COVID-19: COMMANDANT SPEAKS

Cross River State Commandant, Peace Corps Of Nigeria, Patriot (Dr) Dominic Okweche appeals to the northern Governors on behalf of almajiris.

By: Odama Groovydee Abednigo.

In his words, Dominic advised that rather than allow our children, brothers and sisters rum aimlessly and endanger their lives, I earnestly appeal to all northern leaders to device a means of engaging them meaningfully because amongst them lies leaders of this great country. They deserve a decent livelihood he said.

He added that as long as security of life is concerned, health wise, particularly at the time, where we are battling to keep the state free from the global pandemic of coronavirus according to Sir Ben AYADE'S directives, exportation of almajiris to the southern states is sadly not going to be allowed as well through the boarders of Cross River.

With emotion Okweche fumed; Just a few days ago, truck loads of this peculiar citizens were stopped at the boarder from entry and subsequently turned back. It is a melancholy to see fellow human beings loaded like commodities, it is inhuman and I beg again that this set of Nigerians be given a sense of belonging in their own country.

Patriot Dominic stressed while on radio breakfast program, x-raying progress made so far on the fight against COVID-19, that kudos should be given to Cross River State Governor as well as support for his proactive measures, says Cross River has given the country a global facelift as it concerns the pandemic.

He also advised citizens to join hands with government in fighting the coronavirus by adhering strictly to safety measures noting that the fight is a collective one.

Okweche concluded by thanking the staff and management of FAD, 93.1 FM Calabar for partnering the government on the fight to continually keep the state free from the deadly virus.

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National Youth Council of Nigeria Cross River State Chapter distributes palliatives across its structures in Cross River state

By Ofem, Jesam Igri

Yesterday the 7th day of May 2020, The Executives of National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) Cross River State Chapter headed by Prince  Ndiyo Ndiyo started the distribution of food items across its structures in Cross River State, as part of palliative measures  to cushion the impact of the restriction of movement ordered by Federal and the State  .It is also a measure to contain the spread of the  Coronavirus pandemic..

The State Chairman Prince Ndiyo Ndiyo along side His Secretary Victor Ndifon monitored the distribution of the food items provided by Organization and noted that the distribution was hitchfree and well coordinated.

The Chairman Prince Ndiyo Ndiyo  noted that the food intervention has further proven that the National Youth Council of Nigeria Cross River State Chapter is committed to  mitigating the impact of the Covid 19 restrictions on it structures in Cross River State.

In conclusion NYCN Cross River State through its Chairman Prince Ndiyo Ndiyo called  on all  residents and the entire Youths  of Cross River state to adhere to the professional health advice on the Coronavirus pandemic and the regulations by the State Government which is aimed to ensure that Cross River State remains Covid-19 free.

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National Youth Council of Nigeria Cross River State Chapter distributes palliatives across its structures in Cross River state

By Ofem, Jesam Igri

Yesterday the 7th day of May 2020, The Executives of National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) Cross River State Chapter headed by Prince  Ndiyo Ndiyo started the distribution of food items across its structures in Cross River State, as part of palliative measures  to cushion the impact of the restriction of movement ordered by Federal and the State  .It is also a measure to contain the spread of the  Coronavirus pandemic..

The State Chairman Prince Ndiyo Ndiyo along side His Secretary Victor Ndifon monitored the distribution of the food items provided by Organization and noted that the distribution was hitchfree and well coordinated.

The Chairman Prince Ndiyo Ndiyo  noted that the food intervention has further proven that the National Youth Council of Nigeria Cross River State Chapter is committed to  mitigating the impact of the Covid 19 restrictions on it structures in Cross River State.

In conclusion NYCN Cross River State through its Chairman Prince Ndiyo Ndiyo called  on all  residents and the entire Youths  of Cross River state to adhere to the professional health advice on the Coronavirus pandemic and the regulations by the State Government which is aimed to ensure that Cross River State remains Covid-19 free.

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EFIK LEADERSHIP FOUNDATION IS A THREAT TO THE UNITY AND PROGRESS OF CROSS RIVER STATE

BY Goddie  A. Akpama

Recently some disgruntled individuals operating on the aegis of Efik Leadership Foundation, an unknown group of politicians masquerading as Leaders of the about 600,000 Efik worldwide wrote to President Muhammadu Buhari accusing the Cross River State Governor, Sir Ben Ayade, of doing nothing in the state to contain the spread of Covid-19.
Signatories to the letter include Richard Duke; Chairman of the good governance committee of the foundation; Timothy Esu; Barbara James; and Eyo Ekpo.

As of the time of publication of their letter to the President to date, no single case of Coronavirus has been recorded in the state.  In their letter copied to three former governors of the state, Mr. Clement Ebri, Mr Donald Duke and Senator Liyel, they unwittingly exposed the political motivate of their inordinate call to the President.
They kept rambling from all sides as they belaboured themselves to place Ayade in bad stead before  President Muhammadu Buhari.

But, as much as they tried to create the impression that Coronavirus has become a guest to Cross Riverians, the more they failed in their ill conceived letter to prove that the virus exist in the state.
Knowing that they had no shred of evidence that there is any carrier of the Covid-19 in Cross River State, they shamelessly resorted to reeling out financial figures just to paint  Gov Ayade black in the estimation of the President and the Nigerian public.

Well I will not bother myself or  reasonable Cross Riverians over the figures mentioned by the so-called Efik leaders, but it is wrong for them to feign ignorance of the fact that the N900 million for the fight against the Covid-19 and the N4.5 billion for the airport project, applied for by the governor was approved by the State House of Assembly. If the self-styled Efik leaders feel the appropriation of the funds did not follow due process they should prove it rather than resorting to cheap blackmail against the governor.
If those renegades masquerading as Efik leaders are conscious of the negative effect their selfish agenda is capable of inflicting on the hard earned political unity and cohesion among the diverse ethnic groups in the state, they would have wasted no time in tendering an unreserved apology to the people of Cross River State for promoting disunity among them.

I urge this attention seekers to go and study the contemporary history of Cross River State so as to know that no single ethnic group, the Efik inclusive, can speak on any issue, whether rightly or wrongly, on behalf of the entire state.

Intact, the ELF whose members are political toddlers cannot even speak for the Efik because when the chips are down they will not be counted.
Resorting to ethnic
 cleavages at the slightest prompting will not augur well for the unity of the state.

On the fight against Covid-19, those letter writers commend Ayade rather than condemn him.
It is on record that no one has died in the state on the basis of Covid-19. It is also on record that all samples sent from the state for testing returned negative.

So, must the state create Coronavirus patients when there is none just to satisfy some people and interest?

I stand to be corrected, and I want those assailing Ayade to know that as a proven microbiologist, and environmental scientist, it was Ayade that first recommended the use of nose mask, and that novel has been adopted as a policy, and law throughout Nigeria. Even the World Heath Organisation, WHO, has come to agree with Ayade on this.

Ayade had closed the borders of Cross River State with its neighbouring states, even when the Federal Government had not reasoned in that direction. Now the policy of closing the borders of states in Nigeria and banning interstate moment which Ayade pioneered has been adopted as the most potent weapon against Covid-19.

The ELF should know that Ayade is working seriously to ensure the state is free from Covid-19 .
God bless CRS..

Thank you.

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EFIK LEADERSHIP FOUNDATION IS A THREAT TO THE UNITY AND PROGRESS OF CROSS RIVER STATE

BY Goddie  A. Akpama

Recently some disgruntled individuals operating on the aegis of Efik Leadership Foundation, an unknown group of politicians masquerading as Leaders of the about 600,000 Efik worldwide wrote to President Muhammadu Buhari accusing the Cross River State Governor, Sir Ben Ayade, of doing nothing in the state to contain the spread of Covid-19.
Signatories to the letter include Richard Duke; Chairman of the good governance committee of the foundation; Timothy Esu; Barbara James; and Eyo Ekpo.

