40 year old man rope minor in Odukpani community

Community Report | November 29, 2025

ODUKPANI – A 40 year old man named Etim Okon has been accused of having series of canal knowledge a 14 year old girl in Okurikan community of Odukpani LGA. 

Etim who is a neighbour had been having sex with 15 year old child of his neighbour when the parents are not around .

According to Mr Cletus Bassey prevent team chairman of partners for peace in the Niger Delta, Cross River State Chapter,  the case was reported to his office in November 2024 and investigations are ongoing while the child has been relocated the perpetrator is still in police custody 

Ikom APC Sets Up Committee to Review 2023 Electoral Woes ahead of 2027

Ukorebi Esien  | January 19, 2026

IKOM – In a decisive move to forestall a repeat of its poor showing in the 2023 general elections, stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ikom Local Government Area of Cross River State have constituted a data and facts-finding committee to review the party's electoral challenges ahead of the 2027 polls.

The committee inaugurated yesterday in Ikom during a well-attended stakeholders' engagement convened by the Political Leader of Ikom and Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Elvert Anyambem, to critically examine the factors responsible for the party's underwhelming performance, particularly in the 2023 governorship election.

Anyambem noted that the initiative is aimed at identifying structural, organizational, and grassroots gaps that affected voter mobilization and coordination, with a view to repositioning the APC as a dominant political force in the local government by 2027.

The six-man committee is chaired by Mr. Odey Oyama, with Dr. Bassey Okim as Co-Chairman. Other members include Prince Eka William, Madam Achi Agbor, Mr. Kingsley Egumi Nnamgbe, Mr. Jones Nkwam,  while Hon. Asinya Ntan serves as Secretary.

According to results announced by INEC during the 2023 gubernatorial election, Sen. Bassey Edet Otu of the APC scored 12,883 while Sen. Sandy Onoh of the PDP scored 14,128

Inaugurating the committee, the Speaker explained that the committee's mandate is to carry out an objective assessment of the 2023 elections across wards in Ikom, engage party leaders and grassroots members, and submit practical recommendations that will guide corrective actions and future electoral strategies.

He stressed that the move is not targeted at witch-hunting any individual but is a collective effort to strengthen party unity, accountability, and performance ahead of the 2027 general elections.

In a related development and what many has described has a major political boost for the APC, nearly 1,000 members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) from Nnam Ward, a long-time opposition stronghold, formally defected to the ruling party. Party leaders described the defection as a clear indication of shifting political alignments and growing confidence in the APC within the local government.

Receiving the defectors, Rt. Hon. Elvert Anyambem assured them of full integration into party structures, noting that the mass defection further underscores the need to consolidate internal reforms and grassroots engagement.

Stakeholders resolved that the committee's findings would be shared with relevant party organs at the state level to ensure coordinated interventions capable of delivering improved electoral outcomes in 2027.

The committee is expected to commence work immediately, marking what party leaders described as a critical step toward rebuilding trust, strengthening party machinery, and restoring APC's electoral strength in Ikom.

“Theres No Agenda to Unseat Anybody, We need Credible and Transparent Governance in Ikom" – Ayambem Responds to Allegations

Ukorebi Esien | January 18, 2026

IKOM – The Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem, has dismissed allegations that he is plotting to remove the Executive Chairman of Ikom Local Government Area, Hon. Pst. (Mrs.) Mercy Nsor, describing the claims as false, misleading, and politically motivated.

Responding to widespread reports and public speculation, Ayambem insisted that his involvement in recent developments in Ikom is strictly driven by concerns over governance, accountability, and the overall interest of the people, not personal or political ambition.

"This is about governance, not politics," the Speaker said, stressing that there is no agenda to unseat the council chairman or install any preferred successor. According to him, claims that he is pursuing a third-term ambition or nurturing a governorship aspiration ahead of 2031 are "very unfounded" and do not reflect his political focus or intentions.

