NOA Calls for Further Action on UTME Error, Commends JAMB’s Transparency

ABUJA — The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has called on the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) to take additional steps in addressing the recent errors experienced during the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), even as it commended the examination body for its unprecedented transparency and accountability.

In an official statement, NOA Director General, Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, praised JAMB and its Registrar, Professor Is-haq Oloyede, for openly acknowledging the challenges faced during the examination. He described the action as a rare display of integrity and institutional responsibility, aligning with the core values enshrined in the National Values Charter (NVC).

"Professor Oloyede has shown the kind of ethical leadership and courage our institutions need. His forthrightness is commendable and worthy of emulation," the NOA DG stated.

However, Mallam Onilu stressed that beyond admitting to the lapses, JAMB must now focus on restitution. He urged the examination body to implement remedial measures that will ease the burden on affected candidates, their parents, and other stakeholders.

"Recognition of mistakes is the first step. Redemption and restitution are the next. JAMB should consider appropriate compensation to address the stress and anxiety candidates may have endured," he said.

NOA further stated that such transparency must become the norm in public service, noting that when institutions take responsibility for their actions, they gain the trust and confidence of citizens.

"JAMB's example should serve as a model. When public institutions own their mistakes and act decisively to correct them, they reinforce democratic accountability," Onilu said.

Reaffirming the Agency's commitment to promoting responsible leadership and ethical citizenship, the NOA DG noted that advancing the ideals of the National Values Charter remains a top priority. He called on all Nigerians—both in public and private life—to uphold the values of integrity, accountability, and transparency as the foundation of a just and equitable society.

SSDC Nominations: Forum Commends Tinubu for Promoting Regional Inclusion

Ukorebi Esien | 11th May 2025

CALABAR –The Cross River State Consultative Forum (CRSCF) has hailed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's nomination of Cross Riverians to the South-South Development Commission (SSDC), describing it as a deliberate step toward fostering national unity and regional inclusion.

The statement, signed by the Forum's Chairman, Hon. Eyo Nsa Ekpo, Esq., and fourteen others, welcomed the appointments of Ambassador Sony Abang as Executive Director (Finance) and Hon. Larry Odey as Commissioner, saying it demonstrates the federal government's commitment to balanced national development.

"We commend President Tinubu's foresight in promoting competence and inclusion. The selection of Ambassador Abang and Hon. Odey affirms that Cross River is a key stakeholder in Nigeria's progress," the statement read.

The Forum also credited Governor Bassey Otu for his quiet diplomacy and consistent push for equitable representation, noting that the governor's efforts have ensured that the state maintains a visible footprint in critical national institutions.

The nominations were listed in President Tinubu's communication to the Senate, which also included nominees for the North Central and South West Development Commissions. For the SSDC, eighteen nominees were presented, with Chibudom Nwuche and Usoro Offiong Akpabio leading as Chairman and Managing Director, respectively.

The CRSCF expressed optimism that the newly formed Commission will address the economic, ecological, and infrastructural challenges in the South-South zone, adding that its nominees from Cross River are well-prepared to contribute meaningfully.

The Forum urged prompt Senate confirmation and pledged its continued support for the goals of the Commission and the vision of a more inclusive Nigeria.

2027: 15,000 Southern Cross River Youths Set to Storm the Street as CRISPON Hosts Endorsement Rally for Governor Otu

Ukorebi Esien |  May 9, 2025

CALABAR — As the political cloud in Cross River State begins to gather momentum with rising concerns over the 2027 General elections, over 15,000 youths under the banner of the Cross River State Political Network (CRISPON) are prepared to storm the streets of Calabar in a grand endorsement rally for the state governor, His Excellency Sen. Prince Bassey Edet Otu.

The event, scheduled for Saturday, May 24, 2025, at the iconic U.J. Esuene Stadium in Calabar, is being organized to commemorate the Governor's second year in office and to drum up early support for his anticipated re-election bid in 2027.

Speaking at a mobilisation/strategic planning meeting held on the 8th of May, 2025, where over 2000 representatives from the 76 wards of the Southern Senatorial District were in attendance, Dr Michael Nku Abuo, Director General of CRISPON and Chairman of the Central Planning Committee, Dr. Prince Michael Nku Abuo, JP, said the rally is designed to highlight Governor Otu's achievements, galvanize youth support, and send a clear message of continuity to political stakeholders.

