𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐬𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐞𝐫 𝐄𝐱𝐩𝐥𝐨𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐊𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐬 𝐓𝐰𝐨 𝐏𝐫𝐢𝐬𝐨𝐧 𝐈𝐧𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐀’𝐈𝐛𝐨𝐦

Ukorebi Esien | November 13, 2025

IKOT EKPENE - Two inmates of the Nigerian Correctional Service, Ikot Ekpene Custodial Centre in Akwa Ibom State, have been confirmed dead following a transformer explosion that occurred within the prison facility.

Reports indicate that the incident happened on Wednesday night when electricity was suddenly restored after a power outage. The surge reportedly caused the transformer located within the custodial premises to explode, sending out a heavy spark that injured several inmates and correctional officers.

Eyewitnesses disclosed that the explosion caused panic as flames spread close to the inmates' cells, prompting an emergency evacuation to prevent further casualties. Two of the inmates were fatally electrocuted, while others sustained varying degrees of burns and shock.

Confirming the incident, the Public Relations Officer of the Akwa Ibom State Command of the Nigerian Correctional Service, Mr Richard Metong, said the situation has since been brought under control. He noted that the injured inmates were immediately taken to the prison clinic before being transferred to a nearby hospital for proper medical attention.

Metong further explained that an investigation has been launched to ascertain the cause of the explosion, while the service is working closely with the Port Harcourt Electricity Distribution Company (PHED) to prevent a recurrence.

He also sympathized with the families of the deceased inmates and assured them that the command is prioritizing the safety of all persons in custody.

Meanwhile, authorities have temporarily disconnected the power supply to the facility pending the completion of a technical assessment of the transformer and other electrical installations within the centre.

See List of alcoholic bitters banned by NAFDAC after lab tests show fatal effects

Ukorebi Esien | November 13, 2025

ABUJA– The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has issued a public warning and banned several alcoholic bitters following laboratory tests that revealed dangerous and fatal effects on animals.

According to a statement released by the agency, consumption samples of one major product, Japata Alcoholic Bitters (100 ml) produced by Chigodson International Company Limited, were found to be adulterated. The registered version of the bitters contained only ethanol, but recent samples were reportedly laced with cannabis and had significantly elevated alcohol content.
During laboratory testing, mice exposed to the adulterated product reportedly died within five minutes. NAFDAC said that retained samples from earlier registration did not have this effect, indicating that the current batches in circulation had been altered and rendered unfit for human consumption.

In addition to Japata, the agency published a list of other alcoholic beverages now banned for safety reasons. These include:

BOP-Daddy Ginger Liquor (200 ml)
Cork & Shoot Alcoholic Bitters (100 ml)
One Core Alcoholic Bitters Drink (100 ml)
Legit.ng - Nigeria news.

NAFDAC stated that the production facility in Lagos State has been shut down, and the proprietor is currently at large. The matter has also been referred to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for further investigation.
Legit.ng - Nigeria news.

The risk posed by these adulterated alcoholic beverages extends beyond conventional health concerns: NAFDAC warned that the product's contents may cause altered mental states, psychological issues, and pose heightened danger to vulnerable consumers – including drivers and other users of public transport – who may lose control, raising the threat of traffic accidents or other incidents.

Consumers are urged to remain vigilant: only purchase alcoholic beverages from reputable sources, check for proper registration and seals, and avoid unbranded or suspicious products sold informally. NAFDAC further invited health practitioners, media, community and religious leaders to assist in educating the public about the perils of illicit or unregulated beverages.

Context & Implications
This move by NAFDAC comes amid wider efforts to clamp down on adulterated pharmaceuticals, illicit herbal remedies and unregulated ingestible products in Nigeria. The agency's action signals a more aggressive stance on alcohol products that masquerade as safe while carrying hidden and harmful substances. The public health implications are serious, given the widespread accessibility of small-bottle bitters and herbal alcoholic concoctions in many states.

For manufacturers and distributors, this development underscores the need for full compliance with regulatory registration, transparent supply chains, and rigorous quality assurance. Failure to meet these obligations now carries not just reputational risks but criminal referral and market shutdowns.

What to Do If You've Consumed These Products
If you have purchased or consumed any of the listed bitters, stop immediately and monitor for symptoms of poisoning, altered mental state, abdominal pain, or neurological changes.

Report suspicious beverages or illegal manufacturing activities to your state-level NAFDAC office or call their toll-free consumer line (listed on the agency's website).
Advocacy groups and civil society actors are encouraged to collaborate with regulatory bodies to track the distribution of illicit alcohol, raise awareness and assist in enforcement.

The banning of these alcoholic bitters following the dramatic lab findings of mice dying within minutes serves as a stark reminder of the risks posed by adulterated beverages. NAFDAC's call for vigilance is timely, and all stakeholders, from consumers and civil society to regulators and law enforcement, must now work together to ensure that what goes into bottles is safe and compliant, and that Nigerians are protected from hidden harms hiding in unsuspecting products.

Teacher Esien Itam Foundation Awards Scholarships to 57 Students in C'River

 

..See Complete List of Beneficiaries 

Our Reporter | November 13, 2025

The Teacher Esien Ita Itam Education Trust Fund, established in 2014 by the late Barr. Temitope Ekpenyong Ita in honor of her late father-in-law, continues to promote educational excellence across Cross River South Senatorial District.

For the 2025/2026 academic year, the Fund is awarding fifty-seven (57) scholarships, bringing the total number of beneficiaries to six hundred and nine (609) since inception.

