C'River Gov signs Statewide Agriculture Irrigation Initiative

By Asuquo Cletus Felix

The Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Otu, through the Ministry of Agriculture, has initiated a statewide irrigation project.

It was gathered that the initiative is in a collaborative partnership agreement Dam Tech Nigeria Limited, a consultancy firm tasked with overseeing the design, study, and procurement processes essential for the project's success.

In a press statement issued on Monday by Nsa Gill the Chief Press Secretary to Governor, it disclosed that the partnership

was signed by the Commissioner for Agriculture and Irrigation, Hon. Johnson Andiambey Ebokpo, who signed the agreement on behalf of the state in his office. 

According to him, the signage of the initiative  is in line with the Otu's administrative "vision to position Cross River as a leading seed-producing state". 

"This consultancy agreement places Dam Tech Nigeria Limited in charge of engineering design, studies, and procurement models needed to develop our statewide irrigation infrastructure.

"Despite our extensive floodplains, we've been unable to utilize this water effectively due to structural issues. This initiative aims to change that.

"Cross River State is now focused on commercial agriculture. We can no longer rely solely on subsistence farming with the amount of arable land we have. Our nine-point agenda prioritizes crop production and water management, to produce key grains like rice, maize, wheat, barley, and cowpea year-round.

"You have the unwavering backing of Governor Bassey Otu. We must ensure this project's success, especially as it aligns with the federal government's Sustainable Power and Innovation Initiative Project (SPIN-Project)."

The Commissioner also announced a forthcoming $15 million World Bank initiative aimed at supporting the state's irrigation infrastructure development. He credited this achievement to the state's proactive efforts in advancing irrigation practices.

He assured Dam Tech Nigeria Limited of the government's full support, emphasizing the importance of the project's success.

LG Polls in View as Otu Appoints CROSIEC Members

CALABAR —Governor Bassey Edet Otu of Cross River State has taken steps toward conducting local government elections in the State by appointing members of the Cross River State Independent Electoral Commission (CROSIEC). 

According to a statement signed by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Mr. Nsa Hill, the 8 man committee has Mr Ekong Edet Bocco as Chairman while Dr. Lawrence Edu Esq is Secretary of the committee. Other members include; Mrs Rose Banku Atep, Mr Adoga Joseph, Ipuole Eutendala Eno, Barr. Daniel Edet Dr.eyo Otu Eyo and Jlerry Adie Akabisong.

The committee whose appointment will need approval from the. Cross River State House of Assembly will be saddled with the responsibility of conducting the local government elections. 

This development comes in the wake of a recent Supreme Court ruling that underscores the necessity of democratically elected local government administrators for states to receive federal funding.

Recall that few weeks ago, the Supreme Court sitting in Abuja had ruled in favor of the Federal Government, asserting that state governors no longer have the authority to manage local government funds. The judgment further stipulated that states without democratically elected local government officials would be denied federal allocations. 

It is believed that this ruling has intensified the urgency for Cross River State to hold local government elections, aligning with the federal mandate for local governance autonomy.

As sources close to the All Progressives Congress party leadership and the governor had previously informed our reporter that governor had prepared a list of caretaker committee members for the 18 local government areas (LGAs) in the state. However, the recent judicial pronouncement appears to have shifted the administration's focus towards organizing elections.

The appointment of CROSIEC members is a crucial step in the electoral process, as the commission is responsible for overseeing the conduct of local government elections in the state. This move signals the government's commitment to upholding democratic principles and ensuring that local government administration is carried out by duly elected officials.

As the state gears up for the upcoming elections, the focus will be on ensuring a transparent and credible electoral process. The Cross River State government is expected to provide necessary support to CROSIEC to facilitate the smooth conduct of the polls.

UNICROSS Ban End-of-Examination Celebrations

UNICROSS Main Gate 

Asuquo Cletus Felix

CALABAR — The management of the University Of Cross River State, has ordered the immediate ban of  signing out celebrations across its campuses, during the upcoming final year examination.

This was contained in a circular issued by the varsity management on Wednesday, directed to all staff, Students' and the general public titled "Sustaining Peace And Security On Campus".

The Management said the ban is aimed at forestalling a breakdown of law and order within the university campuses.

