Month: April 2025

The Cross River State House of Assembly has called on the National Assembly to urgently amend Nigeria’s mining laws to better protect host communities and resource-rich states, following severe environmental degradation caused by illegal mining activities in Obubra Local Government Area.

The resolution was reached during Wednesday’s plenary under a matter of urgent public importance, moved by Hon. Egbe Abeng, who represents Obubra I constituency. The motion was unanimously supported by members of the 10th Assembly.

Lawmakers expressed alarm over the humanitarian crisis in five Obubra communities including Ababene, Ovokwa, Onyadema, Ofat, and Ofodua where illegal gold mining has contaminated the only major water source. Residents now rely solely on sachet water for cooking, bathing, and other basic needs.

Describing the situation as a “public health emergency,” Hon. Abeng said the destruction of local water sources threatens the wellbeing of thousands and increases the risk of disease outbreaks. He noted that the Water Board station in Ofodua, which once supplied potable water to the area, is currently non-functional and urgently needs rehabilitation.

“Our people are suffering. Illegal mining has not only stolen their resources but destroyed their right to clean water,” Abeng said. “The federal mining law must be reviewed to reflect the needs of those living in affected communities.”

The Assembly resolved to send a delegation, led by Speaker Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem, to the National Assembly to present the resolution to the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, and the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas.

Speaker Elverts Ayambem criticised existing mining laws for concentrating revenue and control at the federal level while neglecting the environmental and developmental needs of host communities.

“We are calling on the National Assembly to amend or repeal these unjust mining laws,” he said. “Host communities and states like Cross River, which have contributed immensely to national development, must not be left behind. Mining should be a driver of development, not devastation.”

 

The House also urged the Cross River State Government, through the Ministry of Water Resources and the State Water Board, to urgently restore potable water to the affected communities and rehabilitate the damaged infrastructure. Additionally, it called for a thorough investigation into the environmental damage caused by illegal mining in the region.

 

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In a heartwarming show of love and unity, the Executive Chairman of Obanliku Local Government Council, Hon. Chief (Dr.) Sunny Ayang JP, accompanied by his dear wife, attended the Thanksgiving Ceremony of his esteemed colleague, Hon. (Amb.) Peter Akonfe Undiandeye, KSM. The event was held on Sunday, April 27, 2025, at Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish, Bedia, Obudu Local Government Area.

The ceremony drew a diverse crowd of dignitaries, community leaders, and residents, all gathered to honour Hon. Undiandeye as he returned thanks to God for his service and unwavering dedication to the people of Obudu as Council Chairman.

The atmosphere was vibrant with joy, laughter, and heartfelt tributes from colleagues and friends, each recounting Hon. Peter Undiandeye’s remarkable contributions to the Obudu local government area.

The Executive Governor of Cross River State, represented by his Chief of Staff, Mr. Emmanuel Ironbar, used the occasion to urge the people of Obudu to continue supporting Hon. Undiandeye in his quest to attract greater development to the area. He also extended the goodwill and greetings of His Excellency to the church and attendees.

In a touching remark, Hon. Sunny Ayang hailed Hon. Undiandeye’s exceptional efforts in uplifting the welfare of his people, describing him as a brother and his closest neighbour.

The event witnessed a remarkable turnout of dignitaries from within and outside the state, including the Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly (CRSHA), Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem; Deputy Speaker, Hon. Sylvester Agabi; other Members of the CRSHA; Council Chairmen and their delegations; former Chief of Staff to the Governor of Cross River State, Chief Martins Orim; Commissioners; Chief (Dr.) Tony Undiandeye; various government appointees; traditional rulers; and religious leaders, among others.

*Kayang, Emmanuel E.*
Chief Press Secretary to the Executive Chairman of Obanliku
27/04/2025

Bedia, Cross River State — April 27, 2025:

The Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem, today joined a distinguished gathering of government officials, traditional rulers, and political leaders at a thanksgiving mass held in Bedia, Obudu Local Government Area, in honour of Hon. Peter Akonfe Udiandeye, Chairman of Obudu LGA.

The thanksgiving ceremony was organised to express gratitude for Hon. Akonfe’s successful assumption of office and his continued leadership of the Obudu Council.

The Governor of Cross River State, His Excellency Sen. Prince Bassey Otu, was represented at the event by his Chief of Staff, Hon. Emmanuel Ironbar. In his remarks delivered on behalf of the Governor, Hon. Ironbar commended Hon. Akonfe for his dedication to grassroots development and urged him to remain steadfast in his commitment to serving the people of Obudu.

Speaking at the event, Speaker Ayambem lauded Hon. Akonfe’s leadership qualities and noted that the successes achieved at the local government level directly contribute to the broader development goals of Cross River State. He emphasised the importance of unity, accountability, and community-driven governance in strengthening democracy at the grassroots.

The thanksgiving mass concluded with a reception, where other dignitaries present included the Deputy Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Hon. Sylvester Agabi; the Member representing Yala 1 State Constituency, Hon. Brian Odey; and the Special Adviser on General Duties to the Governor, Barr. Ekpenyong Akiba. Several Chairmen of Local Government Areas across the state, traditional rulers, clergy, and prominent political figures were also in attendance.

The Chairman of the GFO Orim Foundation and a distinguished Member of the Council at the Federal College of Education (FCE), Bichi, Kano State, Hon. Chief (Dr.) Martin Orim, was among several high-profile political figures who graced the Thanksgiving Mass organised by the Executive Chairman of Obudu Local Government Area, Hon. Peter Akongfe Undiandeye.

