Communal War: Urugbam Hired Mercenaries Arrive Erei, Unleashing Terror -Group Raises Alarm

A group known as Abanwan Consultative Assembly has drew the attention of the public and government to the ongoing unrest, tension and killings in Erei communities by the Urugbam Community who hired war mercenaries numbering about four hundred.

The group had through their letter to the Governor of Cross River State, Sen. Prof Ben Ayade accused the Technical Assistant to the Vice President office on New Media, Mr. Philip Obin of sponsoring and being responsible for the renewed unrest and communal clashes between his Community Urugbam and the entire communities in Erei.

The letter which was  signed by her Secretary Mr. Tony Wikom-Ukam, drew His Excellency's attention to the numerous lies through misleading phone messages, calls and letters by Mr. Philip Obin to peddle falsehood and cause unending tension and full blown war in Erei nation.

According to the communique,the most recent attack on Erei started on the 3rd of May 2020, following the withdrawal of military personnel from Erei. In their words:
"Until the 3rd of May 2020 when the soldiers pulled out, there was relative peace in Erei. But the Urugbam Community taking advantage of the vacation of the soldiers resolved to throw Erei nation into chaos and anarchy once again. On the 12th of May 2020, after their attack on Egbor people, the Urugbam boys again opened fire on two young Obum boys (Mr. Francis Ogban Elot and Benedict Owali Elot) and one Adim boy (Mr. Dennis) residing in Obum on their way back from Abanwan to buy some drinks as usual, leaving two of the victims seriously inflicted with bullet injuries.
As we speak, Urugbam youths have mounted road blocks on the only road leading to Abanwan and some other Erei communities causing mayhem along the road, similar to what led to the first hostility and communal war in Erei. We have on good record that Urugbam community is sponsoring the importation of armed mercenaries into their community in readiness to prosecute native war against Abanwan and other communities in Erei".

The group also noted that:
 "a bomb explosion which threw the entire Erei communities in disarray was heard. Further findings revealed that the bomb detonation was a result of the testing of arms and ammunition newly acquired by Mr. Philip Obin for his urugbam community by one Frank Owali and his group. This particular ugly incidence occurred between the hours of 12:30am and 2am, and led to serious panick and chaos in the entire Erei nation with many fleeing their homes as a result".

The group also alleged that Mr. Philip Obin uses bulk Short Message Service (SMS) as a tactics to mislead other Erei communities into believing that the Federal or State government had sent in troops of Soldiers and Mobile Policemen who are on their way to intervene, only to pave way for his community (Urugbam) to carryout planned attacks on other communities.

For instance, "on the 12th of May 2020, a bulk SMS emanating from the said Philip Obin clearly reads as follows:“Urgent! Information reaching me now is that Abanwan boys are heading towards Egbor Community to harvest palm fruits in the plantation and they are prepared for the worst. As I speak, Erei People are already on their heels. I just got that SMS now. Please let’s investigate and do the needful. Good Morning". Barely three hours after the said message was circulated by the said Philip Obin, "serious shooting broke out in Egbor palm plantation between combined efforts of Urugbam and Ekoli Edda boys of Ebonyi State against Egbor people who went to their plantation for their normal farming activities. This resulted in the killing of one Egbor woman. The question here is, how was Philip Obin able to pre-empt an event yet to occur? Was he making an attempt to indict Abanwan Community for a crime himself and his community were planning to execute?"
 
The group was equally worried about the open confrontation and threat by the said Philip Obin recently and circulated in several social media platforms that“a second war in Erei would not favour anyone or community...I have the capacity to sponsor a war.” The above except was allege to have been extracted from Mr. Philip Obin's social media handles on the 27th of March, 2020, and in just less than 2 months, there is a renewed war and unrest orchestrated by the Urugbam community.

The Abanwan Consultative Assembly maintain that Mr. Philip Obin has on several occasions used his purported office as Technical Assistant and sometimes fake as the Vice President (Prof. Yemi Osibanjo) to deceive and intimidate Erei people". Hence, the group calls for urgent investigations and probe into the activities of Mr. Philip Obin and his cohorts in Urugbam community by DSS, Military, Nigerian Police and other relevant government agencies to avert another full blown war in Erei communities.