"This is to inform all staff, students and the general public that the University management is aware of the usual post examination celebration especially by final year students and the negative /unwholesome consequences such celebrations usually have on the university environment.

Copy of the Circular baning, Jubilation on Campus after Final year Examination 

"Consequently management has directed that there shall be no signing out or pouring of water on one another by the student after the examinations in the campuses and the environs.

"Reckless driving in motorcades with loudspeakers will not be tolerated within the campuses. Flying of colours by any group within the campuses or the environs shall not be tolerated.

Students should not loiter around the examination areas if they are not part of the examination". The statement reads in parts.

P- Square: Peter writes an Open to his Twin Brother Paul

My dear brother Paul,

Just like I have told you several times, I am not in any competition with you or anybody else. However, seeing you grant countless interviews where you constantly discredit my efforts in the group that we both created and built together really speaks volumes. In your recent interviews, you claimed that you wrote and sang 99% of all P-SQUARE songs and discredited me by saying that our song with TI "EjeaJo," which I wrote, was a failure. You went as far as using the YouTube views to discredit me once again.

You never acknowledged the other songs like "Get-Squared," "Bizzy Body," "Personally," "Roll It," "Temptation," "Alingo," "More than a Friend," "Shekini," "Say Your Love," "Gimme Dat," "Senorita," "IGBEdu," and a few others. Were these songs also considered failures as well?

  

Every time I have spoken in interviews about P-SQUARE, I have always used "we" and "us" because I saw us as a team. But whenever you speak, it's always "I" and "me," even when I'm standing right beside you. It's as if I never existed.

My brother, neither of us is the most talented artist in the world, but you fail to understand that God gave us this talent and even granted us another chance to excel after our last breakup. Instead, you chose to turn the most awarded and decorated music group in Africa into a laughingstock again.

One thing you need to understand clearly is that the fans didn't fall in love with P-SQUARE because of who sang or danced the most. What made us special was the magic that came from our combined effort - us two! P-SQUARE was a force, and the fans fell in love with P-SQUARE because of our uniqueness and unity. We both have talent, no doubt, and I have often praised you in our interviews for your songwriting ability. I have also praised anyone who has ever written a song for us or even for me as Mr. P. But instead of showing gratitude for my kind words, you seem to find satisfaction in rubbing it in my face, forgetting that it is by God's grace that we have come this far.

 

 Rather than joining forces with me to reclaim our number 1 spot in the music industry, you chose to team up with Jude to claim the number 1 spot in the P-SQUARE group, always looking for opportunities to marginalize and humiliate me.

You are always claiming to be P-SQUARE's songwriter, composer, producer, singer, backup vocalist, in fact you are everything including P-SQUARE's video director, band, promoter, manager, even the choreographer. You are the Author and Finisher of P-SQUARE! In fact, I dash you 100% of everything instead of the 99% you claim.

I blame myself for not responding to your tweet claims in April 2015 that you wrote and sang all of P-SQUARE's songs. I didn't respond to these false claims for the sake of peace, as advised by family and friends, and now I am paying dearly for it.

So, my brother, let me ask you: Is Rudeboy or Mr P bigger and more successful than P-SQUARE today? Are we individually selling out arenas and stadiums like P-SQUARE used to? Are we topping world music charts with our songs as solo artistes? 

Do we command crowds and entertain massive audiences like P-SQUARE?

I often find myself wondering, what do you truly gain by constantly disrespecting and belittling me all the time. You have disrespected my wife, disrespected my family, disrespected my talent, disrespected my ideas, and even sided with Jude when he was clearly trying to oppress me. Now, it feels like you have taken it even further by trying so hard to turn the fans against me by making them believe I'm jealous of you.

You have been doing everything for the fans to hate me, but guess what? They will never hate me; instead, they will hate us both because we have disappointed and failed them.

I hope you are happy now. I genuinely wish you nothing but the best, bro! As for those who believe these lies and false narratives and come to my page to drop negative comments, I understand because you have been fed the wrong narrative for a long time. Please allow me to focus and do my music in peace.

As for the EFCC matter, 

I will address it before the end of today. Stay tuned! Peace✌🏾

                                                        

  PETER OKOYE.

