Month: February 2026

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News

Constituency Project: Deputy Speaker Agabi Commences Borehole Drilling in Ukpirinyi, Eraru; Four Other Communities to Benefit in Obudu

In line with the People’s First agenda of the Governor of Cross River State, Rt. Hon. Sylvester Agabi Jr., Deputy Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly and Member representing Obudu State Constituency, has commenced the drilling of boreholes in the Ukpirinyi community in Utugwang Central Ward and at the Eraru community central square in Alege/Ubang Ward, alongside four other locations across Obudu Local Government Area.

According to the Deputy Speaker, the intervention is aimed at addressing the persistent challenge of access to potable water in several communities and improving living conditions at the grassroots.

The additional locations captured in Phase One of the project include Bebuabong community in Urban Ward I, Bedia community (Kasua) in Angiaba/Begiaka Ward, Old Playground in Igwo community of Begiading Ward, and Agbang Playsquare in Okworogung, Utugwang South Ward.

Speaking on behalf of the Ukpirinyi community, Chief Clement Awhen described the project as timely and long overdue. He observed that residents have endured years of water scarcity and expressed relief that the situation is now receiving attention.

He thanked Hon. Agabi for facilitating the project, describing it as a practical response to the basic needs of the people and a sign of responsible representation. He also acknowledged the support of Governor Bassey Otu and offered prayers for wisdom and strength for the Deputy Speaker in the discharge of his duties.

The contractor is expected to proceed from the Eraru community to the Bedia community (Kasua) to continue with the drilling as scheduled under the first phase of the six projects.

Press Unit,
Office of the Deputy Speaker,
Cross River State House of Assembly
26/02/2026

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Extra

Ikom LGA Disowns Report Linking Speaker to Alleged Plot Against Chairman

The Ikom Local Government Council has firmly denied any connection to a recent report alleging that the Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem, is pushing to oust the Ikom LGA Chairman.

In a disclaimer issued on February 10, 2026, the Office of the Chief Press Secretary to the Executive Chairman, Hon. Pst. (Mrs.) Mercy Nsor, described the publication as false and unauthorised. The statement clarified that neither the Chairman nor her media team originated or briefed anyone on such claims.

The Council emphasized that the Chairman and the Speaker maintain a cordial and productive working relationship, which has delivered tangible development outcomes for Ikom LGA.

Describing the report as baseless and intended to create tension, the media unit urged the public to disregard the story and rely only on official communications from the Council.

The statement was signed by Ntemoyuk Christopher Ntemoyuk, Chief Press Secretary to the Executive Chairman of Ikom LGA.

#MediaChiefPriest

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News Politics

Obanliku APC Moves to Consensus as Stakeholders Endorse Unity Framework

Obanliku Local Government Area witnessed a major political development following an emergency stakeholders’ meeting convened by the Executive Chairman, Hon. Chief Dr. Sunny Ayang, JP, in collaboration with the Member representing Obudu, Bekwarra, and Obanliku Federal Constituency, Hon. Chief Peter Akpanke.

The high-level consultative session brought together key leaders of the All Progressives Congress in Obanliku and was marked by frank discussions, calm negotiations, and a shared commitment to party stability.

In attendance were the Vice Chairman of Council, Hon. Glory Awowoh; Leader of Council, Hon. Sunday Elam; Rt. Hon. Maurice Evey; Barr. Plus Awah; Chief Ukandi Emmanuel Inakefe; APC Zonal Woman Leader for the Northern Senatorial District, Mrs. Janet Inakefe; former Vice Chairman of Obanliku LGA, Hon. Anthony Anyam; councillors, political appointees, and other critical party stakeholders.

At the close of deliberations, stakeholders unanimously adopted resolutions aimed at strengthening unity and inclusiveness across party structures. It was agreed that ward-level stakeholders should immediately convene meetings to produce consensus Executive Committee lists for both ward and chapter levels.

The meeting further resolved that all ward Exco lists be submitted to the Executive Chairman for harmonization, with attention given to proper positioning and the integration of new party members. The ward Exco lists will also serve as the foundation for the chapter Exco, in line with approved zoning arrangements across the wards.

