CROSS RIVER STATE TO ESTABLISH FARMERS COURT - Rt. Hon. Eteng Jonah Williams

The Cross River State House of Assembly has expressed willingness to consider a Legislation for the establishment of Farmers Court, to strengthen repayment of agricultural loans by farmers, to enhance administration of agric loans, as well as ensuring the success of the Agricultural Revolution in the State.

The Speaker of Cross River State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Eteng Williams Jones made this position known, when executive members of the farmer Association's in the various Agricultural value chains paid him a courtesy call in his office in Calabar.

The Speaker reiterated the commitment of the Assembly to supporting development projects which are people oriented, like Farming Projects,  which he believes has an unquantifiable impact on the livelihood of the rural farmer, the families and community.

The Speaker maintained that Agriculture remains the main stay of the Nigerian economy and deserves  adequate attention in terms of policy formulation and implementation. He commended the efforts of the Executive arm of government in driving the Agricultural Revolution in the State and assured farmers of the availability of the 9th assembly to providing the needed legislative support to farmers in achieving their goals.

 The visit which was accompanied by Dr. Akpan Umoren, Head of Development Finance Office,  CBN Calabar, featured complaints from farmers on the risk of loosing access to Agricultural loans due to default, poor repayment regime and the resultant debilitating effects on future interventions which would have benefited farmers in the State. The farmers Association Executives therefore, sought for a bill from the Assembly for the establishment of Farmers Court to strengthen repayment of intervention loans from CBN & other financial Institutions meant for agricultural development.

Mr Emmanuel Anoh,  Vice President of Rice Farmers Association of Nigeria, South South zone who led the farmers Executives, commended President Muhammadu Buhari led Federal Government of Nigeria for his initiatives in agricultural development and the Central Bank of Nigeria for the several Agricultural financing packages, which has helped in strengthening participation in Farming activities geared towards the attainment of food Security, improving the economy &  Sustainable development.

The farmers expressed deep appreciation on the exemplary leadership and commitment of His Excellency, Sen Prof. Ben Ayade, Governor of Cross River State, in developing Agricultural value chains; like Rice, Cocoa, Maize, Poultry & others, for improvement of livelihood, employment generation & enhancing Community development.  Mr Anoh who led the farmers team, observed that, Governor Ben Ayade strategic policies in Agricultural development which were initiated in 2015, shortly after assumption of office as Governor, has today, blossomed and the people of  Cross River State are witnessing the rapid agro Industrialization, like; the establishment of CR Seeds & Seedlings Factory, Calabar,  Ultramodern Rice Mill, Ogoja, Cocoa Processing Factory, Ikom, CR Feedmill, Calabar, CR Poultry Farm, Odukpani, Chicken Processing Factory,  Calabar and many other Projects at various stages of completion.

Farmers expressed continous support for the realization of government agenda for the benefit of the citinzenry.

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CROSS RIVER STATE TO ESTABLISH FARMERS COURT - Rt. Hon. Eteng Jonah Williams

The Cross River State House of Assembly has expressed willingness to consider a Legislation for the establishment of Farmers Court, to strengthen repayment of agricultural loans by farmers, to enhance administration of agric loans, as well as ensuring the success of the Agricultural Revolution in the State.

The Speaker of Cross River State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Eteng Williams Jones made this position known, when executive members of the farmer Association's in the various Agricultural value chains paid him a courtesy call in his office in Calabar.

The Speaker reiterated the commitment of the Assembly to supporting development projects which are people oriented, like Farming Projects,  which he believes has an unquantifiable impact on the livelihood of the rural farmer, the families and community.

The Speaker maintained that Agriculture remains the main stay of the Nigerian economy and deserves  adequate attention in terms of policy formulation and implementation. He commended the efforts of the Executive arm of government in driving the Agricultural Revolution in the State and assured farmers of the availability of the 9th assembly to providing the needed legislative support to farmers in achieving their goals.

 The visit which was accompanied by Dr. Akpan Umoren, Head of Development Finance Office,  CBN Calabar, featured complaints from farmers on the risk of loosing access to Agricultural loans due to default, poor repayment regime and the resultant debilitating effects on future interventions which would have benefited farmers in the State. The farmers Association Executives therefore, sought for a bill from the Assembly for the establishment of Farmers Court to strengthen repayment of intervention loans from CBN & other financial Institutions meant for agricultural development.

Mr Emmanuel Anoh,  Vice President of Rice Farmers Association of Nigeria, South South zone who led the farmers Executives, commended President Muhammadu Buhari led Federal Government of Nigeria for his initiatives in agricultural development and the Central Bank of Nigeria for the several Agricultural financing packages, which has helped in strengthening participation in Farming activities geared towards the attainment of food Security, improving the economy &  Sustainable development.

The farmers expressed deep appreciation on the exemplary leadership and commitment of His Excellency, Sen Prof. Ben Ayade, Governor of Cross River State, in developing Agricultural value chains; like Rice, Cocoa, Maize, Poultry & others, for improvement of livelihood, employment generation & enhancing Community development.  Mr Anoh who led the farmers team, observed that, Governor Ben Ayade strategic policies in Agricultural development which were initiated in 2015, shortly after assumption of office as Governor, has today, blossomed and the people of  Cross River State are witnessing the rapid agro Industrialization, like; the establishment of CR Seeds & Seedlings Factory, Calabar,  Ultramodern Rice Mill, Ogoja, Cocoa Processing Factory, Ikom, CR Feedmill, Calabar, CR Poultry Farm, Odukpani, Chicken Processing Factory,  Calabar and many other Projects at various stages of completion.

Farmers expressed continous support for the realization of government agenda for the benefit of the citinzenry.

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76 Oil Wells: Lawmaker urges C'River Gov't to revisit case

By Kingsley Agim

The lawmaker representing Etung State Constituency in the House of Assembly, Hon. (Barr.) Chris Njah Mbu-Ogar has called on the Cross State Government to challenge the ruling that the ownership of 76 offshore oil wells belonged to Akwa Ibom.

Hon. Mbu-Ogar made the call when speaking to newsmen recently at the Hallowed Chamber of the State House of Assembly in Calabar.

The legislator, who recalled a clause in the 2012 Supreme Court verdict insisting that "the government of Nigeria has a means of providing for the social needs of the people of Cross River State faced with the social problems thrusted on the state due to the ceding of Bakassi Peninsula to the Cameroon,” while advising that "the state government should explore ways of getting the Federal Government to take care of the social needs of the people of the area."