Ayambem explained that a series of stakeholders' meetings were convened by Ikom leaders to address growing concerns over the administration of the local government council, including financial management and service delivery. He noted that at a recent meeting attended by about 47 leaders from Ikom, both within and outside the state, issues bordering on alleged maladministration were raised.

The Speaker alleged that the council chairman failed to honour invitations to the stakeholders' meeting despite being in Ikom at the time, a development he said was viewed by many leaders as disrespectful and troubling. He further claimed that allegations of financial mismanagement, including the handling of council funds and revenue-generating agencies, were brought before the gathering.

According to Ayambem, the stakeholders resolved to set up a six-man committee to investigate the concerns raised, including factors responsible for Ikom's performance in the 2023 governorship election. He said the outcome of the committee's work would be formally presented to Governor Bassey Edet Otu for necessary action.

"The leadership of Ikom has a responsibility to ask questions and demand accountability. This process is not targeted at removing anyone but at correcting what is not right," he said.

The Speaker also rejected suggestions that his actions are linked to the 2027 elections, maintaining that the objective is to strengthen unity, governance, and political organization in Ikom ahead of future contests. He emphasized that no individual should be allowed to operate the local government as a sole administrator outside established laws and procedures.

On claims that the chairman enjoys protection due to her perceived closeness to the First Lady of the state, Ayambem dismissed such narratives, stating that the First Lady is known for her commitment to truth and accountability, regardless of personal relationships.

Despite the controversy, Ayambem maintained that peaceful engagement remains the preferred option, noting that the issues can still be resolved through dialogue if the council leadership addresses the concerns raised by stakeholders.

As the situation continues to attract public attention, political observers have called for calm, transparency, and strict adherence to due process to prevent further escalation. The unfolding developments in Ikom are expected to test the strength of local governance structures and stakeholder engagement in Cross River State.

Ikom Stakeholders, Councillors Rally Behind Chairman Amid Leadership Dispute

Ukorebi Esien | January 18, 2026

IKOM – Political tension continues to simmer in Ikom Local Government Area of Cross River State following allegations of moves to unseat the Executive Chairman of the council, Hon. Pst. (Mrs.) Mercy Nsor.

Several stakeholders and councillors in the LGA have reportedly closed ranks behind the chairman, insisting that she remains lawfully in office and has not violated any provision of the Cross River State Local Government Law or the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

The controversy follows claims by some political actors that the Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem, is exerting influence over local party structures and political processes in Ikom. According to sources familiar with developments in the area, concerns have been raised over meetings allegedly convened by individuals perceived to be loyal to the Speaker, which critics say are aimed at influencing the leadership of the council ahead of forthcoming party congresses.

Supporters of the council chairman have described the allegations of maladministration against her as unsubstantiated and politically motivated. They argue that oversight of the executive arm of the local government rests primarily with the legislative arm of the council, made up of elected councillors, and not with any single individual outside that structure.

Speaking on condition of anonymity, a stakeholder in Ikom questioned the legality of demands allegedly made for council financial records outside established constitutional and statutory procedures.

"Accountability is important, but it must follow due process. The councillors are constitutionally empowered to carry out oversight of the council's finances and administration. Any other approach raises serious legal and institutional concerns," the source said.

The legislative arm of the Ikom Local Government Council is said to have reaffirmed its support for the chairman, noting that no formal resolution, impeachment process, or official report of wrongdoing has been presented against her. Councillors have reportedly maintained that they have not identified any breach serious enough to warrant disciplinary action against the executive chairman.

Some stakeholders have also expressed concern over what they described as selective stakeholder engagements, alleging that several prominent political leaders and former officeholders from the area were not invited to recent meetings relating to Ikom affairs. They argue that such exclusions undermine the credibility of decisions taken at those gatherings.

Despite the growing political debate, there has been no official communication from the state government or the Cross River State House of Assembly indicating that any lawful process has been initiated to remove the Ikom council chairman.

Observers have called for restraint, transparency, and strict adherence to constitutional provisions to prevent the situation from escalating. They stress that any concerns about governance in Ikom Local Government Area should be addressed through appropriate legal and institutional mechanisms.

