Month: May 2024

Categories
Extra

One Year of Superlative Performances: The Story of Sweet Prince

By Mrs. Esther Ekpenyong Akiba

On May 29, 2023, His Excellency, Ntufam Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, the one mostly referred to by all as the Sweet Prince, took the oath of office as the Governor of Cross River State.
His agenda centres on the people christened “The People’s First Mantra”. This highlights his passionate disposition to see Cross Riverian carried along throughout his administration/governance.

Within 365 days of becoming the Governor, he has facilitated many grants/aids through the Ministry of Health to improve the Healthcare system, fixed 90% of the dilapidated road network within the metropolis, provided clean, treated and affordable pipe-borne water, ensured the street lights in the metropolis are functional, modernized traffic control systems by the provision of traffic lights and bus stops at key junctions within the state capital, ongoing renovation of the state library complex, restructuring of the state civil service, improved security architecture thereby enhancing economic growth and boasting investors confidence in the state. Additionally, he had midwifed innovative economic and developmental policies aimed at improving the welfare of Cross Riverian in general thus justifying his alias “Sweet Prince”.
Our dearest Sweet Prince is making concerted efforts to see to the completion of the Calabar-Itu highway by ensuring a speedy compensation process for those whose properties lay prostrate on the land upon which the dual carriage is built.

The People’s first Governor is working round the clock to ensure the commencement of the drilling of Crude in Cross River State, aside from this, he has sustained the ongoing work in the Obudu Cargo Airport, ordered the maintenance of the Bebi Airstrip, as well as the total renovation of the Obudu Cattle Ranch.

He has successfully secured a partnership for the deep seaport project.
Our dearest Governor within a year has ensured the upgrade of sporting facilities in the state and renovation of U. J. Esuene Stadium, reviewed and improved remuneration of the state football team(Rovers ) Agriculture had always been an inevitable stratum of the economy of the Country. Cross River State is blessed with fertile lands and has aligned herself with the Agricultural revolution in the Country. His Excellency, Prince Bassey Otu (Sweet Prince) has recently Flagged off the Development of 12000 Hectares of Land in Odukpani LGA for agricultural purposes.

Suffice to say, as an astute administrator who rewards excellence in service and with total commitment to the welfare of civil servants, the State minimum wage was raised from the paltry N18,000 to N40,000 with possibilities for upward review, with further plans to clear the backlog of pensioners’ gratuity arrears in the State (Season of Sweetness😊)

Ntufam Senator Prince Otu is indeed the man of the people and for the people. He is leading the State in good conscience and the fear of God, HE has good listening ears, unites people across political divides and allows constructive criticisms unabated as these are the major fabrics that nurture democracy and thus enhance development.

Our destiny helper, as you mark one year in office, I pray for God’s grace upon you and our Beautiful First Lady/mother. I pray for more wisdom so whatever you do, will continually be for the benefit of our people and the growth of the State. I pray for good health and long life.
Please join me and say a happy first anniversary in office to our Sweet Prince. Hip, Hip, Hip, Hurray!!!!!

Categories
News

Gilbert Congratulates Governor Otu On 1 Year In Office

The Special Adviser on Asset Management and Recovery, Gilbert Agbor, Esq. has congratulated Governor Bassey Otu on his one year anniversary in office.

Gilbert said this in a statement he personally signed on Tuesday.

“I on behalf of the staff and management of the Department of Asset Management and Recovery, Calabar hereby extend our heartfelt congratulations and warmest wishes to your excellency, Sen. Bassey Otu on the occasion of your one year in office.

It is worthy of note that your exemplary leadership and commitment has brought significant progress and positive change to the state including improving lives of the citizens fostering economic growth and ensuring peace and stability as well as in the area of infrastructural development.

These are commendable and a reflector of your dedication to the People’s First mantra of the administration. We believe this one year is just the beginning of the good things to come believing that the coming years would be filled with continuous success and lasting impact in line with the season of sweetness”.

The Special Adviser joins all Cross Riverins and other admirers around the world in congratulating a great visionary leader of our time, Senator Prince Bassey Otu on this momentous occasion of the first anniversary of this government.