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Communal War: Urugbam Hired Mercenaries Arrive Erei, Unleashing Terror -Group Raises Alarm

A group known as Abanwan Consultative Assembly has drew the attention of the public and government to the ongoing unrest, tension and killings in Erei communities by the Urugbam Community who hired war mercenaries numbering about four hundred.

The group had through their letter to the Governor of Cross River State, Sen. Prof Ben Ayade accused the Technical Assistant to the Vice President office on New Media, Mr. Philip Obin of sponsoring and being responsible for the renewed unrest and communal clashes between his Community Urugbam and the entire communities in Erei.

The letter which was  signed by her Secretary Mr. Tony Wikom-Ukam, drew His Excellency's attention to the numerous lies through misleading phone messages, calls and letters by Mr. Philip Obin to peddle falsehood and cause unending tension and full blown war in Erei nation.

According to the communique,the most recent attack on Erei started on the 3rd of May 2020, following the withdrawal of military personnel from Erei. In their words:
"Until the 3rd of May 2020 when the soldiers pulled out, there was relative peace in Erei. But the Urugbam Community taking advantage of the vacation of the soldiers resolved to throw Erei nation into chaos and anarchy once again. On the 12th of May 2020, after their attack on Egbor people, the Urugbam boys again opened fire on two young Obum boys (Mr. Francis Ogban Elot and Benedict Owali Elot) and one Adim boy (Mr. Dennis) residing in Obum on their way back from Abanwan to buy some drinks as usual, leaving two of the victims seriously inflicted with bullet injuries.
As we speak, Urugbam youths have mounted road blocks on the only road leading to Abanwan and some other Erei communities causing mayhem along the road, similar to what led to the first hostility and communal war in Erei. We have on good record that Urugbam community is sponsoring the importation of armed mercenaries into their community in readiness to prosecute native war against Abanwan and other communities in Erei".

The group also noted that:
 "a bomb explosion which threw the entire Erei communities in disarray was heard. Further findings revealed that the bomb detonation was a result of the testing of arms and ammunition newly acquired by Mr. Philip Obin for his urugbam community by one Frank Owali and his group. This particular ugly incidence occurred between the hours of 12:30am and 2am, and led to serious panick and chaos in the entire Erei nation with many fleeing their homes as a result".

The group also alleged that Mr. Philip Obin uses bulk Short Message Service (SMS) as a tactics to mislead other Erei communities into believing that the Federal or State government had sent in troops of Soldiers and Mobile Policemen who are on their way to intervene, only to pave way for his community (Urugbam) to carryout planned attacks on other communities.

For instance, "on the 12th of May 2020, a bulk SMS emanating from the said Philip Obin clearly reads as follows:“Urgent! Information reaching me now is that Abanwan boys are heading towards Egbor Community to harvest palm fruits in the plantation and they are prepared for the worst. As I speak, Erei People are already on their heels. I just got that SMS now. Please let’s investigate and do the needful. Good Morning". Barely three hours after the said message was circulated by the said Philip Obin, "serious shooting broke out in Egbor palm plantation between combined efforts of Urugbam and Ekoli Edda boys of Ebonyi State against Egbor people who went to their plantation for their normal farming activities. This resulted in the killing of one Egbor woman. The question here is, how was Philip Obin able to pre-empt an event yet to occur? Was he making an attempt to indict Abanwan Community for a crime himself and his community were planning to execute?"
 
The group was equally worried about the open confrontation and threat by the said Philip Obin recently and circulated in several social media platforms that“a second war in Erei would not favour anyone or community...I have the capacity to sponsor a war.” The above except was allege to have been extracted from Mr. Philip Obin's social media handles on the 27th of March, 2020, and in just less than 2 months, there is a renewed war and unrest orchestrated by the Urugbam community.

The Abanwan Consultative Assembly maintain that Mr. Philip Obin has on several occasions used his purported office as Technical Assistant and sometimes fake as the Vice President (Prof. Yemi Osibanjo) to deceive and intimidate Erei people". Hence, the group calls for urgent investigations and probe into the activities of Mr. Philip Obin and his cohorts in Urugbam community by DSS, Military, Nigerian Police and other relevant government agencies to avert another full blown war in Erei communities.

