Fed. Polytechnic Ugep Rectorship and the Questions Before Sen. Ita-Giwa

CALABAR – The appointment of Senator Florence Ita Giwa as Chairman of the Governing Council of the Federal Polytechnic, Ugep was initially welcomed by many Cross Riverians as a positive development. Given her long standing political experience and national influence, many believed her presence would attract growth and opportunities to the institution while promoting the interest of Cross River State. However, recent developments surrounding the appointment of a substantive Rector for the institution have raised concerns among stakeholders and created the impression that the high expectations placed on the council, with the benefit of hindsight, may have been utterly misplaced

Questions have also been raised by some observers about what tangible benefits the Governing Council under her leadership has attracted to the institution since assuming office. Allegations have circulated within the public space suggesting that internal issues within the council may have overshadowed the focus on institutional growth. While some of these claims remain unverified, they have contributed to the growing public sentiment that the council must provide greater transparency regarding its activities and decisions.

The controversy surrounding the appointment of a substantive Rector for the Federal Polytechnic, Ugep has therefore continued to attract attention across Cross River State. What should ordinarily have been a straightforward administrative process has instead opened a wider conversation about accountability, representation, fairness and the responsibility of those entrusted with leadership positions to protect the interest of the state.

At the centre of this controversy which has led to wide protests from youths and indigenes of the host community and the state in general, is Senator Florence Ita Giwa, the Chairman of the Governing Council of the Federal Polytechnic, Ugep. As one of the most prominent political figures from Cross River State and the person presiding over the council responsible for the selection process, many citizens believe that she not only owe the people of the state a clear explanation on how the process unfolded, and why none of the Cross Riverians who reportedly applied and were screened for the position eventually emerged as Rector, but how the process was circumvented to throw-up a non-indigene from Kogi state as front runner for the Rector ship, when Kogi state already have their Polytechnic represented by someone within their state.

Distinguish Cross Riverians, it may also interest you to know that our neighbouring state, Akwa Ibom, have Dr. Uduak Ukekpe as Rector of their Polytechnic - thereby proving that this nature of nonchalance, inequality and injustice could only be made practicable in Cross River State. The question now ruminating and echoeing in the minds of Cross Riverians is, where are our State Representatives - starting from   the Senate, House of Reps, State Assembly and even the current Minister of state for Industry? 

From the accounts circulating among stakeholders, several qualified candidates from Cross River State participated in the selection exercise. Among them was Dr Okimba Peter Etaba from Obubra Local Government Area, an academic whose qualifications and experience were widely regarded as meeting the requirements for the office of Rector. Those who followed the process closely insist that he was not only academically qualified but also performed strongly during the screening and interview stages. Therefore, many Cross Riverians seem to be clamouring for his emergence as an indigene.

This belief has led to widespread sentiment that Dr Etaba stood out among the candidates and that his emergence would have been both meritorious and strategic for Cross River State. Supporters argue that beyond his credentials, appointing a competent indigene from the Central Senatorial District could have helped strengthen the relationship between the institution and its host communities, especially considering that the Federal Polytechnic, Ugep is still a relatively young institution seeking to establish a stable foundation.

For many citizens, the rectorship of the Federal Polytechnic, Ugep presented a rare opportunity to correct the absence of Cross River representation in the leadership of federal polytechnics across the country. The possibility that none of the Cross River candidates emerged from the process has therefore generated frustration among those who believe the state's interest should have been strongly defended during the selection exercise.

In light of these developments, many stakeholders believe the Governor of Cross River State, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, should take a closer look at the circumstances surrounding the process. As the leader of the state and a strong advocate of fairness and institutional integrity, it is expected that the governor will ensure that the issues raised by the public are carefully examined. An investigation into why no Cross Riverian was eventually appointed Rector, despite the presence of qualified candidates, would help restore public confidence in the process.

If any wrongdoing, undue interference or compromise is discovered in the course of such an investigation, many believe that appropriate sanctions should be applied to those responsible. Taking decisive action in such circumstances would reinforce the principles of accountability and demonstrate that the interest of Cross River State cannot be disregarded without consequences.

Ultimately, the people of Cross River State are not merely seeking controversy but clarity. They want to understand how decisions affecting an important federal institution located within their state were taken and whether the opportunity to secure representation for the state within the national polytechnic leadership structure was adequately pursued. In the end, the questions before Senator Ita Giwa remain questions of accountability, fairness and the duty of leadership to protect the legitimate aspirations of the people.

