By Economic Confidential
   

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has halted the ongoing admission of students at the University of Abuja due to what it described as an unholy process and unacceptable irregularities.

In its latest investigation on the admission process of the University, Economic Confidential found out that the new management under Vice Chancellor Professor Abdul-Rasheed Na’Allah is fingered in this new development.

Checks indicate that on resumption of office few months ago, the new Vice Chancellor jettisoned the usual admission Committee of the University and allegedly contracted the admission process which is alien to the University culture.

The Vice Chancellor recently addressed a press conference to the effect that the process was suspended by the University management for irregularities whereas it was an instruction from JAMB to halt the process for not meeting the provisions of the guidelines.

The development caught the attention of JAMB, who in turn informed the University promptly to halt the 2019/2020 admission process which did not meet up with JAMB guidelines for uploading all admissions on the Central Admission Processing System (CAPS).

Further investigations reveal that University regulations on admission provide that admissions of students be handled by the Committee on admission headed by a chairman.

An Academic staff who would not want his name in print volunteered to this reporter that the Committee has been moribund since last year.

“The committee is made less functional, the normal practice of admitting students at Departments has been abolished. The 2019/2020 admission process has been contracted to a private company contrary to university practice”, he lamented.

Further checks also reveal that admission acceptance fee of a newly admitted student which was N4, 500 before is now N30, 000. University of Abuja which never charged any fee for the collection of original certificates after graduation now charge N30, 000 higher than any fee collected by a state university in the country.

Findings also revealed that graduates currently line up in large numbers at the Convocation Square for the collection of original degree certificates, fearing that the University has vowed to increase the amount at the expiration of one-week period.

The Certificate Collection Form issued by the Office of the Registrar simply state that the graduates attach” receipt of payment’’ with no amount stated. Those interviewed at the Convocation called for a drastic reduction of the amount to N5, 000 in the interest of parents and the hapless Nigerians graduates.

The university management under the new leadership also allegedly reversed the existing Senate decision on examination results. The rule was that results from Departments are brought to the Senate through the Senate Business Committee within six weeks after the semester examinations. The current rule which has not been ratified by the Senate, orders lecturers to turn in results 10 days at the end of the semester examinations.

Senate members who spoke to our Reporter described the order as impracticable saying it will lead to allocation of marks to students in an effort to beat the deadline. Each lecturer in the Humanities currently handle between 400 to 700 scripts depending on the course while in the Management Sciences a lecturer marks between 1000 to 2000 scripts depending on the course also taken as elective from other Departments in the University. At the last Senate meeting, the only agenda was the approval of academic calendar but the issue of 10 days period to mark scripts was smuggled in. The process was objected to by the majority of Senate members.

The Academic Staff Union took a resolution and said that none

Former governor of Cross River State, Senator Liyel Imoke has congratulated Dr. Alex Egbonna and Dr. Davis Etta for emerging winners of the re-run elections for Abi/Yakurr Federal Constituency and Abi State Constituency respectively.
Egbonna is of the All Progressives Congress (APC) while Etta is of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).

Imoke in a statement personally signed by him and issued on Sunday, said with the elections over, it was time for all to unite for the common good of the people of the federal constituency.

While acknowledging that “through the course of this season, as is always the case, tensions were perceived to be high,” he was happy that “ultimately the elections were peaceful.”

He commended both the politicians and electorate “for the maturity exhibited through this election season. Now that elections are over and I believe the better politicians won, we must all sheath our swords and unite for our common good.

“We must condemn and abhor the denigration and abuse of leaders and the perpetuation of divisive tendencies. Abi/Yakurr and indeed Cross River State, can only grow if we give our representatives the requisite support. I also expect that Alex (Egbonna) and Davis (Etta) will provide qualitative representation for the Federal Constituency and the State Constituency, respectively.

“Finally, while acknowledging everyone's constitutional right to seek redress, I advise that this matter not be pursued any further in the courts. For John Gaul and Iwara, I believe you did your best and I wish you well in your future endeavours"

Commissioner for International donor, Dr. Inyang Asibong and the country rep of FAO, Mr. Suffyan Koroma

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations has shown readiness and disposition to strengthen partnership and upscale support in agriculture, forestry/natural resources management.

This was made known by the Country Rep of FAO, Mr. Suffyan Koroma, in the Abuja office when the Commissioner for International Donor Cooperation, Dr. Inyang Asibong undertook a drive to woo donor agencies to strengthen partnership with Cross River State in the ongoing projects of the Governor, Sen. Prof. Ben Ayade.

