Ihejiofor Congratulates Soludo, Says Second Term Will Deepen Agricultural Transformation

By Ukpa Ewa | November 11, 2025

The Commissioner for Agriculture in Anambra State, Dr Forster Ihejiofor, has congratulated Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo on his re-election, describing it as a well-deserved victory for the people of Anambra who have chosen continuity, stability and visionary leadership.

Dr Ihejiofor, speaking in Awka, said Governor Soludo's administration has remained people-focused and committed to transforming the socio-economic realities of the state through prudent resource management and innovation-driven policies.

"It is Ndi Anambra I wish to congratulate for recognizing true servant leadership and sustaining it. Anambra is rising again, the light that was once dimmed is shining bright under Soludo," he said.

He commended the governor for building a governance structure that prioritizes human capital and grassroots development, adding that the re-election was a mandate for deeper transformation.

The commissioner expressed optimism that Soludo's second tenure will bring visible progress across sectors, as the governor has made significant strides in infrastructural development. He particularly mentioned the Homeland Security Law, describing it as a novel framework that empowers the state to tackle insecurity from its roots.

Speaking on the future of the agriculture sector, Dr Ihejiofor said the coming years would witness a "tsunami of private sector inflows" into farming and agro-industrial projects. He noted that the 400-hectare Special Agro Processing Zone and Agricultural Transformation Centre, already under development, would create massive demand for local raw materials, encourage farmer industry integration and boost productivity.

He explained that as the enabling environment for agribusiness continues to improve, farmers will benefit from new funding opportunities, training and access to technologies that promote climate-smart agriculture and sustainable food systems.

Looking ahead, Dr Ihejiofor said he hopes to see the expansion of urban and vertical farming, greenhouse cultivation and aquaponics systems in the second term,  innovative approaches that can enhance food security and maximize land use. He also expressed a desire to see mushroom farming developed as part of a waste-to-wealth initiative, given its high economic and nutritional value globally.

On the progress of Soludo's palm and coconut revolution, the commissioner revealed that seedlings distributed in August 2022 are expected to begin fruiting by 2026, with some early planters already recording results in Orumba South, Orumba North, Awka South, and Anambra East.

"By August 2026, most farmers who received the seedlings should begin harvesting. That will mark the start of a new phase of agricultural prosperity for Ndi Anambra," he said.

Dr Ihejiofor, however, enjoined citizens, corporate bodies and community stakeholders to continue supporting the Solution Agenda, emphasizing that sustainable development requires collective responsibility.

"Let's join hands with Governor Soludo to actualize the vision of building a Dubai-Taiwan of Africa," he added.

66th National Council on Health Receives Royal Blessings from the Obong of Calabar

 Kingsley Agim and Jessica Ubi | 12, 2025

CALABAR– Preparations for the 66th National Council on Health (NCH) in Cross River State received a royal endorsement on Tuesday as the State Commissioner for Health, Dr Henry Egbe Ayuk, led a high-powered delegation of health sector stakeholders to the palace of His Eminence, Edidem Ekpo Okon Abasi Otu V, the Obong of Calabar and Treaty King of the Efik Kingdom.

The visit, held at the Obong's Palace in Calabar, was both symbolic and strategic, bridging traditional authority with modern governance as the state intensifies efforts to host Nigeria's highest decision-making body on health policy from November 17 to 21, 2025.

Speaking during the visit, Dr Ayuk explained that the delegation's purpose was to formally inform and invite the revered monarch to the national meeting, as well as to seek his royal blessings ahead of the event.

"We felt it was non-negotiable to personally visit and seek the blessings of the revered Obong of Calabar, not just as a matter of respect, but as a critical step in ensuring the success and spiritual endorsement of this national summit," the Commissioner stated. "The presence of His Eminence will add the necessary cultural authority and royal gravitas to an event where the direction of Nigeria's entire health sector will be decided."

Dr Ayuk noted that hosting the 66th NCH (the first time) was a significant achievement for Cross River State, given its ongoing reforms aimed at achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC). He described the Obong's support as a "royal blessing" and an invaluable boost to the State's health agenda under Governor Bassey Otu's leadership.