As of the time of publication of their letter to the President to date, no single case of Coronavirus has been recorded in the state.  In their letter copied to three former governors of the state, Mr. Clement Ebri, Mr Donald Duke and Senator Liyel, they unwittingly exposed the political motivate of their inordinate call to the President.
They kept rambling from all sides as they belaboured themselves to place Ayade in bad stead before  President Muhammadu Buhari.

But, as much as they tried to create the impression that Coronavirus has become a guest to Cross Riverians, the more they failed in their ill conceived letter to prove that the virus exist in the state.
Knowing that they had no shred of evidence that there is any carrier of the Covid-19 in Cross River State, they shamelessly resorted to reeling out financial figures just to paint  Gov Ayade black in the estimation of the President and the Nigerian public.

Well I will not bother myself or  reasonable Cross Riverians over the figures mentioned by the so-called Efik leaders, but it is wrong for them to feign ignorance of the fact that the N900 million for the fight against the Covid-19 and the N4.5 billion for the airport project, applied for by the governor was approved by the State House of Assembly. If the self-styled Efik leaders feel the appropriation of the funds did not follow due process they should prove it rather than resorting to cheap blackmail against the governor.
If those renegades masquerading as Efik leaders are conscious of the negative effect their selfish agenda is capable of inflicting on the hard earned political unity and cohesion among the diverse ethnic groups in the state, they would have wasted no time in tendering an unreserved apology to the people of Cross River State for promoting disunity among them.

I urge this attention seekers to go and study the contemporary history of Cross River State so as to know that no single ethnic group, the Efik inclusive, can speak on any issue, whether rightly or wrongly, on behalf of the entire state.

Intact, the ELF whose members are political toddlers cannot even speak for the Efik because when the chips are down they will not be counted.
Resorting to ethnic
 cleavages at the slightest prompting will not augur well for the unity of the state.

On the fight against Covid-19, those letter writers commend Ayade rather than condemn him.
It is on record that no one has died in the state on the basis of Covid-19. It is also on record that all samples sent from the state for testing returned negative.

So, must the state create Coronavirus patients when there is none just to satisfy some people and interest?

I stand to be corrected, and I want those assailing Ayade to know that as a proven microbiologist, and environmental scientist, it was Ayade that first recommended the use of nose mask, and that novel has been adopted as a policy, and law throughout Nigeria. Even the World Heath Organisation, WHO, has come to agree with Ayade on this.

Ayade had closed the borders of Cross River State with its neighbouring states, even when the Federal Government had not reasoned in that direction. Now the policy of closing the borders of states in Nigeria and banning interstate moment which Ayade pioneered has been adopted as the most potent weapon against Covid-19.

The ELF should know that Ayade is working seriously to ensure the state is free from Covid-19 .
God bless CRS..

Thank you.

Read More

NYCN:WHY IS DAN OBO AFRAID OF VICTOR NDIFON?

BY: Eba Alobo

As momentum keep gathering around the polity of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Cross River State chapter, two key actors who have clearly indicated their interest for the chairmanship position are Comrade Dan Obo and Comr. Victor Ndifon- two brothers from the same federal constituency.

However, one name which keeps ringing bell in various fora, gathering, meetings and consultations is that of Comr. Victor Ndifon and so I am tempted to ask "Why".

It is no longer news that there have been series of hatched plans to scheme out the former Students leader from the race using the flimsy excuse of being " weak" and a "gentleman agreement of old Ikom and Old Obubra".

The NYCN which is apex youth body of Nigerian Youths is an organization that us posed to make a difference with a mandate to build a greater nation. If this mandate remains sacrosanct then the actors who aspire to lead the state chapter should not be afraid of competition by trying to scheme anyone out of the race.

While reminiscing through the modus operandi of the council in the last few years, I suffice to say that the state chapter needs a young, vibrant, firm and proven leader who is poised to harness and harmonise the entire youths across the state through well thought out plans and programmes.

Now back to the question bugging my mind- Why is Comr. Dan afraid of Victor?. Could it be as a result of these factors:
INTEGRITY/SINCERITY: The hallmark of any leader is the ability to clearly speak out and act his/her words. Integrity which refers to the quality of being honest and having strong moral principles is one thing Comr. Victor Ndifon is bringing to the table of the NYCN. As a serving Secretary General of the council, he has proven beyond reasonable doubt that he is a man of his words through his actions and inactions. As a former Student Union President, Comr. Victor proved himself to be an honest unionist who strived to galvanize and project the interests of the students above self interest and aggrandisement. This alone earned him the title of one of the best SUG presidents in the history of the state university.
For his ambition as state Youth leader, Comr. Ndifon has rolled out policies and programmes that are all encompassing like community engagements where young people especially in the secondary and tertiary institutions will be constructively engaged in activities geared towards improving their welfare and well-being. As an advocate for improved education, he is bringing to the table an avenue where all young intellectuals from Cross River state will be engaged and supported to achieve their dreams considering the fact that every development is tied to education.
According to him in one of his meetings "I want the Youth Council to have a gift of influence and we cannot achieve this without integrity". So can one say that because of his straightforward and sincere policies, some are feeling very uncomfortable?. In the words of John Maxwell 'Power really is a test of character and in the hands of a person of integrity, it is of tremendous benefit; in the hands of a tyrant, it causes terrible destruction'.

AGE: As a young man in his mid-20s, Comr. Victor has been labelled a "Weakling" in several fora maybe because of his calm and gentle nature or just maybe because he has not exhibited a 'thug-like' attribute in all the years he has been saddled with leadership roles. Now the question is- Can a young man who led the armless battalions of CRUTECH students as an SUG president at a very young age be considered to be 'weak'? How come he was never tagged 'weak' when he diligently performed and is still performing all assigned roles as the state scribe of the council. 
On the issue of age, the constitution of the NYCN stipulates that the candidate for the position of chairman should be between the ages of 25-35. If it is so, then Comr. Victor Ndifon is eminently qualified to gun for that position and should not be adjudged 'weak' when there is no evidence to prove that he has been found wanting in any responsibility he was saddled with.

PEDIGREE/ANTECEDENT: Comr. Ndifon is known to have set a record as one of the best SUG presidents and till date has remained one of the most vocal scribes of the NYCN in the state. Could it be that some persons are afraid of this antecedents or there just don't like someone with a quest for changing the narratives?. This remains to be seen in the days ahead as we continue to navigate through the politics of the NYCN in the state. As a young man, Comr. Ndifon has always shown capacity in whatever endeavours he found himself and is poised to replicate same if given the mandate to sail the ship of the NYCN in the state. In the words of Marvin J. Ashton "We tend to evaluate others on the basis of physical, outward appearance: their "good looks," their social status, their family pedigrees, their degrees, or their economic situations. The Lord, however, has a different standard by which he measures a person. When it came time to choose a king to replace King Saul, the Lord gave this criteria to his prophet Samuel: "Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; ... for the Lord seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the Lord looketh on the heart."

