by Akintunde1

SINCE he was charged with bank fraud and money laundering in the United States of America last week, the CEO of Air Peace, Allen Onyema, has been defending himself. His lawyers have also risen in his defence just as the airline’s Chief of Administration and Finance, Ejiroghene Eghagha, has been defending her integrity.

But there is unease in the Amnesty office, the outlet charged with the responsibility of rehabilitating and reintegrating repentant members of the militant groups in the Niger Delta, where Onyema allegedly functioned as a consultant before he went into airline business.

Credible sources said that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is set to swoop on Amnesty Office to find out the kind of consultancy job Onyema did for them and determine whether Onyema made his money from the office.

It was also gathered that the chief executive officers (CEOs) of two banks, including one that is very active in the South East and was investigated by EFCC in connection with Diezani Allison-Madueke’s money laundering case, may be quizzed over the alleged laundered funds. Trust SENTRY to report the developments.

The First Lady, Hajiya Aisha Buhari, has alerted that things are getting out of hand in the country, noting that her husband alone cannot handle the challenges of the nation and admonished the political class to work together to bail the country of out of the challenges.

She also berated state governors for failing to provide basic social amenities and infrastructure.

She spoke yesterday at the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) General Assembly and National Executive Council (NEC) meeting at the National Mosque Abuja, with the theme; “Islam and National Development”.
Mrs. Buhari said; “We should either fasten our seatbelts and do the needful or we will all regret it very soon because, at the rate things are going, things are getting completely out of hand. The VP (Yemi Osinbajo) is here, some ministers are here, they are supposed to do justice to the situation.
“People cannot afford potable water in this country while we have governors. Since this is the highest decision-making body of Islamic affairs, for those that are listening we should fear God, and we should know that one day, we will return to God and account for our deeds here on earth,” she said.
She also called for the regulation of social media, noting that China with about 1.3bn people had done so, stressing that many people could not visit their villages on account of fake news broadcasts.
She said; “On this issue of social media, you cannot just sit in the comfort of your house and tweet that the vice president has resigned, it is a serious issue. If China can control over 1.3bn people on social media, I see no reason why Nigeria cannot attempt controlling only 180m people.”
Vice President Yemi Osinbajo while formally declaring the conference open, admonished Nigerians to be their brother’s keepers regardless of their religious affiliations as all Nigerians are equal.
He stated; “It is my view that the weight of ensuring that this country is on the right track is on our leaders. We should be our brother’s keepers no matter the religion. We should always be ready to make sacrifices for one another. We have religious and tribal tensions in this country. Many are beating the drums of ethnic and religious war, we are at a historic juncture of our nation.”
On his opening remarks, the NSCIA President-General and the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar III, said the nation must come together to address its challenges, insisting that girl-child education and the Almajiri phenomenon must be addressed urgently.
He also disagreed with the calls for social media regulation, stating that there were laws to deal with the abuse of the platforms.
“I have received so many calls on the need to regulate social media. In Nigeria, there are so many laws that can deal with this issue.
“Some people even proposed having a hate speech law. We must accept the outcome of whatever the people decided. After all, people voted for our political leaders. Let us listen to the voices of the people. It is important for us to do the wish of Nigerians,” the Sultan said.

Tonto Dikeh

Nollywood Actress, Tonto Dikeh is thankful for all the past mistakes in her life which have helped to make her the ‘man’ she is today.

The actress made this known via her Instagram page on Friday, November 29, 2019, where she shared a post about her life experiences and the lessons learned.

According to the IG post, “I’M THANKFUL FOR ALL MY MISTAKES/FAILURES. THEY ARE THE EVIDENCE THAT PROVES I TRIED. I’ve learned more from failure than I have succeeded. It’s the training ground that’s preparing me for where I’m going. I no longer fear it. Instead, it gets me closer to the GOAL. Without it, I wouldn’t be the MAN I am today,” she wrote

Recall that over the last few days, Tonto Dikeh has been embroiled a lot of drama which even got her trending on social media platforms.

By Don Silas


Chelsea manager, Frank Lampard, has insisted that he is happy with goalkeeper, Kepa Arrizabalaga, despite a number of incidents where he feels the Spain international could have done better this term for the Blues.

He also gave the latest injury update on defender, Antonio Rudiger.

Speaking at his pre-match press conference on Friday ahead of Chelsea’s Premier League clash with West Ham United on Saturday evening, Lampard was quoted by Football London as saying: “I’m happy. Like everybody, we’re all trying to improve.

“Kepa is a professional, and you can see it in his attitude everyday. He’s a keeper that’s striving to be better, as he should do at his age and the status he has – Chelsea’s No.1, big price tag, Spain’s No.1 and competing with another great goalkeeper (De Gea).

“He’ll want to get better all the time, and there have been a few incidents this season where he’ll be the first to say he can do better. That’s football at the top level, but I’m happy with him and with his work ethic.”