As of the time of filing this report, Hon. Mercy Nsor remains in office, with her supporters insisting that she continues to enjoy the confidence of the council legislature and a significant section of stakeholders within the LGA.

Two Men Die After Machete Fight in Odukpani

Ukorebi Esien | Community Report| January 13, 2026

CALABAR - Two men have lost their lives following a violent machete fight in Akpap Okoyong community, Odukpani Local Government Area of Cross River State.
The incident, which occurred on Tuesday, was the result of a disagreement between the two men, identified as Edet and Effiong, residents of the community. According to an eyewitness who spoke on condition of anonymity, the altercation began when Effiong went to Edet's residence after a misunderstanding between them.

The source said Effiong reportedly arrived at Edet's house armed with a machete and met him peeling plantain. An argument ensued, during which Effiong allegedly attacked Edet with the machete, inflicting severe injuries. In an attempt to defend himself, Edet was said to have picked up another machete within his compound and struck Effiong.

Both men sustained deep cuts during the confrontation and were immediately rushed to a nearby health centre in the community. However, they could not receive adequate medical attention due to the lack of facilities and equipment to manage the severity of their injuries.

They were later confirmed dead, reportedly from excessive blood loss and dehydration.

At the time of filing this report, the exact cause of the disagreement that led to the fatal clash remains unknown. Residents of Akpap Okoyong community have been thrown into mourning by the tragic incident.

Efforts to obtain official comments from the police were unsuccessful as of press time, but it was gathered that security agencies have been informed of the development and investigations are expected to commence.

The incident has once again drawn attention to the rising cases of violent disputes in rural communities and the urgent need for improved healthcare facilities and effective conflict resolution mechanisms at the grassroots. 

Alleged Plot to Oust Ikom Council Boss: CRHA Speaker Fingered

Ukorebi Esien | January 18, 2026

IKOM - Tension is rising in Ikom Local Government Area following allegations that the Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly (CRHA), Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem, is behind an alleged plot to remove the Executive Chairman of Ikom LGA, Hon. Pst. [Mrs] Mercy Nsor, through what critics describe as a "backdoor ouster."

Multiple political sources and stakeholders in the area claim that the alleged move is aimed at replacing the elected chairman with the Vice Chairman, Hon. Maurice Ekpando, who is said to be politically aligned with the Speaker. The development has triggered widespread concern, with many describing it as an attempt to seize control of the political structure of Ikom LGA outside established democratic and legal processes.

According to insiders familiar with the situation, pressure is allegedly being mounted on relevant authorities using vague and unverified allegations against the chairman. Critics argue that no formal breach of the Local Government Law or the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria has been established to warrant such a move.

The controversy has drawn strong reactions from major political stakeholders in Ikom, including former Senator Victor Ndoma-Egba, legal practitioners, former lawmakers, and community leaders, who are said to be firmly backing Hon. Mercy Nsor. They credit her administration with maintaining peace, stability, and steady development since assuming office.

Adding weight to the resistance, the legislative arm of the Ikom Local Government Council, led by Hon. Moyo Efale, has publicly aligned with the chairman. The eleven elected councillors reportedly insist that Hon. Nsor has not violated any provision of the Local Government Laws or the Nigerian Constitution, effectively dismissing claims used to justify her alleged removal.

"This is not about governance; it is about control," a stakeholder who spoke on condition of anonymity said. "You cannot remove an elected chairman through political manipulation. That is an assault on democracy."

The allegations have also fueled broader political debates, with some observers linking the reported move to long-term political calculations and power realignment within the state. Others warn that such actions, if pursued, could destabilize not just Ikom LGA but local government administration across Cross River State.

