You Have Turned Our State into a Construction Site”, Group Hails Otu’s Ambitious Developmental Strides in C’River

"

Ukorebi Esien  August 19, 2025

CALABAR – The Cross River State Consultative Forum has lauded Governor Bassey Edet Otu for what it described as unprecedented developmental strides that have transformed the state into a "construction site."

The commendation followed the commissioning of two newly procured aircraft, the remodelled and digitalized State Library Complex, and the inauguration of the expanded National MSME Clinics in Calabar by Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima, who represented President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on August 12, 2025.

In a statement signed by its Chairman, Eyo Nsa Ekpo, Esq., and Secretary, Dr. Julius Okpotu, the Forum said Governor Otu's performance in just two years had silenced skeptics and restored hope to Cross Riverians both at home and abroad.

They highlighted the governor's achievements to include opening up rural terrains with new roads, empowering farmers and traders, advancing the state's ambitious rail project, nearing completion of the Obudu Cargo Airport, expanding urban and rural electrification, completing surveys for the Bakassi Deep Sea Port, and pushing the revitalization of the Calabar Port, Tinapa Resort, and Obudu Cattle Ranch.

"Your Excellency has turned Cross River into a construction site. We celebrate you as a leader driven by deep conscience, love, and determination to serve the public interest," the statement reads in part.

The group expressed optimism that the remaining six years of the Otu-led administration would witness more flag-offs, inaugurations, and projects that will shape the future of the state.

 

Kumini Sheriff Otu-oshibu Appointed Chief Press Secretary of Boki LGA

Our Reporter | August 14, 2025

Boki — In a significant move for the local administration, Kumini Sheriff Otu-oshibu has been appointed as the Chief Press Secretary to the Executive Chairman of Boki Local Government Area (LGA), Hon. ETH-Eka (Mrs). Beatrice Etta Nyiam. Otu-oshibu, a seasoned media professional with a diverse background, brings a wealth of experience from the banking, telecommunications, and IT sectors to this vital position.

His appointment has been met with widespread approval from the community, reflecting his dedication and hard work in various roles within the political arena. Otu-oshibu previously served as the Chairman of Electronic Media for the APC Boki campaigns and was a media aide to Hon. Edward Eta Ogon during his 2023 campaign, demonstrating his commitment to effective communication and community engagement.

In his acceptance letter, Otu-oshibu commended the efforts of his predecessor, Mr. Austin Atibile, acknowledging his dedicated service to both the Chairman and the people of Boki LGA. He expressed gratitude for the trust placed in him and emphasized his commitment to upholding the values of transparency and good governance.

"I assure the people of Boki that I will carry out my duties diligently and with the utmost integrity," Otu-oshibu stated. "I look forward to working closely with Mrs. Beatrice and the entire team to ensure that our initiatives resonate positively with our constituents." He said. 

Otu-oshibu's diverse expertise, spanning the banking, telecommunications, and IT industries, positions him uniquely to enhance communication strategies within the local government. His academic background in Information Technology, with a focus on Artificial Intelligence, further complements his extensive experience in the media sector.

As he embarks on this new journey, Otu-oshibu's supporters are eager to see how his multifaceted background will impact the administration's relationship with the public and contribute to the overall progress of Boki LGA.

With a strong commitment to advancing good governance and community engagement, Kumini Sheriff Otu-oshibu is poised to make a significant impact in his new role as Chief Press Secretary.

C’River Stakeholders Hail Impact of Household Uplifting Program, Call for Expansion and Sustainability

Ukorebi Esien | August 7, 2025 

CALABAR — Stakeholders across government ministries, civil society Organisations, development agencies, and beneficiary communities have commended the Cash Transfer Programme in Cross River State for its impact in reducing poverty and improving livelihoods among the state's most vulnerable. 

The commendation came during a one day Stakeholders Engagement Meeting held in Calabar and organized by the Cross River State Cash Transfer Unit in collaboration with the National Cash transfer Office under the Social Safety Nets Programme (NASSP).

