As the country enters the next phase of the novel Coronavirus management, I commend President Muhammadu Buhari, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), Federal Ministry of Health and the State COVID-19 Response Taskforce for the skillful management of the pandemic.

I am delighted to annouce that till this day Cross River State so far remains free of the virus.

As a general treatment protocol, in hospitals in Cross River state, people are so well trained and equipped with public enlightenment. This accounts for one of the reasons for the zero COVID-19 case in the state.

We introduced the use of nose masks early. In fact, we were the first to lock our borders, we introduced face shields. We were the first in anything that were required as defensive mechanism against COVID-19. So, it became obvious and clear that we were able to contain with other airborne related diseases.
So, we have no reason to suggest that there is pandemic in Cross River. Statistics also show it.

It is a pandemic, therefore, when you say somebody has Coronavirus virus, it means it can spread to all family members, they will all come down with it. You can’t hide it.

Mischief makers are wondering why Cross River which is surrounded by COVID-19 infested states and country is free from it but they forget that Coronavirus is not politics, it is not a political issue but a biological issue and therefore, can be contained, can be dealt with.

I thank Mr.President for being on top of the situation, I thank the Federal Ministry of Health for their efforts too. I am happy that the NCDC was very generous with their appreciation for our efforts and that is why I don’t also hesitate to commend them because we have never had pandemic before but here we are, you see them staying strong, responding swiftly, following international protocols and keeping to professional standard. I must specially thank them and the federal ministry of health.

I will like to commend all our citizens too. And now that our state borders are open, this is the time for us to actually be scared and be more careful, this is the time that we are in real danger. This is why we have to intensify the use of nose masks. This is time for us to increase our vigilance.

Now, I have no control. I have officially handed over Cross River to the federal government control as far as COVID-19 is concerned because I can’t close my borders anymore, I don’t have control over the airspace. So, whatever happens going forward, I wish to say kudos to Cross River and Cross Riverians for being a state and a people that walked through this big challenge and ended up victorious.

Cross River has done such a great battle and won. We have a 100-bed Isolation centre that is laying fallow till date, nobody is there. We have doctors on stand by but nobody is at the Isolation centre because our state has zero COVID-19 case.

We are calling on the NCDC and the federal Ministry of Health to set up a COVID-19 testing centre in Cross River state.

Once we have a testing centre that has been certified by the NCDC we will be encouraged to do more testing because the rapid testing method is not acceptable and reliable.

The Cross River State Councilor leaders Forum paid familiarization and enlightenment visit to the Honorable Commissioner, ministry of Local Government Affairs, Hon. Mrs Stella Oreme Odey-Ekpo in her office.

The forum requested to be briefed of their entitlement and better ways to work Harmoniously work for the good of the grassroot.

The Commissioner, in her response welcomed and congratulated the councilors/leaders for their well deserved victory at the poll and in their various LGA legislative council. She declared her readiness to work with them always for the good of Cross Riverians. Responding to their request, she highlighted all that is due to them.

The forum officially presented their Elected leadership to the Honorable Commissioner for recognition. See the list below…

1. Hon. Iyeh John Augustine (Abi LGA) —- LEADER
2. Hon. Enonshe Thomas enyi (Bekwara LGA)…. SECRETARY
3. Hon. Usor Eta (Akamkpa LGA) ….. DEPUTY LEADER
4. Hon. Amos Otu (Boki) …. FINANCIAL SECRETARY

5.Hon. Emma Effiong (Bakassi LGA) …. TREASURER

6. Hon. Essien Awan (Calabar Municipality) …. WELFARE
7. Hon. Egana Patrick (Yala LGA) … PRO

In Conclusion, the honorable Commissioner advised the leaders to work in unison and understanding with their respective council Chairman, because it is the only way good governance can get to the grassroot.

In a bid to ensure the successful realizations of the vision of the Governor of Cross River state, Senator Professor Ben Ayade in the area of Urban/town Planning and Development Control, a synergy is being established among government establishments, whose functions falls within the above purview.

The Director General, Cross River State Development Control. Agency (CRSDCA), Engr. Oxford Egbe, disclosed that his agency is exploring every avenue within the ambit of the law to build a good working relationship with other government establishments to enable the agency function effectively.

The Director General, CRSDCA explained that he has held meetings with the Commissioner for Urban Development, Emmanuel Davies Eyuwa, and Town Planners Directors for effective and robust synergy to better carry out their various function for the overall actualization of the vision of the governor in that direction.