Otu Frowns at State of Refuse Evacuation, CUDA Moves to Restore Calabar’s Cleanliness

Ukorebi Esien | March 13, 2026

CALABAR– Governor Bassey Edet Otu has expressed dissatisfaction over the recent build-up of refuse in parts of Calabar metropolis, directing relevant authorities to take immediate action to restore the city's long-standing reputation as one of Nigeria's cleanest urban centres.

Following the governor's directive, the Calabar Urban Development Authority (CUDA) embarked on an extensive waste evacuation exercise across major streets and refuse collection points within the metropolis.

The Executive Secretary of CUDA, Chief Effiong Ayi, who led journalists on an inspection tour of refuse dump sites in the city, said the agency had intensified efforts to clear accumulated waste and ensure proper sanitation across the capital city.

According to him, the tour was organized to enable members of the press and residents to independently assess the sanitation situation in the city after concerns were raised about the temporary return of refuse heaps in some areas.

"As you can see for yourselves, the situation has improved significantly. Calabar is gradually returning to its clean and green status," Asin said.

He explained that the recent refuse build-up was largely due to mechanical challenges affecting some waste evacuation equipment, noting that the sanitation system in the city relies heavily on mechanized operations.

"Our waste management process is fully mechanized. We deploy trucks, payloaders, excavators and other equipment to evacuate refuse effectively. However, because these machines have been in use for several years, there were cases of wear and tear which temporarily affected operations," he stated.

Asin also disclosed that waste generation increased in some densely populated areas, particularly markets and commercial centres, contributing to the temporary backlog.

To address the challenge, he said the authority adopted a systematic evacuation approach by dividing the metropolis into operational zones to ensure efficient waste removal.

"We divided the city into four zones and carried out evacuation from one zone to another until the backlog was cleared. What you see now in most bins are only maintenance waste which are evacuated regularly," he added.

The CUDA boss also blamed scavengers for contributing to the littering of refuse around collection points, explaining that some individuals scatter waste in search of recyclable materials after the bins have been arranged.

He further lamented that some residents fail to comply with the approved waste disposal time of 6 p.m. to 10 p.m., stressing that indiscriminate dumping during the day makes evacuation more difficult.

Meanwhile, the Special Adviser to the Governor on General Duties, Ekpenyong Akiba, said Governor Otu was unhappy about the sanitation lapse and had ordered immediate intervention to address the situation.

"The governor has made it clear that Calabar must maintain its reputation as a clean and green city. That is why we have been on the field supervising the evacuation exercise to ensure that the situation is brought under control," he said.

Akiba urged residents to support government efforts by adhering to sanitation guidelines and disposing of waste properly.

During the tour, some residents raised concerns over the location of certain refuse bins near busy junctions and markets, arguing that the bins sometimes obstruct traffic and create unpleasant odours when not evacuated promptly.

Others, however, cautioned against relocating the bins too far from residential areas, warning that it could encourage indiscriminate dumping on roadsides and gutters.

Officials assured that the concerns raised by residents would be reviewed as the government continues to strengthen waste management strategies in the city.

Calabar has long been known for its clean, green environment and organized sanitation system, a reputation the present administration says it is determined to preserve.

Otu Gives Marching Order to Appointees Seeking Election Ahead of 2027

Ukorebi Esien  |  March 18, 2026

CALABAR – Governor Bassey Otu has issued a firm directive to members of the State Executive Council and all political appointees with ambitions to contest in the 2027 general elections to resign their positions on or before March 26, 2026.

The Governor handed down the marching order during a State Executive Council meeting, stressing the need to maintain discipline, focus, and integrity in governance. He emphasized that public office must not be used as a platform for pursuing personal political ambitions, noting that the people of Cross River State deserve undivided attention from those entrusted with leadership.

Describing public service as a sacred responsibility, Governor Otu stated that his administration would not tolerate distractions arising from premature political activities. According to him, the directive is necessary to ensure that governance remains efficient and people-centered at a critical time in the state's development trajectory.

He further explained that the decision is not intended to punish anyone but is rooted in principle and aligns with global best practices. The move, he said, is also aimed at creating a level playing field for all aspirants while protecting the integrity of government institutions.