C'River First Lady Rev Mrs. Eyoanwan Otu Aids Military Widows with Cash and Palliatives

Rev. Mrs Eyoanwan Otu, 
First Lady of Cross River State 

CALABAR — Rev Mrs. Eyoanwan Otu, wife of the Executive Governor of Cross River State, has pledged the government's commitment to improving the welfare of widows of fallen military and paramilitary heroes.

The first lady made this known during the monthly prayer and fasting program organized by the Association of Military and Paramilitary Widows, titled "When Military Widows Party," held at The All Christian Fellowship Center on Justice Ayade Crescent, she addressed the widows' plight.

Speaking through her representative, Apostle Dr. Mrs. Queen Eton Essien, Rev Mrs. Otu acknowledged the numerous reports of mistreatment faced by these widows. "We received reports that many of you were ill-treated and driven out of barracks after your husbands died, with some even denied their husbands' entitlements," she said. "Today, Her Excellency has sent me to tell you to cry no more. She heard your humble plea and has come to identify with you, sending us to make these presentations on her behalf. She promises to attend future editions of this program in person."

Rev Mrs. Otu encouraged the widows to let go of past grievances, support their children, and assured them of a better future under the Cross River State government.

Bishop Stella Archibong, also speaking at the event, urged the widows to stand up for their children's rights, reminding them that they are not alone. "I came to encourage you not to allow yourselves to be pulled down. Ensure you stand up for your children, knowing that you have God and the wife of the governor standing step by step with you. We ask God to bless her and enable her to do even more for you," she said. "Gather your strength and virtue, protect your children, and remember that the prayers of widows avail much. May the God of all creation grant you succor."

The event featured intercessory prayers for the state, the governor, and his wife. Over 100 participants received physical cash support and palliatives, including bags of rice, beans, and garri. In appreciation, the coordinator presented gift items to the governor's wife.

Photo Gallery: 

C'River Govt Denies Inviting Retirees For Physical Verification

Asuquo Cletus Felix 

CALABAR — The Cross River State Government has denied inviting retirees of Batch A up to 2019 to report for a physical verification exercise, from Monday 12th to Tuesday 20th, August 2024.

In a Public Service Announcement issued on Sunday by Obol Dr. Innocent E.Eteng noted that the said announcement "did not emanate from the office of the Head of Service nor the office of the Secretary to the State Government".

The denial is coming after many media establishments (Not The Daily News) had reported that the SGF had ordered state retirees to report for verification exercise.

"The attention of the Head of Service has been drawn to a fictitious press release dated August 9,2024, requesting retirees of a contrived Batch A up to 2019 to report to the office of the Accountant General for a physical verification exercise from Monday 12th to Tuesday 20th August, 2024.

"The said announcement is false and did not emanate from the office of the Head of Service, nor the office of the secretary to the state Government or any other office of Government.

" Cross River State pensioners and indeed the public should disregard the directives as it is the handwork of mischief makers and fraudsters."

It further added that arrangements have been made by the gratuity payment committee to ensure "a seamless exercise".

"Arrangements are being made by the gratuity payment committee to ensure a seamless exercise soon and the public shall be informed approximately.

"Retirees and the general public are advised never to part with their hard-earned money to anyone who claims ability or links with any person or authority to facilitate gratuity payment."

Contractor drags Otu to Court over Failed State Library Contract Deal

Governor Bassey Edet Otu's administration is currently facing charges for failing to adhere to a contract agreement with Henss Asset Company Nigeria Limited regarding the renovation and remodelling of the Cross River State Library Complex.

According to documents obtained by our reporter, the Cross River State Government, under Governor Otu, engaged Henss Asset Company Nigeria Limited to renovate and remodel the dilapidated State Library Complex in Calabar, located behind Millennium Park. The contract was awarded for N670,424,703.35 (six hundred and seventy million, four hundred and twenty-four thousand, seven hundred and three naira, thirty-five Kobo) 

The contract payment structure was outlined as follows:

Mobilization Fee: 30% of the total contract sum, amounting to N201,127,411.00 (two hundred and one million, one hundred and twenty-seven thousand, four hundred and Eleven Naira).

During Execution: 50% of the contract sum, amounting to N335,212,351.67 (Three Hundred and Thirty-Five Million, Two Hundred and Twelve Thousand, Three Hundred and Fifty-One Naira, Sixty-Seven Kobo), payable upon presentation of an interim payment certificate.