Engr. Egbe revealed that the meeting helps to promote a symbiotic relationship between the Ministry of Urban Development and his Agency on one hand and the Directors of Town Planners on the other hand, thereby ensuring a healthy operation among them and to enable CRSDCA function effectively as an Agency.

The Commissioner for Commerce, Pst. Mrs. RoseMary Archibong, has expressed profound appreciation for the courtesy visit of the Igbo leaders of repute to her office recently at Prof. Eyo Ita House, Marian road Calabar.

She commended them for the interest that the Igbo Community, demonstrates in activities in the State adding that His Excellency, Governor Ayade being an Industrialist and a Businessman is encouraged by the enterprising disposition of the Igbos.

Pst. Archibong, however drew the attention of the leaders to the current Agrobusiness drive by His Excellency and solicited their partnership in this area especially in sourcing for off takers of the numerous products from the Agricultural value chain. She highlighted the opportunities available in the Export and Maritime Trade and encouraged them to explore this sector and keep the Calabar Port busy.

In his address, the leader of the team, the Senior Special Adviser to His Excellency on Non Indegene Affairs, Chief Ugoji Nwabueze, said the team was there to congratulate the Hon. Commissioner on her reappointment which was a product of her diligence and hard work.

He added that the Igbos, were proud to identify with the success story of the State, noting particularly the unparalleled success of keeping Cross River State COVID 19 free and lauded the Government’s fruitful efforts in Combating security challenges, lamenting that some of their members had been adversely affected by the criminal operations. He decried the recent shut down of some of the market.

On his part, the Grand Patron of Ohaneze Ndigbo in the State, Barr. Fidelis Onyebueke, hailed the Governor for appointing one of them to the esteemed office of Senior Special Adviser. He praised the Government for arresting criminals and demolishing their properties and clarified that the market shut down was a trader’s action and not Igbos only.
In the team, was the Vice President Igbo Community, Prince Atulomah and other notable leaders.

Society for Abused Minors and AIDS Victims (SAMAV) presents REAL BROTHER AFRICA!
It is An Annual Intervention and Advocacy Campaign to get youths involved in curbing various societal ills.
Real Brother Africa encourages ingenuity in young people and recognizes youths as the change agents and Nation Builders of any Country.

How to Participate:
Send a creative, scientific or psychological piece on the 2020 Theme “How to Win the Fight Against Rape and SGBV” to realbrotherafrica@outlook.com
Entries will be uploaded online for voting!
Top finalists will become the REAL BROTHER HOUSEMATES and stand a chance of winning Prizes worth 15 Million Naira!

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Call our Helplines
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Online Competition is open to ages 15 – 40 as minors will not participate in the Reality Show.
Entry Fee – 1,000 (75% sponsorship) for the first 500.
Payment should be made to 4090906584 Society for Abused Minors, Polaris Bank.

Let’s Make Nigeria The Best Child Friendly Country in Africa!
Real Brother Africa! For a Safer Society!

SIGN – SRBA

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Since the outbreak of the Covid19 pandemic, little campaigns are been made to promote other services in health institutions which expert says ,could overwhelm the nation if urgent steps are not taken.

This is why the Cross River State Government is calling on operators of different media houses to diversify their focus in their news reporting to create more awareness on other diseases rather than Concentrating solely on the Covid-19 pandemic.

The Director General
of the state Primary Healthcare Development Agency Dr. Janet Ekpenyong stated this in a workshop organized for representatives of different media houses on effective ways of reporting infectious diseases which is still ravaging the lives of citizens.

Ekpenyong said,with high mortality rate still reported on other common diseases ,the lone attention given to Covid19 may become catastrophic as she said the state and nation cannot afford to handle another pandemic after the ease of the global Corona Virus.

She said part of the attention should be shifted to actualizing a 100% immunization coverage across the state and country on all vaccine preventable diseases still killing children under 5 years old.

Dr. Ekpenyong said the health Sector is leveraging on the media to reach out to those at the grassroots level to visit the hospitals for proper medication as heath workers are available to provide health services with all preventive measures on Covid-19 pandemic put in place.