The resolutions received overwhelming endorsement from the general congress, reflecting broad confidence in the leadership of Hon. Sunny Ayang and Hon. Peter Akpanke. Both leaders were commended for promoting inclusiveness, party discipline, and respect for collective decision-making.

The meeting concluded with a renewed commitment by party leaders and stakeholders to work together to sustain unity, strengthen internal democracy, and advance the fortunes of the APC in Obanliku Local Government Area.

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Politics

APC Settles for Consensus Ahead of February 18 Congresses

 

The All Progressives Congress has adopted a consensus approach for its ward and local government congresses scheduled for February 18, 2026.

Deputy National Organising Secretary of the party, Chidi Duru, disclosed this at a stakeholders’ meeting of Anambra State APC members in Abuja. He said the decision, already approved by the National Working Committee, is aimed at reducing internal disputes and easing tensions ahead of the 2027 general elections.

As preparations for 2027 gather pace, the Anambra State chapter of the party is repositioning despite setbacks from the last off-cycle governorship election. Members at the meeting strategised on upcoming congresses, though some expressed reservations about the consensus model.

Party leaders maintained that the approach would promote stability amid growing internal challenges facing major political parties. Concerns were also raised over the absence of Anambra APC members in the Federal Executive Council, a development criticised by the former Minister of Women Affairs and the state chairman.

Despite the grievances, the Anambra State chapter passed a vote of confidence in President Bola Tinubu.

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News

Speaker Ayambem Assures Support, Urges Proper ICT Management as Head of Service Orok Briefs Assembly on Anti-Fraud Reforms

The Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Elverts Ayambem, has received the State Head of Service, Barrister Orok Bassey Okon, on a courtesy visit at the Assembly Complex.

Barr. Bassey briefed the Assembly leadership on reforms aimed at restoring professionalism in the civil service, including staff credential verification, payroll and pension audits, and the deployment of an electronic system to curb irregular promotions. He sought the support of the legislature to drive a fair, transparent, and people-friendly civil service.

Rt. Hon. Davies Etta, Deputy Leader of the Assembly, congratulated Barr. Orok Bassey on his appointment as Head of Service and praised his clear reform blueprint, expressing confidence in his direction. He noted the decline in the civil service over the years but urged focused leadership to restore its former standards.

Speaker Elvert Ayambem thanked Barr. Bassey for the visit, commended the use of technology in driving reforms, and advised proper management of ICT systems to prevent abuse. He reaffirmed the Assembly’s commitment to a people-first approach and pledged full legislative support for inclusive and transparent reforms.

Also present were the Leader of the Assembly, Rt. Hon. Francis Asuquo, the Assembly Clerk, Barr. Catherine Ubi, Dr. MaryTheresa A. Ebe, Permanent Secretary, Service Welfare Office, and Barr. Lucy Bassey, Permanent Secretary, Service Management Office.

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News

Cross River Assembly Acts on Impeachment Notice, Suspends Ogoja Vice Chairman

The Cross River State House of Assembly has suspended the Vice Chairman of Ogoja Local Government Council, Hon. Emmanuel Idi Yakubu, for a period of ninety days.

The suspension followed an impeachment notice forwarded to the House and signed by the Leader of the Ogoja Legislative Council, Dr. Elizabeth Mbim, alleging gross misconduct and abandonment of duty.

Invoking Section 14(3) of the Cross River State Local Government Law, the House unanimously resolved that Hon. Yakubu be suspended pending the outcome of an investigation by its Committee on Judiciary, Public Service Matters, Public Petitions and Conflict Resolution.

The motion for the suspension was moved by the Leader of the House, Rt. Hon. Francis Bassey Asuquo (Odukpani), and seconded by the Deputy Leader, Rt. Hon. Davies Etta (Abi).

In their separate contributions, lawmakers stressed the need for strict adherence to the provisions of the Cross River State Local Government Law by councils, emphasizing that due process and accountability must be upheld at all levels of governance.

The impeachment notice, unanimously agreed upon by the ten councillors of the Ogoja Legislative Council, was read on the floor of the House by the Clerk of the Assembly, Barr. Catherine Ubi, during plenary. The notice cited allegations of abandonment of duty for private business, breach of the Oath of Secrecy, disregard for constituted authority, among other infractions, which were said to have affected the smooth running and development of Ogoja Local Government Council.

