Month: June 2025

By Patrick Asuquo

The Cross Riverians 4 Bassey Otu (CRBO), a socio-political support movement dedicated to promoting the achievements and vision of Governor Sen. Prince Bassey Edet Otu, has conferred the title of Grand Patron on the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Hon. Emmanuel Ironbar.

The investiture ceremony, held on Wednesday in Calabar at the Chief of Staff’s office, was led by the National President of CRBO, Lady Obonganwan Gnarly Eyo. In her remarks, she described Hon. Ironbar as “a true pillar of compassionate leadership, whose humility and commitment to the ideals of good governance have made him a source of inspiration.”

Lady Eyo noted that the decision to honour the Chief of Staff was based on his demonstrated dedication to the success of the current administration and his consistent support for policies that promote development and good governance across the state.

In response, Hon. Emmanuel Ironbar expressed his gratitude for the recognition and commended CRBO for its initiative. He stated:
“This is a vision in the right direction. No one can say this is sycophantic—it is the reality. You have all seen what the Governor is doing.”

Highlighting recent improvements in the state, he added:
“Three years ago, our state was in decline. Today, we are seeing clear progress—roads have been rehabilitated, street lighting restored, schools and health centres improved, and the security situation significantly stabilized. People can now sleep peacefully without fear of robbery or kidnapping.”

Hon. Ironbar also acknowledged CRBO’s efforts to raise awareness and mobilize support for the government’s programs:
“Forming this group is commendable. I have heard positive reports of your activities across the state—how you are sensitizing citizens and promoting the progress being made. I believe this group is here to stay.”

He pledged to collaborate with CRBO and encouraged its members to remain focused:
“The beginning is never easy, but with consistency and purpose, you will succeed. I look forward to working together to make Cross River State even better and to support the Governor’s vision for the people.”

The former Chief of Staff to the Cross River State Government and Chairman of the GFO Orim Foundation, Chief Hon. Martin Orim, was among dignitaries and top military officials who attended a special Welcome Kitty organised by the Calabar Golf Club in honour of the Chief of Defence Intelligence (CDI), Major General Emmanuel Undiandeye.

The event, which was held at the Calabar Golf Club, was anchored by the Club’s Competition Secretary, Capt. Fidel Youdie.

Speaking on the sidelines of the ceremony, Chief Martin Orim described the gathering as “heartwarming and full of joy,” noting the strong bonds shared among the golfers. He expressed his admiration for the club’s culture and hinted at his intention to join as a member, adding that he is keen on embracing golf as a hobby.

In his address, the CDI, Maj. Gen. Undiandeye, expressed heartfelt appreciation for the warm reception, describing it as a reflection of the golfers’ “goodness, good mind, and sacrifice.” He further pledged to support the club with initiatives aimed at upgrading its facilities and improving the overall experience for members and players.

The event drew an impressive lineup of high-ranking guests, including Major General A.M. Sabo, Rear Admiral Effa James, Major Otiwa, and former Deputy Governor of Cross River State, His Excellency Effiok Cobham, among other notable personalities.

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The former Chief of Staff to the Cross River State Government and Chairman of the GFO Orim Foundation, Chief Hon. Dr Martin Orim, has paid a courtesy visit to the Zonal Chairman of the Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC), Chief Spokesman Agogo, at his Calabar residence.

Chief Orim, during the visit, mentioned that the meeting was aimed at strengthening their friendship and aligning their goals for community development.

Chief Spokesman Agogo warmly welcomed Chief Orim and expressed his gratitude for the visit. He emphasised the importance of their long-standing friendship and their joint efforts to improve society.

Chief Agogo praised Chief Orim as a reliable partner in the mission to promote community development and social unity. Chief Martin Orim was accompanied by Hon Augustine Anoh (popularly known as Super), Mr Phydel Aben, and Boniface Ishamali.

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The former Chief of Staff to the Cross River State Government and Chairman of the GFO Orim Foundation, Chief Hon. Martin Orim, on Thursday warmly hosted the Chief of Defence Intelligence (CDI), Maj. Gen. Emmanuel Undiandeye, and his beloved wife at his residence in Calabar.

