Chairman Civil Service Commission Commends Gov Otu for Ending Gratuity Drought, Lifting Employment Ban

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August 10, 2024

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The Chairman of the Cross River State Civil Service Commission, Sir Maurice Effiwatt, has lauded Governor Bassey Edet Otu for his decisive actions in addressing two long-standing issues within the state’s public service. Sir Effiwatt praised the Governor for ending a 10-year gratuity drought and lifting a 25-year ban on employment into the state public service NEGROIDHAVEN has confirmed.

Speaking after the 7th Meeting of the Cross River State Executive Council, which was presided over by Governor Otu at the Council of Chiefs Chambers in Calabar, Sir Effiwatt described the Governor’s gestures as unprecedented. “Governor Otu has not only addressed the issues of unpaid gratuities that have plagued our retirees for a decade, but he has also taken a bold step in lifting the 25-year-old ban on employment into the state public service,” he said.

During the meeting, Governor Otu announced the immediate approval for the recruitment of an additional 2,000 staff to the state workforce. This move, according to the Governor, is part of a broader effort to strengthen the state’s public service and improve service delivery to the people of Cross River. The Governor also praised the residents of the state for their renewed confidence in the government, reflected in the voluntary payment of taxes, which resulted in a significant increase in the state’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) to ₦6.3 billion last month.

Sir Effiwatt assured the public that the upcoming recruitment process would be fair, equitable, transparent, and merit-based. He noted that the process is expected to commence next week with the advertisement of vacancies, with a significant portion of the process being conducted online to ensure broad accessibility and transparency.

“These steps taken by Governor Otu are not just historic but also reflective of a commitment to fairness and transparency in governance,” Sir Effiwatt added. He further promised that the Civil Service Commission would work diligently to ensure that the recruitment process aligns with these principles.

According to feelers, this development is expected to bring renewed hope to many job seekers in the state and to retirees who have waited years for their gratuities.

The 7th Meeting of the Cross River State Executive Council was also attended by the Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, Honourable Commissioners, and other members of the State Executive Council.

“Secretary to State Gov’t Wants to Eliminate My Client,” Ukweni SAN Alleges; Owan-Enoh Denies Involvement

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Efio-Ita Nyok

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August 10, 2024

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In a tense legal confrontation, Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) Mba Ukweni has accused Professor Anthony Owan-Enoh, the Secretary to the Cross River State Government, of using state security apparatus to target his client, Dr. Oscar Ofuka. Ukweni claims the alleged conspiracy revolves around a dispute over a large cocoa estate in Etung, Cross River State NEGROIDHAVEN can report.

According to Ukweni, the current administration, specifically Owan-Enoh and the State Security Adviser, Major General O. U. Obono, are seeking to eliminate Dr. Ofuka in a bid to appropriate the cocoa farm. Ukweni detailed the alleged plot during an interview at the Calabar Magistrate Court, where Ofuka is facing charges.

“There is a procedure in the administration of criminal justice that permits a magistrate to remand suspects in custody for a limited period. What is happening is beyond that—it is an orchestrated plan to eliminate my client,” Ukweni stated.

He further elaborated on the history of the cocoa farm dispute, noting that Dr. Ofuka had made significant contributions to the sector during his tenure as Special Adviser to former Governor Ben Ayade on Cocoa Development and Control. “When Dr. Ofuka took office, he paid the royalties and rents to the landlord communities, ensuring peace and progress in the cocoa sector. Now, certain individuals in the government want to claim credit for that and take over the estate,” Ukweni added.

Ukweni also alleged that the agreements made with tenants on the cocoa estate were facilitated through the Attorney General’s office during Ayade’s administration. He accused the current government of attempting to annul those agreements without refunding the tenants, a move he described as fraudulent.

“They now want to use brutal methods. The government knows the persons responsible for the murder in the state but is instead charging Ofuka for forgery of agreements that were prepared in the Attorney General’s office,” Ukweni asserted.

In a phone conversation, Professor Owan-Enoh strongly denied any involvement in the matter. “I was completely out with the governor, and everybody will be a witness. I have nothing to do with any security agent, whether police, AIG, or the state security adviser. Why should this be pinned on me?” Owan-Enoh questioned.

