Month: July 2023

Dr. Justine Atiang Beshel, Cross River State Commissioner designate from Obanliku Local Government Area, has assured Cross Riverians that the government of Senator (Prince) Bassey Edet Otu will be an edge-cutting and hands-on administration.

Dr. Justine Beshel made this known at the Cross River State House of Assembly complex, after the screening exercise of commissioner nominees by the House of Assembly Committee on Judiciary, led by Hon. Davis Etta.

Dr. Justine Beshel noted that the administration of Sen. Bassey Otu will be people’s driven in line with the Governor’s mantra of “the People First”. He explained that “in this government, the people will go home smiling, owing to the fact the governor had over the time of campaigns and consultations focused on enhancing the welfare of the people.”

Beshel added that the current government with the caliber of commissioner designates who are technocrats and professionals, will highly be innovative and practical in operation and functioning.

Dr. Beshel who also centered his discussion with the screening committee on education, spoke extensively on the necessity of strengthening both formal and informal education sectors, and providing skills acquisition programs for youths in order to curb social vices and crimes in the state.

While reacting to the screening exercise, Dr. Beshel also explained that the committee did a timely, rigorous and a great job, saying that it was a requisite for the confirmation of the appointment as Commissioner.

Dr. Justine Atiang Beshel is a Biomedical scientist with distinction in Human Physiology, and has worked locally, nationally and internationally as lecturer in Ebonyi State University; University of Cross River State (UNICROSS), National Open University of Nigeria, American University Lusaka Zambia, Rwanda International University, and presently a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Physiology, University of Calabar.

President Bola Tinubu says the federal government is working on measures to ease the effect of petrol subsidy removal on the masses.

George Akume, secretary to the government of the federation (SGF), offered the president’s remarks at a gala/award night organised by the office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation (HOCSF) on Saturday.

The president appreciated civil servants for their numerous contributions to the development of the country.

“We shall without delay cushion the pains being experienced by our people as a result of these measures through a number of well targeted interventions aimed at giving adequate relief and succour to a great number of our long- suffering citizens,” NAN quoted Tinubu as saying.

In her remarks, Folasade Yemi-Esan, head of service, said every person has an inherent desire to be appreciated or acknowledged for their efforts.

She added that hardworking civil servants deserve reward for their service to the nation.

“In this ever-evolving corporate world, fostering a positive and motivating work environment has become crucial for the success of any institution,” she said.

[CableNG]

The member representing Bekwara, Obanliku and Obudu Federal Constituency, Chief Peter Akpanke has laid a petition against the Vice Chancellor of the University of Calabar, Prof. Florence Obi, over her decision to expel 638 sudents as a result of poor cumulative Grade Points Aggregate (CGPA).

The petition was filed by some members of Hon Peter Akpanke constituency and presented on the floor of the House of Representatives by the member of parliament.

In a press statement, signed by Honorable Akpanke’s media aide, Mr Awade Friday on Thursday, the petitioners noted that the withdrawal of the 638 students from the University of Calabar (Unical) by Prof Florence Obi violated the Data Protection Act, which forbids the publication of citizens’ names on social media platforms in such a sensitive matter.

The press release reads in full:

“Earlier today, Chief Hon. Peter Akpanke, Member representing the good people of Obanliku/Bekwarra/Obudu Federal Constituency in the Green Chamber of the National Assembly presented a petition from some of his constituents on the floor of the House. The document, which is titled: “PETITION AGAINST THE MANAGEMENT OF THE UNIVERSITY OF CALABAR (UNICAL} OVER THE WITHDRAWAL OF 638 STUDENTS BY THE UNIVERSITY MANAGEMANET” and signed by Comr. Peter Ogah, Akor Joseph and Comr. Adie Maryanne, drew the attention of the House of Representatives to a publication released on social media on 25th July, 2023 indicating that 638 students from various departments in the University have been withdrawn by the Management of the University of Calabar against existing regulations contained in the Revised Students Handbook.”

“Among other grievances, the petitioners alleged that the action of the University’s Management violates the right, protected by the Data Protection Act, which forbids the publication of citizens’ names on social media platforms in such a sensitive matter. The petitioners also complained that due process was not followed in deciding the fate of the affected students.”

“Top in the list of their prayers is that the House of Representatives should direct the Management of the University of Calabar to suspend the implementation of the withdrawal policy with immediate effect. They also pray that the House should set up a committee to investigate the issues surrounding the decision of the University’s Management.”

“Chief Hon. Peter Akpanke who laid the petition before the House wishes the students well in their attempt to acquire degrees from the University of Calabar.”