The meeting, which brought various key actors together to assess the progress of the program, address misconceptions, share success stories, and discuss sustainability measures for the programme as well defined roles played by various units and office holders of the programme. 

In his remarks, Mr. Francis Arribia, State Programme Manager of the Cross River State Cash Transfer Unit, said the meeting was a platform to educate stakeholders especially those from Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) not previously involved about the program's scope, achievements, and structure.

"Many myths were dispelled today. People now understand that the Cash Transfer Programme is real, ongoing, and has impacted lives positively. We've seen real beneficiaries who've organized cooperatives and started small-scale businesses," Arribia stated.

He emphasized that suggestions and recommendations from the engagement would be escalated to the national office and possibly to the World Bank for policy consideration and scale-up.

Civil society leaders echoed his sentiment. Kingsley Eworo, representative of Budget Transparency and Accountability Initiative Nigeria (BITAN), praised the program for its transparency and visibility of results:
"This is one of the most practical engagements I've witnessed. People now understand the mechanism of the cash transfers. Seeing real beneficiaries today was inspiring, while also recommending a data-driven approach to scale, monitor, and track program impact and prevent double-dipping. Eworo said

Also present was Elder Dr. Ayitu Aitu, who represented the Project Financial Management Unit in the Office of the Accountant General. He acknowledged the program's effectiveness but suggested extending the current N75,000 disbursement (over three months) to six months for more sustainable impact.

"With six months of consistent support, beneficiaries will be better equipped to save and invest in productive ventures," he said.
Dr. (Mrs.) Esther Achibong, Special Adviser to the Governor and Focal Person for the National Social Investment Programme in Cross River State, delivered a goodwill message urging stakeholders to deepen collaboration:
"Today's convergence is not just a gathering but a symphony of purpose. Let us make 'Better Don Come' more than a slogan, let it be a lived reality in every home."

Speaking on behalf of the Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs, Dr Ekei John Okon emphasized the state's commitment to strengthening productive relationships and ensuring stakeholder participation in the program's implementation. "Now you own the program," she told participants.

Meanwhile, a program beneficiary from Calabar South who identified herself as a member of the "Nka Uwam Cooperative" testified to the impact of the program.
"We've benefited immensely. We even started selling nylon bags and have our Osusu meetings that help us support each other,"

she said, encouraging new beneficiaries to also form cooperatives.

In another goodwill message, Mrs. Christiana Adier, representative of the Commissioner for Social Welfare and Community Development, highlighted the importance of empowering poor and vulnerable households to reduce long-term social risks.
"Even with N25,000, you can raise poultry or start a small trade. The real challenge is the willpower and structure to sustain it," she noted, adding that poverty can be cyclical and must be addressed deliberately.

As a way of sustainability and proper accountability, stakeholders made resounding call for Improved data management to track impact and prevent duplication, they also called for Speedy passage of the National social Register bill by the National Assembly and its subsequent domestication by the Cross River State House of Assembly thus making it a legal documents in Nigeria and the State. Another recommendation from stakeholders during the meeting was the need for increment of cash disbursement and duration to meet current economic realities. 

Specifically  stating that 3 months for 25 thousand won't elevate anyone from poverty they suggested a minimum of one year with an entrepreneurial component attached to it 

and mainstreaming of cooperative societies among beneficiaries for sustainability.

As the national Cash Transfer program expands under the NASSP-SU (Scale-Up), Cross River State stakeholders hope that the voices from this engagement will influence national planning and enhance the fight against poverty in the state and beyond.

IYD 2025: Many Youths in C'River Are Championing Actions, They Deserve Support to Do More – Olayi

Ukorebi Esien | August 12, 2025 

CALABAR— Chairman of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Cross River State Chapter, Comrade Emmanuel Olayi, has praised the vibrant contributions of young people in the state towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), urging stakeholders to give them greater support to expand their impact.

Olayi made the call in a Press Statement to mark the 2025 International Youth Day, celebrated globally under the theme "Local Youth Actions for the SDGs and Beyond."

He noted that Cross River youths are at the forefront of promoting environmental sustainability, social justice, and community development, adding that their passion and commitment deserve more recognition and resources.