Responding to the allegations, the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem, was quoted as offering a detailed account of events surrounding a recent stakeholders' engagement in Ikom. According to him, "a whole lot isn't going on right in Ikom," noting that concerns were raised by community leaders over the council's administration. He explained that a stakeholders' meeting was convened to address unresolved issues from an earlier engagement held two weeks prior, where it was resolved that the chairman should account for certain matters. The Speaker said the follow-up meeting, which reportedly drew 47 Ikom leaders from across the country, including Abuja and Enugu, went ahead despite the absence of the council chairman. "The chairman did not attend, did not send a representative, not even the vice chairman or secretary, and no excuse was communicated," he said, adding that she was reportedly in Ikom at the time. He further claimed that allegations of maladministration were raised at the meeting, including concerns over revenue generation and the handling of funds sent to the council by the state government. "This is not about removing anyone by force," the Speaker was quoted as saying. "I came as a leader of Ikom to listen to what the people had to say and to allow the chairman an opportunity to explain these allegations. I have documents and evidence that these issues were discussed by the leadership." He stressed that the gathering was intended to ensure accountability and that "Ikom cannot be run like a sole administration without explanation to its people."  He emphasized that the concern of stakeholders was that Ikom Local Government "cannot continue to be run like a sole administration without accountability," adding that the leadership felt compelled to act in the interest of transparency and good governance.

As the situation unfolds, residents of Ikom LGA remain on edge, calling for transparency, adherence to due process, and respect for the people's mandate. Political analysts warn that any attempt to forcefully remove an elected local government chairman without due process could set a dangerous precedent in the state.

Breaking: NYCN Chairman, Emmanuel Olayi, Others Involved in Auto Crash

Ukorebi Esien | January 9, 2026

 
CALABAR - The Chairman of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Cross River State chapter, Comrade Emmanuel Olayi, on yesterday narrowly escaped death alongside four others after their vehicle was involved in a road traffic accident while en route to a central youth engagement in the state.

The accident occurred between 3:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m along the Nko/inyima axis of the Ikom-Calabar expressway enroute Obubra LGA, as Olayi and members of his team were travelling ahead of the main convoy to the next engagement point. The trip was part of the Central Youth Engagement Tour organised by the Cross River State Commissioner for Special Duties, Hon. Oden Ewa.

Speaking with journalists from his hospital bed, Olayi explained that the red Toyota Corolla conveying him, three aides, and a driver suddenly skidded off the major expressway despite the driver's efforts to regain control. The vehicle veered into a nearby bush, tumbled repeatedly, and eventually crashed into a tree.

According to him, the impact left the occupants with varying degrees of injuries. Olayi said they sustained injuries in the head, neck, and chest, while one of his aides was temporarily unable to use his legs immediately after the accident. He, however, confirmed that no life was lost in the incident.

The NYCN chairman disclosed that commercial motorcycle riders in the area were the first to respond to the scene, assisting in opening the damaged vehicle and rescuing the occupants. They were initially taken to the General Hospital, Ugep, where they received first aid before being transferred by ambulance to the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital (UCTH) for further medical attention.

Olayi clarified that his vehicle was the only one involved in the crash, noting that it was travelling ahead of the main convoy at the time of the accident. Other vehicles in the convoy later stopped after the victims had been moved to safety.

As of the time of filing this report, Olayi and the other occupants of the vehicle were responding to treatment at UCTH, while the damaged vehicle remained at the crash site pending recovery. Further details on the cause of the accident were still emerging.
The incident has drawn concern from youth leaders and stakeholders across the state, with many expressing gratitude that no life was lost and wishing the victims a speedy recovery.

APC Has a Better Deal Ahead of 2027, Says Dansuki; Warns Power Brokers: “We No Go Work, Others Come Chop”

Ukorebi Esien | January 8, 2026

CALABAR - Former federal lawmaker and prominent political figure in Cross River State, Rt. Hon. Daniel Asuqo, popularly known as Dansuki, has declared that the All Progressives Congress (APC) remains the best political platform ahead of the 2027 general elections, while issuing a strong warning to party power brokers against sidelining loyal supporters after electoral victories.