The Speaker of the State Legislature, Rt Hon Elvert Ayambem has commended the State Governor, Senator Prince Bassey Otu for choosing people of integrity as nominees for commissioners and also for forwarding the list to the Assembly within the stipulated time.

Ayambem was speaking with journalists shortly after plenary where the House considered the list of nominees sent by the State Governor for confirmation.

The Speaker noted that the 26 nominees were spread evenly across the 18 LGAs of the State;
” The Governor took his time in the selection of the nominees to ensure that all of them are square pegs in square holes. I am happy that the Governor transmitted the list within the stipulated time. The nominees are credible people.” He said.

The Speaker however promised that the House will be thorough while scrutinizing the nominees. He also emphasized that the House will carry out effective oversight of MDAs to ensure accountability.

Earlier, the Assembly had received the list of nominees forwarded by the State Governor for confirmation.

Members noted that the Commissioners will assist the Executive greatly to administer the State. The commended the State Governor for presenting the list before the 60 days deadline as stipulated by the constitution of the Federal Republic of
Nigeria.

Members further noted that the nominees were men and women of integrity and capacity .

The list was referred to the House Committee on Judiciary for proper scrutiny and screening.

Those nominated are; Sen. Stephen Odey, Mr Mike Odere, Dr Justin Beshel, Hon Agnes Atsu, Hon Patrick Egbede, Hon Robert A Ewa, Dr Egbe Ayuk, Dr Beatrice lgwe, Prince Eka Williams and Mr Oden Ewa.

Others are; Hon Moses Osogi, Barr. Odum Ijom Ukam, Hon Ankpo Pius, Mrs Abigail Duke, Hon Lawrencia Ita, Chief Felix Idem, Pastor Ekpenyong Cobham, Ntufam Emmanuel Anum, Mrs Gladys Eutendala, Dr Hippolatus Ogar Lukpata, and Hon Edema Erom.
Also nominated are; Barr. Mensah Bassey, Barr. Ededem Ani, Bishop Margaret Ene-ita, Chief Francis Ekpenyong and Dr Mathias Unimke Angioha.

Cross River State House of Assembly During the plenary session on 26th July 2023, passed a vote of confidence on the 10th Speaker of the Assembly, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem. This vote was in recognition of his exceptional leadership, tenacity, and dedication to people-first legislations.

Hon. Sylvester Agabi, the Deputy Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, delivered a goodwill message on behalf of other parliamentarians. He praised Rt. Hon. Ayambem’s prioritization of the welfare of Cross Riverians, evident in the people-oriented deliberations that dominated discussions in the House. Despite facing daunting challenges, the Assembly resolved to stand shoulder high with the Speaker and support his leadership style.

Rt. Hon. Dr. Davies Etta seconded the noble vote of confidence.

In response, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem expressed gratitude to his colleagues for their unwavering support, making the 10th Assembly a pacesetter for others to follow. He acknowledged that his emergence as Assembly Speaker was divinely guided, attributing power and authority to God. He pledged to redouble his efforts in strengthening state laws for the greater good of all Cross Riverians.

The Deputy Speaker, Hon. Agabi listed the achievements of the Cross River State House of Assembly within 43 days of inauguration.

✓ That the assembly has moved several motions with people oriented resolutions.

✓ The assembly has constituted committees that are fully operational and yielding people oriented results.

✓ The assembly has introduced sensitive bills that are currently undergoing legislative processes.

✓ Discussions and deliberation on several matters of urgent public importance with people’s first mantra resolutions reached.

✓ Members have, had two local legislative trainings as well as secured two international trainings.

✓ That the Assembly under the able leadership of Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem has secured approval and subsequent release of committees vehicles awaiting delivery.

✓ The house has received Several petitions and adhoc committees have competently resolved differences amongst parties involved.

It was widely reported earlier this week across some news media outlets that the Federal Government had increased tuition fees in federal universities in the country.

These reports are inaccurate and not correct.

We are aware that some universities have in recent weeks announced increase in the amount payable by students on sundry charges.

However, the fact remains and we have confirmed that these are discretionary charges by each university for hostel accommodation, registration, laboratory and other charges. They are not tuition fees.

Authorities of these universities even made this fact clear enough in explaining the rationale behind these new fees.

For avoidance of doubts, federal universities in Nigeria remain tuition-free.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains committed to his promise of ensuring that every Nigerian, regardless of the economic situation of their parents, have access to quality tertiary education.

In addition to the Students’ Loans Scheme, under the Student Loans Bill signed into law by President Tinubu last month, which will go into implementation ahead of the next academic session in September, the Federal Government will also strengthen other mechanisms to support indigent students.

Parts of the government’s plans to make sure all diligent students complete their education on time, notwithstanding their parents’ financial situation, include work-study, merit-based scholarships and grants.

