Hon. Agabi Jacobs, Assistant Youth Leader (North), emphasised that while the petitioners are committed to internal unity, they are also ready to pursue legal redress if necessary. "We're trying to salvage the party using internal mechanisms. But if this abuse continues unchecked, we will head to court to save our party," he declared.

Esse Joseph, Assistant State Secretary (North), criticised the PDP's underwhelming performance as an opposition under Ikem's leadership. "While the APC-led government showcases routine projects as major feats, our party remains mute. Compare that with the performance of federal lawmakers like Senator Jarigbe, and you'll see the void Ikem has created," he lamented.

As of press time, Barr. Venatius Ikem has not responded to the allegations. However, insiders suggest that he may soon issue a rebuttal and rally his loyalists to counter the moves against him.

Meanwhile, SEC sources reveal that the committee is considering suspending Ikem and setting up a caretaker committee to lead the party pending the NEC's response. Such a move, if ratified, could dramatically reshape the leadership of the PDP in Cross River State and signal a new chapter in its internal reorganization.

With tensions running high, many are left wondering not just if Vena Ikem can weather this political storm — but whether the PDP in Cross River can survive this fracture and emerge as a united force before the 2027 elections.

— Developing story —

2027 Senate Ambition: Oden Ewa Breaks Silence on Alleged Move to Unseat Senator Eteng

By Ukorebi Esien | April 14, 2025

CALABAR – The Cross River State Commissioner for Special Duties, Hon. Oden Ewa, has finally addressed growing speculations regarding his alleged ambition to contest the Central Senatorial seat in 2027, currently occupied by Senator Eteng Jones Williams.

In recent weeks, political observers and social media commentators have been abuzz with reports of behind-the-scenes power plays, as supporters of both political figures trade accusations over alleged plots to unseat Senator Williams. The Senator, a former Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, has faced criticism from some constituents who claim he has underperformed since assuming office at the National Assembly.

In what appears to be a strategic response, Senator Williams' media team has ramped up publicity efforts, highlighting his legislative strides and constituency projects, possibly in a bid to counter the growing narrative against his performance.

Amid the swirling allegations, Hon. Oden Ewa made a cryptic post on his official Facebook page that has further fueled speculations about his senatorial ambition. He wrote: "In a result-driven administration, one must always put his best foot forward."

The statement, though not a direct declaration, is being interpreted by political analysts as a subtle indication of Ewa's readiness to step into the senatorial race, with many reading between the lines that he may be positioning himself as the "best foot" for the job come 2027.

As the political atmosphere begins to heat up ahead of the next general election cycle, stakeholders and constituents alike are keenly watching how this potential rivalry between two political heavyweights will unfold in Cross River Central.

here's a link to Oden Ewa's comment

UNICAL: Education Ministry Denies Setting New Criteria for VC Appointments

By Clement Bisong | 14th April 2025

ABUJA — A fresh wave of controversy has hit the University of Calabar (UNICAL) as stakeholders raise alarm over attempts by the university's governing council to introduce a mandatory 10-year post-professorial experience criterion for candidates vying to become Vice Chancellor—an action many see as unprecedented, unfair, and legally questionable.

The controversy erupted after a media report with the bold headline "FG: 10 years' experience as professor key criteria for VC selection" made rounds, implying a binding federal directive.

 However, a closer look at the body of the same article reveals that the so-called "requirement" is merely a guideline—not a law—and one not enforceable on the governing councils of autonomous federal universities.

Multiple sources within the Federal Ministry of Education, Abuja have since confirmed that no directive was issued mandating 10 years' professorial experience as a minimum qualification.

"The 10-year recommendation was a guideline for consideration," one senior official said under anonymity.

"It is not a directive, Governing councils are free to set 5, 7, 8, or 9 years based on their institutional context and tradition. The Ministry only guides—it does not impose."

This clarification has only deepened concerns that the attempt to enforce the 10-year rule in UNICAL may be a political ploy to exclude certain strong candidates. 

In particular, critics point to the fact that the last three Vice-Chancellors of the institution were appointed with 5, 7, and 9 years of post-professorial experience, respectively—without any controversy or disapproval from the Ministry of Education or the Presidency.

Education law experts emphasize that the University Miscellaneous Provisions Act (as amended) entrusts the governing council with exclusive powers to set criteria and recommend suitable candidates for the VC position. 

While the Ministry may issue advisory policies, it does not have the power to dictate terms or overrule the council's decisions within the law.

The new policy recently announced by the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, which bars acting Vice-Chancellors from contesting for the substantive post unless they step down, has also been widely misrepresented.

Though necessary to ensure fairness, this policy has been wrongly conflated with unrelated eligibility conditions like the 10-year rule.

"The real issue is not policy—it is manipulation," said a prominent UNICAL stakeholder. "This process should be guided by equity, merit, and transparency, not backdoor politics or propaganda. This is not politics with zoning and tribal agendas. It is all about competence"

UNCAL, a proud second-generation University celebrating 50 years of academic service, now finds itself at a crossroads. 