Hon. Mbu-Ogar also stated that the Government of Cross River State had engaged the Federal Government, through the Revenue Mobilization, Allocation and Fiscal Commission, where 15 billion was approved as yearly compensation to the State, after the initial 500 million monthly compensation was inadequate.

He blamed previous administrations over poor handling of the case that led to the ceding of the Bakassi peninsula to Cameroon, saying: "when the Federal Government that is supposed to serve as a protective mechanism, reneges on its duty, it is right to say the Federal Government is to blame."

Following the International Court of Justice judgment recognising Cross River State as the border State with the Republic of Cameroon, legal experts are of the opinion that no other state in Nigeria can lay claim of the 76 oil wells except Cross River.

"The State Government should, as a matter of urgency, challenge the implementation of such an unconscionable and illegal  verdict," he admonished.

"Except for any ulterior motive to the judgment that was issued at the Hague, the Federal Government ought to very quickly, follow due process, otherwise, Cross River State will continue to suffer the challenges it is facing now," Mbu-Ogar added.

He adjured the President Muhammadu Buhari-led administration to implement the 15 billion yearly compensation, which is to run in perpetuity, to the extent that Bakassi remains ceded.

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76 Oil Wells: Lawmaker urges C'River Gov't to revisit case

By Kingsley Agim

The lawmaker representing Etung State Constituency in the House of Assembly, Hon. (Barr.) Chris Njah Mbu-Ogar has called on the Cross State Government to challenge the ruling that the ownership of 76 offshore oil wells belonged to Akwa Ibom.

Hon. Mbu-Ogar made the call when speaking to newsmen recently at the Hallowed Chamber of the State House of Assembly in Calabar.

The legislator, who recalled a clause in the 2012 Supreme Court verdict insisting that "the government of Nigeria has a means of providing for the social needs of the people of Cross River State faced with the social problems thrusted on the state due to the ceding of Bakassi Peninsula to the Cameroon,” while advising that "the state government should explore ways of getting the Federal Government to take care of the social needs of the people of the area."

Hon. Mbu-Ogar also stated that the Government of Cross River State had engaged the Federal Government, through the Revenue Mobilization, Allocation and Fiscal Commission, where 15 billion was approved as yearly compensation to the State, after the initial 500 million monthly compensation was inadequate.

He blamed previous administrations over poor handling of the case that led to the ceding of the Bakassi peninsula to Cameroon, saying: "when the Federal Government that is supposed to serve as a protective mechanism, reneges on its duty, it is right to say the Federal Government is to blame."

Following the International Court of Justice judgment recognising Cross River State as the border State with the Republic of Cameroon, legal experts are of the opinion that no other state in Nigeria can lay claim of the 76 oil wells except Cross River.

"The State Government should, as a matter of urgency, challenge the implementation of such an unconscionable and illegal  verdict," he admonished.

"Except for any ulterior motive to the judgment that was issued at the Hague, the Federal Government ought to very quickly, follow due process, otherwise, Cross River State will continue to suffer the challenges it is facing now," Mbu-Ogar added.

He adjured the President Muhammadu Buhari-led administration to implement the 15 billion yearly compensation, which is to run in perpetuity, to the extent that Bakassi remains ceded.

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Rt. Hon. Eteng Jonah Williams emphasizes the urgent need to address the secret cult menace

By Itam Offor

 A Bill for the prohibition of secret cult and offensive weapons has passed  second reading in the Cross River State House of Assembly.


The bill which was sponsored by the Member representing Calabar South 2 and Deputy Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Joseph Bassey seeks for an amendment of the  bill earlier passed by the State Assembly, in April 2002 and assented to by then Governor, Donald Duke.


Presenting the bill on the flour of the House, the Sponsor, Joseph Bassey vehemently argued for the amendment of some sections of the Bill stating that "since the passage of the Bill, more than one decade ago, no one had been convicted or punished for secret cult activities in the State".


Members who unanimously lamented the security situation across the State called for stiffer penalties for offenders which according to them should serve as deterrent to others.

Specifically, Hon. Elvert Ayambe Member representing Ikom 2 called for the death sentence on offenders while arguing that secret cultists, armed robbers and kidnappers are all murderers and should be treated the same way
On his part, Rt. Hon. Nelson Ofem, Member representing Yakurr 1 opined that there was an urgent need to reorientate the younger generation and steer their minds away from these vices.

The Speaker, Rt. Hon. Eteng Jonah Williams emphasized the urgent need to address the secret cult menace in the State.

He committed the bill to the House Committee on Security directing them to hold a widely publicised public hearing which should have representatives from all the Local Government Areas in the State.

The security Committee was given 3 weeks to report back to the House.

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Rt. Hon. Eteng Jonah Williams emphasizes the urgent need to address the secret cult menace

By Itam Offor

 A Bill for the prohibition of secret cult and offensive weapons has passed  second reading in the Cross River State House of Assembly.


The bill which was sponsored by the Member representing Calabar South 2 and Deputy Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Joseph Bassey seeks for an amendment of the  bill earlier passed by the State Assembly, in April 2002 and assented to by then Governor, Donald Duke.


Presenting the bill on the flour of the House, the Sponsor, Joseph Bassey vehemently argued for the amendment of some sections of the Bill stating that "since the passage of the Bill, more than one decade ago, no one had been convicted or punished for secret cult activities in the State".


Members who unanimously lamented the security situation across the State called for stiffer penalties for offenders which according to them should serve as deterrent to others.

Specifically, Hon. Elvert Ayambe Member representing Ikom 2 called for the death sentence on offenders while arguing that secret cultists, armed robbers and kidnappers are all murderers and should be treated the same way
On his part, Rt. Hon. Nelson Ofem, Member representing Yakurr 1 opined that there was an urgent need to reorientate the younger generation and steer their minds away from these vices.

The Speaker, Rt. Hon. Eteng Jonah Williams emphasized the urgent need to address the secret cult menace in the State.

He committed the bill to the House Committee on Security directing them to hold a widely publicised public hearing which should have representatives from all the Local Government Areas in the State.

The security Committee was given 3 weeks to report back to the House.

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Buhari will speedily sign Peace Corps Bill, Presidential Aide reveals

By Yemi Itodo

President Muhammadu Buhari will speedily assent to the Nigerian Peace Corps Bill if passed by the National Assembly, a presidential aide has revealed.

Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to the president on National Assembly matters (Reps), Hon. Umar Ibrahim El-Yakub, gave the hint Wednesday evening, while addressing Journalists at the House of Representatives.

The National Assembly had, in 2017, passed the Nigerian Peace Corps Establishment Bill, but the president withheld his assent, citing paucity of funds and duplication of duties of the already existing agencies, as reasons.

But just last month, the House of Representatives, through the Chiefwhip, Hon. Mohammed Tahir Monguno, reintroduced the Nigeria Peace Corps Bill, which has since passed second reading and waiting final passage.

Responding to questions on Wednesday, as to whether the president would assent to the Bill, if passed again by the National Assembly, El-Yakub said, “With the renewed relationship (between the executive and the legislature), I’m sure there will be more work that will lead to the expeditious passage of the Bill and of course, Mr. president will assent to all Bills passed by the National Assembly, which do not have conflict or reservations.

“I’m sure that many important Bills, including the one that you have mentioned (Nigeria Peace Corps) are being reintroduced; and some are even being re-introduced as executive Bills, like the PAC Bill, which was tabled on the floor of the Senate”, he stated.

El-Yakub stressed that, “Mr. president does not withhold assent to a Bill that is in the interest of this country; and certainly all bills that are sent to him be it non-executive Bill, they go through the same scrutiny and opinions are sought and whenever he declined his assent, he actually communicates the reasons to the National Assembly.

“And if those reasons are addressed, certainly Mr. President will assent to the Bill. But you will find that some Bills have flaws, some are technical issues, some are issues bordering on legality of the Bill to the extent that it conflicts with provisions of the constitution or a treaty that has been signed by the country, which means assenting to such a Bill will be a matter of conflict of interest. All these are looked at by the office of the Attorney-General of the Federation and relevant agencies that are stakeholders in that Bill”.

The House of Representatives had slated the Peace Corps Bill for final passage Thursday last week, but due to the debate on the general principles of 2020 Appropriation Bill, the Chiefwhip sought the leave of the House to step it down till later date.

After passage by the Reps, the Senate is expected to pass a concurrent vote on it before a clean copy of the Bill is sent to the President for assent.

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Buhari will speedily sign Peace Corps Bill, Presidential Aide reveals

By Yemi Itodo

President Muhammadu Buhari will speedily assent to the Nigerian Peace Corps Bill if passed by the National Assembly, a presidential aide has revealed.

Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to the president on National Assembly matters (Reps), Hon. Umar Ibrahim El-Yakub, gave the hint Wednesday evening, while addressing Journalists at the House of Representatives.

The National Assembly had, in 2017, passed the Nigerian Peace Corps Establishment Bill, but the president withheld his assent, citing paucity of funds and duplication of duties of the already existing agencies, as reasons.

But just last month, the House of Representatives, through the Chiefwhip, Hon. Mohammed Tahir Monguno, reintroduced the Nigeria Peace Corps Bill, which has since passed second reading and waiting final passage.

Responding to questions on Wednesday, as to whether the president would assent to the Bill, if passed again by the National Assembly, El-Yakub said, “With the renewed relationship (between the executive and the legislature), I’m sure there will be more work that will lead to the expeditious passage of the Bill and of course, Mr. president will assent to all Bills passed by the National Assembly, which do not have conflict or reservations.

“I’m sure that many important Bills, including the one that you have mentioned (Nigeria Peace Corps) are being reintroduced; and some are even being re-introduced as executive Bills, like the PAC Bill, which was tabled on the floor of the Senate”, he stated.

El-Yakub stressed that, “Mr. president does not withhold assent to a Bill that is in the interest of this country; and certainly all bills that are sent to him be it non-executive Bill, they go through the same scrutiny and opinions are sought and whenever he declined his assent, he actually communicates the reasons to the National Assembly.

“And if those reasons are addressed, certainly Mr. President will assent to the Bill. But you will find that some Bills have flaws, some are technical issues, some are issues bordering on legality of the Bill to the extent that it conflicts with provisions of the constitution or a treaty that has been signed by the country, which means assenting to such a Bill will be a matter of conflict of interest. All these are looked at by the office of the Attorney-General of the Federation and relevant agencies that are stakeholders in that Bill”.

The House of Representatives had slated the Peace Corps Bill for final passage Thursday last week, but due to the debate on the general principles of 2020 Appropriation Bill, the Chiefwhip sought the leave of the House to step it down till later date.

After passage by the Reps, the Senate is expected to pass a concurrent vote on it before a clean copy of the Bill is sent to the President for assent.

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OSCAR OFUKA: RETURNING PEACE TO AN EMBITTERED COMMUNITY

By Kingsley Agim

Bendeghe-Ekiem – the most populous community in Etung Local Government Area – renowned for her hospitality and social inclination, was over the years a Mecca-of-sort for fun seekers, traders, farmers, just to mention a few.
Inhabitants – indigenes and strangers alike – coexisted in peace and harmony, earning her the moniker ‘Ayuk-Abah’.
Blessed with fertile soil, the community is also known for her huge agrarian economy, with cocoa, cassava, and palm produce, some of the mainstays of the people. To date, Bendeghe-Ekiem remains the commercial nerve-centre among her neighboring villages of Etung and Boki Local Government Areas.

Regrettably, recent history has seen Bendeghe-Ekiem – the once-upon-a-time hobnob of the people – become a monument of aborted glory. The community has plummeted into some precarious and disturbing situations: notably, cultism, drug abuse, youth restiveness and political violence.

There has been an alarming rate of cult-related deaths in the once peaceful community. The pre-election conflict that left five youths dead threw the community into more fierce animosities. Families were torn apart and at loggerheads with each other; friends became foes and the vicious circle of ill-will grew even stronger. Peace had become elusive.

But in the face of this ever present danger, one man – Dr. Oscar Ofuka, who is the Acting Chairman, Cross River State Cocoa Board, blazing the trail in cocoa development and re-generation in the State – took the gauntlet, with the resolve to return and entrench peace to a hitherto embittered community.
In order to stem the rising tide of cultism in the area, Dr. Ofuka, in collaboration with relevant security agencies, granted amnesty to cultists willing to renounce their membership, with N20, 000.00 as reward for such decision. This development saw scores of youths jumped on the opportunity to correct their mistakes (renouncing cult membership), with testimonies that “a cult-free life is the best any day.”

The Cross River State Cocoa Board boss has also built a modern police station in the community (soon to be commissioned) to replace the age long and collapsed post. This, according to Dr. Ofuka, will aid the police in forestalling crime in the community.