In his response, His Eminence, Edidem Ekpo Okon Abasi Otu V, expressed delight at what he described as a "historic and respectful" gesture by the Health Commissioner and his team. The monarch lauded Dr Ayuk's leadership in the health sector, describing him as a "natural leader" who has consistently demonstrated genuine concern for the well-being of the people.

Citing the Commissioner's recent intervention at a health centre in Adiabo, the Obong said:

"That is somebody who has the love of the people at heart, is thinking of the generality of the people, the area, and everything."

The Treaty King assured the delegation of his presence at the opening ceremony of the NCH, promising to "add colour" to the national event.

Among members of the Commissioner's delegation were Dr Ekpo Ekpo Bassey, Special Adviser to the Governor on Health; Mrs Uduak Spencer Efem, Special Adviser on Nursing Education and Training; and other key health sector officials.

The 66th National Council on Health, expected to draw top policymakers, health experts, and development partners from across Nigeria, will deliberate on strategies to strengthen the nation's health systems, advance Universal Health Coverage, and align with global best practices.

“No Chapter Chairman Has the Power to Call for My Resignation” — Eba on APC Crisis

Ukorebi Esien | November 11, 2025

CALABAR– The Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Cross River State, Alphonsus Ogar Eba, has dismissed calls for his resignation by some chapter chairmen, accusing them of attempting to evade accountability over alleged financial mismanagement.

In a communique dated 7th November 2025, APC chapter Chairmen under the auspices of the Forum of APC Chapter Chairmen and Secretaries had passed a vote of no confidence on the State Chairman, Barr. Alphonsus Ogar Eba (JP), accusing him of mismanagement of funds, high-handedness, and anti-progressive conduct.

Responding to the Communique, Eba said the chairmen are "running away from their shadows," highlighting that they have yet to account for over ₦60 million meant for ward and chapter executives. While salaries for all 5,778 party executives are being paid directly into their accounts and are up to date, the salaries of the 17 chapter chairmen remain withheld until they clarify the alleged fraud.

He further accused them of collecting more than ₦4 million monthly from local government appointees and ₦3.6 million from other sources, squandering funds without supporting other executives at the ward and chapter levels. This, he said, created a salary structure exceeding that of State Executive Committee members, contrary to the party's principles of transparency and accountability.

Eba emphasized that the State Executive Committee retains full authority to discipline and sanction erring members, which will be carried out immediately

Crisis Rocks C'’River APC as Leaders Demand Chairman’s Resignation

Ukorebi Esien | November 7, 2025

CALABAR – A fresh wave of crisis has hit the Cross River State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) as the Forum of APC Chapter Chairmen and Secretaries has passed a vote of no confidence on the State Chairman, Barr. Alphonsus Ogar Eba (JP), accusing him of mismanagement of funds, high-handedness, and anti-progressive conduct.

In a communiqué issued at the end of a crucial meeting held on November 7, 2025, the Forum, which comprises all chapter chairmen and secretaries across the 18 local government areas of the state, expressed total loss of trust and confidence in the leadership style of Barr. Eba, alleging that his actions have destabilized and divided the party.

According to the communiqué, the forum accused the State Chairman of refusing to pay party stipends to chapter and ward officials for three consecutive months, thereby crippling party activities at the grassroots and worsening the economic hardship of party functionaries. They described the move as unprecedented in the party's history.

The group also accused Barr. Eba of attempting to divert local government dues, instigating ward officials against their chapter leaders, and violating provisions of the APC Constitution, particularly Section 21:2 (ii & v), which frowns upon acts capable of bringing party leadership into contempt or disrepute.

Another major grievance highlighted was the alleged lopsided allocation of party funds, where the forum claimed that out of the total statutory allocation, only ₦9.2 million was shared among the 5,778 party officials at the local and ward levels, while the 36-member State Executive Committee received over ₦40 million. The forum described this as a "gross injustice" and a "deliberate act of marginalization."