Lampard added: “Rudiger is getting closer, he has had a really good week’s work by the realisation and the reality is that he has not played for a very long time.

“It’s a mini pre-season now that the injury seems to be hopefully finished and over. Now we need to get him fit and he is working very, very hard to make sure of that. It is days and weeks, rather than months which is great news for us.”

Liverpool have been impressive since the start of the 2019/2020 Premier League campaign, dropping just 2 points all season, but their hope of dethroning Manchester City has been hit with a piece of bad news, as one of the team’s key players, is set to be on the sideline for the rest of the year.

Many football pundits have said Liverpool don't play possession football, but fast pressing game, and Jurgen Klopp has his constant formation, but that formation will have to change now, as one of the "engine room" in the club, has picked up an injury that will keep him out for the rest of the year until 2020.

The Liverpool camp have suffered a huge blow, following reports about midfielder, Fabinho, who picked up an injury in the 1-1 draw against Italian side, Napoli in the UEFA Champions League, and Jurgen Klopp has said, "It's bad news. We have to find solutions".

The injury to the Brazilian came early in the game against the Napoleans, after just 18 minutes into the game. Fabinho will now begin rehabilitation with the club's medical team, as he hopes to recover in time for the new year.

In an interview on liverpoolfc.com, Jurgen Klopp said: “Of course, that's absolutely bad news. Nothing good to say about that. About a timeframe or how long it will take, we are not sure. But it looks pretty sure that he will not be involved in the Christmas fixtures, let me say it like this”.

The German gaffer added: “It obviously takes a while. The whole night after the game nobody in the interviews asked me about that and that was my main problem immediately after the game. But meanwhile, we know it since two days or around about and we have solutions for that, for the position.

He then went on to speak on how Fabinho will be replaced: “We have to replace him, we can replace him. We played well without him, we played good without him, that's all OK. But now it's all about that he is doing the right things and then he will be back as soon as possible. Until then we have to find solutions. We are not the only team to [have] injured players. That's what we have to deal with and we will.”
The 52-year-old manager, is seeing the positives in the injury to his start man, as he believes it will be an opportunity for other players to flourish. He said: “Yes, always, that’s how it is. In the preparation for the Napoli game, for example, we watched the Napoli game from last year a little bit, not too much, and Hendo played the position. Gini played the position already, Adam Lallana played the position. We can change system, we can do different things.

“How I said, losing a player with the quality of Fabinho is big, it’s massive but, how I said, we are not the only team in the Premier League with injuries. You want to push that moment as far as possible through the end of the year because in this period if you are two weeks out you miss six games, that's how it is.
“That's now the case and we can’t change that anymore and we have to find a solution. We will find a solution. Will it be exactly like Fabinho? Of course not because nobody is like the other one, but it will be good. Then we have to play football and have to win football games again. That's it,” Klopp added.

Fabinho has been a pivot in the Liverpool squad, shielding the back four very well. He has played 19 games for the Reds in all competitions this season, providing two assists, and scoring just one goal, the thundering strike against Manchester City.
The 26-year-old Brazilian is expected to miss at least 10 games, with seven of the coming in the Premier League. He will also be absent in the important final Champions League group game, against free-scoring Red Bull Salzburg.

Fabinho will really be missed by Jurgen Klopp and the entire Liverpool team, and will wish him speedy recovery in his rehabilitation.

Chief Mrs Angela Ogeyi Odey

In her words...

"Yala nation is blessed with enormous potential, and from my
interactions with many of you, my hope and conviction for a
better and prosperous Yala is rekindled every day.

I see hope, and determination boldly written on your faces,
in spite of the many challenges and difficulties we face.
This unrelenting spirit of optimism gives me hope that we
must never give up on Yala, and Yala must be great again!.

It is a known fact that there is a huge disconnect and
a mismatch between our God-given potential and achievements,
despite this anomaly, it also presents an opportunity to
rekindle our innovative spirits and turn the Yala dream
into an enviable reality.

With an unrelenting commitment to a prosperous Yala nation,
and wide range consultations, I offer myself to serve as
the Chairperson of Yala LGA.

I offer myself in the spirit of Patriotism, Selflessness
and Optimism for a prosperous Yala nation.

I make this declaration today because of thousands of our
youths who are either underpaid or unemployed.

I make this declaration today for God to use me to free us from unimaginable suffering.

I make this declaration today because of the insecurity
that has claimed the lives of promising youths.

We are fed up with the antics of selfish politicians, whose
priority is self-aggrandizement.

It is time to change the sordid narration of the Yala nation.

It is time to entrust the future of Yala to a visionary, and pragmatic leader.

It is time for new leadership, where our youths are encouraged to fulfill their God-given potentials, and not
subjugated to slavery.

Yala youths are smart, relentless, visionary, and courageous. We must not let these potentials continue to
waste.