"Many Cross River youths are championing actions that are transforming communities. They deserve to be supported with platforms, resources, and opportunities to do more," he said.

The statement signed by the Council's Public Relations Officer, Comrade Melkizedeck David.disclosed that a series of activities have been planned in the coming days to celebrate the achievements of young people in the state, while encouraging governments, organizations, and individuals to amplify youth-led initiatives.

International Youth Day, first observed in 2000, is marked annually on August 12 to recognize the role of young people in driving social, economic, and cultural change across the globe.

Ewa Malaysia’s ‘Justice’ Rants: A Tactic to Shield Criminal Brother and Discredit the Leboku Brand

By Omini Ofem Okoi

UGEP —Outrage is mounting in Ugep as fresh revelations suggest that the recent online tirades by Mr. George Ewa, popularly known as Ewa Malaysia, is less about "fighting for justice" and more about shielding his younger brother, Abaloke George from the full weight of the law.

Ewa has spent the past week circulating videos accusing the Obol Lopon of Ugep and Paramount ruler of Yakurr, Obol Ubana of appointing "a drug baron" to handle the Mr. and Miss. Leboku pageantry, a segment of the world-renowned Leboku Festival coordinated for over five years by Mrs. Jennifer Ibiang.

But sources within the community say Ewa's public grandstanding is nothing more than a vindictive smear campaign aimed at forcing Mrs. Jennifer to drop her criminal charges against his younger brother and ensure his release from prison.

Investigations reveal that Ewa's younger brother, who is currently behind bars at Afokang prison, Calabar for armed robbery, cultism, and attempted murder- charges stemming from a violent attack on Mrs. Jennifer. He was said to have attacked Mrs. Jennifer with his boys in her home at Ugep. According to stories, he robbed her, shot her on both legs, and later confessed to using the guns allegedly supplied by his elder Brother -Ewa Malaysia.

Despite the gravity of the crime, Ewa and his family have repeatedly pressured Mrs. Jennifer to "accept" and initiate his brother's release. When she refused, he resorted to smear campaign and peddling damaging allegations against her, even going as far as claiming that Hon. Cyril Omini, member representing Yakurr 1 State Constituency, would secure the release of his brother, which will be "a slap on her face" an allegation that Hon. Cyril has roundly denied.

Many have condemned his act of "blackmail disguised as advocacy," warning that Leboku, a cultural heritage event of national repute, must not be dragged into personal vendettas.

Ewa's self-styled image as an anti-drug and anti-cultism crusader is being met with derision among locals, who point to his own lifestyle. Some of his previous activities, which paints him in bad light and ineligible of being a crusader of decorum and righteous living, include but are not limited to the following:

Property Theft in Calabar– He allegedly stole a house along Murtala Mohammed Highway, behind Henz Building, before being arrested and bailed out by lawyers 

Tractor Theft – He reportedly stole a tractor from land he falsely claimed ownership of; the machine was later dismantled and sold in bogobiri, and he was dragged to court

Fraud in Malaysia – Multiple accounts link him to large-scale fraud during his years abroad.

Long History of Swindling – From Abuja to Cross River, he is accused of defrauding individuals under false pretences. In early 2000, he posed as a painter and broke into the premises of a poor Ugep boy in Abuja who was making a living as a newspaper vendor and stole over N2m belonging to Ovasion newspaper and ran away, leaving the poor Ugep boy in problem with the owners of the money. He  poses as a government-connected elite to extract money and valuables from unsuspecting people in society and lives a life of crime to make a living.

An elder in Ugep who doesn't want to be disclosed while speaking on the issue summed it up bluntly:

"You can not go to equity with filthy hands. How can a man with such a record lecture a community such as Ugep on morality? This is hypocrisy of the highest order."

The Leboku Festival is not just a cultural event. It is an economic driver, drawing sponsors, tourists, and media attention. Organisers fear that Ewa's unsubstantiated claims risk scaring off partners and tainting the festival's image.

"The peace in Ugep since his brother's arrest is something we want to preserve,bNo amount of lies should be allowed to bring back the violence." The elder continued. 