"We are witnessing a new dawn in Cross River State. Governor Otu's People First agenda has transformed lives through massive infrastructure, social investment, and youth inclusion. This endorsement rally is the youths' declaration that we are standing firmly with him into 2027," Abuo declared.

He further noted that the May 24 rally will be mirrored across the Central and Northern Senatorial Districts in the weeks ahead, with CRISPON coordinating thousands of members in what is expected to be the largest political youth-driven event in the state in recent years.

The meeting also saw the formation of subcommittees on mobilization, logistics, publicity, and protocol. A final sensitization and pre-mobilization event has been scheduled for Saturday, May 17, 2025, at the same stadium.

Deputy Director General (South), Princess Okuanwan E., commended the youths for their energy and assured them that CRISPON would continue to protect their interests and create platforms for civic engagement.

With thousands of young people poised to hit the streets in solidarity, the upcoming rally is shaping up to be not just a celebration, but a powerful statement of youth-driven political direction heading into the 2027 elections.

Infrastructure Boost: Tinubu Launches Key Projects in Anambra Amid Applause from Private Sector, Communities

 Ukpa Ewa | 9th May 2025

AWKA —The President of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, received a warm reception during his one day working visit to Anambra State, where he commissioned several critical infrastructural projects. 

Speaking on behalf of the private sector, the Chairman of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), South East region, Lady Ada Chukwudozie, expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for his support of Anambra State and Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo. She noted that the President involvement made citizens of the region feel more included in national development.

Lady Chukwudozie praised Governor Soludo for his outstanding performance, particularly for achieving major milestones without borrowing funds. "Governor Soludo has done marvelously well with the lean resources available to him. Ndi Anambra are proud of him," she stated, adding that she looks forward to the developmental impact of the newly commissioned projects.

Chairman of Anambra Patriots for Soludo,  Chief Ejiamatu Damian Enekwechi, also lauded the governor for fulfilling the expectations of the people. He highlighted accomplishments such as the construction of a modern government house, improvements in security, the creation of a 50-year development master plan, extensive road construction across communities and employment generation in the health and education sectors. He assured continued grassroot support for the Soludo administration.

In her remarks, Professor Rose Nwankwo, Secretary of the Solution Frontiers Movement, described the occasion as a form of public awareness about Governor Soludo's silent but impactful governance. She commended the governor for transforming Anambra State in just three years. "From dualized roads in Aguata and Ekwulobia to the transformed Ekwueme Square, Soludo has made remarkable strides. Today, people drive from Amansea to Ufuma in just 15 minutes—a feat never seen before," she noted, attributing improved security and nightlife to the governor effort.

The highlight of President Tinubu's visit was the commissioning of major projects, including the Emeka Anyaoku Institute for International Studies and Diplomacy, the new government house, and the Solution Fun City—landmark developments poised to boost socio-economic growth in the state. 

President Tinubu was also honoured with a prestigious chieftaincy title, Dike Si Mba Anambra, during the well-attended event, which brought together governors from the South East and dignitaries from Borno, Ogun, Delta States among others.

Crisis Looms as Traditional Leader Accuse of Selling Community Market in Calabar

Ukorebi Esien | 9th May 2025

CALABAR — The lingering crisis between Etinyin Ita Nyong and the Ekorinim community dates back to 2021, when this publication first reported an incident involving a youth leader who was allegedly shot by a police officer said to be working for Chief Nyong.

Since then, the community has witnessed a series of conflicts, most of which are connected to the sale of community lands and properties—many allegedly facilitated by Etinyin Ita Nyong.

In a recent development, our reporter was informed that a parcel of land reserved for the Ekorinim Community Market has been illegally sold. According to a reliable source, who requested anonymity for safety reasons, the land had been officially designated and approved for the market project by the Ekorinim Town Council and traditional chiefs. The land, which borders the Ikot Ansa community, was intended to serve residents of Ekorinim, Diamond, and surrounding communities.

Our reporter obtained copies of the approved building plans, which further confirmed the land's intended use. However, investigations revealed that the land has now been subdivided and sold to private individuals, some of whom have already begun construction.