ZONING: The issue of zoning happens to be another raging storm in the politics of trying to scheme out Comr. Victor Ndifon from the race. According to feelers on ground, there is a purported 'gentleman' agreement that the NYCN chairman should be zoned to the Old Obubra bloc of Central Senatorial district which comprises of Obubra, Yakurr and Abi LGAs respectively. However statistics available shows that in the history of the NYCN in Central, it is only Etung LGA that has never produced a state Chairman or deputy. Obubra has produced a state Chairman in the past, same with Yakurr and Boki while Abi and Ikom has produced deputy state chairs respectively but Etung where Comr. Ndifon hails from is yet to occupy any of those two offices. So I am tempted to ask, who brought up the the 'gentleman's agreement' and on what basis should Comr. Ndifon be asked to sacrifice his ambition on the altar of a gentleman's agreement that has no bearing whatsoever even in conventional politics of Central if we go by the recent happenings where the Old Ikom bloc has continuously dominated the senate seat of the zone since 1999 from Sen. Ndoma Egba to Sen. Owan and now Sen. Sandy. How come the Old Obubra bloc has not insisted that the gentleman agreement be honoured and why should we bring such arrangements into an apolitical youth council?.

PASSION/LOVE FOR YOUTHS: In whatever gathering Comr. Ndifon has been found, he has consistently stated his passion for the growth and development of young people across the state. From the programmes he has earmarked to embark on if given the mandate to the issues of street kids which has been like a burden in his heart, to the issue of galvanizing young intellectuals of Cross River descent and creating a platform for mentorship for the younger ones in the areas of Science, innovation, politics, economics amongst other sectors. In his exact words "I want my strength of character to reverberate across the structures of the youth council in the stare. I am going to be firm and opened as possible. I want us to leverage on the intellect of young Cross Riverians across the globe". This to me depicts a young mind who is poised to change the narrative and think outside the box of conventional politics to create a lasting impact on the minds of young people from various frontiers and if you ask me, he should be given a chance rather than the attack he is presently getting from some quarters.

Considering the few points raised, it behoves on all stakeholders, delegates, advisers, and indeed the entire young people drawn from all frontiers across the state to see the the aspiration of Comr. Victor Ndifon Jnr as one that is borne out of genuine love for the Youth Council and not out of any personal interest. He should be supported rather than seen as a 'threat'. He should be encouraged rather than discouraged to drop his ambition. And for the sake of posterity, there should be a level playing field where every candidate who has the ambition to lead the youth council should be allowed to exercise their rights to vote and be voted for without intimidation, fear of favour.

Eba Alobo is an Online Publisher and Public Affairs Analyst.

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NYCN:WHY IS DAN OBO AFRAID OF VICTOR NDIFON?

BY: Eba Alobo

As momentum keep gathering around the polity of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Cross River State chapter, two key actors who have clearly indicated their interest for the chairmanship position are Comrade Dan Obo and Comr. Victor Ndifon- two brothers from the same federal constituency.

However, one name which keeps ringing bell in various fora, gathering, meetings and consultations is that of Comr. Victor Ndifon and so I am tempted to ask "Why".

It is no longer news that there have been series of hatched plans to scheme out the former Students leader from the race using the flimsy excuse of being " weak" and a "gentleman agreement of old Ikom and Old Obubra".

The NYCN which is apex youth body of Nigerian Youths is an organization that us posed to make a difference with a mandate to build a greater nation. If this mandate remains sacrosanct then the actors who aspire to lead the state chapter should not be afraid of competition by trying to scheme anyone out of the race.

While reminiscing through the modus operandi of the council in the last few years, I suffice to say that the state chapter needs a young, vibrant, firm and proven leader who is poised to harness and harmonise the entire youths across the state through well thought out plans and programmes.

Now back to the question bugging my mind- Why is Comr. Dan afraid of Victor?. Could it be as a result of these factors:
INTEGRITY/SINCERITY: The hallmark of any leader is the ability to clearly speak out and act his/her words. Integrity which refers to the quality of being honest and having strong moral principles is one thing Comr. Victor Ndifon is bringing to the table of the NYCN. As a serving Secretary General of the council, he has proven beyond reasonable doubt that he is a man of his words through his actions and inactions. As a former Student Union President, Comr. Victor proved himself to be an honest unionist who strived to galvanize and project the interests of the students above self interest and aggrandisement. This alone earned him the title of one of the best SUG presidents in the history of the state university.
For his ambition as state Youth leader, Comr. Ndifon has rolled out policies and programmes that are all encompassing like community engagements where young people especially in the secondary and tertiary institutions will be constructively engaged in activities geared towards improving their welfare and well-being. As an advocate for improved education, he is bringing to the table an avenue where all young intellectuals from Cross River state will be engaged and supported to achieve their dreams considering the fact that every development is tied to education.
According to him in one of his meetings "I want the Youth Council to have a gift of influence and we cannot achieve this without integrity". So can one say that because of his straightforward and sincere policies, some are feeling very uncomfortable?. In the words of John Maxwell 'Power really is a test of character and in the hands of a person of integrity, it is of tremendous benefit; in the hands of a tyrant, it causes terrible destruction'.

AGE: As a young man in his mid-20s, Comr. Victor has been labelled a "Weakling" in several fora maybe because of his calm and gentle nature or just maybe because he has not exhibited a 'thug-like' attribute in all the years he has been saddled with leadership roles. Now the question is- Can a young man who led the armless battalions of CRUTECH students as an SUG president at a very young age be considered to be 'weak'? How come he was never tagged 'weak' when he diligently performed and is still performing all assigned roles as the state scribe of the council. 
On the issue of age, the constitution of the NYCN stipulates that the candidate for the position of chairman should be between the ages of 25-35. If it is so, then Comr. Victor Ndifon is eminently qualified to gun for that position and should not be adjudged 'weak' when there is no evidence to prove that he has been found wanting in any responsibility he was saddled with.

PEDIGREE/ANTECEDENT: Comr. Ndifon is known to have set a record as one of the best SUG presidents and till date has remained one of the most vocal scribes of the NYCN in the state. Could it be that some persons are afraid of this antecedents or there just don't like someone with a quest for changing the narratives?. This remains to be seen in the days ahead as we continue to navigate through the politics of the NYCN in the state. As a young man, Comr. Ndifon has always shown capacity in whatever endeavours he found himself and is poised to replicate same if given the mandate to sail the ship of the NYCN in the state. In the words of Marvin J. Ashton "We tend to evaluate others on the basis of physical, outward appearance: their "good looks," their social status, their family pedigrees, their degrees, or their economic situations. The Lord, however, has a different standard by which he measures a person. When it came time to choose a king to replace King Saul, the Lord gave this criteria to his prophet Samuel: "Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; ... for the Lord seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the Lord looketh on the heart."

ZONING: The issue of zoning happens to be another raging storm in the politics of trying to scheme out Comr. Victor Ndifon from the race. According to feelers on ground, there is a purported 'gentleman' agreement that the NYCN chairman should be zoned to the Old Obubra bloc of Central Senatorial district which comprises of Obubra, Yakurr and Abi LGAs respectively. However statistics available shows that in the history of the NYCN in Central, it is only Etung LGA that has never produced a state Chairman or deputy. Obubra has produced a state Chairman in the past, same with Yakurr and Boki while Abi and Ikom has produced deputy state chairs respectively but Etung where Comr. Ndifon hails from is yet to occupy any of those two offices. So I am tempted to ask, who brought up the the 'gentleman's agreement' and on what basis should Comr. Ndifon be asked to sacrifice his ambition on the altar of a gentleman's agreement that has no bearing whatsoever even in conventional politics of Central if we go by the recent happenings where the Old Ikom bloc has continuously dominated the senate seat of the zone since 1999 from Sen. Ndoma Egba to Sen. Owan and now Sen. Sandy. How come the Old Obubra bloc has not insisted that the gentleman agreement be honoured and why should we bring such arrangements into an apolitical youth council?.