The statement reads in part "As part of @FAONigeria drive to cascade development assistance to the sub national levels, the FAO Rep. Suffyan Koroma hosted two commissioners from @crossiverstate to strengthen partnership and upscale support in agriculture, forestry/natural resources management @InyangAsibong"

However, further inquiries revealed that FAO, hosted two Cross River State government functionaries and not two commissioners as sighted at the official Twitter handle of FAO.

Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, is a specialized agency of the United Nations that leads international efforts to defeat hunger and improve nutrition and food security.

FAO was founded on 16th October, 1945 at Quebec City, Canada with its head quarters in Rome, Italy. It also contributes to international efforts to defeat hunger and improve local economics by helping members countries modernize and improve agriculture, forestry and fisheries practices.

When contacted, the Commissioner, Ministry of International Donor Cooperation, Dr. Inyang Asibong stated that " to our amiable Governor, Sen. Prof. Ben Ayade and his dear wife, Dr. Linda Ayade for the opportunity given to me to serve the state in this capacity.

"In line with the mandate of my new assignment to harness and galvanize support from donor agencies to ensure the realization of his Excellecy's industrialization drive, I have hit the ground running. I am happy with the commitment of FAO and look forward to the commencement and implementation of programmes that will better the lives of cross riverians"

The Luminnews

The All Progressive Congress APC candidate Dr. Alex Egbonna Emerged winner of Abi/Yakurr Federal constituency election rerun conducted in Ekureku 1 and 2 of the constituency.

Dr Egbonna pulled the total vote of Twenty Nine thousand, seven hundred and sixteen (29,716) as against his rival the PDP candidate Hon John Gaul Lebo who scored a total of Twenty six thousand, thirty nine (26,039) votes.

Dr. Egbonna was declared winner and returned to the green chamber to represent Abi/Yakurr federal constituency  by the Cross River State Resident electoral commissioner, Dr. Alalibo Sinikiem Johnson, after securing the highest votes in the election.

See election result below...

COMMISSIONER, MINISTRY OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS HON. MRS STELLA ODEY MEETS WITH LOCAL GOVERNMENT ADMINISTRATORS ON COUNCIL'S BUDGET.

 Governor Ben Ayade has reiterated his commitment to the development of local government areas as captured by the 2020 local government budget of the 18 councils in the state.

 In a meeting held with the 18 Head of Local Government Administrations(HOLGAS) and chaired by the Honourable Commissioner, Ministry Of Local Government Affairs, Hon. Mrs Stella Oreme Odey in company of the chief of staff to his Excellency, Chief Martin Orim.

The commissioner emphasized the passion of His Excellency, Professor, Sir Ben Ayade in ensuring that governance gets to the grassroots. She said this can only be achieved if the HOLGA's captured all the budget items in their councils' budget.

Mrs Stella Odey pointed out that if projects that meets the need of the people are not captured in the budget, it will be difficult for the release of funds no matter how laudable it will be due to the medium term expenditure frame work budget system that is operational in the state.

The Hon. Commissioner informed the head of administrators of councils that the budget of the various council will be meticulously executed to ensure even development in all the councils.

 In their response, the Heads of Local government administration thanked his Excellency, Professor, Sir Ben Ayade for giving them the privilege to serve in their various councils and promised that they will do their best in ensuring that the Governor's desire for the well being of the people of the state in their various councils is actualized as they have captured all that is needful for the purpose in their council's budget. They also thanked the honorable commissioner for her swiftness to work especially the meeting with HOLGAS as will stringent decision and admonition has given and taken.

Related story Commissioner For LG Affairs Hon Stella Odey Meets With Excos Of LG Pension Association

COMMISSIONER FOR LOCAL GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS, MINISTRY OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS, HON. MRS STELLA OREME ODEY MEETS WITH EXECUTIVES OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT PENSION ASSOCIATION.

...Pledges an open door administration in running the affairs of the ministry under her watch...

The Honourable Commissioner for ministry of local government affairs, Mrs. Stella Oreme Odey met with the executive of the pension association of the 18 LGAs in Cross River State.

 In her opening remarks, the commissioner  reiterated the Governor's love for pensioners which is why he seriously frowns at late payments of pensioners. She used the opportunity to commend the Governor senator prof Ben Ayade for being a great humanitarian leader who passionately loves the young,elderly and the vulnerable.

The commissioner frowned at the nefarious  activities of the pensions' Board which she said necessitated the suspension of the board to enhance an overhaul of the system.

The president in his address applauded the Governors decision at looking at the problems facing the Board and suggested that automation of the payroll system of local Government pensioners will help resolve the teething problems faced by the Board.

The commissioner thereafter, assured the pensioners that the Government of Sen.Prof Ben Ayade will not rest in its oars until all pensioners in the state receive their entitlements. The Ministry promised to work closely with the Association in resolving all its members problems.