Transforming the dream of Yala into enviable reality requires Capacity, Empathy, and Competence. And as a Mother
who aspires to be the Chairperson of Yala LGA I possess the above qualities.

If it is about Capacity: My ascension as Double Crown Manager at Edmark within the shortest period of time,
demonstrates my commitment to capacity building.

If it is about Empathy: The formation of Oja-Ugu, one of the largest socio-political groups in Yala is borne out of altruism. We have ensured hundreds of children are back in school. Oja-Ugu has embarked on the constructions of
class-rooms, payment of school fees, providing start-up capitals for entrepreneurs, etc.

If it is about Competence: My work as the Senior Special Adviser to the Governor on Mobilization and Enlightenment played a crucial role in dispelling falsehood and disseminating factual information. My role in ensuring Peace reigns supreme is there for everyone to see.

Honestly, the path to the total economic recovery and prosperity of Yala is arduous and long. However, I want to
assure the good people of Yala that:

In Unison, we can chart a new course.

In Unison, we can actualize the Yala dream.

In Unison, we can harness our God-given potentials to the
admiration of all.

The agenda of my government under my leadership includes;

Proactive Governance

My government will be composed of proactive and pragmatic individuals based entirely on merit. Under my leadership,
effective strategies that ensure economic development will be enthroned.

Security

Under my leadership, the lingering communal clashes will be decisively dealt with, thus ensuring the security and
safety of lives and property in Yala.

Economy

Under my leadership, the public-private partnership will be prioritized which would create employment for thousands of unemployed youths. The massive  vocational education system, pragmatic employment of our comparative advantage in areas of mechanized agriculture ,
Accessible feeder road to our farm and created small scale Agro processing factories that will add value to our farm products.

Ensuring quality healthcare is accessible to all. Under my leadership, Healthcare will be prioritized.

Environment:
The environment we live has great impact on our general  health . My government shall embark  on intensive educational programme the inculcate personal cleanliness, environmental sanitation in our people.

Conclusion

I am making this declaration today because of my undying love, and my vision for a prosperous Yala.

My brothers and sisters, this is a movement borne out of altruism and vision, a collective movement to right the
wrongs of yesterday by ensuring we elect a credible and responsible leader, whose interest aligns with the interest
of the people.

Ending this declaration, I would like to thank my Family, Mentors, and friends. My ever-supportive husband, thank you for pushing me to be the best version of Me. Thank you!. And to my lovely children , I am proud of you, and my lovely supporters you are the best.

The Great People of Yala, This is achievable, We Can Do It."

By Uchino  Amatey

The Cross River State Chapter of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations(NIPR) have presented an Excellent Leadership and Service award to the Executive Chairman, State Universal Basic Education Board  (SUBEB), Dr Stephen Odey.

The award which was presented at the 2019 NIPR Awards and Dinner night at 520 Kolanut Events and Conference Centre, Calabar, was in recognition of his administrative prowess, education infrastructural expansion in basic education sub-sector, Community development and pragmatic Leadership acumen.

Presenting the award, the former Deputy Governor, Cross River State, Barr. Ifiok Cohbams, Congratulated the Board Chairman on his achievements in the basic education sub- sector.

 He said " I have heard and seen the transformation going on in the basic education sub-sector. Today, I join NIPR to celebrate and congratulate you on these achievements."

Mr Cyril Itam received the award on behalf of the Board Chairman.

Mr Cyril Atam receiving the award on behalf of Dr Odey

Carlo Ancelotti is among the candidates being considered by Arsenal CREDIT: AFP  Sam Wallace, chief football writer

Next Arsenal manager: Contenders to replace Unai Emery and what they would bring​

Three-time Champions League winner, and former Chelsea manager, Carlo Ancelotti is among the candidates being considered by Arsenal as a possible long-term successor to Unai Emery, who has been sacked.

The steep decline in form under the Spanish coach, whose Arsenal side lost at home to Eintracht Frankfurt on Thursday, has prompted his dismissal, with Ancelotti among the options for Emery's replacement.

Former Governor of Ekiti State, Ayodele Fayose has come down hard on a former presidential candidate and founder of the New York-based news site, Sahara Reporters.

Fayose said Sowore deserves the punishment he is currently getting from the federal government.
Sowore, who was a popular critic of Fayose when he was governor, is being held by the Nigeria’s intelligence agency,, the Department of State Services (DSS).

He is charged with treason felony for organizing a 'Revolution Now" protest, which the government said was an attempt to disrupt peace in the nation.
He is also charged with cyberstalking President Muhammadu Buhari and money laundering.
Sowore has pleaded not guilty to the charges. Several weeks after meeting his bail conditions, the journalist is still being held.
Reacting to Sowore’s predicament, Fayose said Sowore contributed to making Buhari too powerful.