Completion Fee: 15% of the contract sum, amounting to N100,563,705.50 (One Hundred Million, Five Hundred and Sixty-Three Thousand, Seven Hundred and Five Naira, Fifty Kobo).

According to a statement by the management of Henss Asset Company Nigeria Limited, the company began work on the site in December 2023.  

In February 2024, the government paid the contractor the sum of  N164 million 2024 as the 30% Mobilisation fee instead of N200 million. it was later realised that about N36 million was deducted from the N200 million mobilization fee as taxes.

The management added that in April 2024, the state government had expected that the project will be completed and commissioned  in May 29 which the contracted pointed as impossible due delay in payment by the government and is not the agreed project delivery timeline. In April 2024, the government terminated the contractors' contract, claiming that they could not meet the commissioning date of May 29, 2024.

The management of Henss Asset Company Nigeria Limited argued that the slow pace of the job was due to the late release and paucity of funds by the government. Having tried to resolve the matter amicably with the government, all efforts proved abortive as the state Ministry of Special Duties took over the  project, and the state governor secured executive council approval to increase the contract sum.

This prompted the contractor to take legal action against the administration.

Court Intervention

 The contractor seeks that the court remedy the matter by ordering the Cross River State government to pay  the contractor for the work already done in the library and also pay the damages accrued.

On May 6, 2024, the Cross River State High Court issued an order that both parties should maintain the status quo pending the hearing and determination of the matter. This judicial directive was intended to prevent any actions that could alter the subject matter of the dispute and ensure that the legal process could proceed fairly.

Alleged Violation of Court Order

Despite the standing court order, the administration of Governor Otu has continued the renovation project through the Ministry of Special Duties. This continuation of work has been deemed a clear violation of the court's directive. By proceeding with the renovation, the administration is accused of undermining the authority of the court and disrupting the legal process.

According to sources, the standing order to maintain the status quo is crucial for preserving the integrity of the legal proceedings. It aimed to prevent any irreversible changes that could prejudice the parties involved. The administration's disregard for this order raises concerns about respect for the judicial system and the rule of law.

Delays in Legal Proceedings

In addition to violating the court order, the state government has repeatedly delayed filing its claims and processes in court. These delays have resulted in numerous adjournments, significantly hindering the timely resolution of the case. The contractor, Henss Asset Company Nigeria Limited, has expressed concerns about the impact of these delays on the case, emphasizing the need for a swift and fair judicial process.

Impact on the Contractor

The contractor is particularly worried about how these issues might affect the final resolution of the dispute. The continuation of the renovation project and the delays in court proceedings could potentially lead to irreversible changes, complicating the situation further. Henss Asset Company is now seeking payment of the monies owed and damages for the breach of contract. It is imperative that the judicial process is respected and allowed to proceed without interference to ensure a balanced and unbiased resolution.

Conclusion

According to a source familiar with the development but not authorized to speak on the matter, the ongoing renovation, despite a court order to halt, and the delays in legal processes underscore the tensions and complexities of the case. The contractor's work was halted in April 2024 under the pretext that progress was slow and that the library was meant to be commissioned by May 29, 2024. However, the library has yet to be commissioned, and the governor has sought Exco approval to increase the contract sum by another N600 million and awarded to another contractor. This situation highlights the broader issues of governance, respect for the rule of law, and the administration's commitment to fair contractual practices.

C'River NYCN Inaugurate 2024 Youth Week Committee

Asuquo Cletus Felix | 31st July 2024

CALABAR —The National Youth Council Of Nigeria, (NYCN) Cross River State Chapter has Inaugurated a 12 man committee ahead of the 2024 Youth Week celebration.

The Inauguration which took place on Wednesday, at the State's Ministry of Youth Affairs in Calabar the Cross River State capital, had in attendance the Commissioner Of Youth  Development, Barrister Ijom Ukam, Youth Groups and Student Leaders. 

The  Daily News Nigeria  (TDN)  gathered that the youth week is an annual event where youths gather to celebrate their achievements.

Speaking in an interview with TDN,  shortly after the Inauguration, the Council's Youth Chairman Comrade Olayi Emmanuel disclosed that the members of the   committee, are "young men of timber and caliber, with a proven track record with youth development activities in the state".

He informed that although coming to power recently, he believed will deliver on the mandate given to them in order to ensure "A colorful youth week celebration".