PASSION/LOVE FOR YOUTHS: In whatever gathering Comr. Ndifon has been found, he has consistently stated his passion for the growth and development of young people across the state. From the programmes he has earmarked to embark on if given the mandate to the issues of street kids which has been like a burden in his heart, to the issue of galvanizing young intellectuals of Cross River descent and creating a platform for mentorship for the younger ones in the areas of Science, innovation, politics, economics amongst other sectors. In his exact words "I want my strength of character to reverberate across the structures of the youth council in the stare. I am going to be firm and opened as possible. I want us to leverage on the intellect of young Cross Riverians across the globe". This to me depicts a young mind who is poised to change the narrative and think outside the box of conventional politics to create a lasting impact on the minds of young people from various frontiers and if you ask me, he should be given a chance rather than the attack he is presently getting from some quarters.

Considering the few points raised, it behoves on all stakeholders, delegates, advisers, and indeed the entire young people drawn from all frontiers across the state to see the the aspiration of Comr. Victor Ndifon Jnr as one that is borne out of genuine love for the Youth Council and not out of any personal interest. He should be supported rather than seen as a 'threat'. He should be encouraged rather than discouraged to drop his ambition. And for the sake of posterity, there should be a level playing field where every candidate who has the ambition to lead the youth council should be allowed to exercise their rights to vote and be voted for without intimidation, fear of favour.

Eba Alobo is an Online Publisher and Public Affairs Analyst.

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COVID 19: C/RIVER SPEAKER COMMENDS HEALTH WORKERS

By Itam Offor MOI Officer reporting from CRSHA.

The Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Rt Hon. Eteng Jonah Williams has applauded the efforts of the Health Workers across the Nation for their commitment to containing the COVID 19 pandemic.

Williams who made the commendation during plenary said, the Health workers have been in the front line of the fight against COVID 19 globally, adding some have even lost their lives.

He asked Members to give all Health Workers  an applause as a sign of appreciation for their dedication to serving humanity.                     

Williams further led the Lawmakers to observe a minute silence in honour of all those who have lost their lives as a result of the pandemic and prayed God to grant their souls eternal rest

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COVID 19: C/RIVER SPEAKER COMMENDS HEALTH WORKERS

By Itam Offor MOI Officer reporting from CRSHA.

The Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Rt Hon. Eteng Jonah Williams has applauded the efforts of the Health Workers across the Nation for their commitment to containing the COVID 19 pandemic.

Williams who made the commendation during plenary said, the Health workers have been in the front line of the fight against COVID 19 globally, adding some have even lost their lives.

He asked Members to give all Health Workers  an applause as a sign of appreciation for their dedication to serving humanity.                     

Williams further led the Lawmakers to observe a minute silence in honour of all those who have lost their lives as a result of the pandemic and prayed God to grant their souls eternal rest

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CROSS RIVER TAKING CENTER STAGE IN BASIC EDUCATION DELIVERY

By:Uchino Amatey, CRS-MOI Officer, reporting for SUBEB

The education sector in Cross River State has continued to remain a top priority of the Prof Ben Ayade led administration since taking over the reins of governance on May 29, 2015.

The Governor's deep vision and passion for restoring quality education through a robust transformation of the education sector has been evident in all of the giant strides recorded in the basic education sub-sector so far.

The transformation agenda is being actualized through the State Universal Basic Education Board’s (SUBEB), rescue mission initiative being spear-headed by the pragmatic Chairman of SUBEB, Dr Stephen Odey.

On this rescue mission to restore quality education to every Cross River Child, the present administration has left no stone unturned from purging the system of ghost workers and fake certificates holders through a well celebrated personnel audit exercise, to the recently concluded recruitment of 2500 qualified teaching/non-teaching staff.

The administration's continuous efforts in delivering dividends of democracy to Cross Riverians, has led to the building and rehabilitation of about 500 school projects.

The governor’s commitment to the improvement of the education sector through providing access to qualitative education and infrastructural development is driving the actualization of the British Canadian International School which is above 90 percent completion.

Similarly, the on-going construction of the Model Primary School under the 2018 UBE Counterpart funded programme, to carter to for primary school pupils in the area, while also serving as a feeder school to the British Canadian International School.

Recently, the State Government, in partnership with the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), has provided land for the construction of UBEC Smart Model School, an initiative under the Model School Programme to spur stakeholders’ response and commitment to improving access to quality education and equity in the delivery of basic education in Nigeria.

The Smart School Project is an attempt by UBEC to establish model schools that pervasively use technology to allow Nigerian Children get qualitative education comparable to what is obtainable by children in many advanced countries.

The Smart School, just like the British Canadian International School, will employ state-of-the-art Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) to provide conducive teaching and learning. Here, modern methods of education using various interactive modules like computers, tablets, interactive white boards, projects, videos, cameras and school management software solutions for the learning and management processes will be adopted.

The aforementioned projects are being housed in Obudu, Local Government Area, which is fast emerging as an education hub, taking advantage of the tourist attractions surrounding it.

In order to build capacity, the Prof Ben Ayade-led administration also embarked on the building of a West African Teachers Continuous Training Institute, in Biase Local Government Area, to provide capacity to the increasing number of teachers in the State. The Training Institute will serve as a one stop training and re-training center fueling teachers with current trends and teaching methodologies in the education sector.

According to Malcolm X, "Education is our passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to the people who prepare for it today.” Cross River SUBEB is indeed charting a new course for basic education not only in the state, but in Nigeria.

It is very certain that Governor Ayade would through the Dr Stephen Odey led Board, champion this total basic education revival by ensuring that all these laudable projects are completed and put to use in the shortest time possible for the over all good of the schooling age in Cross River State.

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CROSS RIVER TAKING CENTER STAGE IN BASIC EDUCATION DELIVERY

By:Uchino Amatey, CRS-MOI Officer, reporting for SUBEB

The education sector in Cross River State has continued to remain a top priority of the Prof Ben Ayade led administration since taking over the reins of governance on May 29, 2015.

The Governor's deep vision and passion for restoring quality education through a robust transformation of the education sector has been evident in all of the giant strides recorded in the basic education sub-sector so far.

The transformation agenda is being actualized through the State Universal Basic Education Board’s (SUBEB), rescue mission initiative being spear-headed by the pragmatic Chairman of SUBEB, Dr Stephen Odey.

On this rescue mission to restore quality education to every Cross River Child, the present administration has left no stone unturned from purging the system of ghost workers and fake certificates holders through a well celebrated personnel audit exercise, to the recently concluded recruitment of 2500 qualified teaching/non-teaching staff.

The administration's continuous efforts in delivering dividends of democracy to Cross Riverians, has led to the building and rehabilitation of about 500 school projects.

The governor’s commitment to the improvement of the education sector through providing access to qualitative education and infrastructural development is driving the actualization of the British Canadian International School which is above 90 percent completion.

Similarly, the on-going construction of the Model Primary School under the 2018 UBE Counterpart funded programme, to carter to for primary school pupils in the area, while also serving as a feeder school to the British Canadian International School.

Recently, the State Government, in partnership with the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), has provided land for the construction of UBEC Smart Model School, an initiative under the Model School Programme to spur stakeholders’ response and commitment to improving access to quality education and equity in the delivery of basic education in Nigeria.

The Smart School Project is an attempt by UBEC to establish model schools that pervasively use technology to allow Nigerian Children get qualitative education comparable to what is obtainable by children in many advanced countries.

The Smart School, just like the British Canadian International School, will employ state-of-the-art Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) to provide conducive teaching and learning. Here, modern methods of education using various interactive modules like computers, tablets, interactive white boards, projects, videos, cameras and school management software solutions for the learning and management processes will be adopted.