Realizing the power of football in peace building, after several fora of consultations with families and aggrieved parties in the village, Dr. Ofuka organized a well-package soccer competition to celebrate the Etung New Yam Festival. The thrilling games, which showcased glimpses youthful talents and quality, saw a people, once enmeshed in malaise and vindictive vendetta, hugging and fraternizing in an ostentatious show of affection. Peace has returned to Bendeghe-Ekiem.

The finale of the sporting contest drew attendance from security stakeholders in the State, notably, the Permanent Secretary – Security, Sir Alfred Mboto, Chief Security Adviser – Central, Mr. Ransom Odey, and representatives of the Police Division, Etung, all attesting to the peaceful coexistence amongst residents of the community.

While I urge other well meaning sons and daughters of Bendeghe-Ekiem to join hands in fostering peace in the community irrespective of the political differences and affiliations, I leave with this African proverb, re-echoed recently by our peace-loving Governor, Sir (Prof.) Ben Ayade on the need for a peaceful society: “Peace is costly, but it is worth the expense.”

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OSCAR OFUKA: RETURNING PEACE TO AN EMBITTERED COMMUNITY

By Kingsley Agim

Bendeghe-Ekiem – the most populous community in Etung Local Government Area – renowned for her hospitality and social inclination, was over the years a Mecca-of-sort for fun seekers, traders, farmers, just to mention a few.
Inhabitants – indigenes and strangers alike – coexisted in peace and harmony, earning her the moniker ‘Ayuk-Abah’.
Blessed with fertile soil, the community is also known for her huge agrarian economy, with cocoa, cassava, and palm produce, some of the mainstays of the people. To date, Bendeghe-Ekiem remains the commercial nerve-centre among her neighboring villages of Etung and Boki Local Government Areas.

Regrettably, recent history has seen Bendeghe-Ekiem – the once-upon-a-time hobnob of the people – become a monument of aborted glory. The community has plummeted into some precarious and disturbing situations: notably, cultism, drug abuse, youth restiveness and political violence.

There has been an alarming rate of cult-related deaths in the once peaceful community. The pre-election conflict that left five youths dead threw the community into more fierce animosities. Families were torn apart and at loggerheads with each other; friends became foes and the vicious circle of ill-will grew even stronger. Peace had become elusive.

But in the face of this ever present danger, one man – Dr. Oscar Ofuka, who is the Acting Chairman, Cross River State Cocoa Board, blazing the trail in cocoa development and re-generation in the State – took the gauntlet, with the resolve to return and entrench peace to a hitherto embittered community.
In order to stem the rising tide of cultism in the area, Dr. Ofuka, in collaboration with relevant security agencies, granted amnesty to cultists willing to renounce their membership, with N20, 000.00 as reward for such decision. This development saw scores of youths jumped on the opportunity to correct their mistakes (renouncing cult membership), with testimonies that “a cult-free life is the best any day.”

The Cross River State Cocoa Board boss has also built a modern police station in the community (soon to be commissioned) to replace the age long and collapsed post. This, according to Dr. Ofuka, will aid the police in forestalling crime in the community.

Realizing the power of football in peace building, after several fora of consultations with families and aggrieved parties in the village, Dr. Ofuka organized a well-package soccer competition to celebrate the Etung New Yam Festival. The thrilling games, which showcased glimpses youthful talents and quality, saw a people, once enmeshed in malaise and vindictive vendetta, hugging and fraternizing in an ostentatious show of affection. Peace has returned to Bendeghe-Ekiem.

The finale of the sporting contest drew attendance from security stakeholders in the State, notably, the Permanent Secretary – Security, Sir Alfred Mboto, Chief Security Adviser – Central, Mr. Ransom Odey, and representatives of the Police Division, Etung, all attesting to the peaceful coexistence amongst residents of the community.

While I urge other well meaning sons and daughters of Bendeghe-Ekiem to join hands in fostering peace in the community irrespective of the political differences and affiliations, I leave with this African proverb, re-echoed recently by our peace-loving Governor, Sir (Prof.) Ben Ayade on the need for a peaceful society: “Peace is costly, but it is worth the expense.”

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CBN Gov, Bagudu, run out of superlatives for Ayade's agro-industrialization strides

By Kingsley Agim

Central Bank of Nigeria Governor, Godwin Emefele and the Vice Chairman, National Food Security Council and Kebbi State Governor, Alhaji Atiku Bagudu, have spoken in glowing terms of the Ayade-led administration's strides in industrialization and agricultural revolution.

The pair who were in Calabar for the assessment of Governor Ayade's achievements in the agricultural sector with a view to developing areas of cooperation between the State and CBN, were left in awe after being conducted round the industrial park.

In his remarks, Central Bank Governor, Godwin Emefele, stated: "I salute Prof. Ayade for creating an enabling environment for agriculture to thrive; and also sinking himself into the revolution of agricultural economy of the State."

"The fact that agriculture is an important economic activity for majority of Cross River State indigenes is exciting, as it touches on the core of the CBN's agenda for development finance, as well as food security," Emefele continued.

The CBN boss stated that "as a country, we must grow what we eat and eat what we grow," pointing out that Governor Ayade is a leading light in the attainment of such a feat.

 Emefele, who acknowledged global economic challenges, quipped that rather than Nigeria to be grieving over dwindling oil revenue, the present situation provides a painful but indispensable opportunity to look inward in a bid to trigger economic growth and development.

He further point out that if the State can develop land in different zones, identify crops that farmers will be interested in cultivating, the CBN, through its Anchor Borrowers Programme will, within a short space of time, make funds available.

The CBN Governor concluded by reiterating that his visit is a demonstration of CBN's preparedness to partner not only with the State Government, but also with Cross Riverians who are desirous to embrace agriculture as a business.

Also speaking, the Governor of Kebbi State and Vice Chairman, National Food Security Council, Senator Atiku Bagudu, recalled with pride how he accompanied President Muhammadu Buhari for the commissioning of the Rice Seed and Seedlings Processing Factory two years ago and was full of praise for what the project has become and other futuristic developments in the industrial park under the leadership of Sir Ben Ayade.

Senator Bagudu said such strides are testament to how "brilliant leadership can give hope and turn fortune around in a very short time."