In a press release from the Office of the Chairman, Cross River State Anti-Tax Agency, the chairman, Bishop Dr. Emmah Gospel ISONG, expressed disappointment on the actions of some newly inaugurated chairmen of councils in CRS on illegal collections revenues and resumption of checkpoints in their LGAs. The statement,

“It has come to the notice of the Cross River State Anti -Tax Agency that some newly inaugurated Chairmen of Local Government Councils have resumed illegal collections of revenues and check points contrary to His Excellency Prof Senator Ben Ayade’s directives of 20th May 2020 and Cross River state 2015 Tax Exemptions laws.

We appreciate the need for Councils, MDAs to step up their Internally Generated Revenues but not from the exempted categories: OKADA RIDERS,KEKE NAPEP, TAXI DRIVERS, SMALL BUSINESSES, CIVIL SERVANTS OF LOWEST INCOME BRACKETS, etc.

We congratulate our Council Chairmen but remind them to see their victory at the polls and inauguation as an act of God and a duty to serve the people and protect the poor.

The Cross River State Anti- Tax Agency shall not hesitate to recommend any defiant Council Executive or Political Appointee to the State House of Assembly for appropriate disciplinary actions and shall prosecute any Tax Agent or Consultant before the newly Constituted MOBILE Courts.

Members of the public should report any person demanding illegal taxes, tickets by calling our HOTLINE: 07026105177.
PLS BE WARNED.

Signed:
Bishop Dr. Emmah Gospel ISONG jp
CHAIRMAN, Cross River State ANTI-TAX AGENCY

Bsc.(Finance & Banking), Fellow Institute of Admin. Managers of Nigeria, Awardee, US House of Rep. Certificate of Honours Trustee, US Dept. of States ANTI- CORRUPTION Committee.”

In the height of agitations for Chairman by various Clans in Boki II Constituency, it was a fact that only Osokom I Clan (Ekpashi & Ogep Wards) has not produced a Chairman since the democratic dispensation, 1999 – date.

Boki II is made of three Old Clans, each comprising of two political Wards. Each Clan having had opportunity for Chairman of Council, except Osokom I, it was equitable for Osokom I to have had her turn but, the uproar, the hullabaloo and the tumultuousness that characterised the political, economic and social milieu of the time in Boki II necessitated the entire Boki PDP leadership to welcome an already found ‘John in the wilderness’ from no less Bunyia/Okubuchi Ward in Irruan Clan who was 90% or more accepted by the Boki people across camps and divides to prepare the way for a new Boki.

Strictly on Clan basis, Osokom I had agitated that it was not the turn of Irruan Clan to have a Chairman having had her turn in 2004 – 2007, except on political Ward basis, the equities on this basis being equal for Wards that have not produced Chairman, the first in time prevailed for Bunyia/Okubuchi Ward in Irruan Clan having started her agitations earlier since 2017 and supported by Ochibe Boki. Osokom I Clan having heard the voice of ‘John’ in the mould of ‘John the Baptist’ crying and clamouring for a new phase in Boki, yielded. The Boki people generally were fain to the voice of ‘John’, mutatis mutandis, (Pastor) John Ewa.

After the 2020 CRS Local Government elections and the emergence of Pastor John Ewa under the PDP, the Boki PDP leadership having earlier agreed, reaffirmed her position that the Secretary of Council, although a prerogative of the Executive Chairman, nevertheless, should come from Osokom I Clan (Ekpashi & Ogep Wards), notwithstanding the agitations of our brothers from Irruan and Osokom II Clans for same.

At this juncture, for recapitulation and clarity without ambiguity, a simple restatement of past Secretaries of Boki LG Council specifically in Osokom I Clan may be germane, handy and helpful;

Hon. Valentine Ewor Transition Committee, 2002 – 2003: Hon. Edmond Aja Bisong (aka, Ajabis) from Ogep Ward was Secretary of Council;

Hon. Jacob Otu Enyia, 2004 – 2007: Hon. Edmond Aja Bisong (Ajabis) from Ogep Ward was Secretary of Council, later handed over to Pa Richard Ekum from Kakwagom/Bawup Ward in Osokom II Clan.

Hon. Jonas Obi Otu, 2010 – 2013: Arc. Billy Bebia from Ogep Ward was Secretary of Council while; Hon. Jimmy Asu was Deputy Leader of the Legislature in the same dispensation.