As the war of words rages on, many in Ugep are calling for law enforcement to investigate the deeper criminal links hinted at in the unfolding scandal, and to ensure that the festival remains a celebration of heritage, not a stage for personal grudges and smear campaigns.

DG Road Maintenance Agency Assures Quality Delivery as CRSHA Committee Conducts Oversight Visit

Ifere Paul | August 9, 2025

CALABAR —The Director General of the Cross River State Road Maintenance Agency, Hon. Christopher Ntui, has pledged to ensure that all ongoing road and drainage rehabilitation projects under the agency meet the highest standards of quality.

Hon. Ntui gave the assurance on Thursday while hosting members of the Cross River State House of Assembly (CRSHA) Committee on Works during an oversight inspection of key construction sites in Calabar, despite heavy rainfall.

The committee, led by its Chairman, Hon. Egbe Abeng Jabengo, visited several project locations including the rehabilitation of 'Feeder A' drainages at Parliamentary Extension, the construction of a 3-kilometre access road at Asikima in 8 Miles, and the construction of culverts and a 0.5-kilometre access road at Ekorinim.

Speaking at one of the sites, Hon. Jabengo reiterated the administration's determination to bridge the state's infrastructure deficit, in line with the vision of Governor Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu.

"You must live up to the expectations of Cross Riverians who will use these facilities. We expect you to deliver quality projects that will outlast this administration. As a committee, our role is to guide and support you towards achieving these standards," Jabengo said.

Responding, Hon. Ntui, alongside the agency's project engineers, expressed alignment with the committee's position, promising that all works will adhere to standard specifications and serve the public effectively.

Members of the CRSHA Committee on Works who joined the visit include Hon. (Engr.) Thomas Aruku, Hon. (Engr.) Francis Ogban, and Hon. Martin Achadu (Ph.D.), with Mr. Francis Atsu serving as Secretary.

NUJ Chairman Archibong Bassey Bags Third Award in Succession

...Honoured as Wildlife Champion for Her Role in Environmental Advocacy

Ukorebi Esien | August 6, 2025 

CALABAR - Comrade Archibong Bassey, the first female Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Cross River State Council, has clinched her third prestigious award in less than two months, further cementing her place as a trailblazer in media, leadership, and advocacy.

Bassey who was recently re-inaugurated as NUJ chairman in Cross River State after completing Nsa Gill's tenure who was appointed Chief Press Secretary to Governor Bassey Edet Otu has received accolades in quick succession. Her first major recognition came when she was listed in "Changemakers: 100 Nigerians Leading Change" (2025 Edition). This was closely followed by a Professional Fellowship awarded by the Research Gateway Professional Institute, an internationally recognized academic and vocational body.

Her latest recognition came yesterday, during the Champion of Wildlife Awards, held alongside the unveiling of the 2026 Boki Gorilla Festival and Carnival Theme, where she was honored as a Wildlife Champion under the Trailblazer in Wildlife Advocacy category for her role in promoting environmental conservation through journalism.

"I'm just amazed at what God can do," Bassey told journalists after receiving her award. "Everything is turning out for my good and what can I say but thank you, Jesus, for bringing me this far and finding me worthy. This means that much is expected of me, and I'm motivated to do more and more."

Bassey assured the event conveners of the NUJ's partnership in promoting conservation and cultural heritage, stating:

"The media under my watch will support this vision in every aspect. The convener is very passionate about our culture and ecotourism, and that is something truly commendable." 

The convener of Champion of Wildlife Awards and the Boki Gorilla Carnival & Festival and CEO of Attahnet ltd, Chief Emmanuel Asu Abang, described the initiative as a cultural renaissance aimed at preserving Boki's natural biodiversity.

"As a Boki man and an environmentalist, I am passionate about wildlife and the preservation of our culture, We are creating a platform to promote what God has given us freely, our Boki culture, our gorillas, and our biodiversity."

He added that 75% of the funding for the project came from young people in the community, not government or the private sector.

