Converseer

Tag: Cross River News

News from Cross River State: Cross River North News, Cross River Central News, Cross River South News, Calabar News, Ogoja News, Ugep News, Ikom News, Obudu News, Akamkpa News.

  • Ogoja celebrates World Table Tennis Day 2025 with refugees, host community

    Ogoja celebrates World Table Tennis Day 2025 with refugees, host community

    OGOJA – The global celebration of World Table Tennis Day (WTTD) resonated deeply in the heart of Ogoja, Cross River State, as the town joined the International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF) family in a vibrant grassroots event that brought together communities, refugees, and dignitaries in a powerful show of unity and inclusion.

    The event, held at the Adagom 3 playground, was spearheaded by Solange Ngonda Tibesa, a Cameroonian refugee and one of the 30 WTTD 2025 global promoters.

    Her leadership and commitment turned a dream into a resounding reality with strong support from the ITTF Foundation, UNHCR, the Refugee Organisations Network (RON), Cross River State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), and the Community Sports and Educational Development (CSED) Initiative.

    Solange, visibly emotional, described the success of the event as “a dream come true,” citing the dedication of all partners and the warm hospitality of the people of Ogoja as key to the event’s success.

    Over 1,000 participants gathered for the celebration, which began with a pre-event advocacy rally and health talks. Traditional dancers from both the Ogoja host community and the Cameroonian refugee population added cultural vibrancy, while thrilling table tennis displays by male and female players captivated the audience. Particularly entertaining were the local women who played in traditional attire—buba and wrappers—earning cheers from the crowd.

    The event drew several high-profile guests, including Mrs Annick Nahimana, head of the UNHCR Office in Ogoja, who applauded the initiative for its role in fostering social cohesion.

    “Solange is an example of how creativity and passion can bring people together,” she said. “UNHCR will continue to support educational and social projects that promote peaceful coexistence between refugees and host communities.”

    Other dignitaries in attendance included royal fathers and tribal leaders of Ogoja, the Divisional Police Officer, representatives from the Nigeria Immigration Service and the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI), as well as members of women’s groups, sports committees, and persons with disabilities.

    Looking ahead, Solange reaffirmed her commitment to using sports as a tool for integration and empowerment.

    “As a netball coach and advocate for refugee rights, I will continue to work with local groups and NGOs to sustain the momentum of table tennis and expand opportunities in other sports,” she said.

    This year’s WTTD celebration in Ogoja not only highlighted the power of sport to unite diverse communities but also underscored the strength of collaboration in building bridges between displaced populations and their hosts.

  • Governor Otu’s neighbours in darkness for 6 months over faulty transformer

    Governor Otu’s neighbours in darkness for 6 months over faulty transformer

    CALABAR – The neighbours of Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Otu, have been in darkness for six months due to a faulty transformer.

    According to the residents of Ekorinim, Calabar, especially those living around the Governor’s house, the last time they saw electricity was in November 2024.

    Efforts have been made by the residents, including monetary ones, but to no avail, as they have been left with only one option – the power of sunlight only shining during the day.

    “Since November last year, we have not seen light (electricity) and it has not been easy. You know in today’s Calabar, once there is no light, there won’t be water. So, the struggle to get water has not been easy.

    “When we met NEPA (PHED) staff who came around, we were briefed that our transformer is bad – that is after several attempts.

    “We have contributed money, but nothing is being done, and this is May, no hope of light. My pocket is weak due to what I’ve spent on fuel (petrol) for my generator, and now, my generator is bad – everything is just hell. We are begging the Governor to come to our aid, since we are his neighbours,” one of the residents said.

    Another resident alleged that they have made efforts to reach out to the wife of the Governor, Bishop Eyoanwan Otu, for help but the outcome is not pleasant to the ear.

    “Since PHED is not saying anything reasonable, we mobilised and met with Her Excellency, who said our community (Ekorinim) didn’t vote for her husband, so why are we asking her for help?

    “Meanwhile, most of us traded our family ties and friendships to make sure APC won the election in 2023; it is heartbreaking to hear that from a leader whose mantra is ‘People’s First.’

    “We are begging the government to help with a transformer for us to also enjoy the season of sweetness,” the resident said.

    READ ALSO: Governor Otu’s 2025 Worker’s Day speech

    Converseer reports that in February this year, the same issue was raised by a journalist before the Governor during a media chat at the temporary Governor’s office in Calabar.

    In his response, Governor Otu said, “Electricity is not as demanding as road,” adding that, “In a month or two, we’ll be opening our own power station.”

    The Governor said the state is considering a lasting solution to the electricity problem, which has burdened the state for a long time now.

    By doing that, he said, “We are looking to buy the Odukpani Power plant. We have the money to buy the power plant.

    “When you look at the power distribution, we need about 70% but we’re not getting up to 10%, which is very poor.”

    When contacted on the phone on Friday, Mr Darlington Edem, Deputy Press Secretary to the Governor, told Converseer that efforts are being made to restore electricity in the area.