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Covid19: United Purpose Team Up with Cross River State Government on Community Based Sensitization

The Cross River State Government has again benefitted from another worthy partnership with "United Purpose" a non Governmental organization operating in the state in the fight against covid19.

Head of programmes for the "United Purpose" on Wash and sanitation, Mr Nanpet Chuktu says the partnership having yielded results over the years on improving sanitation and hand wash decided to expand its scope of operation  and assist the state Government to fight the novel corona virus .

He said just like every other air and water borne disease, good sanitation and effective hand wash, could help check the spread of Covid19 and thus the in-cooperation of all programmes to assist indigenes and residents of Cross River State.

Mr Chuktu said the  core mandate of the Organization is to ensure that people in hard to reach areas of the state get familiar with the essentials of hand wash and proper sanitation to avoid some common diseases around us and that has made the group rely deeply on the expertize of the Primary Health Care Agency who are front liners in public health, safety and grassroot mobilization for health programs.

Responding to the gesture, the Commissioner for health, Dr Betta Edu who Received the materials with the Director General Cross River State Primary Health Care Development Agency, Dr. Janet Ekpenyong on behalf of the state, said  the materials wouldn't have come at a better time than now when majority of health workers have been mobilized to various villages and communities to promote various preventive measures to curb the spread of the pandemic with sanitation and hand washing known to be critical in the fight.

She however charged the health workers to make judicious use of the materials by collaborating with heads of villages, traditional leaders, employ the use  traditional media like town criers to simplify the various printed messages .
  Earlier speaking, the Director General, Cross River State Primary Health Care Development Agency said United Purpose have been a dependable partner who have shown commitments  to complement the efforts of His Excellency Senator Prof Ben Ayade by providing Information, Education and Communication materials that will help disseminate the right information on Covid-19 all the way to the grassroots particularly the hard to reach communities.
She also highlighted the state Government's efforts so far in ensuring that  Cross River State remains Covid-19 free and admonished the Directors and other health workers to intensify their Sensitization across the state.

Some of the items donated by the group include 2500 printed paper messages each  to 14 Local Government Area Council, 3500 each of same messages to 4 of their cardinal and focal LGAs including Bekwarra,Biased,Obanliku and  Abi.

Prior to now, the group have organized a  rally in partnership with the Cross River State Primary Healthcare Development Agency within the metropolis to promote handwash.

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Covid19: United Purpose Team Up with Cross River State Government on Community Based Sensitization

The Cross River State Government has again benefitted from another worthy partnership with "United Purpose" a non Governmental organization operating in the state in the fight against covid19.

Head of programmes for the "United Purpose" on Wash and sanitation, Mr Nanpet Chuktu says the partnership having yielded results over the years on improving sanitation and hand wash decided to expand its scope of operation  and assist the state Government to fight the novel corona virus .

He said just like every other air and water borne disease, good sanitation and effective hand wash, could help check the spread of Covid19 and thus the in-cooperation of all programmes to assist indigenes and residents of Cross River State.

Mr Chuktu said the  core mandate of the Organization is to ensure that people in hard to reach areas of the state get familiar with the essentials of hand wash and proper sanitation to avoid some common diseases around us and that has made the group rely deeply on the expertize of the Primary Health Care Agency who are front liners in public health, safety and grassroot mobilization for health programs.

Responding to the gesture, the Commissioner for health, Dr Betta Edu who Received the materials with the Director General Cross River State Primary Health Care Development Agency, Dr. Janet Ekpenyong on behalf of the state, said  the materials wouldn't have come at a better time than now when majority of health workers have been mobilized to various villages and communities to promote various preventive measures to curb the spread of the pandemic with sanitation and hand washing known to be critical in the fight.

She however charged the health workers to make judicious use of the materials by collaborating with heads of villages, traditional leaders, employ the use  traditional media like town criers to simplify the various printed messages .
  Earlier speaking, the Director General, Cross River State Primary Health Care Development Agency said United Purpose have been a dependable partner who have shown commitments  to complement the efforts of His Excellency Senator Prof Ben Ayade by providing Information, Education and Communication materials that will help disseminate the right information on Covid-19 all the way to the grassroots particularly the hard to reach communities.
She also highlighted the state Government's efforts so far in ensuring that  Cross River State remains Covid-19 free and admonished the Directors and other health workers to intensify their Sensitization across the state.