Fayose spoke on Wednesday, when he met social media personality, Kemi Olunloyo in a drugstore in Lagos.
In a post shared on her Facebook page, Olunloyo added that Fayose also accused Sowore of destroying the country.

Olunloyo wrote: #LIVE at a drugstore in Okeja, my good friend Ayodele Fayose who I bumped into. He told me that the state of the country has really saddened him. One of the true PATRIOTS of the Federal Republic of #Nigeria. Ayo blasted Sowore openly in front of me. Pharmacy security were stunned watching. Even said Yele destroyed Nigeria.

Recall that Fayose through one of his aides, had once described Sowore as a mad man trying to blackmail influential people who refused to give him money when he asked for it.


Many Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) members are mocking Sowore, saying those he was supporting then, are the same people who put him behind bars

Musician, model, dancer, and actress, Tiwa Savage, has released new pictures online and people have since been talking about how hot they look

The former Mavin record queen, who is a stunner, no doubt, had jaws dropping after she took to her IG page to share a sexy new image of herself.

Tiwa in this new photo went braless under her denim jacket. The singer paired her denim top with matching denim pants.


 The mother of one, who is not a stranger to controversies, had her hair made into box braids and finished off with hoop earrings and some rings. Tiwa captioned the photo; “@colorsxstudios X TIWA SAVAGE COMING UP NEXT”

By Prince Charles Ekanem.

Nigerian Optometric Association (NOA) has condoled with the Nzie Eyime family, as well as the Delta State Government over the demise of foremost First Licence Board Registrar and former  National President of the Association and academician , Dr Ronald Nzie Eyime who died at the age of 63.

In a message of condolence personally signed by the National President of the Association, Dr Ozy Okonokhua described the exit of the academician and egalitarian as a colossal loss to the Association, Delta State and Nigeria at large.

He extolled Dr Ronald Eyime as a great man of  virtue and wit, whose legacies permeated the field of humanities and statesmanship.

It said: “The death of a loved one, no matter his age, brings grief to our heart and tears in our eyes, but we must take solace in the fact that Dr Eyime lived a glorious life.

“He was a pioneer Registrar/CEO, Optometrists and Dispensing Opticians Registration Board of Nigeria from 1992-2010 and spearhead and pioneer, Steering Committees on th establishment/formation of various Institutions in Optometry from 1998 till his demise. Eyime rose to become President, Nigerian (Post Graduate) College of Optometrists in 2017.

As a consummate seasoned administrator and academician, Dr Eyime served the Federal Republic of Nigeria as Member National Advisory Committee  on Health from 1991- 1998 and Secretary, National Universities Commission Panel on review of Medical/Health curricular for Nigerian Universities in 2005 and Member Accreditation Team, National Universities Commission (N.U.C) to University of Calabar 1998-2012.

He has travelled wide the world as Member, Governing Council of Optometry, the recent to New Zealand for Public Health and Development Committee of the World Council of Optometry.

Late Dr Ronald Nzie Eyime is a fellow of Nigerian Optometric Association (FNOA) and Past National President of the Association from 1990-1995.

As a voice in modern day optometry, Eyime lived a life worthy of emulation and as such we prayed that God will continue to bless members of the Eyime family, and grant them the fortitude to bear his exit said Dr Okonokhua.

List of Borders police stations and barracks as approved by His Excellency Sir Ben Ayade Governor Cross River State.

INTER-STATE:
1. Odukpani/ Itu / Okuiboku- Akwa Ibom
2. Erei-Biase / Abia / Ebonyi
3. Adadama / Ikwo- Ebonyi
4. Osopong- Obubra / Izzi- Ebonyi
5. Ukelle/ Izzi- Ebonyi
6. Obudu / Tiv- Benue

INTRA STATE
7. Ebom- Ebijakara / Usumutong
8. Onyadama / Inyima / Nko

Dr Ushie

The Cross River State independent electoral commission CROSIEC Chairman Dr Mike Ushie has fixed February 22nd as date for the conduct of Local Government Election in Cross River State.

Also Read
Sir Ben Ayade Approves The Conduct Of LG Election In CRS.

See time table...

High Chief Higgins Peters

ADVOCACY VISIT AND INTERACTION WITH HIGH CHIEF HIGGINS PETERS ON THE LINGERING LAND DISPUTE BETWEEN OBA/ITEGA-OKPAME YALA COMMUNITIES, OKUKU-MFOM-YAHE ROAD, LANDS FOR GOVT PROJECTS ETC

On Tuesday, concerned  Yala youths and media practitioners paid a courtesy visit to interact with one of the critical stakeholders in Yala and Cross River State, the highly respected, High Chief Higgins Peters.

The visit and discussion which was led by Mr Ebriku John Friday was against the backdrop of the lingering land dispute between the sister communities; Itega Okpame and Oba of Yala LGA of Cross River State, hence the major reason for the courtesy visit and interaction to avail us the opportunity to understand the position of the high chief on the matter.