They further accused the chairman of failing to remit statutory percentages from the sale of forms during the 2023 general elections and other remittances from the APC National Secretariat, describing the funds as "unaccounted for.

However, political observers within the state believe that the renewed agitation and the call for Barr. Eba's suspension may not be unconnected to his reported ambition to seek a second term as APC State Chairman, a move many party stakeholders say he "does not deserve" given his controversial stewardship and the level of dissatisfaction among the rank and file.

The communiqué read in part:

"The anti-progressive, high-handed and transactional approach of the State Party Chairman has weakened party structures, created disaffection, and eroded confidence among loyal members. His actions are inimical to the unity and progress of our great party."

The forum therefore made a series of demands, including the immediate payment of all outstanding stipends to chapter and ward officials and a review of the current fund-sharing formula to reflect fairness and inclusion. They proposed that 70 percent of all party revenues be allocated to local governments and wards, while 30 percent should go to the state executive.

The group also called on the national leadership of the APC to compel Barr. Eba to honourably resign from office, citing his alleged anti-party tendencies and loss of legitimacy to continue leading the party in the state.

"In the overall interest of unity and progress, Barr. Alphonsus Ogar Eba should resign honourably as State Party Chairman since he has lost control of the party and we have lost confidence in him," the communiqué stated.

Despite the harsh criticisms, the forum reaffirmed its unwavering loyalty to Governor Bassey Otu, describing him as the authentic leader of the APC in Cross River State. They pledged to work tirelessly for his re-election in 2027, applauding his achievements in infrastructure, governance, and human capital development under the "Season of Sweetness" mantra.

"We remain committed to the leadership of His Excellency, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, whose administration has brought peace, love, unity, and growth to Cross River State," the forum added.

The communiqué was jointly signed by the 18 APC Chapter Chairmen and Secretaries and copied to the Governor and Chief of Staff to the Government of Cross River State.

Jubilation as Court Grants N15M in Damages to C'River State Water Board After 10-Year Legal Battle

 Ukorebi Esien | November 10, 2025

CALABAR - After a decade-long legal tussle between Ortech Nigeria Limited and the Cross River State Water Board Limited (CRSWB), a High Court sitting at Court 1 Epe Judicial Division, Epe, Lagos State, has delivered judgment in favour of the Water Board, awarding ₦15 million in damages against Ortech and dismissing its claims in entirety.

The suit with file number LD/681cm/2015, filed in 2015, arose from Ortech's allegations of unpaid operational expenses, including salaries for expatriate and local staff, travel, and other project costs incurred during its management of the state's water utility. However, the Water Board, in its counter-claim, argued that Ortech's claims were inadmissible under the contract terms, citing violations and failure to maintain key equipment.

In his 18-page judgment, Honourable Justice W. Animahun upheld the Water Board's position, dismissed Ortech's case, and ruled in favour of the counter-claimant, ordering the payment of ₦15 million as costs to the Water Board.

Records show that Ortech Nigeria Limited had entered into a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) with the Cross River State Water Board and the African Development Bank (AfDB) around 2003/2004 to improve water management in Calabar, Akamkpa, and Ugep/Ediba. The arrangement, initially hailed as a model PPP in Nigeria's water sector, sought to enhance service delivery, financial sustainability, and accountability.

However, reports indicate that the Ortech management contract was terminated in July 2015, amid contractual disputes and performance concerns. Observers note that the utility's performance reportedly declined after Ortech's exit, setting the stage for the prolonged legal confrontation that has now been resolved.

'Victory for Accountability and Due Process'
Reacting to the judgment, Mr. Godwin Nyiam, Managing Director of the Cross River State Water Board, described the verdict as "a victory for accountability, transparency, and due process."
He revealed that the litigation came at a considerable financial and operational cost to the agency, including lawyers' fees, travel, and accommodation expenses, as well as the distraction from its core service delivery mandate.

According to him, the experience has provided valuable lessons for future engagements. "Going forward, any Public-Private Partnership (PPP) agreement will be structured in line with the knowledge gained to guard against all observed lapses in the Ortech agreement and ensure full compliance with due process," Nyiam stated.