Dansuki made the remarks over the weekend during a private gathering at his residence in Calabar, attended by friends, political associates, and supporters from across party lines, including the APC, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and the Labour Party.

Reaffirming his support for Governor Bassey Edet Otu, Dansuki said his decision to back the governor was based on conviction, shared struggle and political integrity, not opportunism or personal gain. He dismissed speculations on social media suggesting a strained relationship between him and the governor.

"I believe in the government I worked for. I believe in Prince Bassey Otu's government because it was the right thing to do," Dansuki said. "I will not allow that man to go and eat alone."

In a statement that resonated strongly with attendees, the former House of Representatives member criticised a political culture where individuals who laboured for electoral success are marginalised once victory is achieved.

"We no go work, others come chop," he said, stressing that political loyalty and early commitment must be recognised and protected.

According to Dansuki, rewarding opportunism at the expense of sacrifice weakens party structures and fuels internal discontent, particularly at the grassroots level. He cautioned that such practices, if left unchecked, could undermine party cohesion ahead of future elections.

Speaking on the direction of the APC in Cross River State, Dansuki maintained that the ruling party offers a better deal than its rivals, citing ongoing development efforts and governance style under Governor Otu.

"Politics is dynamic, but I know we have a better deal in APC today, seeing what we are seeing on the ground from what the governor is doing," he said.

He urged party members to stop attacking one another in the pursuit of political ambition, warning that pulling others down is not a sustainable path to growth.

"People must not run people down for them to grow. You are not going anywhere; it only looks like you are going somewhere," he cautioned.
Dansuki also appealed to his supporters to preserve long-standing friendships and family ties beyond politics, advising them not to fight personal political battles on his behalf.
Several speakers at the event, including party leaders and longtime associates, praised Dansuki for maintaining close relationships with his supporters despite not holding elective office. They described the gathering as a rare display of political maturity and cross-party camaraderie.

Some supporters openly projected Dansuki's future political relevance ahead of 2027, though he made no formal declaration of ambition. He, however, expressed gratitude for the continued support and stressed the importance of unity, loyalty and shared values.

"What matters is that we all believe in the same thing , a better tomorrow, and we walk towards it together," he said.

As political activities gradually build toward the 2027 general elections, Dansuki's remarks are seen as both a reaffirmation of loyalty to the APC and a subtle caution to party leaders that sacrifice, commitment and unity must remain central to the party's internal politics.

C’River 2027: “We Are Not Tools to Be Used and Dumped” — NYCN Leadership Declares, Calls for Value-Driven Participation

Ukorebi Esien | January 8, 2026

CALABAR - The leadership of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) in Cross River State has cautioned young people against political manipulation, electoral thuggery and involvement in violence as the state gradually inches toward the 2027 general elections, insisting that youths must see themselves as partners in development rather than tools for political exploitation.

The warning follows a motivational message issued by the Cross River State Chairman of NYCN, Comrade Emmanuel Olayi, in which he urged youths to reject the culture of being "used and dumped" by political actors and instead embrace responsible, value-driven participation in governance and community development.

"As we stand on the brink of the future, remember that we have the power to shape the world," Olayi said. "We are not tools to be used and dumped. We are a people full of energy, ideas and capacity, useful for productivity and community development."

He called on young leaders to embrace their uniqueness, pursue their passions, continually learn and adapt, and believe in themselves, stressing that no youth should sacrifice their future for illegitimate political gains.

Olayi added that youths have enormous value to bring to the table and must resist any attempt to reduce them to instruments of violence, intimidation or disorder during political contests.

Backing this position, a former Chairman of the National Youth Council of Nigeria in Cross River State, Comrade Bernard Okori Oko, also advised youths to exercise wisdom and restraint as political activities begin to intensify.

Speaking during an interview with TDN, Oko noted that youths often find themselves at the centre of political crises and insecurity, acting both as perpetrators and eventual victims.

"In every war or conflict we have witnessed, it always ends on the table of negotiation," he said. "Why not negotiate before the war? The brunt of political violence falls on the shoulders of the youth. They are the most active, they are used, and they are the ones who die."