He added, “I have no dealings on that matter, directly or indirectly. I’ve been in public office long enough to understand the implications of such accusations. I am not involved in any way.”

The legal battle continues as Dr. Ofuka remains hospitalized, allegedly due to torture while in custody. Ukweni has appealed for his client’s release on bail to receive medical treatment, asserting that the ongoing actions against him are part of a larger plot to seize the cocoa estate.

Cross River Plays Host to PIND’s Niger Delta Peace & Security Network Meeting

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Edu Etukakpan

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August 1, 2024

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Cross River Plays Host to PIND’s Niger Delta Peace & Security Network Meeting

The Meeting which held in Calabar the state capital metropolis on Thursday featured a retinue of security personnel, traditional rulers, petty traders, religious leaders and development practitioners across the state etc NEGROIDHAVEN has confirmed.

The PIND Niger Delta Peace & Security Network Meeting (NDPSN) which was themed ‘Promoting Coordination among Stakeholders Working on Peace, Security and Development in the Niger Delta’, introduced the participants to a rich array of development narratives.

The facilitators, namely, Solomon Ndem, Ben Usang and Efio-Ita Nyok, highlighted security and peace issues including introducing participants to Foundation for Partnership Initiative in the Niger Delta (PIND) and overview of the NDPSN, mainstreaming peace building and conflict sensitivity, PIND SMS-based conflict early response system, discussions/reactions as well as post meeting activities and expectations.

Solomon Ndem introduced the participants present to PIND and NDPSN.

During his facilitation, Usang emphasised the need for mainstreaming peace building in every facet of the Nigerian society especially the Niger Delta region whether in business, corporate environment, politics and otherwise. He particularly tasked the participants to be sensitive during everyday social relations with neighbours, colleagues, relatives, friends and even strangers.

Usang said that it is important that participants ‘take cognizance of conflict sensitivity in communications about ethnic narratives and the like’. Usang exemplified his presentation with certain Nigerian tribes who are wont to, through their traditional mode of communications, cast indigenes of neighbouring tribes as natural slaves to them. He said such a trend capable of stoking conflict is unacceptable.

Efio-Ita Nyok who walked the participants around the nitty gritty of PIND’s SMS-based Conflict Early Response System, on his part, argued that the ultimate essence of the SMS-based facility is to provide data which is sacrosanct in designing and implementing development interventions on conflict management as well as influence the formulation and implementation of public policy around security issues.

Nyok who informed the participants of the components of the integrated Early Warning System of PIND of comprising the following, field monitors, SMS based incident reporting platform, peace map, research/analysis and prevent team/councils, tasked them to commit to post event peacebuilding activities such as peace messaging and conflict mitigation.

#EndBadGovernanceInNigeria: APC Only Group to have Secured Permit for Calabar Protests, Says C/River Chair

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Efio-Ita Nyok

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August 1, 2024

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Calabar, Nigeria – The Cross River State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has announced that it is the only political party to secure a police permit for participating in the upcoming #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria and #10DaysOfRage protests planned nationwide. Alphonsus Ogar Eba Esq., the state chair of the APC, made this declaration at a press conference held on Wednesday at the APC State Secretariat in Calabar NEGROIDHAVEN can report.

In his address, Eba emphasized the party’s commitment to peaceful demonstrations and solidarity with both the state and federal governments. “APC Cross River state, in conjunction with rightly-guided thinking Cross Riverians across party lines, have written to the Commissioner of Police for permits to also be in our office, to be on the streets,” he stated. “Our route will be a commencement point from this party office to the 12 Kilometer Carnival route. Our point of harbour will be the 11/11 Square. We will also intermittently spend time at Rabana, we will also have time at Effio-Ette Junction.”

Eba underscored that, to their knowledge, the APC is the only party that has obtained such a permit, highlighting their compliance with federal directives. “Up till this moment, to our knowledge, it is only APC Cross River state to have secured a rally from now till the 11th of August to use these routes. From what we have gathered, the only available route for anybody that wants to foment trouble will be Odukpani junction heading towards Itu head bridge,” he explained. “Therefore, as journalists, please take note that we are not looking for trouble. We will only be on the street to sing praises and to thank God for the duo President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Sweet Prince that has brought sweetness to the land.”