The aforementioned projects are being housed in Obudu, Local Government Area, which is fast emerging as an education hub, taking advantage of the tourist attractions surrounding it.

In order to build capacity, the Prof Ben Ayade-led administration also embarked on the building of a West African Teachers Continuous Training Institute, in Biase Local Government Area, to provide capacity to the increasing number of teachers in the State. The Training Institute will serve as a one stop training and re-training center fueling teachers with current trends and teaching methodologies in the education sector.

According to Malcolm X, "Education is our passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to the people who prepare for it today.” Cross River SUBEB is indeed charting a new course for basic education not only in the state, but in Nigeria.

It is very certain that Governor Ayade would through the Dr Stephen Odey led Board, champion this total basic education revival by ensuring that all these laudable projects are completed and put to use in the shortest time possible for the over all good of the schooling age in Cross River State.

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Is Ayade to lose or Cross River State?

Having observed keenly the political crises engloving the  PDP in Cross River State, one may wonder who the master beneficiaries are.
Before knowing the beneficiaries,  it is however important to evaluate the present  leadership of our dear State. Conversly,  many will have variations in assessing Governor Ayade's achievements in the last 5yrs of leadership. As a ground rooted Cross Riverians, I will say his performance is of the average.

My reason is quite simple, if you quickly go back memory lane you will see that CRS has not been the same since first term  of governor  Ayade's administration. Since 2015 - date, the Governor has done his best to paint a visualization of the Cross River State he dreams of,  via digital and crystal picture of a Cross River he intends to make an international business destination.

However,  he may not have achieved this due to reasons best known to him. Examples of his commercialization brand, can be seen in a range of elephant projects he has proposed across the 18 LGAs of the state. Again, Whether, these projects has been achieved or not is left for the people of CRS  to decide.

Evidently, dream is  different from vision and vision different from actualization. The fact is that dreams must and may never be implemented by the dreamer. He must have dreamt, but any other person can visualise the dreams by making decisions for the interest of our dear State. Be it as it may, His  Excellency Ben. Ayade  remains my Governor no matter the storm.  He shall seize to be my Governor in 2023.

In contrast, I  support in totality construtive revolution,  corrections and resistance when motives are genuine. But in my little research,  the current hit on Governor Ayade, is only instigated by internal and external politicians who want to hold on to power for the betterment of their selfish interest. For instance, the party  leaders celebrating today are same people who ruled over us since  1999.

My question is what did the forget to correct in the State, that they feel can be corrected now?

Cross riverians are aware that, what befalls us today was inflicted by these same returne politicians. These old politicians stole our National and State  Wealth, then put us in the sorry situation we find ourselves today. There  same politicians are now coming back to tell us same stories of hope and liberation.

Cross Riverian do you really think these Old PDPs' can be trusted? I don't think so.

I believe they deserve to be erased completely from the political picture and younger people should be given a chance. For younger people, mentorship is needed  to stand the test of time. Younger politicians nowadays have become arrogant and so pride consumed that they have fail to envisage  a longer term vision, rather they see only the shorter term goals.

To Governor Ayade's credit,  he is the most youth friendly Governor Cross River State has ever produced. Atleast, with younger people having the opportunity to serve (passively or  actively) under his administration is a plus to his leadership. This  shows some level of hope for the new generation. Which, I believe is the one of many  reasons some of our old leaders are standing up today to fight relegation and redundancy on their path.

As a true Cross Riverian, I don't think past governors or leaders who have failed us deserve  to be supported in a third missionary Journey,  targeted at evoking  the third wise man agreement of  December,1998. As a young chap, I was taught that children are the leaders of tomorrow. This phrase, I am yet to see manifest in my over 3 decades on earth.
All I see a pattern of recycled old  leaders  forced on the people by godfathers  and destructive elements, who have expired mental competence.

I therefore  charge young,  Cross Riverians to resist in totality the 3 Wiseman agreement and look forward to working out a  more open framework,  that will welcome younger curb of politicians into leadership positions in 2023. If this is not done, we shall in 2023 have a government that shall be for old people,  by old people and for old people.

Finally, it is worthy to note that with or without party supremacy  Cross River belongs to us all.
Let us resist any form of imposition of any old political affiliate on us. We the youths have come of age, we shall resist old political Order. Even if it means, losing all we have to make Cross River State a better place.

Long live Cross River State,
Long live the FRN.

By Effiong Ita Okon
For concern youths in Cross River State

Read More

Is Ayade to lose or Cross River State?

Having observed keenly the political crises engloving the  PDP in Cross River State, one may wonder who the master beneficiaries are.
Before knowing the beneficiaries,  it is however important to evaluate the present  leadership of our dear State. Conversly,  many will have variations in assessing Governor Ayade's achievements in the last 5yrs of leadership. As a ground rooted Cross Riverians, I will say his performance is of the average.

My reason is quite simple, if you quickly go back memory lane you will see that CRS has not been the same since first term  of governor  Ayade's administration. Since 2015 - date, the Governor has done his best to paint a visualization of the Cross River State he dreams of,  via digital and crystal picture of a Cross River he intends to make an international business destination.

However,  he may not have achieved this due to reasons best known to him. Examples of his commercialization brand, can be seen in a range of elephant projects he has proposed across the 18 LGAs of the state. Again, Whether, these projects has been achieved or not is left for the people of CRS  to decide.

Evidently, dream is  different from vision and vision different from actualization. The fact is that dreams must and may never be implemented by the dreamer. He must have dreamt, but any other person can visualise the dreams by making decisions for the interest of our dear State. Be it as it may, His  Excellency Ben. Ayade  remains my Governor no matter the storm.  He shall seize to be my Governor in 2023.

In contrast, I  support in totality construtive revolution,  corrections and resistance when motives are genuine. But in my little research,  the current hit on Governor Ayade, is only instigated by internal and external politicians who want to hold on to power for the betterment of their selfish interest. For instance, the party  leaders celebrating today are same people who ruled over us since  1999.

My question is what did the forget to correct in the State, that they feel can be corrected now?

Cross riverians are aware that, what befalls us today was inflicted by these same returne politicians. These old politicians stole our National and State  Wealth, then put us in the sorry situation we find ourselves today. There  same politicians are now coming back to tell us same stories of hope and liberation.

Cross Riverian do you really think these Old PDPs' can be trusted? I don't think so.

I believe they deserve to be erased completely from the political picture and younger people should be given a chance. For younger people, mentorship is needed  to stand the test of time. Younger politicians nowadays have become arrogant and so pride consumed that they have fail to envisage  a longer term vision, rather they see only the shorter term goals.

To Governor Ayade's credit,  he is the most youth friendly Governor Cross River State has ever produced. Atleast, with younger people having the opportunity to serve (passively or  actively) under his administration is a plus to his leadership. This  shows some level of hope for the new generation. Which, I believe is the one of many  reasons some of our old leaders are standing up today to fight relegation and redundancy on their path.

As a true Cross Riverian, I don't think past governors or leaders who have failed us deserve  to be supported in a third missionary Journey,  targeted at evoking  the third wise man agreement of  December,1998. As a young chap, I was taught that children are the leaders of tomorrow. This phrase, I am yet to see manifest in my over 3 decades on earth.
All I see a pattern of recycled old  leaders  forced on the people by godfathers  and destructive elements, who have expired mental competence.

I therefore  charge young,  Cross Riverians to resist in totality the 3 Wiseman agreement and look forward to working out a  more open framework,  that will welcome younger curb of politicians into leadership positions in 2023. If this is not done, we shall in 2023 have a government that shall be for old people,  by old people and for old people.