Some of the items donated by the group include 2500 printed paper messages each  to 14 Local Government Area Council, 3500 each of same messages to 4 of their cardinal and focal LGAs including Bekwarra,Biased,Obanliku and  Abi.

Prior to now, the group have organized a  rally in partnership with the Cross River State Primary Healthcare Development Agency within the metropolis to promote handwash.

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Ekpenyong seeks Improved Partnership with Groups to Raise Covid-19 Awareness

The Director General, Cross River State Primary Healthcare Development Agency, Dr Janet Ekpenyong appealing to groups and individuals to collaborate with the state in raising awareness on  the dreaded Covid19 virus.

The DG made the appeal in Ikom when she met with representatives of the society for chaplains(Chapol) ikom branch in a bid towards raising more awareness on the novel corona virus especially in the rural areas.

Dr Ekpenyong said collaborative efforts especially with groups and individuals who have great influence in the society will promote the message on ways of managing the covid19 pandemic and other infectious diseases since such bodies have already gained the confidence of people in the area.

She further stated that government cannot do it all alone noting that the governor ,Senator professor Ben Ayade's pragmatic disposition has led to securing the lives of Cross Riverians especially those living in border communities like Ikom which she described as a Corridor through the release of funds and other logistics to secure the borders from foreign bodies.

She however thanked the group for choosing to partner with the primary Healthcare Agency in raising awareness and the provision of some personal protective equipment like facemask for use in the LGA which she described as one of the best preventive measures in fighting Covid-19.

"I want to thank you all for your support and for finding us worthy to collaborate with us to get to the people who need our services the most"
As you all know, Ikom is like a corridor especially with the borders linking Nigeria with Cameron and because of the rich commerce here, people travel from far and wide thereby interacting with your people, except through support from organization like yours, as we work tirelessly to cover all the villages and hard to reach areas in the state, we are calling on other organizations and groups like yours to emulate your gesture especially for the safety of our people"

She went ahead to disclose Government's commitment in fighting the pandemic which she said has yielded results so far, as the state alongside Kogi remains the only two states in the federation yet to record any confirmed cases of the virus.

"I must commend the effort of our dynamic governor, Senator Professor Ben Ayade for acting with all level of dedication and selfless service by providing vehicles and mobilizing manpower to block all entry points in the state especially the various villages here in Ikom and  Etung close to the republic of Cameron. Government cannot do it all alone and that is why Primary Healthcare Agency have chosen to take advantage of the partnership with groups like yours to teach our people about their daily requirements to remain Covid-19 free".

Recognizing the efforts of the Director General and the Primary Healthcare Agency, head of the delegation Reverend  Uzondu Josiah  said the PHC was chosen because of the level of professionalism it shows in handling disease outbreaks in the LGA and its grassroot oriented programs, it was necessary for the group to assist Government in fighting the pandemic.

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Ekpenyong seeks Improved Partnership with Groups to Raise Covid-19 Awareness

The Director General, Cross River State Primary Healthcare Development Agency, Dr Janet Ekpenyong appealing to groups and individuals to collaborate with the state in raising awareness on  the dreaded Covid19 virus.

The DG made the appeal in Ikom when she met with representatives of the society for chaplains(Chapol) ikom branch in a bid towards raising more awareness on the novel corona virus especially in the rural areas.

Dr Ekpenyong said collaborative efforts especially with groups and individuals who have great influence in the society will promote the message on ways of managing the covid19 pandemic and other infectious diseases since such bodies have already gained the confidence of people in the area.

She further stated that government cannot do it all alone noting that the governor ,Senator professor Ben Ayade's pragmatic disposition has led to securing the lives of Cross Riverians especially those living in border communities like Ikom which she described as a Corridor through the release of funds and other logistics to secure the borders from foreign bodies.