    “So far, the State Electrification Agency (SEA) has distributed some transformers across board and even in that community. I am surprised to hear this, maybe it has not gotten to the area the complaints are coming from, but surely it will,” Edem said.

    For the First Lady’s alleged remark, the Deputy Press Secretary said, “I doubt Her Excellency will make such a statement. The wife of the Governor that I know places everyone’s priority first. For someone to claim she said such a thing, I doubt because she has every Cross Riverian and residents at heart.”

    Converseer further reports that transformer issues are spread across the metropolis, with the Port Harcourt Electricity Distribution Company (PHED) looking overwhelmed.

    “PHED is a distributing company, we don’t have the capacity to provide transformers – all we can do is service them,” a PHED staff said.

  • Governor Otu’s 2025 Worker’s Day speech

    Governor Otu’s 2025 Worker’s Day speech

    A SOLIDARITY MESSAGE FROM HIS EXCELLENCY, SENATOR (PRINCE) BASSEY EDET OTU, GOVERNOR OF CROSS RIVER STATE, ON THE COMMEMORATION OF WORKERS’ DAY
     
    PROTOCOL:
     
    My dear brothers and sisters in labour,
     
    On this glorious day, when the first sun of May rises with golden splendour over the lush hills and tranquil waters of our beloved Cross River State, I stand before you, not just as your Governor, but as your brother, your comrade, your fellow citizen, and your humbled servant, to pay tribute to the very soul of our society: you, the workers of Cross River State.
     
    International Workers’ Day is far more than a public holiday marked by dates and declarations. It is a sacred tribute to the indomitable spirit of our workers, the spirit that wakes before dawn, that endures in silence, that shapes the visible and invisible foundations of our state. It is a celebration of sacrifice, of discipline, of purpose. And nowhere is that spirit more vibrant, more determined, and more beautiful than in the hearts of the people of Cross River State.
     
    From the chalk-stained blackboards of our classrooms to the quiet corners of hospital wards, from the intricate spreadsheets in our ministries to the roar of markets and the hum of sewing machines in every LGA, the fingerprints of our workforce are everywhere. You are the unseen architects of our advancement. You are the engine room that drives the machinery of governance, commerce, service, and community. You are the heartbeat of Cross River.
     
    Permit me, on behalf of a grateful government and an even more grateful people, to say: thank you.
     
    Thank you for your devotion in times of plenty and in seasons of scarcity.
    Thank you for your loyalty to the dream of a greater Cross River, even when the path has been uneven.
    Thank you for believing in this administration, not merely out of political alignment, but out of a shared vision for equity, dignity, and prosperity for all.
     
    Let us pause a moment to reflect on the true weight of this moment. For the story of labour is not just about tools and tasks; it is about people. It is about the teacher who rides a motorcycle under the scorching sun of Bekwarra to get to her pupils. It is about the mechanic in Ikom who trains his apprentices not just in craft but in character. It is about the nurse in Calabar who gives care with nothing but compassion and a prayer when resources fall short. It is about the street cleaner whose broom sweeps not just dust but disorder from our streets. These are not just workers; these are the unsung heroes of our time.
     
    And as your Governor, I feel the gravity of your expectations. I feel the urgency of your cries for better welfare package, timely promotions, reliable pensions, and an environment that dignifies your noble labour. You have not asked for handouts; you have asked for fairness. You have not demanded privilege; you have asked for recognition. And I give you my solemn assurance: you are heard. You are seen. You matter.
     
    That is why, from the first day of this administration, we have prioritized the revival and strengthening of the public service architecture. We have re-established the dignity of timely salary payments, reactivated stalled promotions, and commenced the painful yet necessary task of clearing backlogs and gratuity burdens that had long become shadows over the lives of our retirees. We are reforming the structure, not just the surface. We are not chasing applause—we are chasing sustainability.
     
    But this celebration is not just about the past, it is about the horizon before us.
    We are entering a new era, a time where technology, innovation, and global shifts will redefine how we work, live, and grow. And in that unfolding era, the strength of our workforce must be not only its loyalty but also its literacy, its creativity, its adaptability. That is why this administration is investing in digital literacy programmes, workforce training, and renewed emphasis on merit-based progression. We must not just be busy, we must be brilliant. We must not only work harder, we must work smarter.
     
    To our unions and labour leaders, I salute your wisdom, your tenacity, and your ceaseless advocacy. You have been more than negotiators, you have been the conscience of conscience. While our dialogues have sometimes been robust, they have always been rooted in mutual respect and a shared desire for the common good. Let us continue this journey of partnership, hand in hand, not as adversaries, but as allies.
     
    To our youth entering the workforce, I say this: the dignity of labour is not in its glamour, but in its honour. There is no shame in humble beginnings, no dishonour in honest work. Whether behind a desk or beneath the sun, in suit or in sandals, let your work be your signature, and your integrity, your legacy.
     
    To the women of our workforce, our mothers, daughters, sisters, who balance work with nurturing, service with sacrifice, and still rise each morning with unyielding grace, I offer a double portion of praise. Your labour, often uncelebrated, is the glue of both home and state. Know that this administration sees you, values you, and is committed to ensuring your rights, safety, and aspirations are protected and fulfilled.
     
