C’River Consultative Forum Backs APC New Exco, Advocates Grassroots Strengthening

Ukorebi Esien | March 6, 2026

CALABAR – The Cross River State Consultative Forum (CRSCF) has congratulated the newly constituted State Executive Council of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Cross River State, urging the leadership to prioritize unity, transparency, and grassroots consolidation.

In a press statement issued in Calabar, the Forum expressed particular enthusiasm that Hon. Chris Sunny Etta is a tested, unassuming, humble but passionate gentleman, leading the APC line in a time where the state begins to navigate the political pathway toward the 2027 general elections.

The Forum noted that "his emergence of the new State Executive Council for the 2026–2030 tenure comes at a pivotal moment in the political trajectory of Cross River State," adding that the period requires disciplined and visionary leadership. According to CRSCF, the inauguration of the executive is "not merely a routine internal party development, but a significant step in strengthening the institutional capacity of the APC as the governing political party in the state".

The Forum called on the leadership of the party under Chris Sunny Etta to consolidate internal cohesion and ensure inclusive governance within the party structure. It urged the new executive to sustain transparency and fairness in the management of party affairs.

The statement emphasized the need for inclusiveness, noting: "We therefore urge the new executive… to approach its mandate with a deep sense of responsibility, fairness, and inclusiveness."

CRSCF also highlighted the importance of strengthening grassroots structures and maintaining engagement across the three senatorial districts, stressing that "consolidating unity within the party, strengthening grassroots structures, and maintaining constructive engagement with stakeholders… will be essential to the success of the party and the broader political stability of the state."

Reaffirming its commitment to constructive engagement, the group added that it remains dedicated to promoting "responsible political engagement, and governance that reflects the collective aspirations of our people."

The statement jointly signed by Eyo Nsa Ekpo, Chairman, and Julius Ochim Okputu, Secretary of the Forum, expressed confidence that the new APC leadership would contribute meaningfully to strengthening democratic culture, political stability, and sustainable development in Cross River State.

Dansuki Congratulates Chris Etta, New APC State Exco

Ukorebi Esien | March 6, 2026

CALABAR – Former member of the House of Representatives of Nigeria, Rt. Hon. Daniel Asuquo, has congratulated the newly elected State Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Cross River State, Rt. Hon. Chris Etta, as well as members of the newly constituted State Executive Committee of the party.

Dansuki, who represented Akamkpa/Biase Federal Constituency in the National Assembly, described Etta's emergence as a reflection of the confidence reposed in him by stakeholders and members of the party across the state.

In a congratulatory message made available to journalists, the former federal lawmaker said Etta's experience in public service, particularly his tenure in the House of Representatives representing Ikom/Boki Federal Constituency, has equipped him with the leadership capacity required to steer the affairs of the party at this critical time.

He expressed confidence that under Etta's leadership, the APC in Cross River State would become stronger and more united, while consolidating on the achievements of the party and expanding its support base across the 18 local government areas of the state. He noted 

Dansuki also congratulated other members of the newly elected State Executive Committee, noting that their emergence provides an opportunity to strengthen party structures and deepen grassroots mobilization.

He urged party leaders and stakeholders to work together in the spirit of unity and cooperation to support the administration of Governor Bassey Edet Otu in delivering meaningful development and the dividends of democracy to the people of Cross River State.

The former lawmaker wished the new State Chairman and the entire State Executive Committee a successful and impactful tenure in office.

C'River Assembly Suspends Hon. Ovat Agbor Indefinitely Over Alleged Violent Conduct

Ukorebi Esien  | March 5, 2026

CALABAR – The Cross River State House of Assembly has suspended the member representing Obubra I State Constituency, Dickson Ovat Agbor, indefinitely over alleged violent conduct deemed inconsistent with the standards of the legislature.

The decision was reached during plenary after a motion moved by Davies Etta and seconded by Francis Bassey Asuquo.