"This is Cross River that has suffered a lot in the last few decades from global politics that has reduced the size of our country through the ceding of Bakassi. This is a State that has lost oil wells. But this is a new Cross River State that is taking shape. This is the kind of State that we want to build; where, following from policy consistency, leadership can attend to matters that would better the citizenry," Senator Bagudu stated.

Senator Bagudu said what his counterpart, Sir Ben Ayade is doing, will see Cross River State, within a short time, begin to export agricultural products which can rival what was gotten  from oil.

In a brief remark, Sir Ben Ayade thanked the CBN Governor for the support and always being ready with all that concerns business development. Ayade also appreciated his Kebbi State counterpart for the encouragement concerning his agricultural programmes and projects.

The Ayade Industrial Park which has become a cynosure for both national and state governments, as well as investors, boasts of the largest single-floor Garment Factory in Africa, Ultra-modern Rice Seed and Seedlings Multiplication Factory, Calabar Pharmaceutical Company (CALAPHARM), Calabar Noodles Manufacturing Factory,  Calabar Chicken Production Company, among others.

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CBN Gov, Bagudu, run out of superlatives for Ayade's agro-industrialization strides

By Kingsley Agim

Central Bank of Nigeria Governor, Godwin Emefele and the Vice Chairman, National Food Security Council and Kebbi State Governor, Alhaji Atiku Bagudu, have spoken in glowing terms of the Ayade-led administration's strides in industrialization and agricultural revolution.

The pair who were in Calabar for the assessment of Governor Ayade's achievements in the agricultural sector with a view to developing areas of cooperation between the State and CBN, were left in awe after being conducted round the industrial park.

In his remarks, Central Bank Governor, Godwin Emefele, stated: "I salute Prof. Ayade for creating an enabling environment for agriculture to thrive; and also sinking himself into the revolution of agricultural economy of the State."

"The fact that agriculture is an important economic activity for majority of Cross River State indigenes is exciting, as it touches on the core of the CBN's agenda for development finance, as well as food security," Emefele continued.

The CBN boss stated that "as a country, we must grow what we eat and eat what we grow," pointing out that Governor Ayade is a leading light in the attainment of such a feat.

 Emefele, who acknowledged global economic challenges, quipped that rather than Nigeria to be grieving over dwindling oil revenue, the present situation provides a painful but indispensable opportunity to look inward in a bid to trigger economic growth and development.

He further point out that if the State can develop land in different zones, identify crops that farmers will be interested in cultivating, the CBN, through its Anchor Borrowers Programme will, within a short space of time, make funds available.

The CBN Governor concluded by reiterating that his visit is a demonstration of CBN's preparedness to partner not only with the State Government, but also with Cross Riverians who are desirous to embrace agriculture as a business.

Also speaking, the Governor of Kebbi State and Vice Chairman, National Food Security Council, Senator Atiku Bagudu, recalled with pride how he accompanied President Muhammadu Buhari for the commissioning of the Rice Seed and Seedlings Processing Factory two years ago and was full of praise for what the project has become and other futuristic developments in the industrial park under the leadership of Sir Ben Ayade.

Senator Bagudu said such strides are testament to how "brilliant leadership can give hope and turn fortune around in a very short time."

"This is Cross River that has suffered a lot in the last few decades from global politics that has reduced the size of our country through the ceding of Bakassi. This is a State that has lost oil wells. But this is a new Cross River State that is taking shape. This is the kind of State that we want to build; where, following from policy consistency, leadership can attend to matters that would better the citizenry," Senator Bagudu stated.

Senator Bagudu said what his counterpart, Sir Ben Ayade is doing, will see Cross River State, within a short time, begin to export agricultural products which can rival what was gotten  from oil.

In a brief remark, Sir Ben Ayade thanked the CBN Governor for the support and always being ready with all that concerns business development. Ayade also appreciated his Kebbi State counterpart for the encouragement concerning his agricultural programmes and projects.

The Ayade Industrial Park which has become a cynosure for both national and state governments, as well as investors, boasts of the largest single-floor Garment Factory in Africa, Ultra-modern Rice Seed and Seedlings Multiplication Factory, Calabar Pharmaceutical Company (CALAPHARM), Calabar Noodles Manufacturing Factory,  Calabar Chicken Production Company, among others.

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CRS Solemn Assembly: Unjust Ceding of Oil Wells takes Centre Stage

By Kingsley Agim

Christians in Cross River have held a solemn assembly to seek God's divine intervention as the State prepares to revisit the unconscionable ceding of the State's 76 oil wells to neighboring Akwa Ibom.

The event, themed "Cross River: It's Time to Reclaim Your Lost Glory," held recently at the Millennium Park in Calabar, brought Christian faithfuls together for supplications over the affairs of the State.

Speaking at the event, the immediate past Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Mrs. RoseMary Archibong described the 'Bring Back Our Oil Wells' initiative as "laudable" and reminiscent of the 'can-do spirit' she advocates for, while averring that the retrieval of the State's Oil Wells is a possibility.

"When it appears all is lost, we are reinvigorated to say we cannot lose it all; there is still an avenue for retrieval of whatever is lost. This is the spirit that we must all embrace," Mrs. Archibong added.

The ex-information boss commended the 'Bring Back Our Oil Wells' Director-General, Ambassador Jerry Odey and his team for their dogged effort towards the cause, maintaining that "it is a fallout of the enterprise spirit inculcated in Cross Riverians by Governor Ben Ayade."

Also speaking, Government House Chaplain, Reverend Father Patrick Eneyo stressed on the importance of laying the 'Bring Back Our Oil Wells' foundation on God, believing that "with God all things are possible."

In his remarks, the 'Bring Back Our Oil Wells' Director-General, Ambassador Jerry Odey, called for the review of the unjust ceding of the Cross River's 76 Oil Wells to Akwa Ibom, describing the 2012 judgment as "a travesty of justice."

Odey maintained that while the State seeks reclamation of her Oil Wells, Cross Riverians will continue to belief in the saying by the iconic American civil rights leader, Martin Luther King Jr. that "the arm of the moral universe still bends towards justice."

The Solemn Assembly also had in attendance dignitaries, clergymen and groups; notably, Bishop (Prof.) Mike Okom, Dean, Faculty of Law, University of Calabar, Apostle David Ogaga of Zion Embassy Church, Pastor Augustine Philip of Living Glory Gospel Centre,Former SA – Religious Affairs, Calabar Municipality, Venerable Augustine Oqua, Pastor Agnes Usang, the Coordinator, Cross River Prays, Mrs. Catherine Agba.