    And to our senior citizens, those who have given their best years to the service of our beloved state, this government remains committed to ensuring that your retirement is not a sentence, but a season of rest, dignity, and appreciation.
     
    On this Workers’ Day, as the sun rises and the drums beat in celebration, let us renew our commitment, not only to our jobs, but to one another. Let us commit to excellence, to discipline, to unity. Let us reject the culture of mediocrity and embrace the fire of innovation. Let us prove that in Cross River, work is not just an activity, it is a calling.
     
    As your Governor, I pledge once more that I will walk with you, work with you, and build with you. We will rise together. We will overcome together. We will shine together.
     
    May God bless the workers of Cross River State.
    May God bless every home touched by your labour.
    May our hands remain strong, our spirits unbreakable, and our dreams unstoppable.
     
    Happy Workers’ Day, Cross River State!
     
    Senator (Prince) Bassey Edet Otu
    Governor, Cross River State

  • Governor Otu gives MDAs 22 days to account for public assets

    Governor Otu gives MDAs 22 days to account for public assets

    CALABAR – In a renewed push for transparency, accountability, and responsible governance, the Cross River State Government has issued a directive to all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to submit a comprehensive list of government-owned assets and properties under their custody on or before May 23, 2025.

    This directive follows the approval of the Governor, Senator Bassey Otu, and the State Executive Council, aimed at enabling the Department of Asset Management and Recovery to document and manage the State’s assets efficiently. The move is intended to curb the misuse, unlawful possession, and abandonment of government properties across the state, which has resulted in significant loss of public resources.

    Presenting the official directive to the Head of Service, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Asset Management and Recovery, Barr. Gilbert Agbor, stressed that all MDAs must treat the assignment with urgency and diligence.

    “All Heads of MDAs are enjoined to treat this matter with the seriousness it deserves, as His Excellency, the Governor, attaches great importance to this exercise,” Agbor stated. He praised Governor Otu for his visionary leadership and for initiating reforms that promote effective governance.

    READ ALSO: Cross River Judge faces NJC probe for alleged misconduct

    Also lending his voice, the Economic Adviser to the Governor, Prof. Peter Oti, emphasised that taking inventory of government assets is critical to ensuring their optimal utilisation for the benefit of the public. He called on all MDAs to comply with the directive, assuring that the Otu-led administration is committed to prudent resource management.

    In response, the Head of Service of Cross River State, Dr Innocent Eteng, described the directive as a compelling call to action backed by executive approval. He assured that his office would work closely with MDAs to meet the May 23 deadline.

    “The importance of this assignment cannot be overstated. We will make concerted efforts to ensure full compliance and timely submission,” he pledged.

    The compilation must follow a structured format with proper identification codes for each asset type, as provided by the Department of Asset Management and Recovery.

    This initiative marks another bold step by the current administration to strengthen institutional accountability and safeguard public assets for future generations.

  • Cross River Judge faces NJC probe for alleged misconduct

    Cross River Judge faces NJC probe for alleged misconduct

    CALABAR – The National Judicial Council (NJC) has acknowledged receipt of a petition against Justice B.T. Ebuta of the Cross River State Court for alleged misconduct.

    In its acknowledgement letter dated April 10, 2025, with Reference No. NJC/S.4/ANA.HC/7/11/24 and signed by Hon. Justice Kudirat M. O. Kekere-Ekun, Chief Justice of Nigeria and Chairman (NJC), it confirmed that it is taking action on the petition, which accuses the judge of abuse of office conduct unbecoming of a judicial officer.

    The Chief Justice of Nigeria and NJC Chairman, Justice Kudirat M.O. Kekere-Ekun, had in a letter with Reference No. NJC/S.4/ANA.HC/7/11/24 informed the petitioner, Ntoe Paul Assim Ita, that the matter is under review.

    Ntoe Paul Assim Ita, the Clan head of Nkonib Ikot Ansa Qua Clan, in Calabar Municipality of Cross River state, had accused Justice Ebuta of misconduct in handling Suit No. HC/86/2024 between Ntoe Lawrence Nyong Akiba, Ntufam Maurice Omin Iso and Ntufam Donatus Etim for and on behalf of Nkonib (Ikot Ansa) Qua Clan) as claimants and the Governor of Cross River State of Nigeria, the Attorney -General and Commissioner for Justice, Cross River State, Commissioner for Lands, Cross River State and Ntoe Paul Assim Ita as Defendants.

    The petition dated March 14, 2024, is titled “Complaint of misconduct, abuse of office and conduct unbecoming of a judicial officer against Hon. Justice B T. Ebuta of the High Court of Cross River State of Nigeria.”

    READ ALSO: Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway will be completed in 2026 – Umahi

    Ntoe Ita alleged that Justice Ebuta had earlier declined to set aside the consent judgement in Suit No. HC/147/2022 on the grounds that he had previously heard the matter as stated in the record of proceedings of 27/6/2022, but expressed surprise that the same Justice Ebuta refused to recuse himself in a case with Suit No. HC/86/2024 when it was assigned to him by the Honourable Chief Judge.