From the analysis above, we reiterate that the position of Secretary of Council is the prerogative of the Chairman, nevertheless, peregrinate political Wards, it’s logically fair and equitably correct, therefore, that it should in Godly conscience, equity and fair play come to Ekpashi and the most loyal, agile, young, energetic, experienced, truthful, trustworthy and capable PDP member among the contenders from Ekpashi Ward be picked. We appeal to the consciences of Osokom I PDP leaders, our Hon. Pastor John Ewa and all party stakeholders in Boki to passionately look at this position. The arguments that Ekpashi Ward presently have Deputy Leader of Council is vitiated with precedence.

In the array of those jostling for Secretary of Council from Ekpashi Ward, you find trained Secretary with almost two decades experience; you find UN trained Peace and Security expert; Spatial development and aesthetics expert; you find ICT expert; you find former Hon. members; you find one who worked with the Hon. Chairman in the defunct Boki Security Council Committee; you find one who worked with him in the Ministry – Day Spring Assembly, Calabar, far back the various rendezvous, etc; what more, Ekpashi Ward parades not just ‘another Secretary’, but very capable one, all to the benefit of the Boki nation.

Ditto on the Chairman’s prerogative; we nevertheless put this clarification for the ‘ministry’ of peace and equitable enjoyment of the political spoils.

It is our prayers that the incoming Secretary of Council will be one who is versatile, one who knows what a Memo is, one who can put down a precise and concise communication, one who is submissive, respectful and loyal to constituted authority.

May our beloved Pastor and Hon. Chairman act with facts, conscience and equity to all, shun those disposed to bilk and skunking so that the current peace in Boki II and Boki LGA generally takes us to a higher pedestal to reassure the collective goodwill the Boki people reposes on him.

Long live the PDP, Boki Chapter

Long live his Excellency, the Digital Governor

Long live Cross River State.

CONCERNED PDP YOUTHS OF EKPASHI WARD

The Commissioner for New Cities CRS, Hon. Mike Usibe has reiterated the Governor’s determination to decongest Calabar Metropolis which is the state capital and create new cities across the state. He stated this when the board of the Greater Calabar City Development Agency paid him a visit in his office in Calabar.

Hon Usibe commend the Governor for the creation of the agency and promised to partner the agency, he welcome and commended members of the board for the good job they are doing geared towards complimenting the efforts of the Governor. Usibe also spoke about the vision and mission of the ministry of New Cities, which is to establish new cities with infrastructure that will position CRS as a vibrant, diversified, safe, sustainable, environmentally friendly and attractive place to live, work, visit and invest.

Earlier in his speech, the Director General of Greater Calabar City Development Agency, comrade Kingsley lta lkpeme said that, today, most cities in the world have undergone urban decay because of lack of breakdown in basic services like portable water supply, electricity, efficient city transport services, affordable housing and waste disposal systems which is largely as a result of authorities not coming to terms with the tempo of rising urban needs.
Ikpeme opined that cities have been the epicenter of economic development and centers of industry and commerce all over the world. If they are well managed, cities offer important opportunities, social and technological developments which can facilitate the diffusion of information through interaction among diverse cultures.

Also Speaking, the chairman of the board, Mr.Bassey Effiom said that the agency is the creation of the Sir Ben Ayade’s led adminstration to cater for the decongestion of the already congested Calabar metropolis hence, the agency is in dire need of collaborations and appeal to investors to come and invest in the establishment of new cities in the state.

Cross River state governor, Professor Ben Ayade has advocated for a greater collaboration between the state and Nigerian Navy in the area of security.

The governor who spoke in Calabar Tuesday during a courtesy call on him by the new commandant of Nigerian Navy Ship, (NNS) Victory, Calabar, Navy Commodore Idi Abass, commended the Nigerian Navy for playing a critical role in securing the state, particularly Calabar the state capital

Ayade however, sued for amicable resolution of the dispute between Cross River and the Navy over land.

Ayade: “Let me commend the Chief of Naval staff for his patriotism and commitment to the maritime security of Nigeria and to Cross River in particular. To put it on record, the CNS has done his very best to bring progress and make us feel the presence of the Nigerian Navy.

“As the commandant of the NNS Victory, you will recognize that you will be playing a daily role, attending our security meetings, assisting in collaborating with us on the Operation Skolombo we constituted, and to also thank your predecessor that had played a major role in controlling cultism and sea piracy as well as smuggling between Calabar and the Cameroon.