The APC state chair also outlined the party’s plan for a series of engagements following the rally, targeting various groups within the community to communicate the achievements of the current administration. “We will be engaging the youth and students to roll out the achievements of our dear president and Governor. After that, we will be engaging the religious groups, support groups, farmers, civil servants, the National Union of Road Transport Workers, Keke drivers and riders, independent marketers, and various religious groups. All in the name of telling them this is what we have done,” Eba detailed.

He concluded by urging the community to avoid any actions that could lead to unrest and emphasized the party’s peaceful intentions. “For the sake of God, for the sake of nationhood, for the sake of Cross River state, and for the sweetness in the land, let us not go to the streets. Well, for those that will choose to go to the streets as a party, we have taken this measure that we shall solidarise with our governor as a way of encouraging him to do more,” Eba appealed.

The announcement comes amidst nationwide plans for peaceful protests under the banners of #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria and #10DaysOfRage, aimed at addressing various governance issues. The APC’s proactive approach in securing a permit underscores their intention to manage their participation in an orderly and lawful manner.

Recall that the #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria protest plans to begin 1st through 10th of August nationwide.

Cross River-Based Entertainers Distance Selves from #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria Protest, Task State Gov’t on Empathy

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Efio-Ita Nyok

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July 30, 2024

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The planned nationwide #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria and 10 #DaysOfRage protest have suffered a significant setback in Cross River as practitioners in the entertainment industry have distanced themselves from the forthcoming street protest.

This disposition came to the fore on Monday in Calabar the state capital metropolis during the first edition of the Cross River State Stakeholders Interactive Session.

Majority of the entertainers comprising performing artistes, models, Disc Jockeys (DJ’s), stand up comedians and commedienes, event planners, costumers, designers/stylists, OAP’s, make up artistes, etc who attended the event were of the opinion that they will not participate in the much anticipated public protest reminiscing on the catastrophe of the 2020 #EndSARS protest especially in the state capital metropolis.

However, there were some dissenting voices who argued that since the 2020 protest, which saw the theft and destruction of their businesses, the Cross River state government never intervened to ameliorate their losses. They therefore used the opportunity to task the Cross River State Government to be empathetic towards their businesses going forward. Some used the opportunity to query why entertainers in the state had not been beneficiaries of the numerous government-distributed palliatives in the face of economic hardship.

In his opening remark the chairman of the occasion, Emmanuel Ironbar, the Chief of Staff to the state governor, represented by the Special Adviser on General Matters Ekpenyong Akiba, observed that he was not entirely opposed to protest but, was rather keen about the kind of protest like the interactive session where insecurity will not characterise the process. The Chief of Staff promised to take into consideration the concerns raised by the various clusters which constitute the entertainment industry.

While addressing newsmen shortly after the interactive session, the Commissioner for Information, Dr Erasmus Ekpang, disclosed that Cross River has a phobia for public protests.

The event was graced by Special Adviser Event to the governor, Effiong Ekpenyong, Security Adviser South Cdr Patrick Odiong, Special As Entertainment, and a host of others.

NYCN TO C/RIVER YOUTH: Choose dialogue over protest, constructive engagement over confrontation…

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Efio-Ita Nyok

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July 30, 2024

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The National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) in Cross River has appealed to youth in the state to refrain from participating in the 10 #DaysOfRage of the #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria protest planned to commence on 1st of August nationwide. The NYCN Cross River chapter made this appeal on Monday in the state capital through her state Chair, Comr. Emmanuel Olayi, during a Cross River Youth Town Hall Meeting themed Dialogue over Protest 2024 which held at the Youth House NEGROIDHAVEN can report.

In the place of the planned peaceful protest, Comr Olayi who called for dialogue and other forms of engagement offered 6 alternatives to the state government including, reactivation of scholarships board and implementation, Bursaries, Agricultural and Entrepreneurship Aid, Job opportunities, Health insurance scheme and infrastructural development. Below is the full script of the speech he presented to a cross section of youth in the state capital.