The Governor reaffirmed his administration's commitment to its development agenda, including economic diversification, strengthening strategic partnerships, and boosting internally generated revenue. He urged all affected appointees to comply fully with the directive in the interest of accountability, discipline, and selfless service.

Governor Otu concluded by reiterating that the progress of Cross River State must take precedence over individual political ambitions.

NASS Member, Akiba Sends Words to Gov. Bassey Otu

Ukorebi Esien  |  March 18, 2026

CALABAR – The Member representing Calabar Municipality/Odukpani Federal Constituency, Bassey Akiba, has conveyed a heartfelt message of congratulations to the Governor of Cross River State, Bassey Otu, on his investiture as National Patron of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations.

In his message, Rep. Akiba described the recognition as a clear testament to Governor Otu's unwavering dedication to purposeful leadership, strategic communication, and inclusive governance. He noted that the governor's approach to leadership continues to inspire confidence among citizens and stakeholders alike.

The lawmaker praised Otu's commitment to building trust between government and the people, highlighting his efforts in promoting transparency, unity, and effective public engagement across the state.

According to Akiba, the new role will further position Governor Otu as a key driver in advancing professionalism, ethical standards, and innovation within Nigeria's public relations landscape.

He concluded by wishing the governor continued wisdom, strength, and success as he steers Cross River State toward sustained growth and development.

"My Next Political Moves Will Be Clearer After Lenten Season" — Legor

Ukorebi Esien | March 6, 2026

CALABAR –Former member of the House of Representatives, Legor Idagbo, has said his next political direction will become clearer after the ongoing Lenten season, urging supporters and political stakeholders to focus on reflection, unity and patience in the meantime.

Idagbo made the remark on Wednesday night in Calabar while receiving a delegation of the OBO Movement who paid him a surprise solidarity visit at his residence.

The delegation, led by the Director General of the movement, Solomon Imbufe, was accompanied by the Deputy Director General, Dr. Umah Akpanke, Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Bartholomew Ushie, and the BOT Secretary, Awade Friday. Also present at the meeting was the Chairman of the National Youth Council of Nigeria in Cross River State, Comrade Emma Ulayi.

The delegation included other members of the core leadership of the movement drawn from the three local government areas that make up the Obanliku/Bekwarra/Obudu (OBO) Federal Constituency.

The gathering also attracted notable political figures from Cross River North, including the current member representing the OBO Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Peter Akpanke, Chief Tony Undiandeye, the APC Youth Leader for the Northern Senatorial District, Dan Beshel, and other prominent stakeholders.

During the unscripted meeting, several leaders of the OBO Movement called on Idagbo to consider contesting the Senate seat to represent Cross River North Senatorial District in the forthcoming general elections. They described him as a seasoned political leader with the experience and capacity to provide effective representation at the upper chamber of the National Assembly.

The group also urged political leaders from the constituency to make a clear statement on the political direction of the area ahead of the next election cycle, noting that the OBO Federal Constituency would soon present its position on the senatorial seat based on what they described as the principles of equity, fairness and justice.

Responding, Idagbo thanked the delegation for the visit and the confidence expressed in his leadership. However, he advised that the current period of Lent should be used for reflection and strengthening relationships rather than rushing into political declarations.

According to him, the Lenten season represents a time for spiritual reflection, love, unity and brotherhood.

"After the Lenten season, particularly after Easter, my next political moves will become clearer," he said.

Idagbo also noted that leadership positions are transient, emphasizing that no political office lasts forever and that every political journey eventually reaches a point of transition.

While reflecting on the performance of past senators from the district, he acknowledged that there is always room for improvement but stressed that the people would ultimately determine the next political direction of the district.

He further urged party faithful not to feel intimidated in the political process, adding that political actors must always operate within the principles and expectations of their political parties.

Other leaders present at the meeting expressed solidarity with the OBO Movement, reiterating that stakeholders from the constituency would soon meet to formally articulate their position on the Cross River North senatorial seat. They maintained that the constituency believes it deserves the opportunity to produce the next senator based on equity and fairness among the component areas of the district.

"Why I Left PDP "– Gershom Bassey Breaks Silence

Ukorebi Esien | March 13, 2026

Former Senator representing the Cross River South Senatorial District in the 8th and 9th National Assembly, Gershom Bassey, has broken his silence on the reasons behind his resignation from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), citing deepening internal crises and unresolved divisions within the party.