In a release signed by Ekpenyong Esien Ita (Jnr) for the chairman, the Award Distribution is as follows:

Secondary Schools – 53 recipients

Postgraduate Studies (UNICAL) – 2 recipients

Nigerian Law School, Yenagoa – 1 recipient

Medical Studies (Baze University, Abuja) – 1 recipient

Beneficiaries are encouraged to make the most of this opportunity. Education remains the key to unlocking human potential and driving innovation in a world shaped by technology and artificial intelligence. Use this platform to transform your future and inspire change in your community.

Below are list of Teacher Esien Ita Itam Education Trust Fund Scholarship Beneficiaries

1. SAINT PATRICK'S COLLEGE, IKOT ANSA CALABAR.

1. Bassey Christopher Offiong – JSS2

2. Eden Gregory Nsa -SS2

3. Inok Godfrey Inok-Abasi – SS2

4. Offiong Leonard Edet SS3

5. Eyibo Alexander Okon – SS3

2. HOPE WADDELL TRANINING INSTITUTION CALABAR

1. Joseph Effiong Edem – JSS2

2. Raymond Nsa-lta Ekepenyong – JSS2

3. Okon Martin Ekpo – 552

4. Ikpeme Godwin Jacob – SS3

5. Moses Ayi Ndarake – SS3

3. HOLY CHILD GIRLS' SECONDARY SCHOOL, CALABAR

1. Fedora Okokon Effiong -JSS3

2. Itam Grace Eyo – JSS2

3. Comfort Ikang Edet – SS3

4. Emmanuelle Bassey Onoyom – SS2

5. Ekpenyong Nsa Effanga – SS3

4. GOVERNMENT SECONDARY SCHOOL ADIABO

1. Queen Effiom Nsa -SS3

2. Otuanwan Etim Asuquo -SS3

3. Paschal Gabriel Okon -SS3

4. Effa Blessing Ekpenyong – SS3

5. Favour Etim Offiong -SS2

5. GOVERNMENT SECONDARY SCHOOL, CREEK TOWN

1. Nsa Edet Eyo – JSS1

2. Alex Oku Esien – J5S2

3. Emmanuel Bassey Out – SS2

4. Mary Bassey Bassey – SS1

5. Grace Ibok Edet – SS-2

6. GOVERNMENT TECHNICAL COLLEGE, EFUT IBONDA

1. Dorcas Martin Effiong – VTC 2

2. Patricia Effiong Okon – VTC 3

3. Kingsley Edet Etim – VTC 3

4. Godwin Asuquo Eyo – ST 2

5. Samuel Okon Etim – ST3

7. EDGERLEY MEMORIAL GIRLS' SECONDARY SCHOOL, CALABAR

1. Obongawan Itam Okpo – SS3

2. Valerie Bassey Eyibo – SS3

3. Bassey Edet Orok – SS1

4. Davina Emmanuel Ekpenyong Oku SS2

5. Arit Asuquo Umo – SS2

8. WEST ARICAN PEOPLE'S INSTTUTE, CALABAR

1. Effiong Mercy Effiong – JSS3

2. Ita Grace Bassey – SS2

3. Precious Okon Ekpenyong – SS2

4. Precious Asuquo Edet-SS2

5. Asim Ita Asim – JSS3

6. Ekanem Eyo Euphepria – JSS3

9. MARY SLESSOR ACADEMY, CALABAR

1. Effiwatt Jessie-Out O – SS1

2. Inyang, Victor Edet -SS3

3. Edim, Glory Joseph – SS1

4. Etim, Uyi Edet -JSS3

5. Effiwatt, Enoch Effiom – JSS3

10. DUKE TOWN SCEONDARY SCHOOL CALABAR

1. Greatness Okokon Ita -JSS2

2. Daniel Ekeng Henshaw – JSS3

3. Joseph Edem Ededem – JSS3

4. Ekeng Adem – SS1

5. Divine Hogan – SS2

6. Deborah Okokon Etim – SS3

C’River APC Crisis Deepens as Chapter Officials Lock Party Secretariat

By Ukorebi Esien | November 12, 2025

CALABAR – The internal conflict within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Cross River State escalated Tuesday with chapter chairmen and secretaries storming and locking up the party's state secretariat, demanding the immediate resignation of state chairman Alphonsus Ogar Eba (JP).
Peoples Gazette Nigeria

According to the forum of local government chapter chairmen and secretaries, Eba has presided over what they describe as systemic mismanagement and disregard for grassroots party structures. They allege that stipends meant for chapter and ward officials were withheld for three months, funds intended for local structures were diverted,
"While the local government areas and wards, comprising 5,778 party officials, were given ₦9.2 million, the state executive with just 36 members took ₦40 million … this is a gross injustice."

In response, Chairman Eba rejected the resignation call, accusing the protesting chapter officials of embezzling more than ₦60 million and of failing to account for dues collected at the local level. He maintained that no chapter chairman has the constitutional authority to demand his removal, saying only the state executive committee has discipline powers.

"They are running away from their shadows … we now pay all 5,778 party executives directly into their bank accounts and payments are up to date. However, the 17 chapter chairmen's stipends are being withheld until they clear themselves of the alleged fraud," he stated.

With both sides holding firm, the party's unity is under serious strain ahead of the 2027 general elections. The chapter officials have warned the secretariat will remain locked until their demands are met, while Eba's camp insists on sanctions for misuse of funds. The breaking point appears to be approaching.

,,

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.