With a transformative vision to turn the state’s fortunes around for the citizenry’s overall benefit as encapsulated in the Peoples First Agenda, Gilbert said Governor Otu had led the state on the trajectory of sustainable growth and development in the last year.

Categories
News

Amb. Asegem Commends Governor Otu on One Year of Transformative Leadership

Chief Ambassador Emmanuel, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Timber Control North, has lauded Governor Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu for his remarkable achievements during his first year in office. In a statement released on wednesday, Chief Emmanuel praised the Governor for his unwavering commitment to the development and transformation of the state.

Chief Emmanuel highlighted the Governor’s approval of the 5-kilometer Ukelle road as a significant milestone in the administration’s infrastructural agenda. “The approval of the Ukelle road is a proof to the Governor’s dedication to improving the lives of our people,” he said.

Since assuming office, Governor Otu has spearheaded numerous developmental projects, fostering rapid progress across various sectors in Cross River State. “The state has witnessed unprecedented growth and development in all areas under the Governor’s leadership,” Chief Emmanuel remarked.

He further assured Governor Otu of the continued support of the Ijiraga Nation, emphasizing their commitment to backing the Governor’s vision and initiatives. “We stand firmly behind the Governor now and beyond, as he continues to lead Cross River State towards greater heights,” Chief Emmanuel concluded.

Categories
News

Breaking News: CRSHA Passes Vote of Confidence on Speaker Ayambem

The Cross River State House of Assembly has unanimously passed a vote of confidence on the Speaker Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem.

The motion for a vote of confidence was made in the plenary session on Tuesday, May 28, 2024, by Hon. Cyril James Omini, the member representing Yakurr 1 State Constituency. It was seconded by Hon. Kingsley Ntui, the member representing Etung State Constituency, and received unanimous support from the legislators.

According to Hon. Omini, restoring order to the Assembly is necessary to support the state governor’s efforts to grow the state. According to him, the vote represents the members’ cooperation and unity in their efforts to raise the standard of living for Cross River State residents.

According to Hon. Cyril, the Speaker’s vote of confidence was an affirmation of their dedication to supporting Governor Otu’s sound governance, and the general advancement of the state.

Recall that crisis erupted at the Cross River State House of Assembly after the lawmakers attempted to impeach the Speaker during plenary session. With the vote of confidence passed on the Speaker, Rt Hon Elvert Ayambem by the state lawmakers, the crisis in Cross River State House of Assembly which started on Wednesday 24th May 2024, has been put to rest.

Categories
News

C’RIVER ASSEMBLY REAFFIRMS AYAMBEM AS TENTH ASSEMBLY SPEAKER

Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem, member representing Ikom 1 State Constituency, has been unanimously reaffirmed as Speaker of the tenth Assembly of Cross River State. The reaffirmation of Ayambem followed a rapprochement brokered by the state governor, Senator Bassey Otu and critical stakeholders with the 25-member Assembly in Calabar yesterday.

Ayambem expressed his appreciation to the governor and the concerned stakeholders for what he described as their remarkable ability to bring about peace for the stability of the state and the House of Assembly. He commended Governor Otu for showing extraordinary leadership during challenging times.

According to Ayambem, “the governor’s track record as a leader who is committed to peace has never been in doubt. This has continued to shine through from his time as senator to his current position as governor. I want to sincerely thank you for your genuine interest in and commitment to the peace and unity of Cross River State.

“Specifically, I want to thank all relevant stakeholders and particularly my colleagues for your continuous support. I want to pledge my cooperation and commitment to foster a harmonious working environment with you, one that would contribute to the growth and progress of both the House of Assembly and Cross River State.”

The Speaker emphasized the shared responsibility to collaborate for the advancement of the State, highlighting the importance of unity and cooperation among the members to make laws that will serve the common good of all Cross Riverians. He pledged to lead with integrity, decency, and a focus on the welfare of all.

