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FROM POLITICAL MARGINALISATION TO RECOGNITION: Obubra Gains Visibility Under Governor Bassey Otu

Inclusive governance remains one of the strongest pillars of true leadership in any democratic society. A government that deliberately accommodates every section of the State naturally earns the trust, confidence, and support of the people. Since the inauguration of Governor Bassey Edet Otu on May 29, 2023, the people of Obubra Local Government Area have witnessed a remarkable shift in political inclusion, recognition, and representation within the governance structure of Cross River State. For many years following Nigeria’s return to democracy in 1999, many stakeholders in Obubra often expressed concerns over limited representation in key government positions despite the area’s contributions, loyalty, and commitment to the growth and stability of the State. Successive administrations came and went, yet meaningful political visibility for Obubra remained relatively minimal. Today, that narrative is gradually changing under the leadership of Governor Bassey Edet Otu, whose administratio...

BREAKING: NDDC Empowerment Was for C’River South, Facilitated By Sen. Ekpenyong - NDDC Clarifies

The Niger Delta Development Commission ( NDDC ), has clarified that the economic empowerment programme held in Calabar on May 9 was facilitated by Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong and specifically targeted at beneficiaries from Cross River South Senatorial District , contrary to claims circulating online that the initiative was designed for the entire state. In a statement issued in response to what it described as “misleading commentaries and inaccurate interpretations” making the rounds on social media, the Commission, through its Director, Cross River State Office, Dr Daniel Ajunwa , said the programme was neither a statewide intervention nor an NDDC-wide distribution exercise for all parts of Cross River State. According to the statement, the empowerment programme was facilitated by the Senator representing Cross River South Senatorial District and was intentionally designed to benefit selected communities within the district. “The programme in question was facilitated by the Distinguis...

Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong and the Burden of Performance

  With the way some public office holders, especially members of the National Assembly, have struggled to attract meaningful development to their constituencies, one would ordinarily expect any genuine empowerment programme that brings opportunities and support to the people to be widely celebrated rather than greeted with suspicion and political resistance. Sadly, in Cross River State, even performance has now become controversial. The yesterday’s empowerment programme facilitated by Sen. Asuquo Ekpenyong , the Senator representing Cross River South Senatorial District and Chairman, Senate Committee on Niger Delta Development Commission , NDDC has strangely become the subject of needless political outrage, driven by people seemingly determined to manufacture controversy where none exists. What makes the argument even more surprising is that those attacking the programme are relying on documents that clearly contradict their claims. The memo being circulated explicitly referred t...

UNICROSS Holds Solemn Assembly and Prayer Session Following Tragic Accident

  University of Cross River State (UNICROSS) held a solemn assembly at its Calabar campus on Friday, May 8, 2026, to thank God for the preservation of lives and honour three students and a staff member who lost their lives in a tragic vehicle accident that occurred in Odukpani Local Government Area on Friday, May 1, 2026. The assembly brought together members of the university management, staff, students, loved ones of the institution and well-wishers in an atmosphere of prayer, reflection, and gratitude for God’s mercies. Held under the theme, “Oh Lord, Show UNICROSS Mercy,” the gathering was attended by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Francisca Bassey , members of the university management, religious leaders, staff, and students. In her address, Prof. Bassey expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy while thanking God for preserving the lives of 21 survivors. She described the accident as painful and urged students and staff to remain grateful to God for His protection. The Vice Chanc...

Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong Distributes Minibuses, Tricycles, Cash Grants to Cross River South Constituents

  The Senator representing Cross River South Senatorial District and Chairman of the Senate Committee on Niger Delta Development Commission , Asuquo Ekpenyong , on Saturday, May 9, 2026, distributed minibuses, tricycles and cash grants of N100,000 to constituents as part of his empowerment programme held at the U.J. Esuene Stadium . Speaking during the ceremony in Calabar , Senator Ekpenyong said the initiative was aimed at complementing the development efforts of President Bola Tinubu and Cross River State Governor, Bassey Otu , towards improving the economic well-being of Nigerians. According to the lawmaker, the programme was designed to equip youths and women with practical skills, startup grants and income-generating assets to promote self-reliance and economic sustainability. “What we are doing is to complement the efforts and wonderful works of His Excellency, Bola Tinubu, and our dear Governor, Senator Prince Bassey Otu. Today, we are here to train our young men and women...

From ballot to benefits: Hon. Joseph Bassey turns representation into tangible progress …….a call for continuity

  In an era where public trust in governance is often tested, Honorable Joseph Bassey , the esteemed representative of Akpabuyo/Bakassi/Calabar South Federal Constituency , stands as a shining example of what democratic leadership should embody: accountability, accessibility, and action. Since assuming office, Hon. Bassey has consistently translated the abstract ideals of democracy participation, equity, representation, and development-into concrete outcomes that uplift everyday citizens. Far from being confined to legislative chambers, his work resonates in newly built classrooms, rehabilitated health centers, empowered youth cooperatives, and transparent community forums where constituents co-share local priorities. One of his hallmark initiatives, the “ Student Support Fund ”, has directly impacted on pupils and students of his constituency. Today, new classrooms are built, furnished and well equipped to enhance teaching and learning in a conducive environment. During his inaugu...

“Winning Is His Culture” — Backers Declare Continued Support for Senator Eteng Jonah Williams

  The Senator Representing Central Senatorial District , Senator Eteng Jonah Williams remains a gentleman with a distinctive personality and a strong understanding of the political landscape. Over the years, his political journey has never been handed to him on a platter. Every election cycle has come with its own challenges, yet whenever he secures the opportunity to contest, victory has always followed with remarkable ease. For me and many who have worked closely with him, winning is not just an achievement for Senator Williams; it is a culture built on strategy, resilience, and a connection with the people. He has consistently proven himself as a stabilizing force within the political system — a leader trusted to deliver results even in moments of uncertainty and tension.   Across the streets and communities of the Central Senatorial District, his name commands recognition because of his capacity, accessibility, and impact. Like many influential leaders in history, ev...