The stakeholders informed the Commissioner that they are going to carry out an independent personnel audit of pensioners in the various councils and at the end of the exercise their report will be forwarded to the Honourable Commissioner.

In her response, Hon. Mrs Stella Odey thanked the stakeholders for their visit and kind words. She assured them of His Excellency Senator Professor Ben Ayade's commitment to see to their plight and to bring a permanent solution to all the issues that surrounds pensioners in  the state .

Read also Commissioner For LG Affairs Hon Stella Odey Meets With LG Administrators On Council Budget
The Commissioner promised that, she will look into their suggestions and the right steps will be taken to  ensure that local government pensioners are given the right treatment they deserve.

  Mrs odey pledged to them an open door administration in running the affairs of the Ministry under her watch and  once again thanked them for the visit which she said was  rewarding.

A woman goes to babysit for her son-in-law. But she ends up carrying, in the deal, two babies for the same man: one in her arms and the other in her stomach. It’s a story with various angles and tangles to it, a tragedy of immense proportion, with many loops and layers. And, untangling it, understanding it, is not going to prove an easy task for many a mind.

Mr. Christopher Chori, son-in-law to Mr. Silvanus Kwange is in a very serious dilemma right now after impregnating his father-in-law’s second wife, Priscilla Kwange. If he can turn back the hands of time to avert the emotional trauma he is going through, he would have gladly done so. But as things stand, it is already too late. The horse has already bolted, locking the gate after that is meaningless.

Kwange’s marriage misfortunes

Mr. Kwange, a Tiv from Taraba State, has been married to his second wife for about 10 years. Their marriage came after he lost his first wife, Rose Kwange, to a fatal motor accident. But before she met her untimely death, the late Rose had a daughter and the only child with Mr. Kwange. It was after her death that her widower husband got married to Priscilla. But unfortunately, in the past 10 years, the couple never had a child. And this development had always caused quarrels in their marriage as the man’s family members strongly believes that the fault is Priscilla’s. They cited Rose’s daughter as proof of Kwange’s virility.

Kwange who was in a quandary over his wife’s inability to conceive, equally believed that she is the problem and made several attempts to send her packing. But Chori, their son-in-law, a Mada from Kokona Local Government Area of Nasarawa State who got married to Faith, the man’s only daughter, prevailed on him not to do so. He was said to always intervene, telling his father-in-law that God is the only One who gives children. He is said to have also advised him to seek medical attention or try some fertility drugs if he was not too keen on seeing medical or fertility experts. But he had always refused, noting that there was no problem with his body and citing Faith as a proof of the point he was trying to make.

Chori was said to always been on the phone with his father-in-law and mother-in-law trying to appeal to them to see reasons and that their inability to have a child should not constitute a clog in the wheel of their marital bliss. All the same that did not deter Kwange from looking for other ways out of the problem. Unconfirmed sources told Saturday Sun that he is into all sorts of extramarital relationship with other women in his bid to get a child but so far none had produced the expected result.

On Priscilla’s part, as Africans would say, during those years, she traversed seven lands and seven seas in her search of a child she would call her own. In her desperation to keep her home, she did a lot but without any of her numerous medical efforts yielding tangible result. Sources say there is no known fertility hospital she has not visited in Taraba, Makurdi, Abuja and Jos, with the help of their son-in-law, Chori. But it was all to no avail. It was in the course of these fruitless search for solution that the devil chose to strike in a most embarrassing and shameful way.


Living with fate after the departure of Faith

Sometime, towards the end of 2018, Faith, who had been married to Christopher for about four years but without a child to bless their union, suddenly took in and gave birth to a baby boy in May 2019. Good news! But the sad news is that she died shortly afterward, leaving the poor baby without a mother. She was said to have died from complications which resulted from her delivery of the baby through caesarian section. She was buried within one week of the incident. Faced with such a difficult situation, Kwange asked his second wife to move to Lafia to assist with taking care of the newborn baby Faith left behind.

One thing led to the other, and after spending seven months in Lafia with her son-in-law who works with one of the federal government agencies, Priscilla was found pregnant. Investigation shows that within that period, she had regular sex with her son-in-law. Pregnancy later became the result of her sexual escapades.


Kwange’s regrettable story

Right now, her husband, Mr. Sylvanus Kwange, an ex-service man, is livid with anger over the sordid development. Speaking exclusively with our correspondent in Lafia on his arrival from Jalingo, the man who is boiling like a kettle of hot water, threatened to deal with both his wife and his son-in-law for daring to commit such sacrilege. He vowed that his wife would never step her foot into his house again, come what may. He affirmed that his wife had been in Lafia for about seven months.