Matthew Okache
Chief Press Secretary to the Speaker
27th May, 2024

Categories
News

C’River APC’s PWD Applaud Gov Otu for Asikpo Okon’s Approval as State Secretary, Among Others

Members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) with disabilities in Cross River State have expressed their deep gratitude to Governor Sen. Prince Bassey Otu for approving and swearing in several members into the state executive committee of the CRS APC. They are particularly thrilled about the nomination of Hon. Patrick Asikpo Okon as State Secretary.

Hon. Patrick Asikpo Okon, also known as Hon. Petido, is renowned for his disability and women-inclusive approach. He was recognized as a humble and diligent individual with an impeccable record of excellence, humility, resilience, and effectiveness. According to the Persons with Disabilities, his endorsement as State Secretary reflects his reputation as a bridge-builder and a detail-oriented leader, and his appointment has been warmly welcomed by members within and outside the party.

They also noted that the synergy between Hon. Petido and the State Chairman, Barr. Alphonsus Eba is expected to yield remarkable disability-inclusive democracy and governance, as well as encouraging and supporting the successful kick-off of the APC Disability Wind during the upcoming membership registration.

As APC members with disabilities, they extend their congratulations to Hon. Patrick Asikpo Okon and other officers who have been nominated to fill vacant positions in the party. They express confidence in the future of the party and encourage Hon. Patrick Asikpo Okon to continue his exemplary work, while also praying for greater grace, wisdom, and divine guidance as he navigates the complexities of his role.

Categories
Opinion

Governor (Senator)Bassey Edet Otu: “We don’t need another hero”

“We don’t need another hero”, Is the title of an iconic song written in 1976 by the late singer, Tina Turner(1939-2023). A part of the lyrics of the song goes thus:

Out of the ruins,
Out of the wreckage,
Can’t make the same mistake this time;
We are the children,
The last generation,
We are the ones they left behind.

And I wonder when we are ever gonna change,
Living under the fear, ‘till nothing else remains.

We don’t need another hero,
we don’t need to know the way home,
All we want is life beyond Thunderdome.”

This particular song talks about love and compassion and further espouses the need for fighting for one’s right and beliefs. Tina Turner tells us a story about the yearning for freedom by a people, far and away from a present dystopia and how a chosen hero comes along and leads his people to victory – in ‘Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome.’

From my perch,I can easily discern the comportment,determination and compassion of Senator(Prince)Bassey Edet Otu, the Governor that we voluntarily and unanimously chose to lead us out of the present darkness in Cross River State. Nothing happens without a reason.

I wish to hazard an informed guess in a bid to decipher,unravel and simplify our expectations and understanding of Our Governor, from the ongoings(so far) within the past one year. Let me reveal the methodology so far employed, by giving an insight in the Holy Book. It is all about the power of silence. Especially,when sharing every bit of our lives on social media is the norm. That is His Excellency’s secret formula.

Proverbs 13:3, says; ‘he who guards his lips, guards his life, but he who speaks rashly will come to ruin.’ It’s a strategic guide for life. It is a truism that power and purpose don’t need immediate recognition from the crowds, they flourish in the quiet, in the unseen moments where your faith, determination and actions align towards your God-given purpose. Matthew 6:1 admonishes us to always guard our plans and protect them from evil eyes and naysayers. A focused leader would strive in an atmosphere where his plans can grow,like when Noah built his Ark in silence. His visible and discernible actions are already speaking louder than his words. The masterpiece will manifest – the signs abound.

Everyone who embarked on this journey with, ‘Sweet Prince’, in our quest for equity,fairness and justice, in the socio-political firmament of Cross River State; who is a patriot and not a tainted ethnocentric bigot and who has gleaned through the ‘delicious and sumptuous’ economic packages that await us all, would gladly keep the faith. We should remember how,in unison, we gathered our loins,took the leap of faith,paid the price and snatched the victory.

We are now witnesses to a new dawn;a consequential dismantling and demolition of old and worn out prejudices and an extension of our frontiers, with all of us singing, ‘Anchors Aweigh’. As the tide from the new spring continues to help us to heal and consolidate, I would urge us to remember that sweet melody, from our departed heroine, that reminds us that in such a season of sweetness (Res ipsa loquitur) – We don’t need another Hero.