    According to Ntoe Ita, “It was consequent upon the refusal of Hon. Justice B. T. Ebuta to recuse himself from hearing HC/86/2024 that prompted me to apply in writing for the transfer of the case to any other court for a fair and unbiased determination.”

    Ntoe Ita further alleged that “In the application for transfer, I had alleged that Suit No.HC/86/2024 was filled on the advice of Hon. Justice B. T Ebuta, I equally alleged that Hon. B. T. Ebuta was the tenant to one of the Claimants, who had gifted several plots of land to His Lordship in the area in dispute in Suit No. HC/86/2024. The gift of the land was for the role Hon. Justice Ebuta played in the consent judgment in Suit No. HC/314/2021. The same judgment he was assigned to interpret in Suit No. HC/86/2024.

    “I had also known that because of His Lordship’s personal interest in the subject matter, that I was never going to be given a fair trial.

    “The Lordship’s blunt refusal to recuse himself despite my lawyer’s oral application and my strong-worded application for transfer, which I duly copied him, was self-motivated.

    “My application for transfer was met with stiff resistance from both the presiding judge and the Claimants, who on 24/7/2024 wrote a letter opposing our application for transfer.

    “Expectedly, Hon. Justice B. T. Ebuta sat on the appeal over his judgement, interpreted the same judgment in favour of his benefactors and handed over the entries community land to the Claimant and himself. Besides, The Lordship proceeded to nullify leases, survey plans, layouts plans and other publications not connected with the consent judgment before him.”

    In light of the above, Ntoe Ita, passionately appealed to the Chief Justice of Nigeria/ NJC Chairman, Justice Kudirat M.O. Kekere-Ekun, “to use her good office to ensure that the right thing is done,” adding “I am convinced that if Hon. Justice B. T. Ebuta had no personal interest in the matter, he would have recused himself from the matter without much prompting.”

  • UNICROSS Acting VC Appoints Ellah as Chairman of Management Media Team

    UNICROSS Acting VC Appoints Ellah as Chairman of Management Media Team

    CALABAR – The Acting Vice Chancellor of the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS), Prof. Francisca Bassey, has approved the appointment of Mr Cornelius Ellah, Acting Head of the Department of Journalism and Media Studies, as Chairman of the University Management’s Media Team.

    The appointment is conveyed in a letter signed by Mr Victor Ephraim Ene, Registrar of the University.

    It mentions that Dr (Mrs) Bibiana Ineji of the Department of Journalism and Media Studies, Miss Obangham Etiowo, also of the Department of Journalism and Media Studies, Dr Cassius Ogar of the Department of Entrepreneurship (Ogoja Campus) and Dr Michael Ebe Nandi of Department of Anatomy (Okuku Campus) are members of the Media Team.

    READ ALSO: Cross River Varsity, NELFUND partner to boost student loan awareness

    The letter states that Mr Ellah and other members of the Media Team will act as the official voice of the University in all media-related matters.

    It assures Ellah and his team of the University Management’s full support.

    The appointments take immediate effect.

  • Cross River Govt orders immediate refund of illegal levies at Ogoja College of Nursing Sciences

    Cross River Govt orders immediate refund of illegal levies at Ogoja College of Nursing Sciences

    …Commissioner for Health vows decisive action against those involved in alleged extortion scheme

    OGOJA – The Cross River State Government has reacted strongly to allegations of illegal levies imposed on students of the Ogoja College of Nursing Sciences, describing the practice as a gross abuse of trust and a betrayal of government standards.

    The outrage follows the circulation of a viral video on social media, which exposed a scheme of unauthorised financial extortion from students, supported by undeniable evidence of payments. The scandal has sparked widespread condemnation among parents, students, and the public, prompting urgent calls for intervention.

    In a swift response on Saturday, the Commissioner for Health, Dr Henry Egbe Ayuk, issued a directive halting all illegal collections across state health institutions with immediate effect. He also ordered a full refund of all unjustified payments to affected students.

    “Any institution engaged in these shameful acts must halt immediately and return all illegal collections to the victims,” Dr Ayuk stated, expressing deep anger over the revelations.

    READ ALSO: Olumba lights up Cross River communities with solar energy

    The Health Commissioner further announced that a full panel of inquiry would be inaugurated by Monday to investigate the extent of the malpractice and ensure those responsible are brought to justice.

    “I assure you, whoever is found guilty will be dealt with decisively according to the laws of the land. This administration has zero tolerance for exploitation and corruption,” he warned.

    Dr Ayuk emphasised that neither institutions nor individuals, regardless of status, would be protected from the consequences of their actions. He reiterated the Otu administration’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and the protection of vulnerable groups.

    “The education and future of our young people must not be sold to the highest bidder. Those who think they can defraud our students under this government are mistaken,” he added.

    As of the time of filing this report, the management of the Ogoja College of Nursing Sciences had not issued any official statement regarding the allegations.