“That is to say, it is about seven months that I have not seen her. We only talk on the phone,” he said. “I know the importance of her coming to stay in Lafia for some period of time, to take care of the new born baby whose mother is late. I thought it was my own responsibility to help my son-in-law and the new baby of my late daughter. So, I allowed my own wife to come and help.” Then he turned to you and asked rhetorically: “Is that an offence?”

You asked how he learnt about the abominable news. His words: “Two weeks ago, a friend ran into my wife in Lafia and called to tell me that he saw her with bulging stomach. I was speechless with shock and asked, how come? I didn’t want to believe it or confront her on the phone. She has been here since June last year. I decided to visit them to also see how the little boy is doing. I was coming with so much joy, not knowing that I was coming to meet disaster waiting for me. When I got to the house of my son-in-law, I met the shock of my life as I saw my own wife with a protruding stomach. I stood transfixed to the spot as I looked at her, trying to recall if there was any time she told me she was pregnant but I could not remember.

“I quickly asked my wife what happened and she broke down and confessed that Mr. Chori seduced her and they had sex and it became frequent and the result was the pregnancy. She started begging me for forgiveness. She said that she actually allowed him to have his way as a way of checking her fertility status and it turned out to be this way and that she refused to abort it because she has spent 10 solid years with me without a child. She said it is almost getting late as she is no longer getting younger. She pleaded with me not to cause her any embarrassment or disgrace by exposing her to ridicule and shame. She actually begged me to handle the matter in a mature way, but I’m yet to get out of the shock seeing my own wife impregnated by my own son-in-law. My anger knows no bounds. If it were during my days as a military man, I would have used my gun to kill the two of them. But if I do that now, I will be taking the law into my hands. What I will do now is to go back to Taraba. I have asked my wife not to come back to my house. As for Christopher Chori, I leave him to his conscience.”


Chori’s side of the story and battle with conscience

That, Christopher Chori insists, is even a worse punishment than being killed as he doesn’t know how to deal with the continuous tugging of his conscience. For him, it would have been better if Kwange had used the military-issued rifle he was talking about to kill him outright. It would have shortened the emotional trauma he is going through right now.

His story: “After the death and burial of my wife, my mother-in-law came to stay with me here in Lafia, to help look after the baby because my mother is no longer alive; she died many years ago. I work with one of the federal government agencies in Lafia. My younger sister who is equally staying with me is in SS2 and could not combine her studies with taking care of the baby. So my father-in-law asked his wife to come because his first wife who happens to be my real mother-in-law is late.

“I live in two-bedroom apartment. So when she came to take care of the baby with the assistance of my younger sister, I left one of the rooms for them to use while I stay in the other room but I come home regularly to check on them and to ensure that she does not lack anything especially when my younger sister is out in school.

“In the first one month of her stay with me, nothing happened but during the second month, which was July 2019, something happened that left me with so much guilty feelings. My sister went to school. I did not go to work that day, leaving me and my mother-in-law alone in the house. It rained the previous night all through and the weather was very cold. I was checking on them in their room to see how my newborn baby was doing. But when I opened the door, I was shocked to see my mother-in-law almost naked as she wore only lingerie with no underwear. I could clearly see the outline of her firm breasts and her private part. I tried to turn back but she said I should come in. When I hesitated, she walked up to me and grabbed me, asking me why I was behaving like a small boy. She asked whether she was not looking attractive to me. I told her I could not do what she had in mind with her as I saw her as my own mother as well as mother-in-law.

“But she disabused my mind and insisted that I must sleep with her. As a human being, I fell for the temptation and slept with her that day, and somehow it continued at any given opportunity. It became a daily routine as I was not going to work regularly. As soon as my sister leaves for school and the boy is able to sleep, we would stay indoors and have sex all day and it later resulted in pregnancy but she refused to abort it. She said she has been longing for a child of her own. I cannot but blame myself for falling into such a temptation but then the deed has been done. I feel very bad because there is no way my father-in-law would thump his chest and claim to be the owner of the pregnancy because she has spent some months in my house and she missed her period while staying here, not in her husband’s house.”

Inasmuch as he feels bad about his action, he feels worse about his father-in-law’s decision to go public with what he feels was supposed to be a family affair and should have been settled internally. “I’m confused at the moment,” he said. “I don’t know what to do but the days ahead will surely bring a solution to this embarrassing situation.”


Priscilla’s lamentations

Of the three people involved in the tragedy, Priscilla seems to be the worst hit. She explained: “I’m not proud of myself because apart from being a housewife, the victim is my son-in-law. My reason for teasing him was to test my fertility status since there was a golden opportunity and sticking to my husband in the past ten years has not yielded any result. I wanted to be sure of where the problem lies. Unfortunately, I took in. It was a wrong decision but I didn’t want to take the risk of aborting the baby as it may not come my way again. Although, I didn’t want it made public, my husband has succeeded in exposing it. I admit I am guilty of allowing my son-in-law to impregnate me but I was also considering my condition, even though I never expected pregnancy to come. But since it has come, I will want to keep it even if he decides to push me out of his house, I can’t afford to die childless.”