Bassey formally tendered his resignation in a letter dated March 12, 2026, addressed to the leadership of Ward 9 in Calabar South Local Government Area of Cross River State.

In the letter, the former lawmaker described his decision as painful, noting that he had been a founding member of the party and had committed enormous resources and personal effort over the years to build and strengthen its structures in the state and across the country.

According to him, the persistent internal crisis, deep divisions and unresolved conflicts within the party made it increasingly difficult for him to remain hopeful about its future.

"The continued split within the party structures has weakened its unity and eroded the values upon which it was originally founded," he stated.

Bassey lamented that the most recent developments within the party had further demonstrated that it was drifting away from the ideals that once united its members and gave it direction as a formidable political platform.

"What makes this even more painful is the apparent unwillingness of party elders and leaders to genuinely fight for its soul and restore the discipline, unity and vision that once defined it," he added.

The former gubernatorial aspirant expressed disappointment that what he described as a once great democratic institution that embodied the hopes and aspirations of millions of Nigerians had been reduced to what he termed a caricature of its former self.

Bassey maintained that stepping aside was a matter of principle, stressing that he could not continue to remain part of a system that no longer reflected the values and principles he stood for.

Despite announcing his exit from the PDP, the former senator did not disclose his next political destination, leaving political observers speculating about his possible alignment as political activities gradually build towards the next electoral cycle in Cross River State.

Political analysts believe his resignation could trigger fresh political realignments in the state, given his influence in the southern senatorial district and his long-standing role within the party. 

Ukorebi Esien

Editor-in-Chief, 

The Daily News Ng

Lead Consultant

Achievers Center for Community Development Initiative

+2348161527978

C'River Govt Drags High Net Worth Individuals, Firms to Court Over ₦11 Billion Tax Liabilities

Ukorebi Esien | March 12, 2026

CALABAR – The Cross River Internal Revenue Service (CRIRS) has initiated court proceedings against several High Net Worth Individuals and corporate organizations over outstanding tax liabilities totaling more than ₦11 billion owed to the state government.

The enforcement action, driven by the Service's Legal Services and Enforcement Department, targets taxpayers who allegedly ignored multiple notices and failed to settle their statutory tax obligations despite repeated assessments issued by the tax authority.

According to the Service, the cases cover several tax categories including Personal Income Tax (PIT), Pay-As-You-Earn (PAYE), Withholding Tax (WHT), Direct Assessment, Business Premises Levy, Development Levy, Rental Income Tax, and other statutory payments due to the state.

The legal action forms part of CRIRS' intensified effort to recover revenue owed to the state and strengthen compliance within the tax system.

Speaking on the development, the Chairman of CRIRS, Prince Edwin Okon, emphasized that the Service had exhausted all administrative measures before resorting to legal action.

He explained that the affected individuals and companies had failed to respond to several tax assessments and official notices served on them by the agency.

According to him, the Service will now rely on the relevant provisions of existing tax laws, including the 2025 Tax Reform Act, to ensure that all revenues due to the state are fully recovered.

Prince Okon further urged High Net Worth Individuals and other taxpayers across the state to promptly regularize their tax status and fulfill their obligations to avoid facing similar sanctions.

He reiterated the commitment of the tax authority to enforcing a fair, transparent, and efficient tax system that will support sustainable development and strengthen internally generated revenue for Cross River State.

The move, observers say, signals a renewed determination by CRIRS to enhance voluntary tax compliance while protecting the integrity of the state's revenue administration framework.

C'River IRS Holds Two-Day Strategy Session to Boost State Revenue

Ukorebi Esien | March 11, 2026

CALABAR – The Cross River Internal Revenue Service (CRIRS) has commenced a two-day strategic session aimed at strengthening revenue generation and enhancing investor confidence in Cross River State.

The session, which began on Wednesday in Calabar, brings together Directors, Unit Heads, Assessment Authorities, and Motor Licensing Authorities of the Service. The meeting is designed to review current revenue strategies and develop new approaches that will improve internally generated revenue (IGR) for the state.

Speaking on the theme "Growing Cross River State Revenue: Building Investors' Confidence and Leveraging on Gains of the New Tax Law," the leadership of CRIRS emphasized the importance of strategic planning, collaboration, and innovation in strengthening the state's revenue base. 