In an interview with the Councillor representing Ward Five in Calabar Municipality, Hon. Augustine Edet Nyong, he expressed deep concern over the actions of Etinyin Ita Nyong. According to him, the land had long been reserved for the market project, and he has been actively working to see the project come to fruition.

"I have presented the market plan to the Chairman of Council, seeking local government support for the development. I'm even planning an investment dinner to attract investors, with the market as our flagship project," he disclosed.

Hon. Augustine described the situation as disheartening, emphasizing that while young leaders are striving to bring development to the area, one individual is allegedly selling off community assets for personal gain.

"It's painful. We, the youths, are working hard to attract development, yet someone is busy disposing of community properties for selfish reasons," he lamented.

He further confirmed that he had visited the site personally and found construction activities underway. On one occasion, he confronted and sent away some of the workers. He has since directed community leaders to halt all land sales in Ekorinim until the ongoing leadership dispute is resolved.

Efforts to reach Etinyin Ita Nyong for comment proved unsuccessful, as he neither answered nor returned calls as of press time.

Meanwhile, the Deputy Mayor of Calabar Municipality, Pastor Okon Nyong, whose office is mandated by law to manage conflicts and promote peace within the local government area, has assured that he will intervene promptly to resolve the crisis.

Reacting to the incident, the State Coordinator of Partners for Peace in the Niger Delta (P4P), Mr. Eteng Eteng, called on community leaders to protect communal assets and refrain from actions that hinder the development and unity of their communities.

Mr. Eteng emphasized that P4P, a network of certified peacebuilders and crisis management professionals, will work with relevant government agencies to ensure peace is restored in Ekorinim.

US4US Movement Applauds Tinubu for Appointing Youthful Technocrat to Head South-South Dev Commission

Ukorebi  Esien | May 9, 2025

CALABAR —The US4US Movement has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the appointment of a young technocrat as the pioneer Managing Director of the newly established South South Development Commission (SSDC), describing the decision as a bold step toward youth inclusion and national development.

In a statement signed by the Convener of the movement, Comrade Richie Romanus, the group expressed "profound joy" over the appointment, saying it reflects President Tinubu's commitment to his Renewed Hope agenda and underscores his belief in the capacity, competence, and credibility of young Nigerians.

"This marks the highest expression of confidence in the sterling qualities of a seasoned technocrat," the statement reads. "Your appointment is a demonstration of President Tinubu's impeccable trust in the ingenuity of Nigeria's youth and a milestone for youth participation in governance."

The US4US Movement called on the new Managing Director to channel her expertise and leadership towards transforming the fortunes of the South-South geopolitical zone, particularly in the areas of infrastructure, human capital development, and educational advancement.

Romanus also urged the new MD to foster synergy with other members of the commission and the teeming youth population in the region to consolidate on the strides already recorded by the Tinubu-led administration.

Reiterating the group's support, the US4US Movement pledged its readiness to collaborate with the commission in achieving its developmental goals.

"Kindly accept our warmest felicitation and assurance of unalloyed support," the statement concluded.

The South South Development Commission was recently established to spearhead regional development initiatives, and its leadership is expected to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the oil-rich but infrastructure-challenged region.

UNICAL VC Selection: Crisis Looms As Allegations of Manipulation Sparks Outrage

Prof. Florence Obi, VC UNICAL 

Our Reporter | 6th May 2025

CALABAR —A fresh storm is brewing at the University of Calabar (UNICAL) as the process of appointing a new Vice Chancellor has unravel allegations of manipulation, imposition, and power play, which has been widely perceived as a strategic move to sideline top contenders and tilt the race in favor of a preferred candidate, which has ignited sharp divisions within the university community.

A simmering conflict between the University's Governing Council  and the outgoing Vice Chancellor, Prof. Florence Obi, threatens to derail the transition.

Credible findings from our sources, indicate a sharp disagreement between the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council, retired DIG Udom Ekpoudom, and the incumbent Vice Chancellor, over the sudden introduction of a new eligibility criterion: a mandatory 10-year post-professorial experience for candidates seeking to become Vice Chancellor.

Other sources within the University reveal that this controversial benchmark was allegedly proposed to eliminate strong contenders perceived as threats to a preferred candidate. 

Notably, this criterion has no uniform precedence in UNICAL's history.