The university community, alumni, and concerned observers across the country are calling on the governing council to adhere to both the law and the spirit of fairness, resisting attempts to bend the rules midstream.

In a time when Nigerian universities need strong, visionary leadership more than ever, insiders warn that excluding qualified candidates through artificial barriers could damage both the credibility of the process and the future of the institution.

Student Loans: NOA Accuses Tertiary Institutions, Banks of Fraudulent Activities

Ukorebi Esien | 13 April 2025

ABUJA — The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has raised alarm over alleged fraudulent practices by some tertiary institutions and banks in the disbursement of the Federal Government's student loan scheme, designed to ease the financial burden on Nigerian students.

According to findings by the Community Orientation and Mobilisation Officers (COMO) of the NOA, several higher institutions are colluding with banks to exploit students by withholding or misappropriating loan disbursements from the Nigeria Education Loan Fund (NELFUND).

The Director General of NOA, Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, disclosed this following a high-level meeting with NELFUND Managing Director, Mr. Akintunde Sawyerr, over the weekend. He revealed that disturbing reports have emerged from various campuses indicating deliberate delays and non-disclosure of loan payments to students, even after funds have been released.

"Some institutions have gone as far as receiving loan disbursements into their accounts without notifying the affected students or updating their payment records," Mr. Sawyerr explained. "This not only results in confusion and financial strain on students but also undermines the integrity of the student loan program. NELFUND will not hesitate to initiate legal proceedings against any institution found culpable."

Mallam Issa-Onilu added that the NOA is intensifying its monitoring efforts nationwide. "We've directed our state offices to collect and verify student complaints related to loan disbursement. These reports will be used to advise the Federal Government on necessary sanctions against offending institutions and banks."

The student loan scheme is a flagship initiative of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's administration aimed at improving access to tertiary education by providing interest-free loans to eligible students. Any attempt to derail its implementation through fraud or negligence is considered a serious betrayal of public trust.

The NOA and NELFUND reaffirm their commitment to ensuring transparency, accountability, and timely access to educational support for all qualified Nigerian students.

NUJ Cross River Celebrates First Lady, Bishop Eyoanwan Bassey Otu, at 61

Ukorebi Esien  | April 10, 2025

CALABAR – The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Cross River State Council, has joined thousands of well-wishers to felicitate with Her Excellency, Bishop Eyoanwan Bassey Otu, First Lady of Cross River State, on the occasion of her 61st birthday.

In a congratulatory message jointly signed by the Council Chairman, Comrade Archibong Bassey, and Secretary, Mike Abang, the Union described the First Lady as a woman of deep faith, compassion, and exceptional purpose whose life and work continue to inspire hope and transformation across the state.

"Your Excellency, as a woman of faith, compassion, and purpose, you have continued to inspire Cross Riverians through your selfless devotion to humanitarian causes, spiritual leadership, and passionate advocacy for the vulnerable," the statement read.

The NUJ acknowledged Bishop Otu's immense contributions to the welfare of women, children, and the underprivileged, noting that her commitment to humanitarian service is a reflection of her life-long dedication to lifting others.

"As a bishop, mentor, mother, and partner in governance, you have remained a pillar of support to His Excellency, Governor Bassey Otu, and a symbol of hope to countless families across our dear state," the Council stated.

The Union lauded the First Lady's positive impact on the social and spiritual wellbeing of the people and prayed for continued health, divine strength, and a lasting legacy of service.

"On this special day, we celebrate your legacy of grace, strength, and resilience. Happy Birthday, Your Excellency!"

CRIDCOM Condemns Trafficking of 15-Year-Old C'River Girl, Assures Safe Return

Ukorebi Esien | April 9, 2025

CALABAR —The Cross River State Diaspora Commission (CRIDCOM) has condemned in strong terms the reported trafficking of a 15-year-old girl from the state to Côte d'Ivoire for illicit adult activities.

The incident came to light through a viral video shared by popular social media influencer, Verydarkblackman (VDM), who claimed the girl was trafficked for exploitative purposes.

In a statement signed by the Chairman of CRIDCOM, Hon. Otu Okor, the Commission described the act as "irresponsible" and called for collective efforts to fight the trafficking of underage girls.

"I, on behalf of CRIDCOM, strongly condemn such irresponsible act of using underage girls for illicit money-making ventures," Hon. Okor stated.

He assured the public that the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has commenced modalities to ensure the girl's safe return to Nigeria. He further guaranteed that all necessary safety and recovery protocols are being put in place.

The CRIDCOM chairman also used the opportunity to clarify jurisdictional responsibilities, noting that matters of child trafficking fall under the purview of NAPTIP and not the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), as alleged by the social media influencer.

"We at CRIDCOM promise to serve you with the best of our ability," Hon. Okor concluded.

The development has reignited conversations around child trafficking, diaspora engagement, and the role of social media in advocacy and accountability.