In a remark, the Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem, said the House would not tolerate actions capable of undermining effective local government administration, adding that the Assembly remains committed to upholding due process and ensuring that elected officials discharge their responsibilities in accordance with the law and the expectations of the people.

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News

“Facilitating Contracts to Family Members and Executing Them Is Better Than Defrauding Constituents With Nothing to Show” – Constituents Fire Back at Sponsored Attack on Senator Jarigbe

What was intended to be a damaging hit piece against Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe has ignited a significant wave of public backlash, as constituents from Cross River North take to social media to passionately defend the senator’s commendable track record.
In an overwhelming response across various comment sections, local residents dismissed the published attacks as nothing short of laughable, fervently insisting that the true measure of effective leadership lies in tangible performance rather than malicious propaganda. Many constituents emphasized the senator’s visible and impactful projects throughout the district, acknowledging him as an accessible leader who prioritizes responsiveness and dedicated service to the community.
One prevailing sentiment resonated among the comments: accountability and success lie in actual execution rather than mere rhetoric. Many residents articulated that awarding contracts that are not only completed but also make a significant difference in the community is far more admirable than misappropriating public funds while leaving constituents without any evidence of progress.
Affectionately nicknamed “Mr. Projects,” Senator Jarigbe has gained a reputation among supporters as a leader deeply loved by his constituents. In their comments, they described the attack on him as misguided and out of touch with the realities faced by everyday citizens in the district. Even those who have been critical of him acknowledged that, while no political leader is without flaws, the overwhelming majority of constituents have consistently praised Jarigbe’s efforts and accomplishments.
“I rather think he should be commended for not neglecting his family. They have nothing against Jarigbe. Let them not leave the breast and suck the lump.”
“The family members are human beings and Nigerians. Even foreigners are entitled to contract in Nigeria after due process. The most necessary thing we should be interested in is whether the job is done according to the specification.”
“Are you saying Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe’s brothers who have companies and are contractors should not bid for contract anymore because their brother is a Senator? Let’s not deceive ourselves. All our leaders, mostly the senatorial contestants and pretenders in Cross River North, have their family members as contractors with their registered companies. It is not forbidden if you follow due process to get your contract and execute the job according to prescription.”
“The man behind this blackmail should not be afraid to come out. Let him develop the courage of a man who is looking for honey that is ready to face the bees if he thinks this venture is profitable. The native doctor who forced the rain to fall should not be afraid of the dangerous thunderstorm that follows.”
“We are proud of distinguished Sen Jarigbe Agom unprecedented achievements and superlative performance. Jari wonder or nothing till 2031 by God’s grace.”
“A word is enough for the wise.“
As reactions and supportive statements continue to pour in, one message remains resoundingly clear: the attempts to undermine the senator have resulted in a bolstered public resolve. What began as a sponsored attempt at discrediting him has transformed into an unexpected referendum on trust, effective delivery, and unwavering grassroots support for Senator Jarigbe.
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News

Gov Otu, Sen Jarigbe Make APC’s Powerful 73-Man National Convention Planning Committee

Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State and Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, who represents Cross River North Senatorial District, have been appointed members of the All Progressives Congress National Convention Central Planning Committee.

The appointments place the two Cross River leaders on the 73 member committee charged with coordinating preparations for the 2026 APC National Convention.

The committee is chaired by Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma. Its membership includes all APC governors, the Senate President, the Chief of Staff to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Rt Hon Femi Gbajabiamila, former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator Anyim Pius Anyim, and other senior party figures.

The APC national leadership has also released the official timetable for the 2026 congresses and convention, in line with Article 11 of the party constitution.

According to the schedule, Ward Congresses will hold on Thursday, February 19, 2026. Local Government Congresses are slated for the same date. State Congresses will take place on Saturday, March 7, 2026, followed by Zonal Congresses on Saturday, March 18, 2026.

The APC National Convention is scheduled to hold from Wednesday, March 25 to Saturday, March 28, 2026.

The inclusion of Governor Otu and Senator Jarigbe in the central planning committee is seen as a boost to Cross River State’s influence within the national structure of the ruling party and a recognition of their growing roles in party affairs.