 In past appointments, including that of the current Vice Chancellor herself, the requirement ranged between five and nine years of post-professorial experience.

Observers point to this inconsistency as a clear sign that the new 10-year benchmark is arbitrary, discriminatory, and tailored to favor certain individuals while excluding others who are equally or more qualified. 

"It is unfair and legally questionable," a top official from the Federal Ministry of Education disclosed, adding that the Ministry did not issue or support any such directive.

In yet another development breeding discontent, some contenders have made claims about a not so subtle attempt to zone the VC ship in an attempt to mimic political arrangements. 

A visibly disturbed source who preferred to remain anonymous pointed out that "zoning" is yet another hurdle being placed to eliminate credible and well qualified candidates from the race in a federal university. 

These developments have sparked deep concern within the University community.

 Several members of the Governing Council, caught unawares by the proposed changes, have distanced themselves from it and reported the matter to the Federal Ministry of Education. 

In response, the Pro-Chancellor has reportedly dissociated himself from the Vice Chancellor's maneuverings and re-assured stakeholders of his commitment to due process and fairness.

The tenure of Prof. Florence Obi ends in November 2025, with the appointment of a new Vice Chancellor expected to take place in September.

However, unless the Council acts decisively to maintain the integrity of the selection process, the university may be plunged into legal battles that could stall the appointment indefinitely.

Across Nigeria's first-generation universities, the average post-professorial benchmark for VC appointments ranges from six to eight years. UNICAL's imposition of a 10-year cut-off, without a clear justification or precedent, is therefore not only irregular but susceptible to legal challenge.

Stakeholders are now calling for a return to the status quo—retaining the previous maximum requirement of nine years or below—as the only way to ensure a credible and inclusive process. Anything short of this risks widening the rift between the Council and the University Management, and exposing the institution to avoidable litigation that could paralyze its operations.

The eyes of the academic community are watching. UNICAL must rise above personal interests and uphold the principles of merit, transparency, and fairness in this critical moment. 

Group Honors CRISSAA Boss for Humanitarian Activities

Ukorebi  Esien | 29th April 2025

CALABAR— The Director General of the Cross River State Signage and Advertisement Agency (CRISSAA), Mr. Ubong Sam, has been honored by the Hope Ability Empowerment Initiative (HAEI) for his outstanding humanitarian contributions and consistent support for persons with disabilities (PWDs).

The recognition came during a brief but heartfelt ceremony where Mr. Sam was praised for his quiet acts of generosity and commitment to the welfare of vulnerable groups. Often described as a "secret giver" and a man with a heart of gold, Mr. Sam's efforts have not gone unnoticed by the community.

Presenting the award, the Executive Director of HAEI, Dr. (Mrs.) Martina Ongbonya Ntino, commended Mr. Sam for his humility, accessibility, and unwavering dedication to service.

"Mr. Ubong Sam is someone who never hesitates to help, no matter the time or circumstance. His compassion, especially toward persons with disabilities, is evident in his actions and impact," she stated.

In his response, the Head of Information at CRISSAA described the award as a collective achievement, noting that Mr. Sam's leadership has transformed the agency for the better. "Since his appointment, the agency has taken on a more humane and inclusive approach to its operations," he said.

Mr. Sam, visibly moved by the recognition, expressed gratitude and reaffirmed his commitment to humanitarian causes. "I am deeply humbled by this award. Everything I do is for the good of humanity. I'm glad that my efforts are making a difference, and I promise to do even more," he said.

#DisabilityInclusion #HopeAbility #Philanthropy #HeroAmongUs

Eight Feared Dead in Fatal Crash on Nteje-Awka Road

The accident Scene along Nteje-Awka Road

By Ukpa Ewa  | 29th April 2025

AWKA — Tragic road accident has claimed the lives of eight individuals along the Nteje-Awka route, near the New Terminal close to Ukpo Junction, as confirmed by the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) Anambra Sector Command.

The accident occurred around 9:00 PM on April 27, involving a Mack tanker without a license plate and a Toyota Hiace bus with registration number EKP375XM. According to preliminary reports and eyewitness accounts, the bus, traveling from Abakaliki to Onitsha, was attempting a dangerous overtaking maneuver at high speed when it collided head-on with the tanker traveling in the opposite direction on the narrow, single-lane road.