Presenting the motion, lawmakers condemned the alleged incident involving Hon. Agbor, describing the reported behaviour as unacceptable and contrary to the ethical expectations placed on members of the Assembly.

Following deliberations, the House resolved to suspend the lawmaker from all legislative activities indefinitely.

As part of the resolution, the Assembly also approved the establishment of an investigative committee to examine the circumstances surrounding the alleged incident and submit its findings to the House for further legislative action.

In compliance with the directive of the Assembly, Hon. Agbor was subsequently escorted out of the chamber by the Sergeant-at-Arms.

Speaking on the development, the Speaker of the House, Elvert Ayambem, reiterated the Assembly's commitment to maintaining discipline, dignity, and institutional integrity within the legislature.

He stressed that members of the House must conduct themselves in a manner that reflects the confidence and mandate given to them by their constituents.

The suspension will remain in effect pending the outcome of the investigation by the committee constituted by the House.

Ukorebi Esien

Editor-in-Chief, 

The Daily News Ng

Lead Consultant

Achievers Center for Community Development Initiative

+2348161527978

Police, NUJ Forge Stronger Alliance to Combat Fake News, Insecurity in C’River Ukorebi Esien | February 18, 2026

CALABAR –The Nigeria Police Force, Cross River State Command, and the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), Cross River State Council, have agreed to deepen collaboration aimed at combating fake news and strengthening security across the state.

The resolution was reached during a courtesy visit by the Command's Public Relations Office to the executive members of the NUJ in Calabar, where both parties underscored the critical role of credible information in maintaining peace and public order.

Speaking during the engagement, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) ASP Sunday Etokpa described the media as indispensable partners in policing, stressing that the police cannot succeed in any community without working closely with journalists.

"In the State, in the Federation, it will be unwise for the police to sideline the media. If we do not work pari-passu with the NUJ, we are going to fail," he said. "The press is key. The media is key."

He explained that within his first month in office, the Command had established a structured communication platform bringing together verified journalists from major print, electronic, and online media houses to ensure timely dissemination of accurate information.

According to him, the initiative has already helped in correcting false narratives and curbing panic often triggered by unverified social media posts.

"Right now, we have plenty of bloggers who just pick up their phones and circulate wrong information, creating tension and panic. If we channel information through verified sources like the NUJ, we can correct those wrong narratives quickly," he noted.

The PPRO disclosed that the platform currently includes nearly 40 journalists and has improved the speed and accuracy of official responses to security incidents across the state.

In her remarks, Chairman of the NUJ, Comrade Archibong Bassey commended the Command for its proactive approach, describing the relationship as "top-notch" and unprecedented in recent times.

She, however, urged the police to sustain the momentum, warning that delayed responses to media inquiries often fuel speculation and misinformation.

"When we need clarification and we don't get a response, the story must go. And once speculation sets in, there is trouble. So please remain on top of your game," the NUJ leader said.

Journalists present also emphasized the importance of follow-up briefings on ongoing investigations, noting that many cases are announced as 'under investigation' without subsequent updates.

Responding, the PPRO assured the union of continuous engagement and pledged to provide updates on sensitive matters, including recent security concerns that generated public anxiety.

Both parties agreed that sustained collaboration between security agencies and the media is essential for crisis management, responsible reporting, and public confidence.

The meeting ended with a mutual commitment to transparency, professionalism, and partnership in promoting peace and security in Cross River State.

Ikom APC Congress Stalled as Returning Officer Absconds with Election Materials

Ukorebi Esien  |  February 21,  2026

IKOM — The Chapter Congress of the All Progressives Congress (APC) scheduled to hold in Ikom Local Government Area on Saturday was abruptly stalled following allegations that the designated Returning Officers absconded with election materials.

Stakeholders in Ikom LGA informed our reporter that the Congress did not hold, contrary to reports circulating in some quarters. They alleged that the Returning Officer, Hon. Abubakar Efoli, alongside two Supervisors, Mr. Okoi Ojah and Barr. Bassey Asuquo, left the venue under unclear circumstances while consultations were ongoing.