He urged young people to align only with leaders and candidates who would be accountable to them after elections, emphasizing that political engagement must translate into tangible development outcomes for communities.

According to him, wisdom demands that youths make rational decisions that will not haunt them in the future, choosing peace, dialogue and constructive engagement over violence and destruction.

The NYCN leadership reiterated its commitment to mentoring young people, promoting peace, and mobilising youths as a positive force for democratic governance and sustainable development in Cross River State.

As the countdown to 2027 continues, the council urged youths to resist manipulation, reject violence, and channel their energy into constructive participation that adds value to the electoral process and the overall development of the state.

Ukorebi Esien

Editor-in-Chief, 

The Daily News Ng

Lead Consultant

Achievers Center for Community Development Initiative

+2348161527978

Cult Groups Sign Peace Accord, Take Oath Against Violence in Calabar

Ukorebi Esien | Janueary 3, 2026

CALABAR  — In a landmark peace initiative aimed at curbing violent crime, several cult and gang groups in Calabar formally signed a peace pact and took a public oath renouncing violence, kidnapping, gangsterism, and other criminal conduct earlier this week. The event, organized by the Homeland Safety and Security Agency, brought together community leaders, security officials, and representatives of groups historically linked to violent activities in the Cross River State capital.


The gathering began with a peace walk through key parts of Calabar, signalling a collective commitment to ending criminality and restoring safety in neighbourhoods long affected by cult clashes and other insecurity. After the procession, the group leaders signed the peace pact and took a solemn oath affirming their dedication to peace and lawful conduct.

Addressing the audience, Michael Orok Nsan, Director-South of the Homeland Safety and Security Agency, said the initiative was part of broader efforts to consolidate peace and improve the security landscape across the state.

"We are delighted and grateful to God Almighty… to thank everybody for honouring the invitation for this peace walk," Nsan said, expressing optimism that the accord would foster stability and boost investor confidence in Cross River.

Nsan explained that the pact involved groups previously associated with internal and external conflicts, including violent clashes, kidnapping and gangsterism, and was designed to formally commit them to peaceful conduct.

"At this point, I will be administering the oath to all the families represented by their heads," he said before inviting them forward for the oath-taking ceremony.

During the oath segment, representatives pledged to uphold principles of integrity, transparency, accountability, and unity; respect citizens' rights; and abstain from violence, illegal activities and discrimination. The agreement also includes accountability provisions, warning that failure to honour the terms could result in withdrawal of government recognition and other consequences.

Describing the pact as akin to an amnesty framework, Nsan noted that the signatories had renounced their involvement in cult activism and agreed not to engage in internal or external conflicts, kidnappings, or violent disputes over revenue sources.

Representing Governor Bassey Otu, the Special Adviser on Forensic and Intelligence, Chief Koko Henshaw, reiterated that the peace walk and pact were part of ongoing efforts, not one-off events, to sustain peace in the state.

"We are not here for luxury. This peace walk is going to be a continuous process, and all hands must be on deck… Peace is very cheap. We are all ambassadors of peace," Henshaw said, adding that cult-related activities and kidnappings had seen a decline under the current administration's security coordination efforts.

When questioned about whether engaging previously violent groups might be seen as incentivising criminality, Nsan defended the approach, stating that past reliance on force alone had not yielded the desired results and that the new strategy sought inclusive engagement alongside law enforcement cooperation.

He disclosed that some individuals involved are also receiving training in agriculture and other skills as part of reintegration efforts, underlining the state's commitment to addressing the root causes of violence and providing alternatives to crime.

Also speaking at the event, Felix William Arikpo, Director-Central of the Homeland Safety and Security Agency, emphasised that addressing cultism and communal violence is a long-term, gradual process that requires sustained collaboration between security agencies, community stakeholders, and the signatory groups.

The organizers said the peace walk and signing marked the closing of annual activities and would be followed by further engagements to maintain harmony throughout Cross River State.

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