Former Gov. Emeka Ihedioha has gone back to the supreme court seeking to be returned as the Governor of Imo State, he approached the Apex Court on thursday based on the following reasons..

1. Uzodinma was not APC candidate & was not a candidate of any party in the 9th March Governorship election in Imo State based on the judgement of the same Supreme Court on 20th December 2019.

2. Uche Nwosu was declared as the rightful candidate of APC & AA and was disqualified for double candidature.

3. APC couldn’t have produced 2 candidates in one election.

4. Supreme Court have no powers to allocate votes to any candidate.

5. Supreme Court have no power to increase the number of people accredited by INEC.

6. Somebody that was not a candidate cannot be winner of an election he was not a candidate.

7. Nigerian Police have no powers to
organize elections in Nigeria.

8. Results tendered by a police officer cannot be admitted in any court as exhibit as he was not INEC officer.

Based on the above facts that are still subsisting Ihedioha & PDP have applied for review & he might return to his office as the elected Governor of Imo State.

The University of Calabar has signed separate memoranda of understanding with three American universities. The universities are University of California, Los Angeles, California State University, Bakersfield, and Bowling Green State University, Ohio. The terms of the MOUs include exchange of faculty members, exchange of students, planning and implementation of cooperative research projects and educational programmes and exchange of materials including reports on research and education.

Others are cooperation in postgraduate education and training, organization of joint conferences, symposia, or other scientific meetings on subjects of mutual interest, exchange of academic information and materials and pursuit of avenues for graduate and professional student exchange during the academic year or summer time.

Although the terms of the MOUs are non-binding, once they are activated through agreements between the parties, they will become automatically enforceable.

All MOUs will last for an initial period of five years subject to renewal as the need arises.

While endorsing the MOUs on behalf of the University of Calabar, the Vice-chancellor, Prof. Zana Akpagu, expressed delight with the development and enjoined faculties, institutes and directorates to take full advantage of the enormous opportunities that these partnerships will offer.

PRESS RELEASE/CONFERENCE ON THE EKUREKU 1 & 2 ELECTION RERUN FOR THE ABI/YAKURRFEDERAL CONTITUENCY.


The Inter Party Advisory Council (IPAC) , Cross River Chapter, views with utmost concern, the building tension, arising from preparations for the Ekureku 1 & 2 election rerun for the Abi/Yakurr Federal Constituency, between the  Rt.  Hon. Barr. John Gaul Lebo of the People's  Democratic  Party (PDP) and Hon. Dr. Alex Egbona of the All Progressive Congress  (APC), slated to hold just a few days away, on Saturday January 25, 2020.

Our deep worries stem from the curious observation that the two Contestants involved, are alleged to have amassed an army of miscreants and weaponry , after engaging hordes of private security personnel, for the purpose of conducting surveillance and possibly unleashing terror on perceived opponents, where deemed fit.
We rise in unison, to strongly condemn such moves, as they were in steep violation of our laws, for the fact that our Constitution rests the burden of securing lives and property on State Agents like Police, DSS, NSCDC, and other State Actors.

May we warn that the Political Parties  Code of conduct of IPAC which is binding to all candidates irrespective of political divide  will be implemented to the later by the IPAC.

Free and fair elections,  one man-one-vote will be sacrosanct and non negotiable, we shall not hesitate  to call for a cancellation of the said elections and call in the security agencies to deal with any body involve no matter how highly placed according  to the political parties Code of Conduct 2019 as amended.

The Inter Party Advisory Council (IPAC), therefore, calls on the The Commissioner of Police  and other Security Agencies, to as a matter of urgency, wade into this emerging threat and nip it in the bud, as it bellies the potentialities to assume hydra-headed crises which might escalate hostilities, that would end up undermining the safety of Cross Riverians of Abi extraction and indeed, all other participants, at this National duty. 

Some of the candidates areven aranging Police from Abuja and emphasize that it’s the responsibility of the Commissioner of Police in the CRS Command to provide security personnel for the election.

God Bless Cross River.


Castro Ezama.
IPAC secretary.

Member representing Ogoja state constituency, facilitates construction of Six classroom blocks in Idum, Mbube.

Convent Primary school, Idum, Mbube has witnessed an unprecedented turnaround in its infrastructure as it got a new six classroom block.

The school which was short of adequate facility to accommodate the growing number of pupils in the school finally got its prayers answered through the assistance of the member representing Ogoja state Constituency, Rt Hon Peter Odey.