"We're proud of the community buy-in. The people are involved, the chiefs have endorsed it, and volunteers are coming forward. This is more than just a project it's a movement."

Speaking to journalists, Dr. Julius Kidjo, the Special Assistant to the Cross River State Governor on Youth Development who was also awarded described the event as historic and transformational.

"Boki is being showcased to the world, this isn't just about gorillas, it's about jobs, tourism, and protecting our environment. A single tourist can inject over $1,000 into the local economy. This initiative will provide employment, attract investment, and transform Boki into a major tourism hub." He said 

Dr. Julius, who hails from Boki LGA, urged youths involved in unsustainable logging to adopt selective exploitation, a forest-friendly method approved by the current administration under Governor Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu.

"We must understand that preserving our forests and gorillas is key to long-term economic growth. Hotels will be built. Tourists will come. Local produce will have more value. This is a win-win for our people and the planet."

The Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS), which has been active in the Cross River landscape for over two decades, expressed readiness to deepen its collaboration.

Chief Jonathan Eban, representing WCS Country Director Dr. Hinoyom Homo, said:

"We're excited to be part of this program. WCS has worked in the KloSiva Gorilla Forest for the past 20 years, committed to saving wildlife and wild places in Nigeria. We look forward to more engagement with the organizers."

Earlier in her address, Mrs. Eme Affia, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, expressed Government's commitment and willingness to support the project.

"Cross River doesn't need to compete with any state. We have what we have. We're not talking about photoshopped wildlife—come to Boki and see gorillas in real life. This is Cross River, and nobody can take that away from us."

Mob Violence is Not Justice - C'River Youth Council Chair Warns Young Nigerians

Ukorebi Esien | August 09 201015

CALABAR— The Cross River State Chairman of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), His Youthfulness, Comrade Emmanuel Olayi has called on young people across the state to reject mob violence and embrace lawful means of resolving conflicts. He made this appeal during a sensitization rally/City Walk organized by Amnesty International in Calabar to mark the official closeout of its project on combating mob violence in Nigeria.

The event, which held in Calabar, the Cross River State capital, brought together stakeholders from human rights organizations, law enforcement agencies, and civil society groups, students and the media to amplify messages against extra-judicial killings and mob justice.

Speaking in an interview at the event, Comrade Olayi commended Amnesty International for its sustained efforts in promoting human rights in Nigeria, particularly through this campaign.

"Let me sincerely thank Amnesty International for what they have been doing for Nigeria and the world at large, especially on this campaign against mob violence, the reality is that young people are often the perpetrators and victims of mob violence. We must remind ourselves that as painful as crime can be, we must not take laws into our hands. Every accused person deserves investigation and a fair trail ". Olayi admonished 

He noted that the youth, as the driving force of the nation, have a responsibility to uphold justice and the rule of law, urging them to channel their energy into nation-building and peace.

Also speaking at the event, Programs Manager at Amnesty International Nige Magaji, presented findings from a comprehensive two-year research conducted across Nigeria's six geopolitical zones. The study documented over 555 deaths attributed to mob violence between 2012 and 2023, an average of 55 deaths per year.

"We recorded cases where people were killed based on unverified accusations of witchcraft, religious expression, or petty theft, Mob justice denies people their right to life and fair trial. It's alarming that some communities still view it as acceptable justice." Magaji revealed.

She disclosed that in Cross River State, documented cases included instances where individuals were attacked over allegations of witchcraft, emphasizing that such claims were often unfounded.

"In Calabar, we recorded at least two or three cases during our study. These numbers may seem small, but we are aware that many incidents go unreported. The right to life is sacrosanct, and once taken, it cannot be reversed," she said.

Magaji called on the Nigerian public to report suspected crimes to law enforcement agencies rather than resort to violence. She also urged justice sector actors particularly the police, lawyers, and the judiciary to restore public trust by ensuring diligent prosecution of offenders and timely delivery of justice.

Stakeholders and young people walk through the streets of Calabar under heavy downpour with placards bearing different inscriptions while informing and sensitising the public on the need to avoid jungle justice and all forms of mob violence for whatever reasons. 