  • Olumba lights up Cross River communities with solar energy

    Olumba lights up Cross River communities with solar energy

    CALABAR – The leader of the Brotherhood of the Cross and Star (BCS), His Holiness Olumba Olumba Obu, has lit up several communities with the commissioning of a 245kW solar power plant in Calabar, Cross River State.

    Converseer reports that the plant, BCS Green Energy Project, located at the headquarters of the BCS, 34 Ambo Street, Calabar, will provide uninterrupted power supply to communities not limited to Ambo, Ika Ika, Asikpo, Mbukpa and other strategic places.

    Inside of the BCS Green Energy Project Grid Power House

    The first phase of the project includes the following account, with the estimated installed load capacity: Holy Father’s Palace – 50kW, Green Building/The Vestry – 30kw, Ambo Great Hall – 40kW, StarCross TV/Mother Onugen – 30kW, No. 39 – 65kW, and Sparkling FM – 30kW.

    Commissioning of the BCS Green Energy Project Grid Power House and Bethel Bites Cafe

    The mega project was commissioned on Saturday (19 April 2025) by His Holiness Olumba Olumba Obu, who was represented by Fred Olumba Obu.

    Speaking during the commissioning, the State Governor, Apostle Bassey Otu, represented by the Commissioner for Power and Renewable Energy, Prince Eka Williams, thanked Olumba for embracing renewable energy as well as extending his humanitarian services in the state.

    Amb. Thomas Ogbuaka, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Power and Renewable Energy (2nd Right)

    The Commissioner who was also represented by Amb. Thomas Ogbuaka, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Power and Renewable Energy, said what the organisation has done will give the state a boost in terms of power supply.

    “I thank the Father (Olumba) for what he has done for us today. You are a torchlight in the direction we have already taken, the renewal energy. You have already made it known that you can handle everything – from manpower to sustainability.

    “We give you thanks for not just buying equipment and installing it but for having the initiative to power many homes and businesses.

    “You have been a blessing to this area. Before now, you’ve been supplying water; today is electricity for the neighbourhood. I remain grateful for your hard work, and I pray that for what you have taken as a commitment to human service, you will not lack in Jesus name,” he said.

    BCS Green Energy Project Grid Power House and Bethel Bites Cafe

    Briefing on the project, the BCS Green Power Project Director, Princess Ibum Olumba Obu, said the project was the vision of Leader Olumba. “Every light that now shines, every current that flows with clean energy, is a direct manifestation of His Word made visible.

    “This is not merely the launch of a solar installation, it is the rise of a prophetic reality. The 245kW solar project is more than infrastructure. It is a sacred signpost, a radiant testament to the vision of the Holy Father unfolding in fullness,” she said.

    BCS Green Power Project Manager, PCS Chukuyenum Uzoelum (Middle)

    On his part, the BCS Green Power Project Manager, PCS Chukuyenum Uzoelum, said the project commenced on 6 May 2024 and was fully completed on 11 April 2025 – that is, less than a year.

    According to Uzoelum, “The primary objective of this project is to generate clean, renewable energy from the sun, reducing dependency on fossil fuels, reducing noise and air pollution from generator fumes, and also contributing to sustainability efforts. This system would aim to lower electricity costs by providing an alternative to grid power, with the potential for substantial savings over time, especially savings from the use of a generator.

    “Prior to the completion of this project, the current monthly cost of procuring diesel to power AMBO stood at 21 million naira, with an estimated annual cost of 252 million naira. This is unsustainable, hence the need to carry out the installation of a 245kW Solar Power System to help reduce the cost by a minimum of 70%. In essence, the installation of a 245kW solar power system is designed to achieve long-term environmental, financial, and energy-related benefits while contributing to broader sustainability goals.”

    Power Systems Engineering Head – PCS Engr. Onya Agha (Left)

    Addressing journalists on behalf of the Power Systems Engineering Head – PCS Engr. Onya Agha, the Deputy Engineer, Engr. Bethel Iroabueke, said before the completion of the project, there were many dark spots, and businesses were shutting down due to lack of electricity and the high cost of purchasing fuel, but that is in the past now – all thanks to the Holy Father.

    BCS Green Energy Project Grid Power House Plague

    He said the project has drastically reduced carbon emissions, which is causing damage to the environment.

    According to the Engineer, the project which is in its first phase, “covers immediate communities like Ambo, Ika Ika, Asikpo, and Sparkling FM axis. There’s a sister bank we own, it also covers it.

    “We actually have phases. This is the first phase of this project. We are expected to have a second phase, which we are kicking off almost immediately after this.

    “We are expecting this project to last – for the solar panels, we have a warranty period of 25 years from the company, Tangfeng Engineering. The batteries and the inverters have a warranty period of five years.

    “This project is expected to be cutting about 75 per cent cost from grid and generator.”

    BCS Green Energy Project Grid Power House Plague Unveiling

    On his part, Bishop Usene Etekpi Bassey, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of First Royal Microfinance Bank Limited, one of the beneficiaries of the project, disclosed that the solar project had solved a 50-year-long problem of epileptic power supply faced by the establishment.