The MD, management and staff of Cross River Water Board ltd shortly after celebrating the Judgement 

One Year of Servant Leadership: Hon. Augustine Edet Redefines Grassroots Representation in Calabar Municipality

Ukorebi Esien | November 10, 2025

CALABAR — In a rare display of transparency, accountability, and people-centered leadership, Hon. Augustine Edet, Councillor representing Ward 5 in Calabar Municipality, has rendered a comprehensive account of his one year in office, showcasing remarkable progress across key sectors of community development.

Guided by the People's First philosophy of His Excellency, Sen. Prince Bassey Edet Otu, and working in close partnership with the Mayor of Calabar Municipality, Rt. Hon. James Anam Okon, Hon. Edet has redefined grassroots representation through servant leadership, innovation, and inclusive governance.

At the heart of his performance is the Ward 5 Development Initiative (W5DI), a visionary, multi-sectoral plan focused on education, healthcare, infrastructure, empowerment, and environmental sustainability. This blueprint has become the foundation for the many tangible results Ward 5 residents now celebrate.

Education as a Cornerstone of Progress
As a representative of the people, Hon. Edet believes education is the bedrock of development in Ward 5. Within one year, he has facilitated the renovation of Ekorinim Primary School following a motion he sponsored in the Legislative Council and supported the near-completion of a new classroom block at Migrant Technical College, Ekorinim, executed by SUBEB and currently at 95% completion.

To tackle school dropouts and improve access to learning, he awarded over 34 scholarships to indigent pupils and students, distributed writing materials, and facilitated free JAMB registration for young school leavers under the Governor's Youth Empowerment Initiative.
He also sponsored motions to curb illegal trading activities within school premises, leading to Council interventions that protected the learning environment and secured school property.

Health and Community Well-being
Recognizing health as the foundation of community productivity, Hon. Edet sponsored motions for the renovation of the Ekorinim Health Centre, now billed for a total overhaul, and advocated for the rehabilitation of Diamond Health Centre to strengthen primary healthcare delivery.
Through his regular engagement with local health officers, he ensured consistent sanitation and maintenance of health facilities, interventions that have improved hygiene and access to essential medical services, especially for women and children.

Additionally, he provided direct financial and medication support to 15 residents to enable them access medical care, reflecting his compassionate and responsive leadership style.

Infrastructure Renewal and Market Development
Under his Ward 5 Development Initiative (W5DI), Hon. Edet prioritized the protection and development of public infrastructure. One of his most notable interventions was sponsoring a motion and petition that stopped illegal encroachment on the government-approved Ekorinim Model Market land, effectively safeguarding over 45,000 square meters of community property from private land grabbers.
He has also been at the forefront of advocacy for the construction of a modern Ekorinim Community Market, complete with standard stalls, drainage systems, solar lighting, public toilets, and waste disposal facilities.

Furthermore, he identified and recommended nine critical community roads for inclusion in the Municipality's development plan and has continued to engage authorities on the extension of streetlights to enhance safety and support nightlife businesses.

Environmental Sanitation and Peacebuilding
For twelve consecutive months, Hon. Edet has personally led the monthly environmental sanitation exercise across Ward 5, mobilizing residents, youth groups, and associations to participate actively in keeping the community clean.

His leadership extends beyond sanitation into peacebuilding and conflict resolution. He has mediated and resolved several youth-related disputes in Ekorinim, encouraged nonviolent grievance handling, and advocated for the establishment of vigilante groups and community policing to safeguard public facilities.
These actions have enhanced peace, safety, and civic discipline across Ward 5, making it one of the most stable wards within the Municipality.

Empowerment and Human Capital Development
True to his promise of inclusive representation, Hon. Edet has invested heavily in empowering his constituents. He has sponsored two youths for vocational training, one in driving and another in plumbing, to promote self-reliance and reduce unemployment.