Those in attendance include: Ebriku John Friday, Emaluji Sunday Michael, Francis Peters, Ogar Wodah, Sunday Odey, Adoga Oyilichi Michael, Riwo Daniel etc.

The meeting was conveyed by Comr. Francis Peters on the premise of the various questions agitating the minds of many Yala sons and daughters as pushed by the, Team leader, Mr Ebriku.

Team leader Ebriku John Friday

The meeting started at about 4:20pm with brief remarks from Mr Francis Peters and Mr Ebriku John. Thereafter, the team leader Mr Ebriku started the discussion with the question on the lingering land dispute between Oba/Itega-Okpame and the efforts so far made by High Chief Higgins and the impact of his laudable efforts in restoring peace.

Chief Higgins Peters in his wisdom took us through memory lane, educating on journey to the whole matter. He said he has not been sleeping over the matter, in fact, if there's anyone on this matter the most since it started it should be me, chief said.

Speaking further, High Chief Higgins said, what is happening at home is a result of Pride, Cultism, broken family moral values, political differences, rumour. etc.
"the land in question may belong to an individual, but due to pride the communities are all fighting and killing each other for it," chief said.

He noted that "the greatest enemy of life is pride, and the greatest weapon in life is humility. Pride take you to war, humility take you to talking table."

High Chief Higgins with team

He also said, cultism is also on the increase in the communities thereby fueling the crisis. "Nowadays, you see youths walking on the street shoulders-high as cultist and people including their parents are afraid of them. They are the ones fueling the crisis". Chinue Achebe was prophetic when he said, "The falcons can no longer hold the falconers". Today, parents can no longer control their children."

He added that rumours is also contributing to the crisis negatively. He said, "the most dangerous that kill is rumours, not weapons."

While lamenting the state of things, he further said, failing family system, broken family values is posing huge challenge and fueling crisis not just in Oba/Itega-Okpame but the entire Yala.

He said, he receives countless of calls on daily bases from home regarding the crisis of how this community has attacked our farm, this one has done that. But on investigation he will discover nothing of such ever happened.
"I'm an 'Oloba', not 'oyioloba' again and I have been neutral on this matter. My neutrality has endeared me to the two communities.

High Chief also emphasized that, all interests be shunned while talking peace else they wouldn't be true and absolute peace. He said, the notice of the peace meeting by the tactical committee was sent to him, he looked at itnand knew the talk wouldn't end well because the Itega people has given him their words that any peace meeting he will attend, they will gladly honor and accept any outcome because he is the one that had showed neutrality since the matter started. He said it is time for all parties to seat on the same table in humility and dialogue for peace.

He stressed that Leadership in any community or environment, is not elective, it is bestowed. It comes natural. We have people in elective offices, appointive but I can tell you that one of the strongest points is when you react to the interest of your people when it's best needed.

High Chief Higgins said there's hope for lasting peace. He said the Yala Progressive Union YPU, Calabar Chapter, are already on the matter. "They called me and I gave them my word for my availability. The meeting will be held 23rd of December by 12pm. Everybody will attend, all stakeholders will be in attendance. I will make sure Distinguished Senator Rose Oko, Rt. Hon Jarigbe Agom, Rt. Hon Regina Anyogo, etc are present to witness everything for the sake of tomorrow, and I will remain neutral as ever". He further stated that, for total peace without interference no external body like the police, Army etc will be invited to attend the meeting.

On the whole, the group satisfactorily applauded  High Chief Higgins for his positions so far since the beginning of the crisis. The group was aware of his huge role in curbing the physical confrontation by both communities. The High Chief was in top gear also Barr. Alphonsus Ogar Eba and the Yala Security Council came in thereafter. Barr. Eba also did amazingly well.

Chief concluded that, "Yala people should remember the Yala value of the family system. "my greatest strength is to see to how people will succeed in life and not to kill. I will never do anything to hurt any region in Yala"

Also, haven satisfactorily noted the position of High Chief Higgins on the crisis, the team leader Mr Ebriku moved again swiftly to the area of economy of the State.

Mr Ebriku Asked, "Sir, as the Vice Chairman of the debt Management and economy review committee set up by His Excellency Sir Ben Ayade, What is the stake fornthe development of the state, particularly the dilapidated roads across the state including your home town Yala and the misunderstood APPEALS Projects.

Chief Higgins took us on another tutorial down the economic lane. The High Chief said, one of the strongest points of a leader is the interest of his people; when you react to it promptly.

On APPEALS, Chief said, the project is a wonderful one that should be embraced but no matter the beauty of a policy, if the people are not properly informed they will misinformed themselves and take to fight. The information dissemination on the APPEAL project wasn't done properly.

Again, before embarking on a project, you first check the environmental impact on the people and put up measures to tackle whatever challenges that may arise.