The project was carried out by Cross River State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) as part of its ongoing intervention program for schools in the state has witnessed over 90 schools in the state benefiting from the program.

 The leader of the 9th Cross River state House of Assembly Rt Hon Peter Odey who facilitated the project when contacted, expressed satisfaction at the quality of work done and also for being able to give quality representation to his people.

Convent Primary school is one of the oldest schools in Ogoja Local Government area and is also the Polling Unit of the member representing Ogoja state Constituency, Rt Hon Peter Odey.

Amb. Jammy Egbe

 By Ogar, Fidel Allow-Gold

History, destiny and providence finally consummate their marriage on December 31, 2019, with pomp, glitz, power, and fireworks at Yahe in Yala local government area of Cross River state with the gathering of the world to coronate their own and two of a kind in Ambassador Gabriel  Odey Egbe, Registrar, University of Calabar, Calabar  and magistrate,  Godwin Onah by the highly revered Edebia Traditional Council of  Chiefs /Chieftaincy Stool and Yahe Youths of Edebia Chiefdom, Yahe and all the sons and  daughters of the land, home and in the Diaspora.

Amb. Egbe was consequently crowned as Chief Oyamee 1 OF Edebia Chiefdom, Yahe (doer of good to all), while his lordship and counterpart in humanitarian pursuit in the society, Magistrate Godwin Onah, was handed the diadem of Ohonyetaa 1 of Edebia Chiefdom, Yahe (saviour of all) which presupposes his unwavering pursuit for equal justice, equity and equalitarian society to all.

Earlier, a pan-Yahe-Yala Think-tank/Intelligentsia Group called Ayi-Odey Ge Jee, born in Calabar and spear headed by a young university don, Dr. Ben Oko of Education Department, University of Calabar, had crowned Amb. Egbe for his unparalleled and selfless service to humanity.

Similarly, it could be recalled that on September 19, 2019, the Senate of the University of Calabar, Calabar, South-South Nigeria, celebrated one of their own after a fierce battle of wits, high wired politicking/electioneering process.

Ambassador Egbe, finally, emerged as the university registrar and secretary to the council of the university under transparent atmosphere to succeed Mr. Moses Abang.
Born in 1965 at a  rural agrarian village of Okpenehi-Yahe  in Yala local government area of Cross River state by agrarian parents and the then Yala musical maestro/infant prodigy of Cultural Renaissance Singer in Sir Okala Egbe of blessed memory and Mrs. Egbe, a woman leader of all time in the service of humanity.

Back in the 1980s, on Amb. Egbe leaving the St. Stephen’s Primary School, Okpenehi, Yahe, he found himself cutting his academic teeth and horning his intellectual prowess at Yala Secondary Commercial School, Okpoma (YASCO), before proceeding for higher intellectual pilgrimage at the prestigious University of Calabar.

In his early years, Egbe was already an enigma of sorts. Egbe’s stroke of genius and wizardry became contagious, breeding hundreds of his clones and mentoring same in an austere milieu where only privileged few could ostensibly afford high school education due to lack of benefit of hindsight or perhaps dunghill of poverty stricken homes.

But it was Egbe’s personal inner will, that naked power of perseverance/iron cast determination, sticking like a sore thumb that drove him into scholarly madness, like Okonkwo’s fear of failure in “Things fall Apart” of Chinua Achebe that finally brought light to the supposedly intellectual backwaters of our world today.

It was still that power Egbe single handedly combined with his then alter ego, Mr John Okache, as young minds in the University of Calabar, to give birth to the great defunct Yahe Students Union (YASU), a symbol of rude re-awakening that lightened the ember and inferno of student unionism, which finally brought the sleeping giants to the path of intellectual orbit.

It is people like Egbe that literary giants across board had attempted to personify in their work of arts for the world to ponder. For example: Ngugi’s political work on “Petals of Blood” eulogised Abdullah, Munira, Wanja, Karega, Nyakinyua and the Donkey for the saving IImorog so his  “Weep Not Child” uses Ngotho as a revolutionary leader that carried Mau-Mau to the forest on the final battle to defeat imperialism in Kenya.

Also, the play, “Trial of Dedan Kimathi” co-authored by Miceri G. Mugo speaks of “Kimalthi” as the “Black Jesus” who saved the nation of Kenya and lastly “Animal Farm” by George Orwell sees “Boxer” as a universal figure and salt of the earth in whose work the human good side of Amb. Egbe is completed.

In all of the character depiction presented here, without biases or subjection to personal whims and caprices, Registrar Egbe fits in perfectly in his own way as a revolutionary machismo of his time/history and as a New World Oder across Yala nation/beyond. But all of these he owes to his well bred life of equanimity, suave and electrifying personality.