Rt. Hon.(Otuekong) Orok Otu Duke
Commissioner/CRS Representative,
N.D.D.C.

Categories
Extra

Cross River Speaker’s Impeachment: A Failed Coup D’etat

As a three-tier government that Nigeria is, three legislatures exist and all of them have impeachment powers that have often been grossly abused: The National Assembly, the States Assemblies and the Local Government Legislative Councils. A close example of their activities, regarding frivolous impeachment has showed a consistent brute power struggle for pecuniary gains and not for the interest of the citizens.

This was the case that just transpired in the Cross River State House of Assembly where the Honorable Speaker, @Rt Hon Elverts Ayamben was purportedly removed in a gestapo manner. It is interesting to note that the power struggle in the assembly deployed with all external powers and influences within and without their respective corridors of powers to achieve their inordinate ambitions is the result of the drama that ensued on the 22nd of May, 2024, desecrating the hallowed chambers.

Like in the case of Rt Hon Elverts, in the titanic sweepstake, extraneous actors were behind the scenes masterminding the crisis that led to the so called removal which hitherto has become a failed coup de’tat. Majority of Cross Riverians are saying with clarifications that the procedure for removing the speaker, was wrong and not in conformity with laid down rules as envisaged in the regulations guiding the House. Even when the said motion was seconded, there was no consensus on the motion by honourable members during proceedings. No question was put and agreed to as required by the rules for any motion to be considered or adopted as resolutions.

The actions of the lawmakers have further questioned their credibility and the way and manner they emerged as representatives of their state Constituencies in the assembly. To say the least many are disappointed. How could you claim to have removed a speaker and can’t elect another immediately, even when you have the mace? This is absolutely unwarranted, unjustifiable and condemnable.

By way of argument, the sponsors of the charade and their cohorts in the House have foisted on the entire state a coup d’etat, in the sense that the botched impeachment translates to a nullity. What transpired wasn’t just an unfortunate event but reflected the worst one could experience in the temple of democracy. It is highly unbecoming for peoples representatives to stoop to such level. If care is not taken, and if all of us seal our lips, fold our arms and get relaxed on our seats and allow this impunity to go unchecked, in no distant future, the governor of the state would be impeached and forced out of office in like manner.

Another school of thought have it on good authority that the Speaker is being hunted due to his action and insistence to probe the Ayade-led administration, which Ayambem said the State Assembly is poised and dogged in ensuring every wrong and illegal approach to executing contracts, concessions and spending of public funds.

Based on investigations into deals and agreements under the immediate past Governor, Rt Hon Elvert Ayambem, had disclosed that the State Assembly has vowed to stop and revoke deals on concessioned industries and assets by the previous administration.This is one of the reasons for the onslaught by way of coup de’tat and exchange of blows during plenary.

Yes, there are people who are not happy in the House, there are a lot of intrigues but it is not something that should translate to a failed coup. The kind of House Cross Riverians want to be associated with is an Assembly devoid of violence like Israel and Hamas. If you feel the leadership of this man is not favourable, you don’t need to plot a failed coup. Yes, there is no House of Assembly in the world where you cannot find division. In a gathering of a 25 member House, members cannot think or reason the same way. But what they should do is to struggle to present a common front before the people of Cross River state, not a coup.

The members of the House of Assembly should allow the Speaker to continue in office, without making any attempt to remove him as the legislative coup has failed ab initio. It is too early to start bickering as State Assembly. Any attempt to press further is a desecration of legislative sanctity and an affront against Cross Riverians.

Ogar Solomon Ogar , writing from Solomon Islands.

Categories
Extra

Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong: Exemplifying Purpose-Driven Leadership with a Golden Mind

By Prince Charles Ekanem

In moments of solitude, reflections on genuine leadership often stir the mind. One shining example of such leadership is Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong, whose actions resonate with purpose and integrity.

The recent allocation of a 100 million grant to constituents stands as a testament to Senator Ekpenyong’s unwavering commitment to serving the people. While some representatives may succumb to the temptation of self-enrichment through dubious deals with banks and donors, Senator Ekpenyong’s steadfast dedication ensures that every cent is directed towards its intended purpose: the betterment of the community.