𝗣𝗥𝗘𝗦𝗦 𝗥𝗘𝗟𝗘𝗔𝗦𝗘

𝗙𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗢𝗳𝗳𝗶𝗰𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗶𝗿𝗺𝗮𝗻, 𝗡𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗵 𝗖𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗰𝗶𝗹 𝗼𝗳 𝗡𝗶𝗴𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗮, 𝗖𝗿𝗼𝘀𝘀 𝗥𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗽𝘁𝗲𝗿

𝗗𝗮𝘁𝗲: July 28, 2024

𝗦𝘂𝗯𝗷𝗲𝗰𝘁: Appeal to Cross River State Youths: Refrain from Participating in Planned Nationwide Protest

𝗗𝗲𝗮𝗿 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗵𝘀 𝗼𝗳 𝗖𝗿𝗼𝘀𝘀 𝗥𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗲,

I address you today as the Chairman of the National Youth Council of Nigeria, Cross River State Chapter, with a deep sense of responsibility and concern. In light of the prevailing challenges in our nation, there is a planned nationwide protest against bad governance. While the frustrations and grievances that fuel such actions are understood, I appeal to all youths in Cross River State to refrain from participating in this protest.

The recent history of protests, particularly the #𝗘𝗻𝗱𝗦𝗔𝗥𝗦 movement, provides a stark reminder of how well-intentioned actions can be hijacked by elements with malicious intent, leading to violence, destruction, and loss of lives and properties. We cannot afford a repeat of such tragic events.

While acknowledging the severe economic difficulties and the pressures faced by our people, I believe that protest, in this instance, may not be the most effective means of advocating for change. Instead, I call for a more constructive approach through dialogue and engagement.

I assure you that my team and I are committed to addressing your concerns. We are actively engaging with youths across the state to gather first-hand information about your challenges and aspirations. This grassroots approach ensures that we have a comprehensive understanding of the issues at hand.

We are advocating for the following measures to alleviate the hardships faced by our youths:

1. 𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗰𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗦𝗰𝗵𝗼𝗹𝗮𝗿𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗽𝘀 𝗕𝗼𝗮𝗿𝗱 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗜𝗺𝗽𝗹𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: The leadership of the youths thank the government for reactivating the Scholarships programme and we also urge His Excellency to ensure that the scholarships are readily available and accessible to the youths of Cross River State to promote education and skill development.

2. 𝗕𝘂𝗿𝘀𝗮𝗿𝗶𝗲𝘀: Providing financial support to Cross River students and youths to ease their academic burdens and encourage higher education.

3. 𝗔𝗴𝗿𝗶𝗰𝘂𝗹𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗮𝗹 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗘𝗻𝘁𝗿𝗲𝗽𝗿𝗲𝗻𝗲𝘂𝗿𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗔𝗶𝗱: Offering funding and resources to support youth involvement in agriculture and entrepreneurship, fostering self-reliance and economic growth.

4. 𝗝𝗼𝗯 𝗢𝗽𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗲𝘀: Creating employment opportunities for young people by advertising and recruiting into the State Civil Service.

5. 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗹𝘁𝗵 𝗜𝗻𝘀𝘂𝗿𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗦𝗰𝗵𝗲𝗺𝗲: Expanding the Cross River Health Insurance Scheme to cover young Cross Riverians, including artisans and unemployed youths, ensuring access to essential healthcare services.

6. 𝗜𝗻𝗳𝗿𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗿𝘂𝗰𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗮𝗹 𝗗𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹𝗼𝗽𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁: We commend the current administration for their strides in Infrastructural development and we urge them to Continue and even expand in key critical infrastructural projects to cover more rural areas, thereby improving living standards and economic opportunities for all.

Additionally, we call on the authorities at the local government level to engage with youths in their respective LGAs. Addressing the issues affecting youths at the grassroots level is crucial for fostering a peaceful and harmonious society. By working together, we can build a better Cross River State for everyone.