Interestingly too, of mention for the purpose of history is the entrant of the quintessential, African lioness of Yala modern breed and intellectual connoisseur in Mrs. Beatrice Ocheke Igwe, Bursar, University of Calabar, whose entrant is not a historical accident or a misrepresentation, but for her scholarship, divine calculation based on her life of denial/frugality, robust extension of hand of amity that have affected the deprived, the disgruntled and the dislocated across board. Beyond rhetoric, Mrs. Igwe has opened her hands to serve humanity, making her fit to walk under the shadow of the great Mother Theresa.

Doubtless, the time has come for the university community/world to support the duo to do more exploit, for the road is still long.

2023: IGBO GROUP CALLS FOR ROTATION OF PRESIDENCY TO SOUTH-EAST

...wants governorship to rotate to Anambra-South

A socialpolitical group under the auspices of Igbo Leadership Development Foundation (ILDF) on Tuesday in Abuja reiterated its called for the rotation of Anambra governorship to the Southern part of the state in 2021.

This is just as the group stated further that in the spirit of equity, justice and fairness, Nigeria's presidency in 2023 should move to South-East, being the only region yet to taste power at the centre in Nigeria.

The group, which made the call in a statement signed by the Director-General, Dr Godwin Udibe, Director, Public Affairs, Dr Law Mefor and Director, Contact & Mobilisation, Comrade Austin Ifedinezi and presented to journalists at a press conference said we believe in the oneness of Nigeria.

It therefore urged the All Progressives Congress (APC), the People Democratic Party (PDP) and other opposition political parties in the country to zone their presidential position to the South-East, saying, "it is injustice for power to remain in the North after eight years".

On Anambra gubernatorial, the group said while the two other zones in Anambra Central and Anambra North have been in power for 11 years and 8 years after the second term of Governor Willie Obiano, respectively, the power should rotate to Anambra-South in the spirit of equity.

The statement reads, "The attention of Igbo Leadership Development Foundation (ILDF) has been drawn to the unwholesome moves by some politicians  to truncate the beautiful rotation arrangement of governorship position in Anambra State. The argument of these people is that governorship has moved round the three senatorial zones in State, and the chips therefore should fall where they may starting from 2021 governorship election in the state.

"For the avoidance of doubt, Their Excellencies Dr. Chinwoke Mbadinuju (Anambra South), Dr. Chris Nwabueze Ngige and Mr. Peter Gregory Obi (Anambra Central) and currently Chief Willie Obiano (Anambra North) have all governed Anambra State in the order.

"What equity demands now is for Anambra governor to come from Anambra South in 2021, in the spirit of rotation through which the past and current governors of the State had emerged. Some politicians are fighting against it.

This argument against continued rotation of governor is warped and self-serving. Those who propel it do not have the interest of Anambra State at heart. Anambra is the gateway to the South East and blessed with abundant and uncommon human and material resources. It is very crucial that Anambra should get its acts right and show example to the rest of the South East and country at large."

It stated that, the Igbo Leadership Development Foundation (ILDF), a pan-Igbo sociopolitical group, focusing on promoting good governance, equity and conscientious leadership in Nigeria with particular interest in the South East geopolitical zone.

It added that The Foundation is equally promoting the emergence of a Nigerian President of Igbo extraction in the 2023 General Elections. "The simple reason is that the South East is the only geopolitical zone in Southern Nigeria that has not produced a President for the country in present democratic dispensation and the zone producing Nigeria’s President will no doubt, usher in unity and healing in the land and end the lingering mistrust caused by the Nigeria civil war.

"We therefore believe in rotation as a democratic process that will ensure political inclusivity and reduce the rancor associated with elections as well as cut down costs of electioneering by narrowing candidature to particular zones in each election circle.

"Leaving governorship election as an all-comers affair in Anambra State particularly can only create wide latitude for confusion and conflict as well as incur much cost that could have gone into development of the State.

"In Anambra State particularly, rotation has reduced rancor in gubernatorial contest and ensured even development in the 3 senatorial zones, given that each governor has ensured that his zone received its fair share in terms development and representation in governance. This has led to the transformation of Anambra transforming into a one-city state and one of the most developed States in Nigeria.

"It is therefore quite disturbing that aspirants are sprouting in all the 3 senatorial zones in utter disregard of the rotation arrangement, which has subsisted and sustained the State since the return to the current democratic dispensation.

"We call on the elders and leaders and friends of Anambra State and Igbo land in general to prevail on those pushing for the jettisoning of rotation of Anambra Governorship to regain perspective and retrace their steps. They can wait for the rotation to reach their zone again in due course. They can also contribute meaningfully to the development of Anambra State without being governors as only one person can be governor at any given time.

it stressed that ILDF also calls on all political parties in Nigeria to respect the popular opinion of Anambra people by adopting the present zoning arrangement which favours the South Senatorial District for 2021 Governorship election.