    According to him, “As a person, I have lived around this area for over
    almost 50 years of my life, and I know that the light situation in this place is always very epileptic but since the introduction of this mega project, we have had uninterrupted light so far.”

    Speaking further, he said, “The impact of green energy cannot be overemphasised. One, it stops you from purchasing diesel – and we know the cost of diesel, inflation
    every day, taking away your purchasing power.

    “With the green energy now, that has been taken care of. You don’t have to buy fuel again to service your energy. You rely 100% on solar, and it’s a very good development. Customers can now enjoy an uninterrupted banking system in and outside the banking hall.”

    Bethel Bites Cafe

    Converseer further reports that Bethel Bites Cafe, the first cafe of its kind, was also commissioned.

    “We are not just serving drinks, we are serving light. It’s clean, it’s fun, and it’s made with love,” Sister Chika Iroagbueke, Cafe Manager, Bethel Bites, said.

    WATCH THE VIDEO BELOW

  • History of Cross River State Northern Senatorial District

    History of Cross River State Northern Senatorial District

    By Clarence Odey

    Introduction

    The Northern Senatorial District of Cross River State is a part of the defunct Ogoja Province of Nigeria, and is even referred to as the Ogoja Senatorial Zone. The area currently comprises five local government areas including Ogoja, Yala, Obudu, Bekwarra and Obanliku under which are several tribes and languages. However, there is no significant difference in their origin, arts, culture, religion and world view. Though Cross River North epitomises cultural and linguistic plurality, they have cultural similarity due to geographical contiguity and they all belong to the Niger-Congo group of languages.

    The notable ethnic groups in the Northern Senatorial District of Cross River State on the basis of LGA include:

    • Ogoja: Mbube, Ishibori and Ekajuk
    • Yala: Yala, Ukelle, Yache and Igede
    • Obudu: Bette, Utugwang, Alege, Ukpe and Ubang
    • Bekwarra: Bekwarra and Afrike
    • Obanliku: Bendi, Obanliku, Utanga and Bechere

    The evolution of Northern Cross River State

    The present-day Northern Senatorial District of Cross River State is a metamorphosis of the Old Ogoja Province established in 1903 during the colonial era. Ogoja remains one of the oldest Provinces in Nigeria and probably the only one yet to become a state. Under Ogoja were the Obubra District (Abi, Yakurr and Obubra), Ikom District (Boki, Etung and Ikom) as well as Abakaliki and Afikpo Districts, which constitute the present-day Ebonyi State. The political anatomy of Ogoja was altered in the 1950s with the creation of Abakaliki Province. This was at the height of the clamour for creation of Calabar Ogoja Rivers State (the COR State) out of the Eastern Region. However, this never materialise until 1967, when Gen. Yakubu Gowon split Nigeria from four regions to 12 states. Rivers was created while Calabar and Ogoja remained together as South Eastern State. This continued until 1976, when Brig. Murtala Mohammed created more states and changed the name of South Eastern State to Cross River State. In 1987, Gen. Ibrahim Babangida carved Akwa Ibom (a part of Calabar Province) out of Cross River while the remaining part of Calabar province and all of Ogoja remained in Cross River till date. With the local government reform of 1976, the Old Ogoja became a splinter of four LGAs – Obubra, Ikom, Obudu and Ogoja. While the Old Obubra and Ikom constitute the present Central Senatorial Districts of Cross River State, Ogoja and Obudu make up the North. In 1991 and 1996, Yala and Bekwarra were respectively carved out of Ogoja while Obanliku left Obudu in 1991 bringing to the current five local government areas in the North.

    Occupation and major agricultural produce

    The people of Northern Cross River are generally hardworking and enterprising. Laziness and idleness are abhorred. They are agrarian in nature. In fact the strength and honour of a man (most especially in Yala) is how large his yam barn is. Major crops and fruits grown in substantial quantity in the area include yam, cassava, rice, maize, guinea corn, potato, okra, oil palm, cashew, beniseed (sesame seed), groundnut, orange, mango and pears.

    A good number of northern Cross Riverians are professionals, civil servants and traders.

    Social life, culture and religion

    The people of Northern Cross River are very sociable, highly accommodating and caring. They have elaborate marriage, child naming and other ceremonies. They have great attachment to family ties thus despise incestuous marriage. Palm wine is the chief traditional drink in the area. The new yam festival is one of the most important celebrations in the North. Every tribe has its own day. It usually celebrated in the months of August and September every year. The people rule themselves as autonomous communities. The throne rotates among families in the community. Justice and fairness govern native adjudication of cases brought to the palace. On the whole, the people are peace-loving as their traditional religion abhors man inhumanity to man. The various ethnic groups diligently served pantheons of god before the advent of Christian religion led by the Roman Catholic Mission in the early 20th century. Pentecostalism came in much later with the emergence of Assemblies of God Church.