Above all, 𝗣𝗘𝗔𝗖𝗘 𝗶𝘀 𝗦𝗔𝗖𝗥𝗢𝗦𝗔𝗡𝗖𝗧. As a council and as leaders, we must do everything within our power to sustain peace. It is through dialogue, not protest, that we can achieve meaningful progress.

Rest assured, we will relay your concerns directly to the appropriate authorities with the urgency they deserve. Our goal is to ensure that your voices are heard and that concrete actions are taken to alleviate the hardships we all experience.

In conclusion, I appeal to your sense of responsibility and patriotism. Let us choose dialogue over protest, and constructive engagement over confrontation. Together, we can work towards a better Cross River State and a more prosperous Nigeria.

Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.

Yours in Service,

𝗛𝗶𝘀 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗳𝘂𝗹𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗿. Olayi Emmanuel

𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗶𝗿𝗺𝗮𝗻, 𝗡𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗵 𝗖𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗰𝗶𝗹 𝗼𝗳 𝗡𝗶𝗴𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗮

𝗖𝗿𝗼𝘀𝘀 𝗥𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗽𝘁𝗲𝗿

Joseph Odey goes to Court Challenging Speakership of Elvert Ayambem after Valid Removal

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Efio-Ita Nyok

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July 29, 2024

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A court order has been obtained by Joseph Odey, Director General of Youth Action Network (YAN), and an All Progressive Congress (APC) member in Cross River state, seeking to restrain Honorable Elvert Ayambem from being recognized as Speaker of the 10th Cross River State House of Assembly NEGROIDHAVEN can report.

Joseph Odey is also seeking in suit number HC/166/2024 between Joseph Odey and the Governor of Cross River State, Attorney General of the state, Clerk of the House and all 25 Members of the Assembly, a declaration that the Speaker, remains removed, and should not be recognized as Speaker of the Assembly amongst other prayers.

“To uphold democratic principles, Cross River State must follow proper procedures in selecting its Speaker in line with the rules laid down by the House of Assembly for itself in 2011. The impeachment of Mr. Elvert Ayambem was lawful, but his continued role as Speaker is not; because he was not re-elected according to the Assembly’s rules.Governance requires following laid down rules and processes.”

In his prayers to the court, Mr Joseph Odey is of the opinion that, “Cross River State is at risk of governmental disruption due to the absence of a duly elected Speaker of the House of Assembly. Without a validly elected Speaker, the laws passed by the House are invalid, hindering the Governor’s ability to govern effectively.

Mr Odey further buttresses that, “The Speaker cannot be chosen outside the House chamber. After Mr. Elvert’s impeachment, a formal election must take place within the Assembly to determine the new Speaker. To safeguard good governance and democracy, I have brought motions before the Cross River State High Court asking the Court to:

“Restrain government officials from recognizing Mr. Ayambem as Speaker until this matter is heard and decided by the Court. Restrain Mr. Elvert Ayambem from acting as Speaker until the matter is heard and decided by the Court. A properly functioning legislature is necessary for effective governance and the progress of our state and I believe that the Court, in its wisdom, will ensure that we get a properly functioning House of Assembly once again.”

Recall that on 22 May 2024 commotion stuck at the Cross River State House of Assembly in Calabar, when a motion for the removal of the Speaker of the House Honorable Elvert Ayambem, was moved by Hon Effiong Ekarika representing Calabar -south-1 state constituency, and was seconded by Hon Charles Omang representing Bekwarra State Constituency.

The motion was later affirmed and supported by 17 out of the 25 Members of the state House of Assembly, thus declaring the Speaker Elvert Ayambem removed as Speaker of the Assembly, following allegations of misconduct, financial mismanagement and incompetence.

However, on May 25, 2024, Governor Bassey Otu convened a meeting with all 25 House members on the matter, perhaps with a view to resolving the crisis, few days later, on May 27, 2024, media aid to the Speaker Matthew Okache, issued a statement, confirming that the Speaker Honorable Alvert Ayambem has been reaffirmed by all 25 law makers:

The statement reads in parts: “Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem has been unanimously reaffirmed as Speaker of the tenth Assembly of Cross River State. The reaffirmation of Ayambem followed a rapprochement brokered by the state governor, Senator Bassey Otu and critical stakeholders with the 25-member Assembly in Calabar yesterday. Ayambem expressed his appreciation to the governor and the concerned stakeholders for showing extraordinary leadership during challenging times.”