Others were Rev. (Mrs.) Mercy Akpama, Members of Cross River Women Emancipation Initiative (CROWEI), National Youth Council of Nigeria, Cross River State Chapter, the African Church Choir, and students.

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CRS Solemn Assembly: Unjust Ceding of Oil Wells takes Centre Stage

By Kingsley Agim

Christians in Cross River have held a solemn assembly to seek God's divine intervention as the State prepares to revisit the unconscionable ceding of the State's 76 oil wells to neighboring Akwa Ibom.

The event, themed "Cross River: It's Time to Reclaim Your Lost Glory," held recently at the Millennium Park in Calabar, brought Christian faithfuls together for supplications over the affairs of the State.

Speaking at the event, the immediate past Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Mrs. RoseMary Archibong described the 'Bring Back Our Oil Wells' initiative as "laudable" and reminiscent of the 'can-do spirit' she advocates for, while averring that the retrieval of the State's Oil Wells is a possibility.

"When it appears all is lost, we are reinvigorated to say we cannot lose it all; there is still an avenue for retrieval of whatever is lost. This is the spirit that we must all embrace," Mrs. Archibong added.

The ex-information boss commended the 'Bring Back Our Oil Wells' Director-General, Ambassador Jerry Odey and his team for their dogged effort towards the cause, maintaining that "it is a fallout of the enterprise spirit inculcated in Cross Riverians by Governor Ben Ayade."

Also speaking, Government House Chaplain, Reverend Father Patrick Eneyo stressed on the importance of laying the 'Bring Back Our Oil Wells' foundation on God, believing that "with God all things are possible."

In his remarks, the 'Bring Back Our Oil Wells' Director-General, Ambassador Jerry Odey, called for the review of the unjust ceding of the Cross River's 76 Oil Wells to Akwa Ibom, describing the 2012 judgment as "a travesty of justice."

Odey maintained that while the State seeks reclamation of her Oil Wells, Cross Riverians will continue to belief in the saying by the iconic American civil rights leader, Martin Luther King Jr. that "the arm of the moral universe still bends towards justice."

The Solemn Assembly also had in attendance dignitaries, clergymen and groups; notably, Bishop (Prof.) Mike Okom, Dean, Faculty of Law, University of Calabar, Apostle David Ogaga of Zion Embassy Church, Pastor Augustine Philip of Living Glory Gospel Centre,Former SA – Religious Affairs, Calabar Municipality, Venerable Augustine Oqua, Pastor Agnes Usang, the Coordinator, Cross River Prays, Mrs. Catherine Agba.

Others were Rev. (Mrs.) Mercy Akpama, Members of Cross River Women Emancipation Initiative (CROWEI), National Youth Council of Nigeria, Cross River State Chapter, the African Church Choir, and students.

Read More

GOV. AYADE’S UNPARALLELED HUMANITARIAN EFFORTS

By Kingsley Agim – Ministry of Information and Orientation

Nobel Laureate and Holocaust Survivor, Elie Wiesel, once stated: "Just as despair come to one only from other human beings, hope, too, can be given to one only by other human beings."

The import of the above quote is seen in the humanitarian efforts of the Governor Ben Ayade-led administration in the Cameroon crisis that has left Cross River State with over 75% of the total Cameroonian refugees in Nigeria.

The ongoing political unrest between the Paul Biya-led Cameroonian government and the Southern region (Ambazonia) – clamoring for secession, threw Nigeria with an influx of refugees from her neighbouring country; with Cross River State worst hit by that situation.

Such unprecedented influx of refugees to the State – nay Nigeria and its attendant challenges, posed enormous danger of outbreak of epidemic, spread of diseases, hunger and even death. The situation drew international attention.

The State Governor, Senator (Prof.) Ben Ayade, in his empathic disposition, partnered the United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR), enumerated, transferred refugees from Ikom to Adagom Refugee Settlement in Ogoja and ameliorated the living standard of refugees in Cross River State. Governor Ben Ayade went ahead with the provision of nursery, primary and secondary schools, medical centre, pipe borne water, as well as other amenities, in a bid to making the centre habitable for the people.

Governor Ayade, humane as he has been, has made the welfare and wellbeing of the refugees his utmost priority, with interventions through the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) and his wife's Mediatrix Foundation.

Governor Ayade also made sure that there was peaceful coexistence between the refugees and their host communities, while stressing on the need to reintegrate the Cameroonians into the society.

The following remarks by notable stakeholders in the refugee situation in Nigeria, speak eloquently of the governor's effort in ensuring that a shoulder is lent for our fellow African brothers and sisters:

On the 20th of May, 2019, at the event of Cameroon's Unity Day Celebration, held in Calabar, the Cameroon Consul to Calabar, Mr. Onana Patrice said: "I thanked Governor Ben Ayade and the people of Cross River State, as our hosts, for their hospitability, especially during the recent refugee crisis in Cameroon."

On June 20th, 2019, UNHCR's Senior Protection Officer, Ntampaka Clarisse, gave the commendation at the World Refugee Day, held 20th June, 2019, at the Conference Hall of Channel View Hotel, Calabar.

"We want to thank the Government of Cross River State for all the support. We also want to recognize and thank the host communities who opened their hearts and homes to the refugees. We want to thank the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) for working with us, and the Federal Government's National Commission for Refugees, Migrants, and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI), and our partners, UNICEF, Fhi 360, CUSO, Mediatrix Foundation, etc, for the great work," Clarisse remarked.

In November, 2019, Speaking as one of the panelists at the "Conversation," an orientation programme of the Ministry of Information and Orientation aimed at creating a mix between the government and the governed, held at the Conference Hall of Ogoja Local Government Council, the UNHCR representative to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Mr. Antonio Jose Canhandula commended the Governor Ben Ayade for "his empathic disposition and tremendous support towards alleviating the living standard of refugees in Cross River State."

Another representative of United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR), Mr. Muhammed Rafiq Nasry, also remarked: "in all my years with United Nations, I have not seen the type of commitment like that shown by Senator Ben Ayade."

With a leader like Ayade – imbued with so much empathy and the penchant to positively affect humanity, he is replete with the wherewithal to change humankind and deserving of a Nobel award/recognition for his entrenchment of peace and humanitarian efforts.

Read More

GOV. AYADE’S UNPARALLELED HUMANITARIAN EFFORTS

By Kingsley Agim – Ministry of Information and Orientation

Nobel Laureate and Holocaust Survivor, Elie Wiesel, once stated: "Just as despair come to one only from other human beings, hope, too, can be given to one only by other human beings."