Finally, it is worthy to note that with or without party supremacy  Cross River belongs to us all.
Let us resist any form of imposition of any old political affiliate on us. We the youths have come of age, we shall resist old political Order. Even if it means, losing all we have to make Cross River State a better place.

Long live Cross River State,
Long live the FRN.

By Effiong Ita Okon
For concern youths in Cross River State

Read More

PROTOCOLS TO RETURNING CIVIL SERVANTS AS THEY RESUMES WORK TODAY

As civil servants in Cross River state resumes work fully today, the Honourable Commissioner for Health and Chairman, COVID 19 Response Taskforce, Dr. Betta Edu has advised all civil servants in the various MDAs to observe all precautionary measures put out by the state government to ensure their safety

•All MDAs must have a bucket and running water in front of their MDA and all persons going in must wash their hands before entry.

• Hand sanitizers should be used by staff in their cars offices and at conference rooms.

• every body entering the MDAs are expected to be on their face mask always, both staff and client or face immediate prosecution at mobile court.

• meetings of more than 20 persons are prohibited at all MDAs and MDAs are not allowed to hold public events or gatherings, as heads of such MDAs will be sanctioned following the law!

•All workers and members of the public who go out to pursue their daily living are expected to retire home at the end of work as a curfew put in place by the Federal Government will be implemented in the state.

• Interstate and international borders remain shut, Chiefs local vigilante and security agencies are requested to continue giving the usual support at these border locations

Dr. Edu who was a guest this morning at Hit FM, said though His Excellency, Senator (Prof) Ben Ayade has earlier directed all civil servants on grade level 10 and above to resume work three weeks ago, he has as at yesterday issued a directive that all workers in the state should resume work today, 4th May, 2020 to continue to sustain productivity and the economy of the state now and post COVID -19.

In his directive, he noted that strict adherence to all the precautionary measures earlier given must be religiously followed and any MDA that defaults, should be sanctioned immediately. So, all our taskforce enforcement unit would be going out to the various offices, ministries, departments and agencies to monitor the directives given by His Excellency.

We are also appealing to all Cross Riverians to stick to the above precautionary measures as we work to keep Cross River state COVID 19 free!

Read More

PROTOCOLS TO RETURNING CIVIL SERVANTS AS THEY RESUMES WORK TODAY

As civil servants in Cross River state resumes work fully today, the Honourable Commissioner for Health and Chairman, COVID 19 Response Taskforce, Dr. Betta Edu has advised all civil servants in the various MDAs to observe all precautionary measures put out by the state government to ensure their safety

•All MDAs must have a bucket and running water in front of their MDA and all persons going in must wash their hands before entry.

• Hand sanitizers should be used by staff in their cars offices and at conference rooms.

• every body entering the MDAs are expected to be on their face mask always, both staff and client or face immediate prosecution at mobile court.

• meetings of more than 20 persons are prohibited at all MDAs and MDAs are not allowed to hold public events or gatherings, as heads of such MDAs will be sanctioned following the law!

•All workers and members of the public who go out to pursue their daily living are expected to retire home at the end of work as a curfew put in place by the Federal Government will be implemented in the state.

• Interstate and international borders remain shut, Chiefs local vigilante and security agencies are requested to continue giving the usual support at these border locations

Dr. Edu who was a guest this morning at Hit FM, said though His Excellency, Senator (Prof) Ben Ayade has earlier directed all civil servants on grade level 10 and above to resume work three weeks ago, he has as at yesterday issued a directive that all workers in the state should resume work today, 4th May, 2020 to continue to sustain productivity and the economy of the state now and post COVID -19.

In his directive, he noted that strict adherence to all the precautionary measures earlier given must be religiously followed and any MDA that defaults, should be sanctioned immediately. So, all our taskforce enforcement unit would be going out to the various offices, ministries, departments and agencies to monitor the directives given by His Excellency.

We are also appealing to all Cross Riverians to stick to the above precautionary measures as we work to keep Cross River state COVID 19 free!

Read More

HELP! ATTACK ON AYADE, WIKE NEEDS IMMEDIATE PSYCHIATRIC ATTENTION

As the saying goes, tongue is the index of character. Nothing else would confirm the veracity of this age long adage than the Governor of Rivers State, Nyesom Wike, whose psyche may be degenerating to that of a man suffering from acute mental disorder.

Gov Wike himself, confirm this fear last week when, maybe thinking he was in a balanced state of mind, he decided to give an update on the state of Covid-19 in Rivers State also known as "Rivers Of Blood", a tag depicting the state of lawlessness and bloodletting in the streets of the state under Wike's watch.

Addressing a press conference which was aired live on AIT and other electronic and online media outlets, Gov Wike veered off the curve and launched an unprovoked attack on the person of the Governor of Cross River State, Professor Ben Ayade, and in the process called him  Ayade a "Boy".

This are Wike's words: "Cross River State Governor is their boy, but if I said so it will be interpreted that I'm challenging the Federal Government.

"Cross River Governor  is one of their good boys, so they won't see anything bad from the statement he said that NCDC will be quarantine."
What an insult! Only a shameless man suffering from psychosis would have put up such a despicable act and crying like a baby over rice given by the Federal Government as Covid-19 palliative.

Like King Saul of Israel in the Old Testament, the Holy Spirit had departed him and the evil spirit overwhelmed him at that moment. If not, why should Gov  Wike, a governor of a state in Nigeria as River State always talk like one who is overwhelmed by inhalation and abuse of hard drugs.

But, let it be known that what Gov  Wike said about the Cross River State Governor, an academic and lawyer, shows that the Rivers State governor lacked proper parental upbringing.
Therefore, it is no surprise that more often than not, he relapses to his original uncivilized state, especially whenever he is talking in public.
In case Wike and his supporters in Cross River State who are celebrating such level of dementia didn't know, I state unequivocally that Gov  Wike didn't just insult Ayade, but insulted the entire people of Cross River State, with a population of about 4 million Crossriverians.
Comparatively, Wike cannot match Ayade in any context, from academics to governance, human relations, government to government relations, name it!

Does Wike expect Ayade to automatically become an enemy of Abuja because he (Wike) considers himself an enemy of the federal government? Were the rice 1,800 bags of rice sent to Rivers State through Cross River State as transit camp in Ayade's custody? Is it not ironic, stupid and childish for  Gov Wike to claim that Rivers State does not need rice, yet he turns around to cry uncontrollably over the same rice? If Wike knows anything like honour, he would have ignored the rice, avoid mentioning Ayade and concentrated on his Covid-19 briefing..

But, the Rivers State governor, who possesses all the attributes of a an uncultured  snip, even in his tone of speech and mannerisms, knowing too well that he had nothing reasonable to say, because he is shallow in knowledge and bereft of decorum decided to spew bunkum by insulting Ayade and the good people of Cross River State.
Wike should be reminded that when Ayade spoke in public on ways to stem the spread of the Covid-19, being a brilliant academic and scientists, he advocated the use face mask or nose mask in public, even when it was not fashionable before the World Health Organisation, WHO. As of today, Ayade has been vindicated. As a policy, Nigeria has adopted the measure against the spread of Covid-19, and the WHO has since changed its position in face of the use of face mask and nose mask.

The  is the difference between class  here.... While Ayade has class,  Gov Wike belongs to the other wing.
Let it be known to him , and his deluded supporters, even in Cross River State, that Ayade was not elected in 2015 and 2019 to become and enemy of Abuja  to fight the federal government. Ayade did not make any campaign promise that he will fight the federal government if elected Governor of Cross River State. He only promised to do his best to improve the economic and total wellbeing of Cross River State and Crossriverians, through any justifiable means, including soliciting and getting the necessary financial and other forms of support from the federal government.