NDDC Installs Emergency Solar-Powered Street Lights in Iko and Uyanga Communities, Akamkpa LGA

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Negroidhaven

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July 29, 2024

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In a commendable effort to enhance security and improve the quality of life for residents, the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has installed emergency solar-powered street lights in the Uyanga and Iko communities of Akamkpa Local Government Area. This initiative, spearheaded by the NDDC under the leadership of Cross River State Representative Rt. Hon. Orok Duke, aims to address critical infrastructure needs in these areas.

Street lighting plays a pivotal role in community safety and well-being. Properly lit streets are essential in deterring criminal activities, thereby creating a safer environment for residents. The installation of these solar-powered street lights is particularly significant in regions where electricity supply is erratic, offering a reliable alternative source of illumination.

Rt. Hon. Orok Duke highlighted the broader vision of the NDDC in his reaction to our reporter. “The NDDC will continue to assist the state to bring relief to the state. As an interventionist agency, we are not limiting our scope. Street lights is a security measure to curb crime. We are looking forward to providing these lights to the hinterlands to serve as alternative source of electricity to our people and this is one of the thematic area of the commission,” he stated.

Beyond enhancing security, the provision of solar-powered street lights brings numerous other benefits. It extends the hours of economic activities, allowing local businesses to operate longer into the evening. Additionally, it promotes social cohesion by enabling residents to safely participate in communal activities after dark.

The initiative reflects the NDDC’s commitment to sustainable development in the Niger Delta region. By utilizing solar energy, the Commission not only addresses immediate needs but also promotes environmental sustainability. Solar-powered solutions reduce dependence on non-renewable energy sources, thereby contributing to the fight against climate change.

Community leaders and residents of Uyanga and Iko have expressed their gratitude for the NDDC’s intervention. They noted that the new street lights have already begun to make a noticeable difference in their daily lives, providing a sense of security and improving the overall ambiance of their communities.

The successful implementation of this project underscores the importance of collaborative efforts between government agencies and local communities. It sets a precedent for future initiatives aimed at improving infrastructure and enhancing the quality of life in rural areas.

As the NDDC continues to roll out similar projects across the Niger Delta, it remains committed to addressing the diverse needs of the region. The provision of solar-powered street lights in Uyanga and Iko is a testament to the Commission’s dedication to fostering development and ensuring the well-being of all residents.

Journalists in C/River Eulogise NDDC for rehabilitating roads, installing solar lights in state capital

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Negroidhaven

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July 26, 2024

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By Frank Ulom

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Cross River State Council, has commended the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) for the rehabilitation of some roads and the installation of solar lights in some of the streets in Calabar, the State capital.

This was disclosed in a communique issued at the end of the NUJ Congress held at the Ernest Etim Bassey Press Conference in Calabar on Wednesday, 24th July 2024.

“Congress commends the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) for the installation of solar lights in some streets in the Calabar Metropolis and the rehabilitation of some roads in Calabar,” the communique read in part.

The Congress which was presided over by the Council Chairman, Comrade Archibong Bassey, also highlighted various issues affecting the Union, Cross River State and the Federal Government of Nigeria.

The journalists also commended the State and Federal Government for improved security, and groundbreaking road construction as well as frowned at the delay of work at the Calabar-Itu road which almost took the life of a journalist and her family two weeks ago.

“Congress appreciates Cross River State Government and the Federal Government on the level of improvements on security matters and other policies geared towards repositioning the nation.

“Congress expresses displeasure on the prolonged delay in the completion of Calabar-Itu Federal Highway, saying it is unhealthy and poses a serious setback on the economic development of Cross River and Akwa Ibom States, therefore, calling on the Federal Government to ensure the speedy completion of the road project

“Congress commends the Cross River State Government for the groundbreaking for construction of Adiabo-Ikoneto road in Odukpani LGA,” parts of the communique read.