“Let me put it on record that the Nigerian Navy played a major role in controlling smuggling that at a point, the number of arrest made by the Navy was as if they were even competing with customs in terms of all the illegal transactions illegal weapons and illegal importation of rice into Nigeria. As you can see from your records, a whole lot of food items particularly rice was impounded by the Nigerian Navy and handed over to the customs. So, I want to commend his services and corporation and relationship that we enjoyed between Cross River State government and the Nigerian Navy through the Instrumentality of that office”

The governor noted that “not too long ago, the same Nigerian Navy approached us to bring in the naval war college and we graciously, as a state approved an inimitable size of land towards the water front for you a place to build a world class international war college at no cost at all.

“Therefore, let me use this opportunity to bring to your notice that this great healthy relationship is almost being compromised and let me use you as a voice of God to pass a message to the CNS and to the president, that Cross River State has a whole lot of Nigerian Navy presence. You have the Naval reference hospital here , you have the old Navy hospital, you have the Navy war college you have the barracks as well as the Navy guest house and each of this is situated in a sizable plot land.

“However, Cross River State government was appalled to see that as you step out of here you see a new high rise building coming up as a Naval guest house which we understand is also the business wing of the Nigerian Navy building and it will be available to the public”

He lamented that the structure lacks basic building approvals and appealed to the Navy to make amends.

“As you see that building coming up, it has no design, it has no land title it has no land ownership, it has no application for approval. The Nigerian Navy is supposed to be an agent of government that enforces law and order, when law and order is being compromised it becomes worrying. I am sorry this is part of the problem you have inherited, because you didn’t start it and you didn’t cause it but, it doesn’t look nice that a Governor sits in the state and sees a building sprawling by his office in a strictly official office zone,a hotel is springing up, whether it’s being called a guest house or not it’s a hotel”

Continuing, the governor told Commodore Abbas: “I plead with you to take this message to the chief of naval staff that as a son of the soil, we will not do anything to bring him to disrepute and so to that extent we have resolved to stay on a diplomatic discussion.

Speaking earlier, the new commandant commended the governor’s giant strides and pledged to join hands with other security agencies in the state to make Cross River safe for business and leisure.

“I have been briefed by the outgone commander about the security situation in the state and I was also able to go round myself and I can say that I have a fore knowledge of the security situation of the state.

“On this note sir, I would pledge to work together with all the relevant security agencies and other people concerned with making sure of the security of this our dear state to make sure it is safe for business and the protection of lives and property”, Commodore Abbas said.

On this day, this month, some years ago, a princess, beauty and blessing package to the society was born, and she was named, SAKEENAT…
Hence, making this day & month very special in the pages of history…

Dearest Sakeenat Musa, as you turn plus 1 today and celebrate the most important day in the entirety of your existence as seasons flip over from years to years, we join your family, friends cronies and admirers to thank Almighty Allah with you and for you.

As a simple bud from an obscure pedigree, you’ve transformed to become the jewel of humanity.

A well cultured and schooled young woman.
An erudite scholar of the prestigious Amadu Bello University (ABU)-Zaria.
An Icon of inestimable value.
The essential ingredient that gives the true definition and picture of humility, civility, respect and honour in a true African Woman.
A daughter with the special touch that makes the difference.
An Illustrious daughter of the great ancient Kingdom of Katsina, a worthy brand of Katsina State.
The Pride of her Mother.
An advocate of peace, respect and honour through her body language and verbal formation.
….Indeed, a Smart Goal Getter…

Sakeenat, you’re indeed, Allah’s gift to humanity.
We celebrate and felicitate with you on this auspicious occasion of your belated BIRTHDAY, in the year of our 2020.

We pray Almighty Allah richly bless you with many more years in good health of mind and body.

As you always bring love, peace, joy, understanding, favour, glory, succour and happiness to families, friends, groups and individuals, so too shall Allah grant you Peace and Joy today and always.

• 

HAPPY BIRTHDAY SAKEENAT MUSA!!!
Grow Grey & Toothless.

Agbor, John ONABE.
Chief Publisher SamakwaGist.Blog.

Nollywood actress, Anita Joseph has slammed Ghanaian actress, Akupem Poloo for going completely naked in front of her son to wish him a happy 7th birthday. 

On Tuesday, June 30, the controversial Ghanaian actress and video vixen shared a naked photo of herself with her son and explained that she decided to go naked in front of her son because she gave birth to him naked.

 She wrote: ‘I’m naked in front of you because this is how naked I was giving birth to you, so in case you find me naked lying somewhere don’t pass by me but rather see me as your mom who brought you to life.’