She however thanked the group for choosing to partner with the primary Healthcare Agency in raising awareness and the provision of some personal protective equipment like facemask for use in the LGA which she described as one of the best preventive measures in fighting Covid-19.

"I want to thank you all for your support and for finding us worthy to collaborate with us to get to the people who need our services the most"
As you all know, Ikom is like a corridor especially with the borders linking Nigeria with Cameron and because of the rich commerce here, people travel from far and wide thereby interacting with your people, except through support from organization like yours, as we work tirelessly to cover all the villages and hard to reach areas in the state, we are calling on other organizations and groups like yours to emulate your gesture especially for the safety of our people"

She went ahead to disclose Government's commitment in fighting the pandemic which she said has yielded results so far, as the state alongside Kogi remains the only two states in the federation yet to record any confirmed cases of the virus.

"I must commend the effort of our dynamic governor, Senator Professor Ben Ayade for acting with all level of dedication and selfless service by providing vehicles and mobilizing manpower to block all entry points in the state especially the various villages here in Ikom and  Etung close to the republic of Cameron. Government cannot do it all alone and that is why Primary Healthcare Agency have chosen to take advantage of the partnership with groups like yours to teach our people about their daily requirements to remain Covid-19 free".

Recognizing the efforts of the Director General and the Primary Healthcare Agency, head of the delegation Reverend  Uzondu Josiah  said the PHC was chosen because of the level of professionalism it shows in handling disease outbreaks in the LGA and its grassroot oriented programs, it was necessary for the group to assist Government in fighting the pandemic.

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No One Tells You The Truth About Being a Preacher's wife

No one really tells you the truth about being a preacher's wife. Absolutely no one!
You come into his life and somehow get absorbed that sometimes you begin to lose the spice that makes you feel you're not conscious enough.

You're never really prepared for the enormous responsibility of handling a pack of women and ladies who often times are most likely older and probably more experienced than you but oh well! You're the preacher's wife and you got to do what you got do right?

Everyone expects that you be prim, proper and up to the task when called upon. No room for sloppiness or mistakes and if by any chance you slip up even by an inch, you're called the Jezebel sent to destroy your husband's ministry.

You become a sorry case when you neglect servicing your personal altar because somehow in the twisted nature of the spiritual order, you and your children become the target when your husband ruffles some spiritual feathers. So at all times you're expected to be spiritually alert even when you really just want to sleep  through the night just that once!

No one tells you that on some nights you would be forced out of bed by distress calls made to your husband's phone some of which would leave you sleeping alone. You're never told how much of your husband you would have to share with the public.

Nothing prepares you for the times you would have to watch your husband handover the last cash at home to someone in need while you stand beside him urging him on with a smile cause somehow you know it is the right thing to do even though hard.

You do not realize how accommodating you can be until you have to draw close the lady(ies)/girls who you know have a crush on your husband. Thanks to him who somehow pushed them to you for his own safety ( Yes we know these things😁). Or even the unsolicited visitors who come over and never leave until months and sometimes years roll by.

Everyone tells you their problems but you never really tell anyone yours because truthfully, your congregation aren't really your friends and certain information when shared could be misinterpreted and be detrimental to your home and ministry. So often times, you might catch yourself feeling lonely.

Let's not forget the times people come to you for advice and you try your best not to burst into a feat of laughter cause you can't for the life of you imagine why anyone would think you sane enough to give a sound advice when you're still trying to figure out your life. But then you find yourself opening your mouth and saying things which makes sense(thanks to the holyspirit) and somehow they end up thinking you have sense when sincerely you  know you don't.

Did I mention how your name automatically goes into oblivion as people begin to address you as Pastor or the famous one; "Mama"

There are so many things I could write about  being a (young) Preacher's wife that no one ever prepares you for but then I'm just too hungry to continue.

Shout out to all the wives of ministers out there, The Lord continue to strengthen you and give you enough grace that will help you not to "fall hand"( fail).


Chidaa™️

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No One Tells You The Truth About Being a Preacher's wife

No one really tells you the truth about being a preacher's wife. Absolutely no one!
You come into his life and somehow get absorbed that sometimes you begin to lose the spice that makes you feel you're not conscious enough.