He initiated a monthly widow-support scheme that provides stipends of ₦5,000 to several widows, extended small business grants to petty traders, and facilitated linkages for unemployed youths through the Agricultural Development Programme.
He also supported eight families with funeral assistance, demonstrating empathy and solidarity in times of loss.

Legislative Impact and Governance
Apart from giving his people visible representation, Hon. Edet's contributions in the Legislative Council have been far-reaching, as he has been very instrumental playing vital roles in the drafting of two major bills and sponsored several motions that have had direct impact on the people. The two bills are:
A Bill for a Bye-law to Establish the Calabar Municipal Empowerment and Social Welfare Programme, and
A Bill to Harmonize Levies, Tolls, Fees, and Other Charges within Calabar Municipality.

These legislative efforts are geared toward improving social welfare, reducing multiple taxation, and strengthening local government accountability. His active participation in public hearings and committee work has further ensured that the laws passed by the Council reflect the needs of ordinary citizens.

Partnerships and Collaboration
Throughout his tenure, Hon. Edet has maintained strong relationships with government ministries, departments, and agencies, including the Ministries of Education, Health, and Local Government Affairs. He has also worked closely with traditional leaders, community heads, and stakeholders within Ward 5 to foster unity and inclusive governance.
Regular meetings with ward executives and stakeholders have provided platforms for dialogue, feedback, and joint problem-solving, deepening citizen participation in governance.

A Message of Gratitude and Hope
Marking one year in office, Hon. Edet expressed deep gratitude to God for the grace to serve, to the people of Ward 5 for their trust, and to Governor Bassey Otu for empowering councillors to deliver effectively at the grassroots.

"Let's join hands together and build Ward 5. Let's support our Governor, Sen. Prince Bassey Otu, and our Chairman to deliver the dividends of democracy. With continued support, the best of Ward 5 is yet to come,"

— Hon. Augustine Edet Nyong

Editorial
In just one year, Hon. Augustine Edet has proven that genuine representation at the grassroots can produce measurable impact. From education and healthcare to empowerment, infrastructure, and peacebuilding, his record of performance embodies the true essence of servant leadership.
As he embarks on his second year in office, residents of Ward 5 look forward to even greater strides under his watch, a testimony that with vision, empathy, and accountability, local governance can indeed transform lives from the bottom up.

Through his Ward 5 Development Initiative (W5DI), he has achieved progress in education, healthcare, infrastructure, empowerment, and environmental sanitation. His efforts include renovating schools, awarding scholarships, advocating health centre rehabilitation, empowering widows and youths, and promoting community peace and cleanliness.
As a proactive lawmaker, Hon. Edet backed bills to strengthen social welfare and harmonize levies, while maintaining transparency and active community engagement.
The editorial commends his servant leadership style, describing him as a model of accountable, people-centered governance. It also urges him to sustain the momentum in his second year and institutionalize his achievements for long-term impact.

Incumbency, Godfatherism or Wealth Shouldn’t Be the Only Requirements to Fly Party’s Flag — APC Chieftain Warns

 Ukorebi Esien | November 8, 2025 

CALABAR - Special Assistant to Governor Bassey Otu on Obudu Ranch Resort and former Chairman of the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) in Cross River State, Sunday Michael, has cautioned against the rising notion that incumbency or financial capacity should be the major determinants of who emerges as party candidates ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Speaking with journalists shortly after the Governor's son's wedding in Calabar, the APC stalwart, who hails from Yakurr Local Government Area, said democracy thrives on inclusivity, competence, and merit rather than on money or power. He emphasised that while every Nigerian has the constitutional right to aspire for any political office, political parties retain the prerogative to make strategic decisions in the collective interest of victory.

"There are constitutional requirements that allow anyone to aspire for any office, and if you check, money was not part of it. Incumbency was not part of it. Having godfathers was not part of it," Michael stated.

He recalled how, in 2013, he willingly stepped down from a House of Representatives race following the party's directive, explaining that such decisions, though sometimes difficult, demonstrate loyalty and respect for party discipline.

"The party must always consider who can win elections for it at a particular time. That's the essence of internal democracy," he added.