While some of her Instagram followers found the photo offensive, Anita Joseph has also expressed her displeasure over Akupem’s decision to go completely nude in a photoshoot with her son to celebrate him on his 7th birthday.

Reacting on her Instagram page, the actress wrote: “This is all shades of Wrong 

So you actually went to the studio

Removed your Clothes and got naked

How did you even hold your Son

Watching him see you naked 

I also watched the Video you made and also said

You bath with your Son at this Age?

Aunty you really Delusional and you need urgent Mental Evaluation 

You wanted to break the Internet but you Broke yourself Alu melu 

There are other decent and creative ways to get the Attention you needed!!

You just messed up this Child’s Head it’s a Shame.”

The Ekiti state government has directed worship centres in the state to resume services from Friday July 17,  in line with the agreement reached by the state government and leaders of religious organisations in the state. 

Worshippers and religious leaders were urged to ensure “full compliance with the regulations regarding worship centres, which includes social distancing of 6-feet between worshippers, hand washing and face masks.”
 

Governor Kayode Fayemi who made the announcement in a statewide broadcast on Tuesday June 30, also announced plans of reopening schools in the state from July 20.  He said the resumption of schools would be in phases, and will start with pupils in graduating classes (SS3, JSS3 and Primary six) who are preparing for their examinations

Fayemi said; Eti“However, this might be in phases starting with students in terminal classes SS3, JSS3 and Primary 6 to prepare for their examinations. Other classes will be gradually absorbed as schools meet all requirements to accommodate them safely and responsibly.

“A certificate of Readiness showing that a school has adhered to all the conditions required for school reopening will be issued to all schools before they can reopen.”

The Governor also disclosed that they have embarked on a quick rejuvenation of schools to ensure that basic facilities such as water, sanitiser, soap and other facilities to aid hygienic practices are in place.

He further announced that the two largest markets in Ado Ekiti – Oja Oba and Bisi Market, will now be open to lock-up shops only, subject to compliance with protocols. Fayemi affirmed that street trading, makeshift stalls kiosks and open display of wares in the said markets are still banned. 

Peace Mass Transit (PMT) Limited, is gearing up for resumption of operations  on July 1st, 2020, following the relaxation of interstate lockdown announced by the Federal Government on Monday. 

The company was the first to suspend operations early March at the escalation of the Covid-19 pandemic across the globe, and consequent devastation of lives and businesses. The PMT management,in making the decision to resume, has also mandated it’s staff across the nation to adhere to, and indeed, strictly  enforce   recommended international/national protocol on control of  covid-19, including hand washing with soap and water at entry points, social distancing, use of face masks for entire duration of journeys by drivers and passengers alike, and use of alcohol based hand sanitizers.  

Instructively, all PMT passenger vehicles are to carry only 50% of normal capacity, and at no extra cost to the passenger, according to the management reopening manual for staff.The management of the company has also provided infra – red thermometers for screening of passengers and staff and equipment for constant decontamination of depots and vehicles at points of departure and arrival.  

PMT chairman, Evangelist Sam Maduka Onyishi, reiterated to staff that resumption of critical services to kickstart the  economy of families and the nation was more expedient than any immediate consideration for personal profit. 

” The cost of extra measures we have instituted and loss of revenues that would come with reduction in carrying capacity, are significant, but I consider them part of the continuing sacrifice we make for the public good, well being and overall  safety of compatriots”, he said. ” we have always maintained that PMT has never been just about being a business; it is my own ministry through which I touch lives..” The company urges the travelling public to show understanding, corporate to enforce seamless enforcement, and  generally  see the new protocol as desirable and in everybody’s best interest.  God bless Nigeria. Management, PMT Ltd.

• 

Following the withdrawal of the law suit between aggrieved PDP members of Cross River state and the Authentic Chapter and Ward Exco, the Chairman of Boki PDP chapter Mr. Febian Okwajie, described it as a welcome development and as well thank every member of the party for standing strong throughout the period under review.

He also called on Mr. Kelvin Njong former Chairman Boki PDP chapter, whom he described as “A man of capacity” and other aggrieved members of the chapter to join him in driving the affairs of the party for the interest of all party faithful.

Meanwhile, the chairman Mr. Fabian Okwajie also urged every member to learn from this disturbing situation in order to avoid future occurrence.

Mr. Fabian Okwajie also thanked the leadership of the party for rescuing the party from catastrophe by standing firm during those trying times.