Converseer reports that the NDDC under its representative in the state, Rt. Hon. Orok Duke, has rehabilitated roads in Etta-Agbor, K. Duke Street off Chamley and its environs and other places in the Calabar Metropolis.

Duke has also overseen the Commission’s installation of solar street lights in some of the streets, Immigration Service, Nigeria Police Command, and other places and establishments in Calabar.

The NDDC through Orok Duke has distributed palliatives to communities affected by floods including Bayside and Esierebom in Calabar, Ikot Offiong in Odukpani, Returnees in Bakassi, Akpabuyo and other parts of the state.

“We intend to add value to what this present government is doing. On our own part at NDDC, we are going to insist that all those parts that have been neglected and are still suffering will be taken care of,” Duke said while distributing palliatives to the people of Ikot Offiong in May.

Forum advances reasons C/Riverians should not participate in #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria protest come 1st August

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Negroidhaven

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July 26, 2024

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Press Statement from the Cross River South Consultative Forum (CRSCF)

Date: 24th June 2024

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

RE: Nationwide Protest on 1st August 2024

The Cross River South Consultative Forum (CRSCF) acknowledges the constitutional right of citizens to peacefully assemble and protest. This right is a cornerstone of democracy, providing a lawful avenue for citizens to express their grievances and advocate for change. However, in light of the planned nationwide #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria protest on 1st August 2024, we are calling on all indigenes and residents of Cross River State, especially those in Calabar, the state capital, not to participate in any protests, demonstrations, or anti-government marches for the following reasons:

1. Security Concerns: The primary responsibility of any government is to ensure the safety and security of its citizens. Given the current state of insecurity in various parts of the country, large gatherings pose a significant risk of escalation and potential violence. The safety of our people cannot be compromised.

2. Economic Stability: The aftermath of the EndSARS protest in 2020 saw extensive destruction of property and businesses in Cross River State. This resulted in significant economic setbacks and a loss of livelihood for many residents. The planned protest has the potential to cause similar disruptions, further compounding the economic challenges we currently face.

3. Constructive Dialogue: It is essential to address grievances through constructive dialogue and engagement with relevant authorities. The CRSCF encourages all concerned citizens to utilize available channels for dialogue and advocacy, ensuring that their voices are heard in a manner that promotes unity and progress.

4. Historical Precedent: The EndSARS protest, while well-intentioned, led to widespread devastation in our state. The looting, vandalism, and destruction of public and private property have left scars that are still healing. During the EndSARS protest, properties of prominent Cross Riverians were specifically targeted for destruction and looting. We must learn from our past and seek alternative ways to effect change without endangering lives and property.

5. Potential for Hijacking: No matter how well-intentioned, the possibility of subterranean forces hijacking the protest to unleash massive destruction and looting of public and private properties is real. This risk cannot be ignored.

6. Government Commitment: The government of Cross River State, led by Governor Bassey Otu, remains committed to addressing the issues of bad governance, insecurity, unemployment, and hunger. Efforts are ongoing to implement policies that will bring about sustainable development and improve the quality of life for all citizens. Constructive engagement with the government can yield more effective and lasting solutions.

Finally, while the CRSCF respects the right to peaceful protest, we believe that the planned #DayOfRage demonstration on 1st August 2024 is not in the best interest of our state and its people. We urge all organizers and participants to prioritize peace, security, and constructive dialogue in our collective pursuit of a better Nigeria.

We call on all citizens to join hands in building a more secure and prosperous Cross River State and Nigeria at large.

Signed,

Hon. Eyo Nsa Ekpo, Esq
Sir Maurice Effiwatt
Prof Emmanuel Eyo, Esq.
Apostle (Hon) James Anam
Ntufam (Hon) Victor Okon
Hon. (Mrs) Ada Charles Egwu
Hon. ( Chief) Ani Esin
Hon Joseph Etene, Esq
Hon (Mrs) Abigail Duke
Barr. Bassey Mensah
Chief Felix Idem
Prince Edwin Okon
Ntufam (Hon) Okon Owuna
Hon Charles Atu

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