Michael warned that sidelining competent party members simply because they lack financial influence or political connections would be undemocratic and detrimental to the APC's growth.

"It would be rude and arrogant for anyone to tell another person not to aspire simply because they don't have money or influence," he cautioned.

Using a football analogy, the former IPAC boss likened party leadership to a coach responsible for making substitutions in the interest of victory.

"In this political game, the coach is the party leadership. We, the aspirants and incumbents, are players. If the coach believes the player on the pitch is performing well, we will all rally behind him. But if not, the coach can make changes to protect the team's victory," he explained.

Michael also called on members of the All Progressives Congress across the Cross River Central Senatorial District and the state at large to maintain unity, discipline, and mutual respect as the 2027 elections draw closer.

"No one should see personal ambition as more important than the collective interest of the party. If we remain united and disciplined, the APC will continue to win elections across Cross River State," he concluded.

Otu’s Achievements Strengthen APC’s Grip as Opposition Remains in Disarray — Hon. Peter Akpanke

Ukorebi Esien  | November 8, 2025



CALABAR- Member representing Obudu/Bekwarra/Obanliku Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Peter Akpanke, has expressed confidence that no political party can challenge the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Cross River State ahead of the 2027 elections.

Speaking to journalists at the Margaret Ekpo International Airport, Calabar, on his arrival for the wedding of Governor Bassey Otu's son, Akpanke, described the opposition as "disorganised and invisible," adding that the APC's strength lies in its performance and unity.

"APC taking over from APC is very easy. Where is the opposition? Who is their exco? Let them settle that first," he said. "I don't think any party can beat APC as it stands now. Our governor is doing very well in this state, and our president is performing excellently too."

Governor Otu's Projects Cement APC's Popularity
Hon. Akpanke lauded Governor Otu's ongoing projects across the state, describing them as evidence of good governance and responsive leadership.
He listed the rehabilitation of key public structures such as the Chronicle Newspaper building, the Cross River State Library, the Governor's Office, and the Peregrino Hall, among others, as proof of the administration's commitment to reviving the state's infrastructure and tourism potential.

"Have you not seen how all those beautiful edifices that were dilapidated have been fixed?" he asked. "Across the three senatorial districts, there are projects ongoing. The governor is doing well, and by the grace of God, he is already succeeding."

The lawmaker appealed to Cross Riverians to rally behind Governor Otu's administration, emphasizing the need for unity and loyalty within the party and among citizens.

"Let us unite together as one Cross River and support the governor to deliver more dividends of democracy to our people," he said. "He is the leader of the party and our leader, and he deserves our collective support."

Responding to questions about the state of the nation's economy, Akpanke urged Nigerians to be patient, explaining that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's reforms were designed to stabilize the economy and create long-term prosperity.

"Yes, there is hunger in the land, but we must understand that before the president came on board, a lot had gone wrong," he explained. "The reforms being implemented will yield results soon. Whatever we face now is the sacrifice we must make for a better tomorrow."

On a lighter note, Hon. Akpanke expressed joy at joining other dignitaries in celebrating the wedding of Governor Otu's son, extending his goodwill to the couple and the first family.
"We are here to support the first family and wish the couple a blissful married life," he said. "As we take him off bachelorhood, we will also offer advice when necessary to ensure a happy home."

Where Is the Opposition?

The APC stalwart concluded by throwning a jab at opposition parties in Cross River State, declaring them disorganized and unprepared to challenge the All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the 2027 general elections adding that with the ruling party's development footprint expanding across the state, the APC in Cross River appears poised to consolidate its control ahead of 2027, riding on the back of Governor Otu's "People First" agenda and an electorate increasingly drawn to visible results over rhetoric. With visible infrastructure renewal, strengthened governance, and a fragmented opposition, Hon. Akpanke maintained that the APC in Cross River State remains the party to beat as the 2027 elections draw near.