He said; “I am grateful to God, the Governor and other leaders for rescuing our party from what would have befallen the party. Today, our party has been repositioned to greater heights and I can assure you, with the calibre of people so elected to pilot the leadership of this party. I feel indeed grateful and reassured that our party will remain strong and stronger to deliver at all in Boki and Cross River at large.

In his last statement, he said, the party is supreme and we remain one family. Boki PDP isn’t in factions. Lets us join hands and be more stronger together.

With enforcements of no entry at the Gakem-Benue border still ongoing, a ‘J5’ vehicle conveying about 29 suspected Almajiris/Herdsmen from Kano State, billed for Cross River State were intercepted and ordered to return back with escorts as a way of ensuring that they do not divert through any other route into the State.

Urging Cross Riverians to be extra Vigilant and security conscious, as no one knows the motive(s) behind the untiring attempt to ensure the influx of these people into the State, the Commissioner for Youth Development and Skills Acquisition, Hon. Signor Omang Idiege, informed that until State boarders are officially opened, movements into the State will remain prohibited, adding that it is not to punish anybody but part of modalities to ensure that right things are done to help the State remain COVID-19 free and keep Cross Riverians safe.

Also at the border post were the immediate past Chairman of Vandeikya Local Government Council of Benue State, Dr Ibrahim Anor and his predecessor, Kume Benedict, as well as the S.A. to the Benue State Governor on Agriculture, Mr Joseph Pitila, who collectively lauded the Proactiveness, Visionary, and pragmatic leadership of His Excellency, Governor of Cross River State, Sen. (Prof.) Ben Ayade and for his numerous achievements for the State. They also praised His Excellency’s efforts that saw the State remaining COVID-19 free and urged Cross Riverians to continue giving him every needed support.

Appreciating them for the visit, Hon. Idiege thanked them for visiting and prayed that the co-operation existing between the two States would continue, noting that it brings peace and an harmonious relationship. He also gave more than 50 Hand Sanitisers, liquid hand wash and other items for use at the border post.

The Cross River State Government has restated its commitment to work out modalities that are geared towards improving the welfare of Local Government Pensioners in the State.

The Government’s position was made known when the Association of Local Government Pensioners,Cross River State Chapter paid a courtesy call to the Commissioner For Local Government Affairs, Hon. Stella Odey in her office in Calabar.

Speaking during the visit, Hon. Odey stated that the Governor of Cross River State Sir.( Prof). Ben Ayade is compassionate about the welfare of Pensioners and has demonstrated his deep interest for Pensioners through the regular payment of their monthly pensions.

” Sen. Prof. Ben Ayade is a listening Governor , your needs are the Governor’s priority, we must reciprocate the services you rendered by giving you whatever you are due” Odey said.

The Commissioner informed that the Governor had earlier approved and implemented the recommendations of secondment of Principal Officers to Pensions Board for effective service delivery.

She further commended the leadership of the Association for their resilience, support and provision of data and hinted that the automation of Pension would commence soon for accuracy of records while revealing that plans are underway to put in place a machinery that would track pending gratuities.

Earlier, the Chairman, Association of Cross River State Local Government Pensioners, Comrade Bassey Okosi expressed gratitude to the Commissioner for heeding to the suggestions that were presented to her in favour of the Association.

Comrade. Okosi revealed that upon the instructions of the Deputy Governor, Prof. Ivara Esu, to provide data on the liabilities of outstanding gratuities by line MDAs, the Association took it upon itself to carry out the task of collating and compiling data for onward submission to the Governor.

The Association Chairman appealed to the State Government to re-address the issues of Pensioners who were erroneously omitted from the payroll during the 2016 personal audit conducted by consultants. He further pledged the Association’s support to the Commissioner and the Ministry.

Highpoint of the visit was the presentation of report/pension liabilities to the Commissioner for onward delivery to the State Governor.

Patricia Ikpai & Sylvia Okoi MOI Officers reporting from MLGA

The Management of Cross River State Water Board Limited has called on the Commissioner of Police in the state to arrest and prosecute members of the Nigerian Labour Congress who invaded the company’s premises and destroyed its Water treatment materials yesterday to act as a deterrent to others in the future.

The Managing Director of the company, Chief Victor Effiom Ekpo said this in a chat with newsmen this morning. He said that it is because government recognised the essential utility value of pipe born Water to the livelihood of the people that it incorporated Water Board as a Special limited liability company to insulate it from the vagaries of politics and bureaucracy.