You're never really prepared for the enormous responsibility of handling a pack of women and ladies who often times are most likely older and probably more experienced than you but oh well! You're the preacher's wife and you got to do what you got do right?

Everyone expects that you be prim, proper and up to the task when called upon. No room for sloppiness or mistakes and if by any chance you slip up even by an inch, you're called the Jezebel sent to destroy your husband's ministry.

You become a sorry case when you neglect servicing your personal altar because somehow in the twisted nature of the spiritual order, you and your children become the target when your husband ruffles some spiritual feathers. So at all times you're expected to be spiritually alert even when you really just want to sleep  through the night just that once!

No one tells you that on some nights you would be forced out of bed by distress calls made to your husband's phone some of which would leave you sleeping alone. You're never told how much of your husband you would have to share with the public.

Nothing prepares you for the times you would have to watch your husband handover the last cash at home to someone in need while you stand beside him urging him on with a smile cause somehow you know it is the right thing to do even though hard.

You do not realize how accommodating you can be until you have to draw close the lady(ies)/girls who you know have a crush on your husband. Thanks to him who somehow pushed them to you for his own safety ( Yes we know these things😁). Or even the unsolicited visitors who come over and never leave until months and sometimes years roll by.

Everyone tells you their problems but you never really tell anyone yours because truthfully, your congregation aren't really your friends and certain information when shared could be misinterpreted and be detrimental to your home and ministry. So often times, you might catch yourself feeling lonely.

Let's not forget the times people come to you for advice and you try your best not to burst into a feat of laughter cause you can't for the life of you imagine why anyone would think you sane enough to give a sound advice when you're still trying to figure out your life. But then you find yourself opening your mouth and saying things which makes sense(thanks to the holyspirit) and somehow they end up thinking you have sense when sincerely you  know you don't.

Did I mention how your name automatically goes into oblivion as people begin to address you as Pastor or the famous one; "Mama"

There are so many things I could write about  being a (young) Preacher's wife that no one ever prepares you for but then I'm just too hungry to continue.

Shout out to all the wives of ministers out there, The Lord continue to strengthen you and give you enough grace that will help you not to "fall hand"( fail).


Chidaa™️

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Covid-19: Lafarge support Cross River State response with an Ambulance

As Cross River state government continue to double its efforts in containing COVID 19 in the state, very few private individuals and corporate organizations have thrown in their weight to support the state government.

Today at the state ministry of health, the state COVID 19 response taskforce chairman, Dr. Betta Edu has received an ambulance and 50 water dispensing hand washing buckets from the management of Lafarge Africa Cement industry as part of their support to containing COVID-19 pandemic in the state.

She said the ambulance donated would help the taskforce in their incident action plan implementation, with focus on case management and the surveillance pillars. According to her the donation came as a huge blessing for the state. Dr. Edu applauded LAFARGE for their corporate social responsibility. “LAFARGE in their host communities distributed palliatives and supported primary health centers in these locations.

Receiving the items alongside the Commissioner for Health was, Mr Asuquo Ekpenyong Jr Commissioner of finance and Secretary Covid-19 Response Taskforce who expresses his gratitude to the management of Lafarge for their support to the Cross River state government especially in the health sector. He urge other members of the public and corporate organizations to support the state government in the fight against COVID 19.

The management team led by the Head of Health and Safety Department, Mr. Johnson Akubueze handed the key of the brand new ambulance to the chairman, Cross River state Response Taskforce, Dr. Betta Edu in the presence of the DG CRSPHCDA Dr Janet Ekpeyong, DA SMOH Mr OMINI and others

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Covid-19: Lafarge support Cross River State response with an Ambulance

As Cross River state government continue to double its efforts in containing COVID 19 in the state, very few private individuals and corporate organizations have thrown in their weight to support the state government.

Today at the state ministry of health, the state COVID 19 response taskforce chairman, Dr. Betta Edu has received an ambulance and 50 water dispensing hand washing buckets from the management of Lafarge Africa Cement industry as part of their support to containing COVID-19 pandemic in the state.

She said the ambulance donated would help the taskforce in their incident action plan implementation, with focus on case management and the surveillance pillars. According to her the donation came as a huge blessing for the state. Dr. Edu applauded LAFARGE for their corporate social responsibility. “LAFARGE in their host communities distributed palliatives and supported primary health centers in these locations.