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    Local government by local government analysis

    1. Ogoja

    The headquarters of Ogoja is Ogoja Town, which is basically Igoli. It occupies a total land area of 972 km². Based on the 2016 population projection by the National Population Commission, the population of Ogaja is 229,300. It is located between latitude 6°30’N of the equator and longitude 8°40’E of the Greenwich Meridian and bounded by Yala in the West, Bekwarra in the Southwest, Obudu in the East and Boki in the Southeast. The origin of the name Ogoja is traced to Yala people. It was a farm settlement for the earliest settlers of Yala people. Yala, being agrarian, found the land very fertile and then named it Ogboja meaning “fertile soil.’’ It was the colonialists who renamed it “Ogoja” for their pronunciation convenience.

    The Mbube, Ishibori, Ekajuk and Nkim/Nkum settled in the local government area at different times mainly within the 19th century. Major Mbube communities include Ekumtak, Egbe, Odajie, Idum, Nkim, Bansan, Benkpe and Aragban. The Mbube people are part of the sons of Agba. Ishibori (Ishiborr), which is the municipal tribe are the owners of Igoli, Abakpa, Umuriyah, Ikaptang, Ukamusha, Adagom, and Ikariku while Ekajuk speaking people live in Bansara, Nwang, Ekpugrinya, Egbong and Ewinimba.

    2. Yala

    With headquarters in Okpoma, Yala is the biggest LGA in the North with two constituencies in the State House of Assembly. With a population of 282,700 people in 2016, Yala is the 2nd most populated LGA in Cross River State after Akpabuyo. Having a landmass of 1,739 km², it is the 3rd largest LGA after Akamkpa and Boki. Yala is located on Latitude 6°42’ north of the Equator and Longitude 8°36’ east of the Greenwich Meridian. Yala is bounded in the north by Benue State, in the south by Obubra and Ikom Local Government Areas, in the East by Ogoja and Bekwarra Local Government Areas and in the west by Ebonyi State. The local government area is named after its largest ethnic group, Yala, whose ancestry is traced to the Idoma nation of Benue State. The founder of Yala nation is Ochumode, who migrated in search of ‘greener pasture.’ Ochumode’s team wandered southward until they got to a place where a stream of salt was discovered. They decided to settle there and named the place ‘okpa oma’ meaning ‘salt stream’, which is now called Okpoma. It was from Okpoma that they spread to other parts such as Okuku, Ugaga, Imaje, Echumoga, Ijegu, Yahe, Ebo among other places. The traditional ruler of Yala is called Ogamode. It is worthy of note that some extract of Yala people migrated further south to Ikom and Obubra called Yala Nkum and Yala Obubra respectively. Other migrants from Idoma who settled within Yala are the Yache people now occupying Aliforkpa, Ijiegu, Uchu among other communities.

    The second largest tribe in Yala is Ukelle, which speak Kukelle language. They and Igede constitute Yala 2 constituency. Major towns in Ukelle land are Wanikom, Wanikade, Wanihem, Ezekwe and Mfuma. A greater number of Igede people live in Oju and Obi local government areas of Benue State.

    Yala is home to the famous Mary Knoll College, Okuku; Odaji Agbo Polytechnic, Okuku; Cross River State University of Technology, Okuku; Pope John Paul II Junior Seminary, Okpoma; Model College (now Government Secondary School), Okpoma and School of Health Technology, Okpoma among others.

    3. Obudu

    Being one of the oldest Local Government Areas and with high rate of educational advancement, Obudu prides itself as a frontline LGA in Cross River State. Its headquarters is the town of Obudu. It has a landmass of 453km² and a population of 215,800. It is located on Latitude 6°40’ and Longitude 9°10’ and bounded in the north by Benue State, south by Boki Local Government Area, east by Obanliku, south by Boki and west by Ogoja and Bekwarra. Obudu is home to the clans of Bette, Obanlikwu, Bendi, Utugwang, Ukpe-Alege, Utanga-Becheve, Bekwarra and Mbube, who all lived as autonomous communities sharing kinship being the sons of Agba. The Obudu people speak five languages based on the number of tribes as listed earlier. In Ubang, men speak a different language from women though they understand each other. It is also assumed that God stepped His mighty feet on Ubang land as a gigantic footprint that no man could step is left indelible in the community till date. The Obudu people have an age long respect for traditional institution. The paramount of the LGA, Uti JD Agba was one of the longest serving traditional rulers in Nigeria. The people of Obudu are lovers of education. The number of professionals and teachers/lecturers and professors of Obudu extraction is a testament to this assertion. Obudu is home to the Federal College of Education among other educational institutions. Other major towns in the LGA are Ohong, Bebuagbong, Ipong.