The event concluded with a renewed call for collaborative efforts between youth groups, security agencies, civil society, and traditional institutions to end the menace of mob violence and uphold the rule of law

Ukorebi Esien

Editor-in-Chief, 

The Daily News Ng

State Coordinator,

Partners For Peace, Cross River State

Calabar South LG Chairman Disowns Fraudulent Facebook Account, Warns Public Against Online Scam

Ukorebi Esien August 5, 2025

 

CALABAR – The Executive Chairman of Calabar South Local Government Area, Pst. Hon. Patrick Okon Archibong, has raised an alarm over the existence of a fake Facebook account impersonating him, warning the public to be wary of cybercriminals exploiting his identity for fraudulent purposes.

In an official disclaimer issued by his office, the Chairman dissociated himself from any Facebook account bearing the name "Patrick Okon Archibong," describing it as fake and unauthorized. According to the statement, the account is a calculated attempt by unscrupulous individuals to deceive members of the public and possibly perpetrate online scams, phishing, or identity theft.

"These individuals are cybercriminals… attempting to hack into people's accounts or swindle them under the guise of being in communication with the Chairman," the statement read in part.

The Chairman's media aide, Nkese Eneyo, who signed the press release, urged members of the public to disregard, report, and block the impersonating account, adding that anyone who engages with the fake page does so at their own risk.

She further emphasized that the Chairman does not operate any Facebook account for personal or official use that seeks financial transactions, personal data, or other unofficial engagements.

The Council has also confirmed that relevant security agencies have been alerted and investigations are ongoing to apprehend those behind the cyber fraud.

Residents and stakeholders are advised to direct all official communication and inquiries to verified channels of the Calabar South Local Government Council.

"I Cannot Be Intimidated for Doing the Right Thing" – Paul Effiong

…As Cross River Government Extends Olive Branch to Illegal Miners

Ukorebi Esien August 5, 2025

 

CALABAR – Prince Comrade Paul Okon Effiong, Chairman of the Cross River State Anti-Illegal Mining Committee and Taskforce, has declared that no amount of pressure or intimidation will deter him from executing his duties and standing for what is right.

Speaking shortly after his release from questioning by federal authorities over allegations made by a former federal Lawmaker, Rt. Hon. Daniel Asuquo, Effiong maintained that his conscience is clear and that the truth will always prevail.

"I cannot be intimidated for doing the right thing, I was falsely accused of receiving ₦10 million to obtain a mining license and of using my office to harass my brother. But there is no evidence to back these claims. I am clean, and I am proud of the work we are doing to sanitize the mining sector in Cross River State." he said.

The case, which involved the recovery of an excavator allegedly used for illegal mining, has stirred public interest, particularly due to the familial ties between the two parties. Effiong, however, affirmed that the actions of his taskforce were backed by official directives from the Federal Ministry of Mines.

He further pledged to resign and renounce his name if it is proven that the land in question legally belongs to Rt. Hon. Asuquo, or if any payment was truly made to him, an assertion he says underscores his integrity.

Meanwhile, the Cross River State Government has used the opportunity to call on illegal miners to lay down their tools and engage with government authorities in formalizing their operations.

"We are not enemies, our doors are open to dialogue, collaboration, and development. The goal is to stop insecurity and environmental degradation caused by illegal mining." Effiong said, acting on his official capacity as Chairman of the Cross River State Anti-Illegal Mining Committee and Taskforce

Prince Paul commended Governor Bassey Edet Otu for his swift intervention, which he said prevented a potential crisis. He also applauded his taskforce team for continuing their work even in his absence.

"My team is fearless because they know the government is behind them. We will not be intimidated. We will keep doing what is right for our people and our state," he concluded.

Youths from Calabar and Akamkpa have also thrown their weight behind Effiong, condemning what they described as attempts to silence a man who has stood for peace and justice, particularly in the fight against cultism and illegal activities in the state.

As the government continues its investigation into the matter, there are renewed calls for unity and reconciliation, especially between the two brothers, both from Akamkpa. Community leaders are urging peaceful resolution and collective focus on development