Indeed, the potential for misuse looms large over such a substantial sum. Yet, under Senator Ekpenyong’s guidance, accountability and transparency prevail. His leadership serves as a beacon of hope, reminding us that true power lies in selflessness and service.

In a political landscape often marred by corruption and self-interest, Senator Ekpenyong’s golden mind shines brightly, illuminating the path towards genuine, purpose-driven leadership. As constituents, we are fortunate to have a leader who not only talks the talk but walks the walk, leading by example and inspiring others to do the same.

Categories
News

Infrastructure Overhaul: Security Commanders Praise Governor Otu for Collaborative Efforts

By Andrea Ekeng

Security commanders in Cross River State have praised Governor Bassey Otu for his dedicated efforts in enhancing security and infrastructure across the state. This commendation came during an inspection visit led by Barrister Ekpenyong Akiba, the Governor’s Special Adviser on General Duties, accompanied by a team of journalists.

The initiative has received widespread praise from various service commanders, emphasizing the positive impact of Governor Otu’s devotion to improving security and infrastructure in the state since assumption of office.

Mr. Daniel Ibor, the commander of the Cross River State Divisional Fire Station, expressed his gratitude, saying, “What is happening today is a result of Governor Bassey Otu’s leadership. He has truly set things in motion for better governance.”

Ibor stressed the importance of the ongoing renovations, noting their potential to improve firefighters’ effectiveness in responding to emergencies. He mentioned the longstanding challenges faced by the station, such as poor working conditions and inadequate infrastructure, and expressed optimism about the positive changes underway.

The State Commandant of the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC), A I Ibrahim, also praised the Governor for his timely intervention. He noted that he had “never seen this kind of project before,” emphasizing that the Governor’s actions demonstrate a lack of “dichotomy” between the state and federal government.

Barrister Ekpenyong Akiba echoed these sentiments, stressing Governor Otu’s unflinching commitment to ensuring the safety and security of of lives and properties in the state. He drew attention to the comprehensive nature of the infrastructure upgrades, which include not only renovations but also new constructions aimed at enhancing security offices and facilities across the state.

Akiba praised Governor Otu’s visionary and service driven leadership, describing him as a “magician” for his unprecedented efforts in revamping security infrastructure in the state. He emphasized the collaborative nature of the projects, which involve partnerships with federal agencies and aim to address longstanding neglect of security offices and facilities. “And this season of sweetness is touching every sector,” Akiba added, “because when we talk about this season of sweetness, it will not be complete without security. It will not be complete without protecting our properties, protecting our lives and for us to have the needed protection from the services, they need an enabling environment to work.”

The ongoing projects include renovations and constructions at various security establishments, including the Cross River State Divisional Fire Station, Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), the 13th Brigade of the Nigerian Army, the Nigerian Air Force base, MOPOL 11, the Nigerian Navy quarters, and the state headquarters of the Nigerian Police, among others.

Michael Asuquo, MD/CEO of Plant Global Services Ltd, highlighted the Governor’s significant role in facilitating these projects, despite their initial designation as “federal responsibilities”. Asuquo detailed the scope of the projects, which include the construction of new facilities such as office blocks, VIP toilets, access roads, and parking lots. He emphasized the importance of creating conducive working environments for security personnel, including provisions for emergency officers’ mess and adequate infrastructure for firefighting and ambulance services.

Governor Otu’s specific interest in revitalizing the Fire Service Department was also noted, with Asuquo highlighting ongoing efforts to overhaul firefighting trucks, ambulances, access roads, and water treatment plants. He expressed confidence in the timely completion of the projects, citing significant progress in surveying, earthworks, and civil construction.

As the projects near their final stages, people across Cross River State are eagerly looking forward to the positive changes they will bring to security and emergency response. Governor Otu’s hands-on approach and his close partnership with security agencies reflect his absolute dedication to keeping everyone safe and secure.
By prioritizing these improvements, he is not only raising the bar for security infrastructure in the region but also showing his genuine concern for the well-being of the people he serves.