Ayade's hallmarks shows that he is properly schooled in the arts of human, public and governmental relations,  and not like many  that has non of these to boast of.
If not for what many believe can be linked to  his unsteady mental and psychological state, due to his nature of opening-up frontiers of war, where non existed before with  Crossriverians,  even when not provoked.
I think Gov Wike needs immediate attention of psychiatrists.

For the avoidance of doubts, Gov Wike should know henceforth that I and many others like me in and from Cross River State will reply him in his own coin whenever his roving brain pushes him to insult the governor Professor Ben Ayade and by extension the good people of the state.

And to those Cross riverians celebrating Gov Wikes stupidity for political reasons, they should hide their faces in shame.
It is shameful and shocking that such people, among them respected citizens of the state, can sit down and clap for the very man whose utterances is nothing but blatant insult to them also.

To this bunch of people, especially the politicians among them, Gov Wike or anyone from anywhere else can colonise the state, so long as they make political gains out of such servant and master relationship.

They should know, henceforth, that we will never allow that happen, and we will face them gallantly whenever they hire mercenaries  to attack our governor because they want to continue benefiting from the crumbs that fall from his table.

Gov Wike should take his schizophrenia elsewhere and live Ayade and the people of Cross River State out of his unwarranted fight with the federal government. Gov Wike's enemies must not be Ayade's enemies, and his wars must not be Ayade's wars.

SIGNED:
Goddie Akpama, Former Chairman, Inter-Party Advisory Council, Cross River State;
Former Cross River Stat Governorship Candidate, Progressives Peoples Alliance, PPA. 2011/12.

Read More

HELP! ATTACK ON AYADE, WIKE NEEDS IMMEDIATE PSYCHIATRIC ATTENTION

As the saying goes, tongue is the index of character. Nothing else would confirm the veracity of this age long adage than the Governor of Rivers State, Nyesom Wike, whose psyche may be degenerating to that of a man suffering from acute mental disorder.

Gov Wike himself, confirm this fear last week when, maybe thinking he was in a balanced state of mind, he decided to give an update on the state of Covid-19 in Rivers State also known as "Rivers Of Blood", a tag depicting the state of lawlessness and bloodletting in the streets of the state under Wike's watch.

Addressing a press conference which was aired live on AIT and other electronic and online media outlets, Gov Wike veered off the curve and launched an unprovoked attack on the person of the Governor of Cross River State, Professor Ben Ayade, and in the process called him  Ayade a "Boy".

This are Wike's words: "Cross River State Governor is their boy, but if I said so it will be interpreted that I'm challenging the Federal Government.

"Cross River Governor  is one of their good boys, so they won't see anything bad from the statement he said that NCDC will be quarantine."
What an insult! Only a shameless man suffering from psychosis would have put up such a despicable act and crying like a baby over rice given by the Federal Government as Covid-19 palliative.

Like King Saul of Israel in the Old Testament, the Holy Spirit had departed him and the evil spirit overwhelmed him at that moment. If not, why should Gov  Wike, a governor of a state in Nigeria as River State always talk like one who is overwhelmed by inhalation and abuse of hard drugs.

But, let it be known that what Gov  Wike said about the Cross River State Governor, an academic and lawyer, shows that the Rivers State governor lacked proper parental upbringing.
Therefore, it is no surprise that more often than not, he relapses to his original uncivilized state, especially whenever he is talking in public.
In case Wike and his supporters in Cross River State who are celebrating such level of dementia didn't know, I state unequivocally that Gov  Wike didn't just insult Ayade, but insulted the entire people of Cross River State, with a population of about 4 million Crossriverians.
Comparatively, Wike cannot match Ayade in any context, from academics to governance, human relations, government to government relations, name it!

Does Wike expect Ayade to automatically become an enemy of Abuja because he (Wike) considers himself an enemy of the federal government? Were the rice 1,800 bags of rice sent to Rivers State through Cross River State as transit camp in Ayade's custody? Is it not ironic, stupid and childish for  Gov Wike to claim that Rivers State does not need rice, yet he turns around to cry uncontrollably over the same rice? If Wike knows anything like honour, he would have ignored the rice, avoid mentioning Ayade and concentrated on his Covid-19 briefing..

But, the Rivers State governor, who possesses all the attributes of a an uncultured  snip, even in his tone of speech and mannerisms, knowing too well that he had nothing reasonable to say, because he is shallow in knowledge and bereft of decorum decided to spew bunkum by insulting Ayade and the good people of Cross River State.
Wike should be reminded that when Ayade spoke in public on ways to stem the spread of the Covid-19, being a brilliant academic and scientists, he advocated the use face mask or nose mask in public, even when it was not fashionable before the World Health Organisation, WHO. As of today, Ayade has been vindicated. As a policy, Nigeria has adopted the measure against the spread of Covid-19, and the WHO has since changed its position in face of the use of face mask and nose mask.

The  is the difference between class  here.... While Ayade has class,  Gov Wike belongs to the other wing.
Let it be known to him , and his deluded supporters, even in Cross River State, that Ayade was not elected in 2015 and 2019 to become and enemy of Abuja  to fight the federal government. Ayade did not make any campaign promise that he will fight the federal government if elected Governor of Cross River State. He only promised to do his best to improve the economic and total wellbeing of Cross River State and Crossriverians, through any justifiable means, including soliciting and getting the necessary financial and other forms of support from the federal government.

Ayade's hallmarks shows that he is properly schooled in the arts of human, public and governmental relations,  and not like many  that has non of these to boast of.
If not for what many believe can be linked to  his unsteady mental and psychological state, due to his nature of opening-up frontiers of war, where non existed before with  Crossriverians,  even when not provoked.
I think Gov Wike needs immediate attention of psychiatrists.

For the avoidance of doubts, Gov Wike should know henceforth that I and many others like me in and from Cross River State will reply him in his own coin whenever his roving brain pushes him to insult the governor Professor Ben Ayade and by extension the good people of the state.

And to those Cross riverians celebrating Gov Wikes stupidity for political reasons, they should hide their faces in shame.
It is shameful and shocking that such people, among them respected citizens of the state, can sit down and clap for the very man whose utterances is nothing but blatant insult to them also.

To this bunch of people, especially the politicians among them, Gov Wike or anyone from anywhere else can colonise the state, so long as they make political gains out of such servant and master relationship.

They should know, henceforth, that we will never allow that happen, and we will face them gallantly whenever they hire mercenaries  to attack our governor because they want to continue benefiting from the crumbs that fall from his table.

Gov Wike should take his schizophrenia elsewhere and live Ayade and the people of Cross River State out of his unwarranted fight with the federal government. Gov Wike's enemies must not be Ayade's enemies, and his wars must not be Ayade's wars.

SIGNED:
Goddie Akpama, Former Chairman, Inter-Party Advisory Council, Cross River State;
Former Cross River Stat Governorship Candidate, Progressives Peoples Alliance, PPA. 2011/12.

Read More

Couple left many people in awe

Love they say can happen at unexpected time and is very hard bringing two different persons together.

At a time of Coronavirus pandemic, these couple, left many people in awe

Below are they photos

Read More

Couple left many people in awe

Love they say can happen at unexpected time and is very hard bringing two different persons together.

At a time of Coronavirus pandemic, these couple, left many people in awe

Below are they photos

Read More

NCDC STOP THE PRESSURE ON CROSS RIVER STATE NOW----SOCOCOVID

We invited you to our COVID-19 situation room to address urgent matters of national importance. Nigerians and the global world are aware that three states in Nigeria has recorded zero index case of COVID-19, these states are Cross River, kogi and Yobe.