The crash resulted in the deaths of eight passengers—four men and four women—and left six others injured, including two men and four women. The FRSC rescue team from RS5.33 Nteje responded swiftly, evacuating the injured to Regina Caeli Hospital and Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu Teaching Hospital. The deceased were taken to Jerusalem Mortuary, Nteje, after being confirmed dead by a medical professional.

In a press release, the Sector Commander, Corps Commander Joyce Nnennaya Alexander, extended her condolences to the bereaved families and urged all road users to drive responsibly. "Drivers must ensure they drive at a minimum safe speed and only overtake when the road is clear," she cautioned.

Following the incident , the Commander Alexander visited the crash site, the injured victims at the hospitals, and inspected the wreckage at the Nteje Police Station. She also met with the Chief of Taskforce of National Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) as part of efforts to coordinate a more robust response to road safety concerns.

The FRSC emphasized its commitment to intensifying road safety education and enforcing traffic laws;pledging  to work closely with stakeholders to enhance safety measures and prevent future tragedies on Anambra roads.

As investigations continue, authorities urge all drivers to exercise caution, particularly on single-carriageway roads where overtaking can be perilously deceptive.

Also, the Sector Public Education Officer RC Margaret  Onabe reaffirmed the command dedication to reducing road fatalities and promoting safer driving practices across the state.

"Days of the Jackals: A Clarion Call to the Electorates of Cross River North

Dr. Paul Udayi 

By Dr. Paul Udayi  | 29th April 2025

OBUDU — As the political drums begin their thunderous roll towards the 2027 general elections, I, Paul Udayi, find it both a solemn duty and a sacred obligation to speak to my compatriots of Cross River North. We stand once again at the crossroads of destiny, and it is incumbent upon us to rouse ourselves from slumber and face the realities that have long plagued our polity.

We are witnessing what can only be termed the days of the jackals—a season wherein political scavengers, emboldened by years of unmerited entrenchment, roam the landscape with a grotesque sense of entitlement. These political mandarins, having ensconced themselves in the echelons of power for what seems an interminable era, now parade themselves with the hauteur of demi-gods, believing that political office is their birthright and the masses mere serfs at their beck and call.

This lamentable reality must now be met with righteous indignation. We must summon these self-anointed barons to the court of public accountability. The era of political handouts—those paltry alms tossed to the masses with a sneer of condescension—is over. No longer shall we accept the psychological abuse wherein the legitimate expectations of good governance are portrayed as rare favours, dispensed only to the politically loyal or the spiritually broken.

The time has come for a new ethos: henceforth, anyone—especially those seasoned veterans who have fed fat on the commonwealth—aspiring to any office must render a full, detailed, and verifiable account of their stewardship. They must, with unerring precision and incontestable evidence, disclose the quality and quantity of their contributions to the common good. Flowery rhetoric, vague promises, and empty platitudes will no longer suffice to beguile a discerning populace.

I solemnly admonish every citizen: be not seduced by the ephemeral trinkets and tokens that politicians hurl like crumbs before hungry subjects. These so-called "gifts" are nothing but Greek wooden horses, laced with treachery, designed to breach the citadel of our collective wisdom—much like the doomed city of Troy. Such blandishments are a calculated insult to our sensibilities and a means to enthrone the giver as a demi-god, while the people are reduced to vassals.

At this critical juncture, we must rise as sentinels of our own destiny. We must be wiser, more vigilant, and unyieldingly proactive. We must reject the beguiling wiles of seasoned deceivers who come cloaked in ephemeral generosity yet bear no record of genuine service. Let us sharpen our discernment, fortify our collective resolve, and at the appointed hour, use the sacred ballot box as an altar of justice, where betrayal is punished and true stewardship rewarded.

Let it be known far and wide: the days when politicians bestride our land like colossi, unchallenged and unrepentant, are drawing swiftly to a close. A new dawn beckons—a season wherein only those who can account for every iota of their stewardship with integrity and transparency shall be deemed worthy of the people's trust.

The jackals may roam for a season, but the reckoning is at hand.

Dr. Paul Udayi is a Real Estate Developer and Politician. He's a one time Governorship Aspirant on the platform of the People's Democratic Party