Dele Alake
Special Adviser to the President
(Special Duties, Communications & Strategy)
July 26, 2023

The Cross River State House of Assembly will continue to collaborate with the State Internal Revenue Service IRS to improve the Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) of the State in order to enable Government meet the needs of the citizens.

The Speaker of the 10th Assembly Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem gave the promise when the Acting Chairman of the IRS, Mr Edwin Okon led other Management Staff on a courtesy visit to the Assembly.

The Speaker expressed displeasure at the State’s loss of revenue through leakages in the system and promised that the Assembly will continue to legislate on ways to improve the revenue base of the State.

“the 10th Assembly will legislate strongly on ways to increase IGR. We have lost so much revenue through the loss of Bakassi and the 76 oil wells and we are almost the least in federal allocation, so we need to tighten all revenue-generating points.” He stated.

Ayambem who frowned at the situation where different Ministries Departments and Agency (MDA’s) are collecting revenue, stressed that all MDA’s holding revenue should chanel such revenue through the IRS for accountability. He also stressed the need for all revenue leakages to be blocked adding that revenue consultants who are not meeting their targets should be removed no matter how highly placed they may be.

Earlier the Acting Chairman of IRS, Mr. Prince Edwin Okon had emphasised the need for all stakeholders to collaborate towards improving the State’s IGR. He lamented that there were many illegal revenue checkpoints across the State adding that the IRS is working on partnering with the Assembly, Police and other stakeholders to dismantle such illegal revenue points and improve revenue generation across the State.

He thanked the Speaker for his warm reception and congratulated him on his victory at the election and his subsequent emergence
as Speaker.

The Chairman further appealed that the Assembly should amend some bills including, bills on Land Use Charges, Tourism Development etc in line with the current realities. He further informed that already, Consultants with heavy charges have been removed adding that this has significantly improved the State’s revenue.

The Chairman of the GFO Orim Foundation and immediate past Chief of Staff to Governor, Chief Dr. Martin Orim, has joined the former member representing Bekwarra, Obanliku and Obudu Federal Constituency, Rt. Hon. Legor Idagbo to commission the newly built police station, facilitated by the former lawmaker.

The commissioning of the police station took place on Wednesday, 19th July 2023, in Obanliku Local Government Area while on a “Thank You Visit” by the former Lawmaker, Rt. Hon. Legor Idagbo.

Chief Martin Orim commended Legor Idagbo for his thoughtfulness in ensuring that his constituents are protected, stating that one of the primary functions of government is to provide security for its citizens; and that, Legor had fulfilled.

The former Member of Parliament (MP) noted that he needed to complete the project quickly and commission it for immediate use by the Nigerian Police because the security of the people is essential to him in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu.

The Divisional Police Officer DPO Obanliku Division, CSP Sola Martins, whom the Police Station was formerly handed over to on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, Cross River State, thanked Legor for the project, promising to put it in good use.

In a related development where APC stakeholders and members were gathered at Obanliku Civic Center, to receive Rt. Hon. Legor Idagbo for his “Thank You Visit”, the former lawmaker thanked the party stakeholders and supporters for their massive support during his 8 years tenure as a Parliamentarian, explaining that “thank you is not only when you win, but even better so, even when it seems on did not win.”

Also, Hon Martin Orim stated that supporters of Legor should be happy, not for the seeming lost but for the greater blessings and opportunities ahead for Rt. Hon. Legor Idagbo.

Idagbo concluded by dishing out a million naira to supporters in Obanliku, while Orim supported with Two Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira.

Obanliku people applauded Legor Idagbo and Martin Orim for their support and prayed for God’s guidance and blessings upon them.

Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Rt Hon. Elvert Ayambem has assured the state chapter of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) that they will ensure the safe release of Doctor of Neurology at the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital, Professor (Mrs) Ekanem Philip Ephraim from the kidnappers’ den.

Recall that Ephraim was whisked away by gunmen last week who pretended to be patients in a bid to have direct access to the professor.

However, threat by the NMA State chapter to down tools due to her abduction has attracted the attention of Speaker Ayambem and lawmakers of the 10th Assembly.

Addressing a delegation of NMA members, Ayambem urged them not to down tools, with the assurance that the Executive Governor of the State, Sen. Bassey Otu and the security agencies are working round the clock to secure her immediate release from the kidnappers.

The Speaker also vow to implement a law that impose severe punishment for whosoever is caught in the act of kidnapping in the state.

“I really feel very sad with this recent development of kidnapping, most especially the abduction of professor (Mrs) Ekanem Philip Ephraim of the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital.

“I understand your pain and want to assure you that we will do everything possible to secure her immediate release from the kidnappers den. The State governor and the security operatives are working round the clock to bring her back safe.”