    4. Bekwarra

    This is the northernmost LGA in Cross River State, located along the Ogoja-Katsina-Ala road. Its headquarters is Abuochiche. Bekwarra has a landmass of 306km² and a population of 141,000 in 2016 making it the smallest LGA in the North. Its coordinates are 6°41’N and 8°58’E. Its boundaries include Benue State in the north, Ogoja in the south, Obudu in the east and Yala in the west. The founder of Bekwarra is Odama Ofide. He surreptitiously left his Bette brother due to the impending conflict between two major factions in Obudu. The manner in which Odama and his kinsmen (Adie Ofide, an uncle, his younger brother, Atimina Bendi and Ugbong Oka) left their homeland is what attracted them to the name they have now. They were said to have “ebe kworro” meaning to “hurry away.” They found their present location and have been settled there since the 18th century. Bekwarra has a remarkable place in the political history of Nigeria. The first gunshot heralding the Nigeria
    civil war on 6th June, 1967 was shot at Gakem, the border between Southern and Northern Nigeria. The major towns in Bekwarra apart from Abuochiche and Gakem are Ukpah, Afrike, Ugboro. It is worthy of note that one of the oldest Assemblies of God Bible Colleges that has produced many ministers including a General Superintendent is located in Bekwarra.

    5. Obanliku

    Obanliku is the last but not the least LGA in Northern Cross River State. Its headquarters is Sankwala. The population of Obanliku at the last count is 146,500 while its land area covers 1,057km². Obanliku is both an interstate and international boundary Local Government Area as it shares bother with Benue State in the north and Cameroon Republic in the West. It is bounded in the north by Kwande Local Government Area of Benue State, in the east by Cameroon Republic, south by Boki and west by Obudu. The founders of the LGA were part of the sons of Agba who fled Obudu in the heat of the crisis. It has four basic linguistic groups as listed earlier. Major towns in the area are Utanga, Bebi, Becheve and Bishiri. It is home to the famous Obudu Cattle Ranch Resort. It has a temperate climate because of the plateau surrounding it. It equally has forest reserves and several waterfalls. Obanliku is reputed for producing the highest number of Speakers of the Cross River State House of Assembly. It is also interesting to note that late Dr Joseph Wayas, the first person to become Senate President the Federal Republic of Nigeria back to back hails from Obanliku Local Government Area of Cross River State.

    Common names in Northern Cross River State

    One of the defining features of the people of Northern Cross River is the name they bear. Almost all LGAs in the area bear Odey, Ogar and Oko, though these are commonest names in Yala such that virtually every household has an Odey. Other major names among Yala and Bekwarra people are Ogbeche, Adoga, Okwoche, Okache, Onah, Ogbaji, Ipuole, Omari, Agbo, Ogeyi, Ochuole, Aja, Aduma, Ulakom, Usibe, Ikade, Agabi, Akobi, Agbor, Odama, Akwaji, Iyaji. Very common among the people of Obudu, Bekwarra and Obanliku are Adie, Ushie, Olayi and Agba, Unimke, Unimna, Undie, Beshel, Ashiwel, Amanke, Akpanke and Ugbe. Popular names in Ogoja are Abua, Abuo, Modey, Agom, Ugan, Morphy, Igbe, Obi, Bessong, Ifop, Eworo, Ayim, Egbeji, Ikori, and Opue.

    Conclusion

    In the final analysis, while it would be agreed that several ethnic and linguistic entities make up the Northern Senatorial District of Cross River State, what unites the people far outnumbers that which distinguishes them. Furthermore, the people are traceable to two or three ancestors. Therefore, it is very convenient to refer to the people from this area as Ogoja people – as Ogoja remains the political, economic, educational and religious headquarters of the area.

    About The Author

    Odey Clarence Odey,
    Social Science Education Department,
    University of Calabar,
    Calabar – Nigeria.
    Phone: +2347060721477
    Email: odeyclare@unical.edu.ng

  • Cross River govt urges citizens to unite against illegal mining

    Cross River govt urges citizens to unite against illegal mining

    CALABAR – The Cross River State Government has issued a rallying call to residents to take a stand against illegal mining activities threatening the state’s environment, economy, and future.

    In a statement signed by Comrade Joseph Ekamoti Agbor, Special Adviser to Governor Bassey Otu on Solid Minerals, on Friday, the government expressed deep concern over the increasing destruction caused by illegal miners operating outside the ambit of law and regulation.

    Cross River State, renowned for its lush landscapes and rich mineral deposits, is facing mounting environmental degradation. “Forests are being destroyed, rivers contaminated by chemical runoff, and farmlands rendered infertile,” the statement noted.

    The government warned that these illegal activities not only harm the ecosystem but also lead to economic losses, depriving the state of revenue and residents of lawful job opportunities.

    “The damage is not only environmental—it is economic and deeply human,” the Special Adviser stated.

    He emphasised that illegal mining endangers lives through unsafe practices, contributes to the exploitation of vulnerable populations, and erodes the rule of law.

    The statement urged communities and individuals to be vigilant and report any illegal mining activities to the appropriate authorities.

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    It also advocated for the adoption of responsible and sustainable mining practices to harness the state’s natural wealth for the benefit of all.

    “Cross River is more than just a state rich in resources—it is a land of hope, resilience, and possibility. Let us not allow illegal mining to steal that future,” the statement read.

    The campaign, themed “Say No to Illegal Mining: Protect Our Land, Preserve Our Future,” reiterates the government’s commitment to safeguarding Cross River’s natural heritage for generations to come.

    The government further reiterated its readiness to collaborate with communities to ensure that mineral resources are utilised in a manner that promotes development, environmental protection, and sustainable livelihoods.