The session, scheduled for March 12–13, 2026 is taking place at Event 45 on Douglas Avenue and is exp


ected to focus on key reforms introduced under the new tax law, as well as strategies to improve tax administration, compliance, and service delivery.

Participants will engage in discussions on improving assessment systems, enhancing transparency in revenue collection, and leveraging technology to modernize tax processes across the state. 

The strategy meeting is also expected to address ways of building stronger trust between the government and investors by ensuring a fair, predictable, and efficient tax environment that supports economic growth.

Officials say the outcome of the session will help position the state to maximize the benefits of recent tax reforms while strengthening the capacity of revenue officers to deliver improved results.

The initiative underscores the commitment of CRIRS to deepen institutional efficiency and support the broader economic development agenda of Cross River State.

 

Pure Water Distributors in Calabar Threaten Indefinite Strike Over Multiple Ticket Levies

Ukorebi Esien | March 11, 2026

CALABAR – Distributors of sachet water, popularly known as pure water, in Calabar Metropolis have threatened to embark on an indefinite strike over what they described as excessive daily ticket levies imposed on them by revenue agents in the state.

The distributors, who operate with tricycles and delivery vehicles across Calabar and its environs, say the cumulative daily charges have become unbearable and far exceed the approved levy earlier announced by the Cross River State Government.

Speaking with journalists in Calabar on Tuesday, March 10, 2026, Mr. Desmond Okra, who spoke on behalf of the affected distributors, said the group is already mobilising its members for a shutdown of operations unless government authorities intervene.

According to him, distributors are compelled to pay several levies daily to different revenue collectors. These include a Daily Operational Toll of N200, an Economic Development Levy of N300, a Commerce Development Levy of N200, an Air Pollution/Climate Change Levy of N300, a CRTRA Daily Operational Toll of N200, a Delivery Tricycle Fee of N300, and a Ministry of Environment 2026 Ecology Levy of N300.

He explained that the charges amount to N1,800 per day, which he described as unfair when compared to the N500 daily levy recently approved for mini-bus and tricycle operators by the Governor of Cross River State, Bassey Edet Otu, following protests by transport operators last week.

"We are not against paying government levies, but the number of tickets we are forced to buy daily is too much. It is affecting our business and making it difficult for us to survive," Okra said.

He added that the distributors are demanding that the government review the charges and include them in the same concession granted to mini-bus and commercial tricycle operators.

However, when contacted, the Chairman of the Association of Table Water Producers in Cross River State (ATWAP), Mr. Maurice Etim Okon, said he was unaware of the planned strike action.

Okon, who is also the Chief Executive Officer of Marian Table Water, noted that registered members of the association are exempted from the levies in question.

According to him, the association maintains a cordial working relationship with revenue agents in the state and has taken steps to address the concerns of its members.

Meanwhile, efforts to obtain a response from the Cross River State Internal Revenue Service were unsuccessful as officials of the agency could not be reached as of the time of filing this report.

The distributors warned that failure by the authorities to address their grievances may lead to a disruption in the supply of sachet water across Calabar and neighbouring communities.

IWD: Dansuki Reaffirms Commitment to Gender Equality and Inclusive Governance

Ukorebi Esien | March 6, 2026

CALABAR – Former Member of the House of Representatives, **Daniel Asuquo**, has reaffirmed his commitment to gender equality and inclusive governance as the world marks this year's International Women's Day.

In a statement issued to commemorate the occasion, Dansuki congratulated women across Cross River State, Nigeria, and the world, describing them as the backbone of families, communities, and national development. He emphasized that women play critical roles in agriculture, education, entrepreneurship, peacebuilding, governance, and social development.

He also paid special tribute to the Wife of the Governor of Cross River State for her contributions toward advancing initiatives that support women and families. According to him, sustained collaboration between government institutions, community leaders, and stakeholders is essential to expanding opportunities for women.

Dansuki stressed that empowering women through quality education, economic inclusion, and leadership participation remains a key strategy for achieving sustainable development in Nigeria. He called on policymakers and relevant institutions to strengthen policies that promote equal opportunities and create enabling environments where women can thrive.

He further urged continued investment in programs that enhance women's access to resources, leadership positions, and social protection, noting that inclusive governance is fundamental to building a just and prosperous society.

Dansuki concluded by celebrating the resilience, achievements, and contributions of women, while reaffirming his commitment to supporting initiatives that advance gender equality and inclusive development.