Receiving the items alongside the Commissioner for Health was, Mr Asuquo Ekpenyong Jr Commissioner of finance and Secretary Covid-19 Response Taskforce who expresses his gratitude to the management of Lafarge for their support to the Cross River state government especially in the health sector. He urge other members of the public and corporate organizations to support the state government in the fight against COVID 19.

The management team led by the Head of Health and Safety Department, Mr. Johnson Akubueze handed the key of the brand new ambulance to the chairman, Cross River state Response Taskforce, Dr. Betta Edu in the presence of the DG CRSPHCDA Dr Janet Ekpeyong, DA SMOH Mr OMINI and others

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Treat All Patients With Caution,Ekpenyong Admonishes Health workers

The Director General, Cross River State Primary Healthcare Development Agency, Dr Janet Ekpenyong has charged staff of the agency to maintain high level of professionalism and job ethics while attending to patients in their various health facilities.

Dr Ekpenyong said it has become imperative for health workers to remain vigilant while on duty especially going by the rapid spread of the covid19 virus across the Nation.

The DG who made the charge in Anantigha, Calabar South Local Government Area while addressing health workers during their monthly review meetings of all Primary Healthcare services in the state, challenged them to improve their services and also take their health and wellbeing Paramount as they engage in their routine tasks.

Dr Ekpenyong said, as health workers, they must remain vigilant at all times and well kitted both before, during and after attending to patients irrespective of what physical symptoms that may be presented for medical examination.

She said with People sneaking into the state through various route irrespective of the governor Senator Professor Ben Ayade's effort in checkmating the influx of people from other states by deploying huge human and material resources , health workers must begin to have a behavioural change when attending to patients as she claims that the life of each health worker remains most important to her and the state government.

"As health workers, you are at the front line in any health emergency situation and the first to be hit with an outbreak if you don't go about your duties with all sense of professionalism.

Currently, Cross River State is Covid-19 free because of God and the great efforts made by our Governor Senator Professor Ben Ayade in taking a proactive approach towards ensuring that our state remains Covid-19 free, but if eventually there's a case in our state, the Primary Health sector may be the first casualties because we are the most closest to the grassroots and since Covid-19 presents symptoms like every other diseases, except we are prepared and kitted up as professionals, we may end up being infected as well.

Currently there is a policy that everyone visiting our facilities must wash their hands before entry, but before they enter, whoever is not wearing a nose mask or covering their nose with handkerchief should not be allowed into the facility because right now, everyone is a suspect".

On her part, the Director, Local Government Health Authority for Calabar South, Mrs Eme Archibong thanked the DG for her unrelenting efforts in fixing the Primary Healthcare Agency and attending to staff and facilities needs with all commitments and prompt responds when need arises.


She assured her and the state of effective service delivery with all forms of professionalism in offering quality services to the people as she also urged heads of various wards to step up their sensitization drive on both Covid-19 and other infectious diseases.

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Treat All Patients With Caution,Ekpenyong Admonishes Health workers

The Director General, Cross River State Primary Healthcare Development Agency, Dr Janet Ekpenyong has charged staff of the agency to maintain high level of professionalism and job ethics while attending to patients in their various health facilities.

Dr Ekpenyong said it has become imperative for health workers to remain vigilant while on duty especially going by the rapid spread of the covid19 virus across the Nation.

The DG who made the charge in Anantigha, Calabar South Local Government Area while addressing health workers during their monthly review meetings of all Primary Healthcare services in the state, challenged them to improve their services and also take their health and wellbeing Paramount as they engage in their routine tasks.

Dr Ekpenyong said, as health workers, they must remain vigilant at all times and well kitted both before, during and after attending to patients irrespective of what physical symptoms that may be presented for medical examination.

She said with People sneaking into the state through various route irrespective of the governor Senator Professor Ben Ayade's effort in checkmating the influx of people from other states by deploying huge human and material resources , health workers must begin to have a behavioural change when attending to patients as she claims that the life of each health worker remains most important to her and the state government.