"The Youth Week is an annual event where  young people from all walks of life gather to celebrate themselves and to push what they feel are their concerns to the authorities.

"The event is scheduled to be held from August 12, as the people who constitute the committee are 12. They are young men of timber and caliber with proven track records, in their various Local Government Areas."- He said.

On the issue of protest, he maintained that youths in Cross River State should "Embrace Dialogue" and not "Protest", but continue to support the Governor Otu's  administration, which he said "Is trying all it's possible best in providing good governance, through provisions of roads" as well as other social amenities.

He said "We as Cross River State Youth, we cannot protest, instead we believe in dialogue over protest, but we believe that it is a citizen's constitutional right to peaceful assemblies to protest.

"Although there are different narratives pushing that it is a peaceful Protest, we are aware of that fact but let's flash our minds back to what happened during the EndSars protest, the vandalism.

"Let's go back to the round table and dialogue peacefully, instead of protesting, let's continue to support the governor and his policies. He has done well in government, through the things he has done like roads, our State library, so we cannot protest but dialogue".

On his part, the Cross River State Commissioner for Youth Barr Ijom Ukam appreciated the committee charging them to work together in order to bring about "a colorful youth week celebration".

He noted that he will discuss with the Governor on the budget of the committee, towards ensuring a success of the celebration.

Duke Commends St. Patrick's College Alumni Association for Strengthening Community Bonds

CALABAR — The Vice Chairman and CEO of the Cross River State Planning Commission, Pastor Dr. Bong Duke, has hailed the leadership of the St. Patrick's College Alumni Association, Calabar Branch, for their initiative in strengthening community bonds and fostering a sense of shared heritage and pride

Dr. Duke, who is also an alumnus of the institution, made this commendation during a brief visit from the association's leadership to his office emphasized the importance of such initiatives in promoting unity and a sense of belonging among the alumni. He informed that the State Planning Commission is eager to support and participate in the 90th-anniversary celebration, recognizing it as a significant milestone in the history of St. Patrick's College.

"The upcoming 90th-anniversary celebration is not just a school event; it is a community event that brings together generations of alumni to honor an institution that has significantly shaped our lives," Dr. Duke added. "The Planning Commission is committed to supporting this celebration, reflecting our dedication to promoting unity and progress within Cross River State."

 "As an old boy of the institute, I am particularly proud of the efforts being made to celebrate our alma mater's rich history and legacy." Duke concluded. 

The visit, led by the Branch Chairman, Ntufam Bassey Asikpo, provided valuable insights into the upcoming 90th-anniversary celebration of St. Patrick's College, Ikot Ansa, Calabar, slated for November 2024. 

Earlier, Asikpo, on behalf of the Alumni Association, expressed gratitude to Dr. Duke for his unwavering support and for being an exemplary representative of St. Patrick's College. He reiterated the association's commitment to ensuring that the anniversary celebration will be a memorable event that highlights the college's contributions to education and community development.

The visit from the Alumni Association was brief but impactful, while revealing the deep-rooted connections and mutual respect among the old boys of St. Patrick's College. The upcoming anniversary celebration promises to be a remarkable event, bringing together alumni from various fields to celebrate their shared heritage and the enduring legacy of St. Patrick's College, Ikot Ansa, Calabar.

Police Promotes 7194 Officers

Asuquo Cletus Felix | August 1st 2024 

CALABAR —The Nigerian Police Force has approved the promotion of 7194 Inspectors who passed the Departmental Selection Board (DSB), to the substantive rank of Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP11).

In a statement by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, it said the newly promoted officers have been charged to put their acquired experience to maximum use in line with the modern standards of policing and discharge their duties in accordance with the provisions of the law.

"Following recommendation by the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D, NPM, the Police Service Commission(PSC) has approved the promotion of Seven Thousand One Hundred and Ninety-Four (7194) Inspectors who passed the Departmental Selection Board (DSB), to the substantive rank of Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP11).

"The newly promoted officers have been charged to put their acquired experience to maximum use in line with the modern standards of policing and discharge their duties in accordance with the provisions of the law."-It reads.

The Inspector-General of Police while congratulating the affected officers, reiterated the commitment of the Force under his leadership to improved welfare for officers and men of the Force, and ensuring promotions are timely and merit based.