Joining them was Brig. Gen. IM Ibrahim, the Commander of the 13 Brigade of the Nigerian Army along with other top-ranking military officers, in what was described as a friendly and strategic visit.

In a separate but equally significant show of solidarity, the former Chairman of the Cross River State Civil Service Commission, Mr. Uko Inaku, also paid a courtesy visit to Chief Orim earlier in the day, alongside other friends and well-wishers.

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The Executive Chairman of Obanliku Local Government Council, Hon. Chief (Dr.) Sunny Ebebe Ayang, JP, on Wednesday, June 18, hosted an enlarged security council meeting at the Civic Center, Sankwala, to address pressing security concerns within the LGA.

The high-level meeting brought together critical stakeholders including security agencies, traditional rulers, leaders of the Fulani community, political leaders, youth representatives, and actors from various sectors.

In his opening address, Hon. Ayang emphasized the need for collective responsibility and collaboration to ensure lasting peace and safety in Obanliku. He cautioned against the criminal act of land sub-selling and advised that all land transactions must follow due process through the Local Government’s Land Regularization Committee, with landowners obtaining the Consent Certificate of Occupancy (CCO). He further directed all landowners to regularize their land documents within one month.

Hon. Ayang expressed deep concern over the influx of unidentified Fulani herdsmen into Obanliku, particularly in light of recent violent incidents in neighboring Benue State. While acknowledging the peaceful coexistence with Fulani residents over the years, he stressed that such peace must not be taken for granted or jeopardized.

Key Security Concerns Highlighted:

* Illegal mining activities
* Indiscriminate sale of land
* Infiltration of Fulani herdsmen
* Unregulated issuance of residence permits
Resolutions Adopted:
1. No traditional ruler shall issue Certificates of Consent to miners; any previously issued certificates stand revoked.

2. All Fulani residents are to be identified and profiled to distinguish genuine community members.

3. Grazing on farmlands is prohibited.

4. No new Fulani settlers shall be allowed into Obanliku; traditional rulers who facilitate such settlements will face sanctions.

5. Fulani community leaders must report all new arrivals or infiltrations, or risk punitive action.

In a goodwill remark, Alhaji Yusuf Usman, Chief Imam of Obudu and Chairman of the Council of Imams in Cross River State, reiterated that peace and security are non-negotiable. He noted that Hausa/Fulani communities have lived peacefully in Obanliku since 1912. He also called on traditional rulers to stop enabling the infiltration of unauthorized herdsmen, assuring the Chairman of his people’s commitment to peacebuilding efforts.

Committees Inaugurated:

* Joint Task Force on Illegal Mining led by Chief Linus Afen, Obanliku’s Community Relations Officer.

* Committee on the Assessment and Regularization of Schools Owned by Non-Nigerians, chaired by Hon. (Amb.) Glory Awowoh, Vice Chairman of Council.

In his closing remarks, Hon. Ayang expressed appreciation to all participants for their contributions and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening the security architecture in Obanliku. He noted that the resolutions would boost community vigilance and enhance the local government’s capacity to ensure a safe and secure environment for all.

The Chairman of the GFO Orim Foundation and Member of the Governing Council at the Federal College of Education (FCE) Bichi, Kano State, Chief Hon. Dr. Martin Orim, on Wednesday evening, received the Acting Chairman of Bekwara Local Government Area, Hon. Egbung Odama Egbung, at his Calabar residence.

Chief Orim congratulated Hon. Odama on his recent inauguration by the Governor of Cross River State, praising him for his hard work and experience in politics. He highlighted Hon. Odama’s impressive background, including his time as the State Publicity Secretary and his role as an adviser to the former Governor on local government issues. Chief Orim expressed confidence that Hon. Odama’s experience would help him lead Bekwara successfully.

During their discussion, they talked about important issues affecting their communities and brainstormed ways to promote development and collaboration at the grassroots level.

Chief Orim was joined by some key stakeholders from Bekwara, including the APC Chapter Chairman of Bekwara, Mr. Thomas Odama; the Bekwara Community Relations Officer to the Governor, Mr. Patrick Oko; and Hon Phydel Aben (Obudu).

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