“For members of the Nigerian Labour Congress in Cross River State to invade our premises and insist on forcing us to stop providing this essential services to the citizens of the state is therefore very unfortunate, to say the least,” Chief Effiom said. Adding that he was shocked that Comrade Okpobi, who is an experienced unionist could lead a group of his colleagues to invade the premises of Water Board, destroy its materials and prevent the staff from rendering this essential services to the people’, whose interests the NLC claims to be protecting.

The Managing Director said that ” this reprehensible act of the NLC leaves a sour taste in the mouth particularly when viewed against the fact that the Water Board Limited has not committed any infraction or breach of the labour act nor does it have any pending labour matter with the labour union to warrant such an attack on is staff and premises. Adding that if the justification is because the state Government has majority shareholding in the company then it was apparent that no public utility in the State is safe in the wake of NLC’s rampage. It also means that NLC can invade and shut down federal or private institutions including the University of Calabar,just because it has an axe to grind with the state Government.

” Who will replace the chemicals and water treatment reagents worth hundreds of thousands of Naira they wasted yesterday? The police must take action to restore law and order in the state before we all succumb to thuggery and brigandage under the Cross River State State Chapter of the Nigerian Labour Congress” he added.

By Offiong Ntoi.

The commendation was made during a visit of the management of Greater Calabar City Development Agency to the Chairman of Odukpani LGA, Hon.(Mrs.) Justina Edem in the council headquarter.

Speaking further, the Director General of the Agency, Comrade Kingsley lta lkpeme said that the agency is collaborating with other relevant sister agencies that are valuable to the actualisation of the mandates of the agency.

He stated further that the agency is currently working on the Greater Calabar master plan to build the planned metro areas through implementing and enforcing infrastructural developments and delivery policies geared towards improving the standard of living and well-being of the people.

He also noted that the key anchors of the Greater Calabar Geographic Region spans from Bakassi to Biase LGAs.

Ikpeme said that the agency was conceived by Sir Ben Ayade as a means to cater for the growing population of Calabar metropolis, increased housing demand , modern urban amenities, medical and educational facilities as well as service delivery.

Ikpeme also used the opportunity to congratulate the chairman of Odukpani LGA(Hon. Justina Edem) on her victory at the polls and subsequent assumption of office and for being the first woman chairman of Odukpani LGA.

Also speaking, the Chairman of the board, Mr.Bassey Effiom, pledged the agency’s readiness to partner with the council and ensure development is spread across boards. He promised to deliver on the mandate of the agency, while calling on all to support the present adminstration.

In her response, the Chairman of Odukpani LGA Hon.(Mrs.) Justina Edem, thanked H/E. Sir Ben Ayade for the creation of the agency to decongest the Calabar metropolis which is in dire need of decongestion, she said the policy thrust of the Governor is people orientate and she is confidence with the caliber of person’s serving at the management level of the agency.

She commend the board for the visit and further pledged her administration’s support to the leadership of the Governor and assured the agency of the council’s readiness to partner the agency in the actualisation of the policies of the Governor.

As the need arises for standardized & reliable testing and the activation of Lawrence Henshaw Memorial Infectious Diseases Hospital in Calabar, Cross River State, Stanbic IBTC Bank PLC, a subsidiary of Stanbic IBTC Holdings PLC, has donated reagents and test kits to the Cross River State Government capable of carrying out 1,000 tests.
Receiving the kits & reagents in Lagos on behalf of Cross River State Government on Tuesday, Commissioner for Finance and Secretary of COVID-19 Response Taskforce, Mr Asuquo Ekpenyong Jr lauded Stanbic for the remarkable gesture.

According to him the State Government is grateful to Stanbic IBTC Bank for the donation. This will ensure early testing of suspected cases and accurate diagnosis of Covid-19.” He urged other corporate organizations and good-spirited individuals to support the government in the fight against the coronavirus.

Speaking on behalf of the Chief Executive Officer, Stanbic IBTC, the Team Lead, Mr Sola Coker said “now more than ever before, the country needs every available resource to fight this pandemic. In recent times, the country has experienced an increase in the number of confirmed Covid-19 cases and the Cross River State the Government is committed to tackling the pandemic; hence the need to assist the state by providing these NCDC Recommended reagents and test kits for standardized and reliable testing.”