The import of the above quote is seen in the humanitarian efforts of the Governor Ben Ayade-led administration in the Cameroon crisis that has left Cross River State with over 75% of the total Cameroonian refugees in Nigeria.

The ongoing political unrest between the Paul Biya-led Cameroonian government and the Southern region (Ambazonia) – clamoring for secession, threw Nigeria with an influx of refugees from her neighbouring country; with Cross River State worst hit by that situation.

Such unprecedented influx of refugees to the State – nay Nigeria and its attendant challenges, posed enormous danger of outbreak of epidemic, spread of diseases, hunger and even death. The situation drew international attention.

The State Governor, Senator (Prof.) Ben Ayade, in his empathic disposition, partnered the United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR), enumerated, transferred refugees from Ikom to Adagom Refugee Settlement in Ogoja and ameliorated the living standard of refugees in Cross River State. Governor Ben Ayade went ahead with the provision of nursery, primary and secondary schools, medical centre, pipe borne water, as well as other amenities, in a bid to making the centre habitable for the people.

Governor Ayade, humane as he has been, has made the welfare and wellbeing of the refugees his utmost priority, with interventions through the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) and his wife's Mediatrix Foundation.

Governor Ayade also made sure that there was peaceful coexistence between the refugees and their host communities, while stressing on the need to reintegrate the Cameroonians into the society.

The following remarks by notable stakeholders in the refugee situation in Nigeria, speak eloquently of the governor's effort in ensuring that a shoulder is lent for our fellow African brothers and sisters:

On the 20th of May, 2019, at the event of Cameroon's Unity Day Celebration, held in Calabar, the Cameroon Consul to Calabar, Mr. Onana Patrice said: "I thanked Governor Ben Ayade and the people of Cross River State, as our hosts, for their hospitability, especially during the recent refugee crisis in Cameroon."

On June 20th, 2019, UNHCR's Senior Protection Officer, Ntampaka Clarisse, gave the commendation at the World Refugee Day, held 20th June, 2019, at the Conference Hall of Channel View Hotel, Calabar.

"We want to thank the Government of Cross River State for all the support. We also want to recognize and thank the host communities who opened their hearts and homes to the refugees. We want to thank the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) for working with us, and the Federal Government's National Commission for Refugees, Migrants, and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI), and our partners, UNICEF, Fhi 360, CUSO, Mediatrix Foundation, etc, for the great work," Clarisse remarked.

In November, 2019, Speaking as one of the panelists at the "Conversation," an orientation programme of the Ministry of Information and Orientation aimed at creating a mix between the government and the governed, held at the Conference Hall of Ogoja Local Government Council, the UNHCR representative to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Mr. Antonio Jose Canhandula commended the Governor Ben Ayade for "his empathic disposition and tremendous support towards alleviating the living standard of refugees in Cross River State."

Another representative of United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR), Mr. Muhammed Rafiq Nasry, also remarked: "in all my years with United Nations, I have not seen the type of commitment like that shown by Senator Ben Ayade."

With a leader like Ayade – imbued with so much empathy and the penchant to positively affect humanity, he is replete with the wherewithal to change humankind and deserving of a Nobel award/recognition for his entrenchment of peace and humanitarian efforts.

Read More

GOV. AYADE’S UNPARALLELED HUMANITARIAN EFFORTS

By Kingsley Agim – Ministry of Information and Orientation

Nobel Laureate and Holocaust Survivor, Elie Wiesel, once stated: "Just as despair come to one only from other human beings, hope, too, can be given to one only by other human beings."

The import of the above quote is seen in the humanitarian efforts of the Governor Ben Ayade-led administration in the Cameroon crisis that has left Cross River State with over 75% of the total Cameroonian refugees in Nigeria.

The ongoing political unrest between the Paul Biya-led Cameroonian government and the Southern region (Ambazonia) – clamoring for secession, threw Nigeria with an influx of refugees from her neighbouring country; with Cross River State worst hit by that situation.

Such unprecedented influx of refugees to the State – nay Nigeria and its attendant challenges, posed enormous danger of outbreak of epidemic, spread of diseases, hunger and even death. The situation drew international attention.

The State Governor, Senator (Prof.) Ben Ayade, in his empathic disposition, partnered the United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR), enumerated, transferred refugees from Ikom to Adagom Refugee Settlement in Ogoja and ameliorated the living standard of refugees in Cross River State. Governor Ben Ayade went ahead with the provision of nursery, primary and secondary schools, medical centre, pipe borne water, as well as other amenities, in a bid to making the centre habitable for the people.

Governor Ayade, humane as he has been, has made the welfare and wellbeing of the refugees his utmost priority, with interventions through the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) and his wife's Mediatrix Foundation.

Governor Ayade also made sure that there was peaceful coexistence between the refugees and their host communities, while stressing on the need to reintegrate the Cameroonians into the society.

The following remarks by notable stakeholders in the refugee situation in Nigeria, speak eloquently of the governor's effort in ensuring that a shoulder is lent for our fellow African brothers and sisters:

On the 20th of May, 2019, at the event of Cameroon's Unity Day Celebration, held in Calabar, the Cameroon Consul to Calabar, Mr. Onana Patrice said: "I thanked Governor Ben Ayade and the people of Cross River State, as our hosts, for their hospitability, especially during the recent refugee crisis in Cameroon."

On June 20th, 2019, UNHCR's Senior Protection Officer, Ntampaka Clarisse, gave the commendation at the World Refugee Day, held 20th June, 2019, at the Conference Hall of Channel View Hotel, Calabar.

"We want to thank the Government of Cross River State for all the support. We also want to recognize and thank the host communities who opened their hearts and homes to the refugees. We want to thank the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) for working with us, and the Federal Government's National Commission for Refugees, Migrants, and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI), and our partners, UNICEF, Fhi 360, CUSO, Mediatrix Foundation, etc, for the great work," Clarisse remarked.

In November, 2019, Speaking as one of the panelists at the "Conversation," an orientation programme of the Ministry of Information and Orientation aimed at creating a mix between the government and the governed, held at the Conference Hall of Ogoja Local Government Council, the UNHCR representative to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Mr. Antonio Jose Canhandula commended the Governor Ben Ayade for "his empathic disposition and tremendous support towards alleviating the living standard of refugees in Cross River State."