"When the people doesn't have information, whatever they get is their information" - Chief said.

On the economy of the state, the Chief said, Cross River State under Ayade is really doing well. Ayade is a smart, intelligent, very visionary man but he is infallible. No man is infallible. There's need to exercise patience With Ayade.

"The problem with some of the roads is that, there are federal Government roads (Trunk A) and the FG has warned state Government not to touch their roads. Because some state government  constructed road with N10 billion but lied to the FG that N100 billion was used." The Mfom - Okuku road is a trunk B road now and will be done soon. The problem with the state is that, there's no money. Cross River State debt rate is so high that monthly allocation can't do anything for the state after the deduction by the debt management office to service the state's debt." "As its stands, Cross River is about the 2nd highest indebted state" From last year Cross River was the 5th most performing state in terms of Internally Generated Revenue, IGR.

Comr. Francis Peters briefing High Chief on the reason for the visit.

The High Chief said, the rice mill in northern Cross River State is about the biggest and most modern rice mill in the world at the moment. The mill is to produce 8000 tones of rice per hour, 52 trailers of rice will leave the factory daily. "If the rice mill is fed well, Cross River State will generate huge revenue from rice exportation. Thanks to the smartness of Ayade.

In conclusion, chief advised that, Cross River State belongs to all Cross Riverians. Everyone is a stakeholder in the state and must be heard and listened to. The critical stakeholders are the policy makers and ones that see to the wellbeing of the people (stakeholders). The youth must rise up to the task and present themselves to lead for the betterment of the state. All hope is not lost, while we thank God for giving us a smart governor like Ayade, we should also pray that, the next one to come should have the needed ideas like Ayade.

A Second year student of the Department of Geography and Regional Planning, University of Calabar,  Omah Abednego has been suspended  from  further academic programmes in the institution.
A release signed by the Registrar of the Institution, disclosed that Omah Abednego with matriculation registration no.  15/099444011 was suspended for allegedly stealing a phone, an offence that falls within the range of “acts of indiscipline “in the University.

The release further said that Omah Abednego “is to stay away from campus “while preparing to appear before the Students Disciplinary Committee for further investigation.
The Dean of the Faculty of Physical Science and the Head of Department of Geology have been directed to take note of the directive and ensure full compliance.

A Second year student of the Department of Geography and Regional Planning, University of Calabar,  Omah Abednego has been suspended  from  further academic programmes in the institution.

A release signed by the Registrar of the Institution, disclosed that Omah Abednego with matriculation registration no.  15/099444011 was suspended for allegedly stealing a phone, an offence that falls within the range of “acts of indiscipline “in the University.

The release further said that Omah Abednego “is to stay away from campus “while preparing to appear before the Students Disciplinary Committee for further investigation.


 The Dean of the Faculty of Physical Science and the Head of Department of Geology have been directed to take note of the directive and ensure full compliance.

Sunny Omagu

DECLARATION OF MY INTEREST TO BE THE NEXT YALA LGA COUNCIL CHAIRMAN :

My great people of yala 14 wards, after a resounding statement from the office of the state governor to conduct the local government election, I Sunday Igri Ogar, popularly known as Sunny Omagu, from Okpoma ward in yala LGA hereby declare that I am going to be running for the office of chairman of yala local government council.

My great people, there's the need for a brand new style of leadership in our great local government area. There would be a crowded field with many candidates looking for a way to stand out and connect with voters to win the election, what should be voters duty? It is for you to make a decision that will move yala forward.

The neatness of the partisan method of selecting the ward to represent us as chairman of council so far in the past years have been remarkable. Okpoma ward has never been given the opportunity to represent yala as chairman of council, in God we trust that Okpoma ward will be considered this time.

Our local government area is in serious trouble, we don't smile much anymore, to end this, we need a strong servant that can take our concerns to the state, federal, international and private sector for a solution. Sunny Omagu can do this for yala 14 wards.

When was the last time anyone of you saw yala leading in anything as a local government? Other local government are laughing at us, this is the time to end it, Sunny Omagu can end it.

Disunity is eating up large portion of yala local government, many are using this as an opportunity to become rich to the detriment of the masses, Sunny Omagu will end this by uniting yala to be people who love one another irrespective of party affiliation or tribe.

Yala gross domestic product has been very low recently, it is because of lack of buyers, our children are going to school with difficulty because parents who are farmers can no longer sell farm products to train children. This is the time to increase our products and seek for market for our products. Sunny Omagu can do it.

Many of Our primary school has failed to produce children to be able to read and write upon graduation from primary school, we need a "no child left behind in reading and writing skills in primary schools "Sunny Omagu can change this.


There's no society without good health care that can be a great society, our primary health care system is not giving us primary care enough, we don't have to travel more than 5 kilometers to receive primary care. Sunny Omagu can change this.