Tags: #CrossRiverPolitics #PeterAkpanke #BasseyOtu #APC2027 #TinubuReforms #PeopleFirstAgenda

I Still Carry the Scars of Fighting for Cross River: Ayade Reflects on Political Battles and Sacrifices

Ukorebi Esien | November 8, 2025

CALABAR - Former Governor of Cross River State, Senator Ben Ayade, has said he still carries the scars of the political battles he fought to protect the sovereignty and strategic interests of the state. Ayade, who governed the state from 2015 to 2023, made the remark in Calabar while addressing journalists shortly after arriving to attend the wedding ceremony of Governor Bassey Otu's son.  

Reflecting on his decision to defect from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2021, the former governor said his action was not driven by personal ambition but by a deep concern for the state's political and economic survival.

"As a leader, I saw what was coming. The crystal ball was clear. Nigeria was moving in a direction where Cross River risked being isolated if we didn't align with the center," Ayade said.
"So I made a conscious decision to lead the state into the APC, not because it was convenient, but because it was necessary. I knew the battle would be tough, and I carry the scars of that battle till today."

The former governor described his administration's decision to "socket to the centre" as a move born out of foresight and patriotism. According to him, aligning with the federal government was the only way to safeguard the state's interests and ensure its continued relevance in national politics.

"Cross River is a state that has suffered marginalization and economic deprivation for years. I believed that aligning with the federal government would help us access more opportunities. That decision came with consequences, political opposition, betrayal, and misrepresentation, but I have no regrets," he said.

Ayade, who also represented Cross River North in the Senate before becoming governor, said his loyalty to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the APC remains unwavering.

"I was one of the first to openly endorse President Tinubu, even before the APC primaries. I said it then, if Tinubu could fix Lagos, he could fix Nigeria. I believed in his capacity, and I still do," he said.
"President Tinubu knows me well; our relationship predates his presidency. He understands my intentions, and I believe he will surprise this country with his leadership."

Ayade's remarks, which came in a calm but reflective tone, appeared to convey both a sense of pride and pain, pride in his political foresight, and pain from the challenges he faced while trying to reposition Cross River politically and his subsequent loss of his second attempt to the senate during the 2023 general election. 

Political analysts interpret his comments as a subtle reminder of his contributions to strengthening the APC's hold in the South-South and a sign that the former governor still holds significant political capital in the region.

Addressing the Mammoth crowd that trooped out to receive him at the airport, the ex-governor, popularly known as the digital governor of Cross River State, said he was in the state not for political reasons but to attend the wedding of the governor's son. Ayade, describing the Governor as the leader of the party in the state, added that in due time, he will surely visit the state for politics.  

Observers also note that Ayade's appearance in Calabar and his engagement with journalists mark a quiet political reawakening, one that could signal a renewed involvement in the state's affairs ahead of future political realignments.
As he put it himself, "I carry the scars, but I also carry the satisfaction that I did what was right for my people."

Duke Mourns Sportsman Orok Edwards Imaha as He Is Laid to Rest in Calabar

CALABAR — The Commissioner representing Cross River State on the Board of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Chief Orok Otu Duke, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of veteran sportsman, Mr. Orok Edwards Imaha, who was laid to rest in Calabar on Wednesday.

Speaking at the solemn burial ceremony, Chief Duke described Imaha as "a true sportsman" whose life exemplified discipline, vitality, and friendship. "Orok Edwards Imaha was a sportsman," he said. "We'd always check on health because of complications that come with age."

The brief but heartfelt remark reflected the bond the two men shared through sports and mutual concern for wellness. Imaha, who passed away on August 24, 2025, at the age of 59, was remembered as a man deeply passionate about physical fitness and the camaraderie that came with it.

The burial, attended by family, friends, and associates, was both emotional and inspiring a celebration of a life well-lived in pursuit of health and community spirit.

A memorial card bearing his image and the inscription, "What we once enjoyed and deeply loved, we can never lose, for all that we love deeply becomes part of us," served as a reminder that his legacy will endure in the hearts of many.

Born on September 4, 1965, Orok Edwards Imaha leaves behind a legacy of strength, friendship, and devotion to sporting excellence — qualities that will be fondly remembered by the Cross River sporting community.