Another representative of United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR), Mr. Muhammed Rafiq Nasry, also remarked: "in all my years with United Nations, I have not seen the type of commitment like that shown by Senator Ben Ayade."

With a leader like Ayade – imbued with so much empathy and the penchant to positively affect humanity, he is replete with the wherewithal to change humankind and deserving of a Nobel award/recognition for his entrenchment of peace and humanitarian efforts.

Read More

GOV. AYADE’S UNPARALLELED HUMANITARIAN EFFORTS

By Kingsley Agim – Ministry of Information and Orientation

Nobel Laureate and Holocaust Survivor, Elie Wiesel, once stated: "Just as despair come to one only from other human beings, hope, too, can be given to one only by other human beings."

The import of the above quote is seen in the humanitarian efforts of the Governor Ben Ayade-led administration in the Cameroon crisis that has left Cross River State with over 75% of the total Cameroonian refugees in Nigeria.

The ongoing political unrest between the Paul Biya-led Cameroonian government and the Southern region (Ambazonia) – clamoring for secession, threw Nigeria with an influx of refugees from her neighbouring country; with Cross River State worst hit by that situation.

Such unprecedented influx of refugees to the State – nay Nigeria and its attendant challenges, posed enormous danger of outbreak of epidemic, spread of diseases, hunger and even death. The situation drew international attention.

The State Governor, Senator (Prof.) Ben Ayade, in his empathic disposition, partnered the United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR), enumerated, transferred refugees from Ikom to Adagom Refugee Settlement in Ogoja and ameliorated the living standard of refugees in Cross River State. Governor Ben Ayade went ahead with the provision of nursery, primary and secondary schools, medical centre, pipe borne water, as well as other amenities, in a bid to making the centre habitable for the people.

Governor Ayade, humane as he has been, has made the welfare and wellbeing of the refugees his utmost priority, with interventions through the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) and his wife's Mediatrix Foundation.

Governor Ayade also made sure that there was peaceful coexistence between the refugees and their host communities, while stressing on the need to reintegrate the Cameroonians into the society.

The following remarks by notable stakeholders in the refugee situation in Nigeria, speak eloquently of the governor's effort in ensuring that a shoulder is lent for our fellow African brothers and sisters:

On the 20th of May, 2019, at the event of Cameroon's Unity Day Celebration, held in Calabar, the Cameroon Consul to Calabar, Mr. Onana Patrice said: "I thanked Governor Ben Ayade and the people of Cross River State, as our hosts, for their hospitability, especially during the recent refugee crisis in Cameroon."

On June 20th, 2019, UNHCR's Senior Protection Officer, Ntampaka Clarisse, gave the commendation at the World Refugee Day, held 20th June, 2019, at the Conference Hall of Channel View Hotel, Calabar.

"We want to thank the Government of Cross River State for all the support. We also want to recognize and thank the host communities who opened their hearts and homes to the refugees. We want to thank the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) for working with us, and the Federal Government's National Commission for Refugees, Migrants, and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI), and our partners, UNICEF, Fhi 360, CUSO, Mediatrix Foundation, etc, for the great work," Clarisse remarked.

In November, 2019, Speaking as one of the panelists at the "Conversation," an orientation programme of the Ministry of Information and Orientation aimed at creating a mix between the government and the governed, held at the Conference Hall of Ogoja Local Government Council, the UNHCR representative to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Mr. Antonio Jose Canhandula commended the Governor Ben Ayade for "his empathic disposition and tremendous support towards alleviating the living standard of refugees in Cross River State."

Another representative of United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR), Mr. Muhammed Rafiq Nasry, also remarked: "in all my years with United Nations, I have not seen the type of commitment like that shown by Senator Ben Ayade."

With a leader like Ayade – imbued with so much empathy and the penchant to positively affect humanity, he is replete with the wherewithal to change humankind and deserving of a Nobel award/recognition for his entrenchment of peace and humanitarian efforts.

Read More

Tribunal: Ayade's victory, mine, well-deserved -- Hon. Mbu-Ogar

By Kingsley Agim 

The Lawmaker representing Etung State Constituency, Hon. (Barr.) Chris Njah Mbu-Ogar, has described respective tribunal rulings upholding his victory and that of Governor Ben Ayade at the last elections as "well-deserved." 

A statement signed by the legislator in reaction to the judgments read: "Today's ruling at the election petition tribunal is a well-deserved victory for our constituents and indeed all Cross Riverians who turned out en-masse to vote my Boss, Senator (Prof.) Ben Ayade and I into Office. 

"Once again, your voices have been clearly heard. Our resolve to bring growth and development to our beloved State and Local Governments is undaunted," the statement continued.

Continuing, the amiable and adept political solon stated: "More than ever, we are committed to fulfilling the mandate given us by you all and bringing to bare the reality of our promises to the people. Yet again, we extend our hands of goodwill and fellowship to our co-contestants and other well-meaning Sons and Daughters; the movement for our growth and development as a state calls for collaborative efforts."

"We remain deeply appreciative of all who continued to work tirelessly in our vanguard for the true emancipation of our common heritage. Together, we join hands to move Cross River State and Etung Local Government Area forward," he solemnly pledged.

Read More

Tribunal: Ayade's victory, mine, well-deserved -- Hon. Mbu-Ogar

By Kingsley Agim 

The Lawmaker representing Etung State Constituency, Hon. (Barr.) Chris Njah Mbu-Ogar, has described respective tribunal rulings upholding his victory and that of Governor Ben Ayade at the last elections as "well-deserved." 

A statement signed by the legislator in reaction to the judgments read: "Today's ruling at the election petition tribunal is a well-deserved victory for our constituents and indeed all Cross Riverians who turned out en-masse to vote my Boss, Senator (Prof.) Ben Ayade and I into Office. 

"Once again, your voices have been clearly heard. Our resolve to bring growth and development to our beloved State and Local Governments is undaunted," the statement continued.

Continuing, the amiable and adept political solon stated: "More than ever, we are committed to fulfilling the mandate given us by you all and bringing to bare the reality of our promises to the people. Yet again, we extend our hands of goodwill and fellowship to our co-contestants and other well-meaning Sons and Daughters; the movement for our growth and development as a state calls for collaborative efforts."

"We remain deeply appreciative of all who continued to work tirelessly in our vanguard for the true emancipation of our common heritage. Together, we join hands to move Cross River State and Etung Local Government Area forward," he solemnly pledged.

Read More