I am not running to be a chairman of council for myself, but I am running to be chairman of council for my people.
When we are giving the opportunity to air out our manifesto, I will be glad to tell the public what I can do as a chairman if given the opportunity to work for you as your servant in the local level. .

JOIN US FOR A BETTER YALA
MAY GOD BLESS YALA
MAY GOD BLESS THE WORLD.
THANKS.

Cross River State Governor, Sir Ben Ayade

In the discharge of his statutory function as contained in  Sec 204 of the 1999 constituency of the FRN as amended and in accordance with Sec 20 (1)a&b of the Cross River State Electoral law, His Excellency Senator, Prof. Ben Ayade, Governor of Cross River state has approved and  directed the conduct of Local Government Elections in the state. 

Accordingly, all political parties, stakeholders and  the  general public are  hereby invited to the declaration of election tomorrow 27th November, 2019 at the commission HQ by 2pm.

Details shortly;

MAGNIFICENT FACE OF NIGERIA (MFON) 2019 AWARD; PETER BASSEY BAGS ANOTHER AWARD AND DEDICATES IT TO THE WORLD FAMOUS DR BETTA EDU

Mr peter receiving his award

Early hours of this morning at Transcorp Hotel Calabar, one of Dr Betta Edu's aides Mr Peter Bassey Enyievi accompanied by Engr Ntem Kris (PA to Dr Betta Edu on Media and Publicity), received an award as the Magnificent Student of the Year. This is in recognition and in line with his academic pursuit at various levels. In 2018 Mr Peter Bassey completed a certificate program from the London school of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine and went ahead to start a Post Graduate Program (PGD) in the Department of Public Health, University of Calabar. In 2019 as a result of his passion for education and desire to acquire more knowledge (like mother like child), he returned back to Crutech to enroll for another Post Graduate Program (PGD) in Biochemistry.

Award plague

In his words; "I thank God Almighty for this honour once again and I sincerely dedicate this Award to my Boss Dr. Betta Edu my life wire, my support base, a mother, an employer of many, a pace setter,  and a Boss to so many of us, to my mentor First Baba Isa and to all Nigerian students both at home and in the diaspora, you all are part of this record breaking achievement.

Peter, Ntem and friend

I specially want to use this medium to thank my brother, friend, associate, Ogboni Master as far as Student Unionism is concerned and a wonderful colleague Elder (Engr) Ntem Kris for always being there for me. "Las Las na my guy so" and our Boss/employer Dr Betta Edu has done a lot by not only giving us a sub head/connect but has packed us and instilled in us discipline and love. We owe her a lot."

To the CEO and organizers of MFON 2019 i say thank you for finding me worthy of this honor, finally to all my friends and well wishers let's keep doing good and always getting it right.


Aluta continua, Victoria acerta!!!!!

Cross River State Governor Sir Ben Ayade

Governor Ben Ayade of Cross River State has approved the appointment of Dr Odey Oyama, a chieftain of the All Progressive Congress (APC) in the state as Interim Chairman of the state anti-deforestation task-force.

The appointment, which was announced by Mr Christian Ita, Senior Speacial Adviser to the Governor on Media and Publicity, is with immediate effect.

The release stated that the approval of the interim task-force  was to enforce the anti-deforestation policy of the government.
"The new interim task-force has Dr Odey Oyama as chairman with the 18 Heads of Local Government Administration (HOLGA) as members.

ALSO Gov Ayade Dissolved Anti-Deforestation Task-Force, Appoints Interim Committee


The governor warned that any HOLGA that allows illegally logged woods to pass through his or her local government area, faces termination from the local government service.

"It should be noted that any HOLGA that allows illegally logged woods to pass through his or her local government area, faces termination from the local government service," the release stated.

SUBEB boss Dr. Stephen Odey in group photography with teachers.

By Uchino Amatey

Primary school teachers in Cross River state have commended the Executive Chairman, State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Dr Stephen Odey for his achievements in the basic education sub-sector.

They gave this commendation during a courtesy visit paid on him by teachers of Presbyterian Church of Nigerian (PCN), primary school, Akim, Calabar.

Speaking during the visit, the head teacher PCN, primary school, Akim, Mrs Julieth Eshue congratulated the Board Chairman on his numerous achievements in the basic education sub-sector and pledged their commitment and continuous support.

According to her “we are here to congratulate you and to say thank you for the work you are doing in schools across the state. Since you came on board, you have completely transformed primary education for the better. We are very happy to associate with you and we will continue to stand by you. We are also here to wish you a very merry Christmas in advance.”

In his response, the Board Chairman, Dr Stephen Odey while expressing his excitement, stated that this was the first visit paid to him by teachers in the state. He described the visit as humbling.

According to him “I feel so happy that my teachers can come out today and say they are happy and impressed with what I am doing. This is one of the happiest moments of my life. There are a lot of people who attribute doing the right thing to wickedness. For those who know me and know my antecedence, I am the simplest person, I am easy going, but I try as much as possible to do the right thing, rather than the wrong thing just to impress people.”