The event, which took place today in Hon. Undiandeye’s hometown of Bedia, was held to celebrate and give thanks for his successful assumption of office as the Executive Chairman and the milestones achieved in service to his people

Hon. Chief (Dr.) Martin Orim , known for his steadfast commitment to education, community development, and youth empowerment, expressed his heartfelt congratulations to Hon. Undiandeye during the ceremony. He lauded the Executive Chairman’s dedication to grassroots development and urged him to continue his efforts towards improving the welfare of the people of Obudu.

The event was a colourful gathering attended by prominent leaders, including the Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, RT Hon Elvert Ayambem, Chief of Staff to the Governor Hon Emmanuel Ironbar, Deputy Speaker RT Hon Sylvester Agabi, SA General Duties to the Governor, Barr Ekpenyong Akiba, Executive Chairman of Obanliku, Chief Sunny Ayang, traditional rulers, community members, and well-wishers from within and outside Cross River State.

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The Executive Chairman of Obanliku Local Government Area, Hon. Chief (Dr.) Sunny Ayang, JP, was on Friday, April 25, 2025, honoured with the prestigious traditional title of Otue-Ikwen 1 of Obanliku by the Basang nation.

The well-attended ceremony, held at the Bayalele Community Hall, was marked by vibrant cultural displays, traditional rites, and an outpouring of goodwill from leaders and residents alike.

Speaking during the event, the Paramount Ruler of Obanliku, HRM Ambassador Amos Item, extolled Hon. Ayang’s visionary leadership, noting his significant strides in infrastructure development, peacebuilding, and empowerment programs that have directly benefited the Basang people and the wider Obanliku community.

Highlighting some of his achievements within his first 100 days in office, the Chairman of the Basang Development Association (BDA), Hon. Sylvanus Anyawho, praised Hon. Ayang’s administration for landmark initiatives including the launch of the Obanliku Riders transport scheme, completion of the Local Government Education Authority Secretariat, upgrade of the Utanga Clinic facility, and robust youth empowerment efforts.

“Today’s honour is a reflection of your visible impact. We recognise and celebrate your inclusive leadership and your commitment to the advancement of Basang sons and daughters,” Hon. Anyawho stated.

“This chieftaincy title belongs to all of us. It is a call to greater service and a reminder that together, we can achieve sustainable progress across our communities,” he said.

Addressing recent tensions between Bishiri and Basang communities, Hon. Ayang stressed his administration’s resolve to uphold peace and justice. “There will be no tolerance for actions that threaten our unity. I remain committed to securing lasting peace for our people,” he affirmed, while urging the youths to pursue hard work and eschew negative tendencies.

Also honoured at the event was Dr. Don Clems Enamhe, convener of Who is Who in Cross River North, for his outstanding contributions to community development.

The ceremony concluded with traditional dances, performances, and messages of solidarity from political leaders, traditional rulers, and community stakeholders, all affirming their commitment to the unity and growth of Obanliku.

Ogoja, Cross River State – April 22, 2025

 

The Executive Chairman of Obanliku Local Government Area, Hon. Chief (Dr.) Sunny Ayang JP, has joined other political leaders and stakeholders from Northern Cross River at the Northern Cross River State Coalition (NORTHCCO) General Assembly, where a vote of confidence was passed on Governor Prince Bassey Edet Otu and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The high-level gathering, which was held yesterday and was attended by the Deputy Governor of Cross River State, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, saw the formal adoption of motions endorsing the reelection of Governor Otu and his Deputy in 2027, as well as President Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima for a second term.

 

Traditional rulers from the district also lent their voices in support of the incumbents, citing tangible achievements recorded during their tenure.

 

In his address, Director-General of NORTHCCO, Rt. Hon. Legor Idagbo emphasized that the coalition’s endorsement was strategic and aimed at ensuring continued development in the Northern Senatorial District. “Our support is not blind. It is based on results and expectations,” he stated, urging members to remain united and purposeful.

 

Also speaking, Ntufam Barr. Fidelis Ugbo, Chairman of NORTHCCO’s Board of Trustees, described the coalition as a positive movement for the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Cross River North. High Chief Higgins Peters also echoed his voice, praising the Governor’s efforts and described NORTHCCO as an energizing force focused on revitalizing the region.

 

Representatives from various LGAs in the North reaffirmed their support for APC candidates, advocating for unity and collective political action.

 

The event also featured vibrant cultural displays and musical performances by local artists including Sunny Eneji and WilPrince Ajaba.

 

Among the dignitaries in attendance were: Chief Higgins Peters, the leader of NORTHCCO, Chief Martins Orim Member of Council, FCE Bichi Kano State, Hon. Sylvester Agabi, Deputy Speaker, Cross River State House of Assembly; Chief Hon. Jude Ngaji, former House of Representatives Member, Members of CRSHA, Chairmen of LGAs from Northern Cross River, Serving Commissioners and Special Advisers, SSA on Agriculture, Prof John Shiyam, High Chief (Dr.) Tony Undiandeye, High Chief Tim Tom, Elder Eugene Akin, Traditional rulers, youth leaders, and numerous APC stakeholders.

 

The assembly concluded with a renewed call for unity and strategic engagement ahead of the 2027 general elections.