According to party stakeholders, discussions were being held at the Divisional Police Officer's office over a harmonized consensus list when the officials reportedly exited the premises without notice. Their sudden disappearance, sources said, created confusion among party faithful and disrupted the planned exercise.

It was further alleged that the officials had earlier collected Congress materials from the party's State Secretariat in Calabar before proceeding to Ikom. However, they were accused of failing to follow established party guidelines for conducting the Congress, including coordinating with local authorities to ensure adequate security arrangements.

Some stakeholders also claimed that the Returning Officer informed them he had been instructed by the State Secretariat not to conduct the Congress in Ikom LGA. This claim has not been independently verified as of the time of filing this report.

Reacting to the development, the Executive Chairman of Ikom LGA, Hon. Pst. Mercy Nsor, assured party members that the leadership of the party under the Governor of Cross River State, Bassey Edet Otu, remains committed to protecting the collective interest of party faithful in the area.

She urged members to remain calm and law-abiding, expressing confidence that the party's state and national leadership would address the situation appropriately.

As of press time, there has been no official statement from the State Party Secretariat regarding the allegations. Party members in Ikom have called for clarity and swift action to prevent further tension and to ensure the integrity of the party's internal processes.

C’River Businessman Applauds Tinubu, Otu Over Oil Well Interventions

Ukorebi Esien | February 18, 2026

CALABAR — A prominent businessman in Cross River State, High Chief Dr. Henry Onwe, has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Bassey Edet Otu for what he described as decisive steps toward restoring the state's oil wells.

Onwe, who is Chairman of the Cross River State Businessmen's Forum, made the remarks in a press statement issued in Calabar on Thursday. He said the President's decision to set up an inter-agency committee to review the oil wells issue has brought renewed hope to the people of the state.

According to him, many Cross Riverians have long felt deprived of their economic rights, and the recent actions by the Federal Government show a commitment to fairness and justice.

"The effort the President is taking has endeared him to millions of Cross Riverians and has given them hope that he is committed to their welfare," Onwe stated.

He explained that the oil wells dispute dates back to a July 10, 2012 ruling by the Supreme Court of Nigeria. He said the court struck out Cross River State's appeal and referred the matter to relevant federal agencies, including the National Boundary Commission, the Office of the Surveyor-General of the Federation, and the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission, for proper determination.

Onwe noted that the Supreme Court did not hand over the oil wells to any other state but asked the appropriate authorities to determine their status.

He said the inter-agency committee recently inaugurated by the President carried out detailed maritime and geological assessments. According to him, the committee discovered 188 additional wellheads and 41 shared reservoirs extending from the Cross River continental shelf towards its boundary with Cameroon.

He added that the National Boundary Commission has independently reaffirmed Cross River's coastal status and its access to the Atlantic Ocean through the Cross River Estuary.

Onwe expressed optimism that with the submission of the committee's final report to the Chairman of the Revenue Mobilisation, Allocation and Fiscal Commission, the matter would soon be resolved in favour of justice.

"The restoration of our oil wells will be a demonstration of equity and fairness. It will also improve derivation revenue and support development in our state," he said.

The businessman also praised Governor Otu for what he described as steady leadership and commitment to development. He said the governor has continued to pursue peace, infrastructure development and economic growth since assuming office.

Onwe called on political stakeholders across party lines to support the governor's efforts, adding that the oil wells intervention shows strong collaboration between the state and federal governments.

He appealed to President Tinubu to give final approval that will ensure Cross River receives what he described as its rightful economic endowment.

Ikom APC Congress: Stakeholders Invoke Gov. Bassey Otu’s No-Imposition Pledge, Insist on Zoning Patten

 

CALABAR – Stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ikom Local Government Area of Cross River State have called for strict adherence to the party's longstanding zoning arrangement ahead of the forthcoming Local Government and Ward Congresses, invoking Governor Bassey Edet Otu's public pledge not to impose candidates.