“For instance, when I came on board and visited some schools, I discovered that some teachers were unable to express themselves. I asked myself if we find teachers doing this, what will the children be passing through. That was what prompted me to do the personnel audit; it was not a deliberate effort to bring people down. Even the last review which I just concluded to see whether we can upgrade them, I still caught teachers with fake certificates. So it is really sad, “he lamented.



 While assuring them of the Board’s continuous support, Dr Odey said, “I will reciprocate this visit by celebrating my new year with you in your school. Convey my sincere appreciation to the entire staff of PCN primary school and I want to assure you that if there is anything I can do to make your stay in that school better, I will do it. Thank you so much for this singular honour.”

President Muhammad Buhari

Olawale Ajimotokan


President Muhammadu Buhari has demanded a thorough investigation of the gruesome murder of Salome Achejuh Abuh, woman leader of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Wada Aro, Ochadamu Ward in Ofu Local Government of Kogi State, after the concluded governorship election in the state .

The 60- year- old woman was roasted alive when political thugs barricaded her house, doused it with petrol and set it ablaze.
Buhari said the evildoers of the act must be brought to justice irrespective of whatever allegiances they hold.

President Buhari  expressed outrage at the gruesome murder, while also decrying whatever  reason could spur anyone to take the life of another human being, particularly a woman.

In a statement issued yesterday by one of his media aides, Femi Adesina, the President charged all security agencies involved in the investigation to do a thorough and expeditious job on the matter, so that justice could be served without fear or favour.

“We must learn to behave decently, whether during elections or at other times. No life should be taken wantonly under any guise, and the fact that this reprehensible act occurred two days after voting shows primitive behavior, which should not be accepted in a decent society,” the President said.



 He also sympathised with the family of the deceased. The President vowed that the law would catch up with the malefactors, while assuring that justice would be done.

According to Buhari, the treatment visited on the PDP woman leader was pure criminality and bestiality and a  descent to barbarism that has gone out of the realm of politics.

Dr. Betta Edu

...... As she lifts 753 Adadama children through her scholarship scheme


The immediate past Director General of the Cross River State Primary Health Care Development Agency (CRSPHCDA),  Dr Betta Edu, has paid school fees for 753 pupils in Adadama Political Ward of Ani Local Government Area of Cross River State.

Speaking in Calabar, Dr. Edu,  in her usual magnanimity, support, love, and passion to contribute to Spirit of new  Cross River anchored by her political father, the Governor of the state, Sir Ben Ayade and to ensure a brighter future for the children who are leaders of tomorrow, explained that the project  which she started three years ago has become a yearly routine for her.

She said that she was fully aware of the devastating effect war can have in the lives of people and what constant conflicts have reduced the economy of her people to nothing,leading to massive dropout of children  school.

The immediate past Director General of CRSPHCDA who thanked the governor, Sen Prof Ben Ayade for giving her the opportunity in the last tenure to serve the state and thereby equally have the privilege to be of great help to her people especially the children, has also made a promise to extend this good will and kindness to other waring communities in Abi LGA if only they would be ready to maintain the peace in return

Propelled by the famous saying of the Governor and her political maater that, “We don’t give because we have enough, we give because we care enough” , Dr. Edu, stated, "I want to reproduce Several Sen Ben Ayade” in Cross River. My aim is to ensure that every child is given a chance and parents who are facing the challenge of returning their wards back to school can be relieved of such pressure".

She further explained that her gesture of paying school fees and other charges for the children was completely far from being political, stressing that  "this is not political, it’s my give back to God and humanity.

 I know the challenges most parents face sending their children to school, I know the importance of Primary Education as the foundation for every child. It's not because I have enough, but it gives me sleepless nights to hear that children drop out of school, most times I cry in secret when I can’t help.I want to support them by giving them a future and a stable education," Dr. Edu asserted.

What I'm doing is in keeping with the principles of my father Sen Ben Ayade to support a new generation of Cross Riverians that will drive the industrialization Revolution in the state,  my desire is to assist parents, "Edu concluded.

The beautiful wife of Adadama also got more than 50 tertiary institution students on her scholarship list.

Primary schools whose pupils are beneficiaries of the Dr. Betta Edu scholarship  are. PCN Primary School Ekpon with a total number of 260 pupils/beneficiaries, PCN Extension Isong Inyang Primary School has  37 pupils/beneficiariSt. Berndas Ibalebo Primary School with 187 pupils/beneficiaries, Government Primary School Atani has a total of 112 pupils/beneficiaries, and PCN Imina Primary School with a total of 130 pupils/beneficiary.

Individual beneficiaries (private schools) has a total of 24 pupil, making a sum total of 753 pupils/beneficiaries.