"Again, apart from the fact that  South Senatorial District produced governor who left office since 17 years ago, the zone has the least number of years in office with Mbadinuju who did only a 4 year tenure compare to Central and North who are having 11 years and 8 years respectively.

Igbo Leadership development Foundation (ILDF) is at the moment canvassing for a Nigerian President of Igbo extraction come 2023 based on the principle of rotation of presidential power between North and South Nigeria. We cannot be making a case for the emergence of Nigerian President of Igbo extraction based on rotation and close our eyes to the truncation of rotation of governorship in Anambra or any South East State for that matter.

"One major advantage of Zoning is that it enhances the act of choosing credible candidates devoid of sectional sentiments.

"He who goes to equity as the saying goes, must go with clean hands."

Igbo Leadership Development Foundation (ILDF) is further advocating that rotation must spread and percolate down to Local government, State Assemblies and National Assembly positions.

"Those who argue against rotation should please check the implications of costs of elections in Nigeria, which is likely the highest in the world, and has impacted negatively on development. They should also note that consensus is democratic since where there is no  violation of any individual’s democratic rights or ethos of democracy where there is no dissension.

"And come to think of it, there is no part of any State in Nigeria that does not have enough capable men and women to pilot the affairs of that state. Governance of a State or Nigeria should therefore not be treated as the birthright of one side of the State or the country for matter.

"Igbo Leadership development Foundation (ILDF) therefore calls on all Ndi Anambra and Ndigbo in general not to allow rotation and rotation of governorship to be sacrificed on the alter selfishness and ego of some politicians who do not see governance as service but as business and aggrandizement.

"The Foundation is so concerned because we believe that the if we get Anambra right, we shall get the South East and indeed  Nigeria right! Let Anambra South produce the next Governor of Anambra State in the spirit of rotation, equity, fairness and social justice. We are counting on the political sagacity of Anambra people," the group concludes.

Dr. Betta Edu, Health Commissioner

The Cross River State Commissioner of Health Dr.  Betty Edu has assured the state's Youth Parliament of support to eradicate vices among the State's youths.

Dr Edu made the pledge when she received some members of the youth Parliamentarians in her office on January 17 who paid her a courtesy visit.

The Speaker of the youth Parliament, Hon.(Amb) Awatt Caleb Ekpeyong who was represented by the House Leader,  Hon Sunday Achang applauded the state governor,  Prof Ben Ayade,  for granting Dr Edu the opportunity to serve as commissioner of Health in the state.

Achang noted that Edu's appointment to oversee the entire health ministry was well deserved,  saying she worked tirelessly to lift the standard of her erstwhile agencies.

A communique signed by the member representing Obudu2 Hon.  Frank Ugbe  captured the youths visit to Dr. Edu's office.

Part of the communique read:"the Parliament is geared towards "partnership with government to help in emancipating our teaming youths from the whip and storms of time, from the shackles of mediocrity, indolence, youth restiveness, social vices, moral and political decadence", that one of the observed laxity by the Parliament is the negligence of grassroot, which he exemplified as poor attention to traditional rulers, that should amends be made on this wise, many youth deficiencies will be curtailed from the grassroots as traditional rulers play a pivotal role in youth character building.


"The pinnacle of this visitation featured the Commissioner expressing elation to interface with the Parliamentarians, pledging her support and readiness to collaborate with the Parliament in tackling those vices bedevilling the youth populace especially in the health facet, she farther reiterated her support, linking it to her passion for young people and her interest in grassroot building. The Parliamentarians applauded the Commissioner for her welcoming spirit, soothing promises and patriotic nature."

Cross River State Governor, Sir Ben Ayade

Auditor-General For Local Government and permanent secretaries, Local Government Service commission, to meet with the Honorable Commissioner Local Government Affairs, Hon Mrs Stella Odey.

Commissioner for Local Government Affairs, Hon Mrs Stella Oreme Odey

The Cross River State Commissioner for Local Government Affairs, Hon. Stella Oreme Odey has suspended the State's Local Government Pensions Board.

A terse statement signed by Mrs. Odey on Monday said that all activities of the board are suspended with immediate effect until further notice.

The commissioner directed the auditor general and Permanent Secretary of the Local Government Service Commission to meet with her for further directives.

Mrs Odey said the action is in the best interest of the state and pensioners.

Senator Prof Benedict Ayade, the Governor is committed to improve  welfare of pensioners in the States, she said.

"The Governor, Prof Sir Ben Ayade is a pensioners' lovers, he has recounted severally how his heart yearns for pensioners. And to the best of my knowledge the Governor is working assiduously for the welfare of the Pensioners" Mrs Odey Concluded.