In a press statement issued under the banner of "Concerned Stakeholders of Ikom LGA," party leaders emphasized that Ikom's internal political stability has, over the years, been sustained through a clearly defined rotation principle between the area's two constituencies, Constituency One and Constituency Two.

According to the statement, the established understanding within the party provides that when the APC Chapter Chairman emerges from Constituency Two, the Local Government Council Chairman is produced from Constituency One, and vice versa in the next cycle.

"This arrangement has preserved unity, fairness, and inclusion within our party structure in Ikom," the stakeholders stated. "It is not merely a political convenience but a tested formula that has guaranteed balance and prevented marginalization."

Currently, Constituency One is producing the Council Chairman, while Constituency Two holds the position of APC Chapter Chairman. The stakeholders argued that in line with the zoning tradition, the forthcoming congress should produce the next Chapter Chairman from Constituency One to maintain the rotational balance and prepare the ground for the Council Chairmanship to rotate to Constituency Two in the next electoral cycle.

The group warned that any attempt to disrupt the arrangement could create avoidable tension within the party and undermine cohesion ahead of the 2027 general elections.

"Respecting this zoning tradition is not about individuals," the statement read. "It is about protecting unity, mutual respect, and the collective political future of Ikom. Any deviation may breed distrust and weaken our electoral strength."

The stakeholders also addressed reports of a directive that a percentage of Chapter Chairmen across the state may be replaced, cautioning against interpreting such directives in a manner that would unsettle Ikom's internal equilibrium.

"Replacement, where necessary, can still occur within the framework of our established rotation principle," they noted.

Significantly, the group referenced Governor Otu's recent declaration at the Calabar International Conference Centre, where he assured party faithful that he would not impose candidates in the forthcoming congresses.

Quoting the Governor's words, "I will not impose any candidate," the stakeholders urged party leaders at all levels to ensure that the congress process in Ikom reflects that commitment to internal democracy and fairness.

Political observers say the development highlights growing sensitivity around zoning and internal party arrangements as the APC prepares for grassroots congresses across the state. While no official contest has yet been declared contentious in Ikom, the statement underscores the importance stakeholders attach to maintaining what they describe as a "predictable and inclusive" power-sharing structure.

As preparations for the congresses intensify, attention is likely to focus on how party leadership balances reform directives with local political traditions in order to preserve unity within its ranks.

76 Oil Wells: RMAFC Clarification Rekindles Fiscal Justice Debate for C'River

Ukorebi Esien | February 16, 2026

The recent clarification by the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) that no final decision has been reached on the disputed oil wells has reignited conversations around fiscal equity and historical revenue losses suffered by Cross River State.

The Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission Sunday formally dismissed reports suggesting that a conclusive determination has been made on the ownership and reallocation of disputed oil and gas wells between oil-producing states.

According to the Commission, the inter-agency verification exercise remains ongoing, with draft findings still undergoing technical review and validation. The process involves collaboration with the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), the National Boundary Commission (NBC), and the Office of the Surveyor-General of the Federation (OSGoF).

For many stakeholders in Cross River State, the clarification is significant. The state has long grappled with the fiscal implications of the 2002 judgment of the International Court of Justice, which ceded the Bakassi Peninsula to Cameroon, a development that resulted in Cross River losing its status as an oil-producing state and the attendant 13 percent derivation revenue.

While RMAFC's statement does not confirm any restoration of oil wells to Cross River, it underscores that the matter remains open and subject to due institutional process. Political observers argue that the ongoing review presents an opportunity for renewed advocacy grounded in constitutional provisions, technical verification, and principles of fiscal justice.

The oil well verification exercise carries enormous implications for revenue allocation under Nigeria's federal structure. Any adjustment to oil well coordinates could significantly alter derivation receipts for affected states.