We are alarmed at the insistence of National Center for Disease Control to send her staff to carryout test in Cross River state when it is yet to record any case of Corona virus.  The Nigerian government and its health systems are struggling and begging other nations for medical supplies such as ventilators, testing kits, personal protection equipment and so on and yet instead of deploying the few testing kits available to worst hit states lacking in prevention and management of corona virus, the NCDC is busy forcing itself to a state like Cross River that is yet to record any case of corona virus.

We are aware of the fact that even the developed world such as USA, Great Britain, France, Italy, Spain and many more are yet to record appreciable numbers of testing due to low availability of testing kits. The case of USA readily comes to mind when Mr. Donald Trump announced his plans to reopen the economy, health professionals, business leaders and politicians warned him against the idea and advised the government to wait until enough appreciable test is achieved. Our case here is that Nigeria with marginal testing capability is more concerned through its organs, NCDC to deploy its testing kits to a state that has so far recorded zero COVID- 19 index case; what a preposterous idea! Or is there any hidden agenda on the side of NCDC?

Currently in Nigeria, Kano state seems to be the COVID 19 scarecrow amongst all Nigerians and the International community, we understand that only one testing center is situated in Kano state by NCDC and testing just resumed few days ago after being shut down. SOCOCOVID expects that setting up more testing centers in Kano State right now should be the right step and the right thing to do instead of wasting scarce commodity and resources on areas of less concern.

It is on record that governor Ayade and his gregarious team has done so well in the prevention of Corona virus in Cross River state, for example, the state leadership took proactive steps by enacting No mask no movement policy, established mask and other materials production center; established health surveillance team at the border areas.

Nigerians may not be aware of the strategies that Cross River state government designed and implemented in an attempt to ensure the state remains COVID-19 free;

They further established COVID-19 task force in all local government Areas of the state.
In addition, almost all LGAs has a wattsapp group where notable indigenes sensitise their people in local dialects, mobilise resources to compliment the state government efforts to curb the pandemic.
He embarked on free distribution of face mask to crossivarians.
All palliative efforts are coordinated through traditional Institutions strictly and the religious bodies both Christian and Muslims.
On-going employment of about 8,000 youths between the ages of 18-35, meant to reduce the pressure on food palliatives while concentration of distribution is focused on the aged, sick persons and vulnerable to assist them stay strong and safe throughout this challenging times.
The Government established an isolation center.
The Government gave Peace Corps of Nigeria a Toyota Hilux to assist in the enforcement of border policy of government.

Professor Ben Ayade being a scientist himself seems to be using his numerous academic achievements and his intellectual pot to salvage the situation as an environmental microbiologist.

We believe that professor Ben Ayade is worthy of emulation by all states especially those with higher case of COVID-19, it is not too late to be right.

It is worthy of note that, Governor Ayade enjoys the support of all organs of government, especially the State Assembly under the leadership of the Speaker, Rt. Hon. E.J Williams.

 In case you are yet to be aware, Governor Ayade directed all Commissioners to relocate to their respective Local government Areas to enforce the NO MASK NO MOVEMENT POLICY, What else do NCDC want in Cross River State?

We urge NCDC to Supply Cross River state government with more testing kits or accept to be quarantined if they insist on wasting time in cross River state but SOCOCOVID advise to NCDC is stop the pressure on Cross River State and concentrate on Kano State, this is the voice of Nigerians.

The Society committee Against COVID-19 is a conglomeration of credible NGOs/Civil society Organisations established to compliment government efforts on COVID-19 and also a citizens advocacy group.
Thank you for attending.


Kenneth Ibe-kalu
National Coordinator
SOCOCOVID
08033013624

Read More

NCDC STOP THE PRESSURE ON CROSS RIVER STATE NOW----SOCOCOVID

We invited you to our COVID-19 situation room to address urgent matters of national importance. Nigerians and the global world are aware that three states in Nigeria has recorded zero index case of COVID-19, these states are Cross River, kogi and Yobe.

We are alarmed at the insistence of National Center for Disease Control to send her staff to carryout test in Cross River state when it is yet to record any case of Corona virus.  The Nigerian government and its health systems are struggling and begging other nations for medical supplies such as ventilators, testing kits, personal protection equipment and so on and yet instead of deploying the few testing kits available to worst hit states lacking in prevention and management of corona virus, the NCDC is busy forcing itself to a state like Cross River that is yet to record any case of corona virus.

We are aware of the fact that even the developed world such as USA, Great Britain, France, Italy, Spain and many more are yet to record appreciable numbers of testing due to low availability of testing kits. The case of USA readily comes to mind when Mr. Donald Trump announced his plans to reopen the economy, health professionals, business leaders and politicians warned him against the idea and advised the government to wait until enough appreciable test is achieved. Our case here is that Nigeria with marginal testing capability is more concerned through its organs, NCDC to deploy its testing kits to a state that has so far recorded zero COVID- 19 index case; what a preposterous idea! Or is there any hidden agenda on the side of NCDC?

Currently in Nigeria, Kano state seems to be the COVID 19 scarecrow amongst all Nigerians and the International community, we understand that only one testing center is situated in Kano state by NCDC and testing just resumed few days ago after being shut down. SOCOCOVID expects that setting up more testing centers in Kano State right now should be the right step and the right thing to do instead of wasting scarce commodity and resources on areas of less concern.

It is on record that governor Ayade and his gregarious team has done so well in the prevention of Corona virus in Cross River state, for example, the state leadership took proactive steps by enacting No mask no movement policy, established mask and other materials production center; established health surveillance team at the border areas.

Nigerians may not be aware of the strategies that Cross River state government designed and implemented in an attempt to ensure the state remains COVID-19 free;

They further established COVID-19 task force in all local government Areas of the state.
In addition, almost all LGAs has a wattsapp group where notable indigenes sensitise their people in local dialects, mobilise resources to compliment the state government efforts to curb the pandemic.
He embarked on free distribution of face mask to crossivarians.
All palliative efforts are coordinated through traditional Institutions strictly and the religious bodies both Christian and Muslims.
On-going employment of about 8,000 youths between the ages of 18-35, meant to reduce the pressure on food palliatives while concentration of distribution is focused on the aged, sick persons and vulnerable to assist them stay strong and safe throughout this challenging times.
The Government established an isolation center.
The Government gave Peace Corps of Nigeria a Toyota Hilux to assist in the enforcement of border policy of government.

Professor Ben Ayade being a scientist himself seems to be using his numerous academic achievements and his intellectual pot to salvage the situation as an environmental microbiologist.

We believe that professor Ben Ayade is worthy of emulation by all states especially those with higher case of COVID-19, it is not too late to be right.

It is worthy of note that, Governor Ayade enjoys the support of all organs of government, especially the State Assembly under the leadership of the Speaker, Rt. Hon. E.J Williams.

 In case you are yet to be aware, Governor Ayade directed all Commissioners to relocate to their respective Local government Areas to enforce the NO MASK NO MOVEMENT POLICY, What else do NCDC want in Cross River State?

We urge NCDC to Supply Cross River state government with more testing kits or accept to be quarantined if they insist on wasting time in cross River state but SOCOCOVID advise to NCDC is stop the pressure on Cross River State and concentrate on Kano State, this is the voice of Nigerians.

The Society committee Against COVID-19 is a conglomeration of credible NGOs/Civil society Organisations established to compliment government efforts on COVID-19 and also a citizens advocacy group.
Thank you for attending.


Kenneth Ibe-kalu
National Coordinator
SOCOCOVID
08033013624

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