"As health workers, you are at the front line in any health emergency situation and the first to be hit with an outbreak if you don't go about your duties with all sense of professionalism.

Currently, Cross River State is Covid-19 free because of God and the great efforts made by our Governor Senator Professor Ben Ayade in taking a proactive approach towards ensuring that our state remains Covid-19 free, but if eventually there's a case in our state, the Primary Health sector may be the first casualties because we are the most closest to the grassroots and since Covid-19 presents symptoms like every other diseases, except we are prepared and kitted up as professionals, we may end up being infected as well.

Currently there is a policy that everyone visiting our facilities must wash their hands before entry, but before they enter, whoever is not wearing a nose mask or covering their nose with handkerchief should not be allowed into the facility because right now, everyone is a suspect".

On her part, the Director, Local Government Health Authority for Calabar South, Mrs Eme Archibong thanked the DG for her unrelenting efforts in fixing the Primary Healthcare Agency and attending to staff and facilities needs with all commitments and prompt responds when need arises.


She assured her and the state of effective service delivery with all forms of professionalism in offering quality services to the people as she also urged heads of various wards to step up their sensitization drive on both Covid-19 and other infectious diseases.

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COVID-19: Dr. Betta commends residents For High Compliance With Preventive Measures

With the curfew declared on all States by the Federal Governments as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic still in effect, the state Commissioner for Health and Chairman COVID-19, Dr Betta Edu has commended residents for the massive compliance.

Speaking on Thursday, when she led the state's COVID-19 taskforce team on an inspection tour along the Calabar metropolis, Dr Betta Edu noted that residents complied by shutting down all public places that attracted costumers and large gatherings operating mostly at night.

In her words; "As you can see, i must say there's a 98% compliance with this directives so far and am very impressed with the response. This is one of the reasons why the State is still free of COVID-19, we have one of the most refined, health conscious and cooperative population in Nigeria. The Government of Sen. Ben Ayade will continue to put in place all necessary preventive modalities to maintain the COVID-19 free status quo".

Also following the Governor, Senator Ben Ayade's directive for all civil servants to return to work, the state ministry of health, in keeping everyone safe, came up with some guidelines and preventive measures in all places and offices, for which compliance by staff and client has been very high.

The Health Commissioner pleaded with Cross Riverians to limit their movement this period, go about their daily work and retire home at close of work. This is not the time to sit at Joints or hangout with friends.

She pleaded with cross riverians to continue to cooperate with the state government all decision are in the best Interest of our people!

The taskforce team which included Captain Edet Otu visited the ever busy Marian by Atekong, Triangle spot at effioette, Bogobiri, Goldie, mount zion wAtt market and other busy areas withing Calabar.

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COVID-19: Dr. Betta commends residents For High Compliance With Preventive Measures

With the curfew declared on all States by the Federal Governments as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic still in effect, the state Commissioner for Health and Chairman COVID-19, Dr Betta Edu has commended residents for the massive compliance.

Speaking on Thursday, when she led the state's COVID-19 taskforce team on an inspection tour along the Calabar metropolis, Dr Betta Edu noted that residents complied by shutting down all public places that attracted costumers and large gatherings operating mostly at night.

In her words; "As you can see, i must say there's a 98% compliance with this directives so far and am very impressed with the response. This is one of the reasons why the State is still free of COVID-19, we have one of the most refined, health conscious and cooperative population in Nigeria. The Government of Sen. Ben Ayade will continue to put in place all necessary preventive modalities to maintain the COVID-19 free status quo".

Also following the Governor, Senator Ben Ayade's directive for all civil servants to return to work, the state ministry of health, in keeping everyone safe, came up with some guidelines and preventive measures in all places and offices, for which compliance by staff and client has been very high.

The Health Commissioner pleaded with Cross Riverians to limit their movement this period, go about their daily work and retire home at close of work. This is not the time to sit at Joints or hangout with friends.

She pleaded with cross riverians to continue to cooperate with the state government all decision are in the best Interest of our people!

The taskforce team which included Captain Edet Otu visited the ever busy Marian by Atekong, Triangle spot at effioette, Bogobiri, Goldie, mount zion wAtt market and other busy areas withing Calabar.

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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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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