Stakeholders in Cross River have consistently maintained that the issue transcends politics and touches on economic survival, development planning, and intergenerational equity. The latest clarification by RMAFC suggests that deliberations are still active, and that no state can yet claim victory or defeat.

As the review continues, attention now turns to transparency, technical accuracy, and the federal government's commitment to ensuring fairness in the allocation of national resources.

World Broadcast Day: Federal Lawmaker Reaffirms Commitment to Media for Unity, Peace

Ukorebi Esien | February 13, 2026

CALABAR – The Member representing Calabar Municipality/Odukpani Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Rep. Bassey Akiba, has reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening the media as a tool for unity, peace, and national development as Nigeria joins the global community to mark World Broadcast Day 2026.

In a statement issued to commemorate the celebration, themed "Radio and Artificial Intelligence: AI is a tool, not a voice," the federal lawmaker emphasized the enduring relevance of radio in Nigeria's democratic and social landscape.

He described radio as one of the most accessible and trusted platforms for millions of Nigerians, particularly those in rural and underserved communities. According to him, the medium continues to play a vital role in informing citizens, preserving culture, promoting civic participation, and disseminating critical public service information.

Akiba noted that while technological advancements, especially artificial intelligence, are transforming the broadcasting industry, they must be adopted responsibly and ethically.

"The theme of this year's celebration reminds us that artificial intelligence is a tool designed to support and enhance human creativity and judgment. It cannot replace the human voice that builds trust, empathy, and understanding within our communities," he said.

The lawmaker commended broadcasters, journalists, and media practitioners across the country for upholding professional standards and ethical practices despite the rapidly evolving media environment. He acknowledged their resilience and dedication to ensuring that Nigerians remain well-informed and engaged in national discourse.

He further urged stakeholders in the media sector to leverage innovation to expand access to information while preserving the authenticity and credibility that define quality broadcasting.

"As we celebrate World Broadcast Day 2026, we must continue to strengthen radio and other broadcast platforms as instruments of democracy, inclusion, and peaceful coexistence. The media remains a powerful vehicle for fostering unity and sustainable development across our nation," Akiba stated.

World Broadcast Day is observed annually to highlight the significance of broadcasting, particularly radio, in promoting dialogue, development, and social cohesion worldwide.

Screening Exercise for Fallen Soldiers’ Children Rescheduled Nationwide

Ukorebi Esien  | February 11, 2026

CALABAR  – The Nigerian Army has announced the rescheduling of its nationwide screening and verification exercise for children of deceased personnel who died in active service under the Nigerian Army Education Sponsorship Scheme for the 2025/2026 academic session.

In a statement issued on Tuesday by the Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, Headquarters 13 Brigade Nigerian Army, Major Yemi Sokoya, the Army disclosed that the exercise, earlier scheduled to hold from February 2 to March 6, 2026, across various geopolitical zones within Divisions and designated formations, will now take place from February 9 to March 13, 2026.

The statement explained that the adjustment was necessary to ensure a seamless, transparent, and well-coordinated screening and verification process for all qualified beneficiaries nationwide.

According to the Army, the screening exercise within the 82 Division Area of Responsibility, which covers formations under the Division including 13 Brigade Nigerian Army, will be conducted at the Headquarters 82 Division in Enugu from February 14 to 17, 2026.

"All eligible beneficiaries within the Division's area of responsibility are to report at the designated venue on the stipulated dates," the statement read.

Specifically, beneficiaries residing in Cross River State and other states under the 82 Division have been directed to take note of the revised dates and present themselves at the Headquarters 82 Division, Enugu, for the exercise.

Parents, guardians, and beneficiaries have also been advised to come along with all relevant documents as previously directed to facilitate the verification process.

The Nigerian Army reiterated its commitment to the welfare and educational advancement of the children of its fallen heroes, noting that the Education Sponsorship Scheme remains one of the key initiatives designed to support families of personnel who paid the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty.

The Army urged all concerned stakeholders to be guided accordingly by the new schedule.