₦airaland Forum

New Netim Community congratulates Ayade On his election victory

The people of New Netim community in Odukpani Local Government Area have joined the league of Cross Riverians and other well wishers to congratulate the state Governor, Prof. Ben Ayade on his landslide victory at the just concluded gubernatorial election in the state.

In a statement signed by the Village Head, His Highness Ntufam Raphael Okpa Ita and the Secretary, Minister Joseph Ayi Agu, In Calabar, Monday the Village council described the victory as deserving given the quantum of successes recorded in all sectors of the state as well as the exemplary leadership qualities the governor has exhibited since assumption of office in 2015.

While urging him to use his second term to consolidate on the gains he has recorded so far with a view to exploring new grounds for the benefit of the citizenry, the council called on other contending parties to see Ayade's victory as victory for Cross River People due to his administrative policies which has shown clearly that he has the interest of everyone at heart.

The people who are currently displaced following the attack on them by the neighbouring Odukpani Qua Clan, pray God to guide and direct the governor as he continues the second missionary journey of transforming the socio economic landscape of the state through his massive industrialization initiatives.

L-R (Seated) Commissioner of Police, Akwa Ibom State, CP Musa Kimo, Air Officer Commanding Mobility Command of the Nigerian Air force, Air Vice Marshall Peter Uzezi, the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Ibok-ette Ibas, Governor of Cross River State, Professor Ben Ayade, Chief of Defence Staff, General A.O Olonisakin, Commandant, Naval War Collage Nigeria, Rear Admiral T.C. Udofia, representative of Naval Officer's Wives Association (NOWA) Eastern Naval Command and (standing) Members of the Naval Warfare Course 3, during the course inauguration ceremony in Calabar.

Ayade seeks NAF support in Cross River, Ebonyi crisis

Following renewed crisis involving the people of Ukelle, Yala in Cross River State and the Izzi people of Ebonyi, Cross River governor, Prof Ben Ayade, Monday, called on the Nigerian Air Force to join hands with the state to restore peace in the area.
Ayade who was addressing the Air Officer commanding Mobility Command, Peter Uzezi, at Government House Calabar said: "I received a text that there is a full fledged war between Cross River and Ebonyi going on right now, around the Izzi, Ebonyi and Ukelle, Cross River area. Lives are being lost, they are firing and killing, even as arson is taking place there right now."
The governor who recalled that there was also a reported crisis between Osokpong community in Obubra, Cross River and its neighbours in Ebonyi, enjoined the Air Force group to carry out helicopter flights to ascertain and put in check the security situation in the affected area, adding: "I have also spoken to Commander, 13 Brigade to move his men to Ukelle."
Commending NAF for the protection during the pre surrender of arms period by the Bakassi Strike Force, Ayade called on the Chief of Air Staff, Air Vice Marshall Sadiq Abubakar, to domesticate one helicopter in Cross River in order to give the needed practical protection from the air cover.
The governor said the plea was critical as it will check the lingering crisis involving Cross River and its neighbouring states including international communities who share boundaries with the state, maintaining that, "the length of the state and its advantage of having two airports need to be considered as the factors will make the operations easy and useful."
Responding, Uzezi assured that he will contact Air Force Headquarters to bring in surveillance airplane to fly and see what exactly the situation on the ground is, as NAF leadership will ensure that Cross River State, as well as others in the country remain secured.
"Nigerian Air Force was established in 1964 by an Act of Parliament to protect the people. We are obliged to do that, we are not selective. I will bring this crisis issue up with the Air Force headquarters to bring in surveillance airplane to fly the area and see exactly what the situation on ground is," the Air Officer Commanding Mobility Command assured.
Uzezi explained that "the military was established for the people of Nigeria to maintain peace and security and that is what Nigeria Airforce has been doing over the decades," adding that "the Mobility group in Calabar was established in the 90s to help complement the security efforts that NAF is contributing to."
The Air Officer who has just been deployed to command mobility units including 305 Special Mobility Group which is domiciled in Calabar, also listed as one of the critical assets of NAF to the development of Cross River, the provision of a current geographical map with road networks and footpaths.
He disclosed that Calabar remained the primary base of the helicopter and a very active helicopter base with a wing in Lagos.
He said at the moment the airplanes were undergoing overhaul, pointing out that one of the helicopters from Calabar was recently used for military operations in the northern part of the country.

South South Achievers Awards "MAN OF THE YEAR" Awarded to the Executive Governor of CRS, SEN. PROF. BEN AYADE;

Mr Joseph Edet (Lashakara), receiving the Prestigious award on behalf of The Governor reiterated His Excellencys commitment to the Industrialization and Enterprise Development Vision that would usher in thousands of opportunities in every sector of the economy of the state and open our doors to both Infrastructure and Commercial Synergies.

NDLEA Congratulates Ayade on His Re-election


The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, Cross River state command, has felicitated with Governor Ben Ayade on his victory at the March 9,2019 governorship polls.

In a congratulatory letter to the governor signed by the state NDLEA Commander, A.N Edeh, the drug bursting agency said it was happy Ayade was re-elected for second term, attributing his re-election to his great leadership.

"On behalf of the officers and men of NDLEA, Cross River state Command, I congragulate you on your re-election as the Executive Govetnor of Cross River state", the letter told Professor Ayade.

The NDLEA further  told the governor that his re-election represents the trust Cross Riverians have in him

"The good people of Cross River state have entrusted you with the responsibility of continuing the successful economic path, peace and stability of the state", it stated.

While wishing the Cross River state Governor success in his second term, the NDLEA prayed that " under your great leadership, wisdom and guidance,  the state will strive to a much greater height and achievements"

Cross River, Four Other States Show Sign of Financial Independence- Report


Dataphyte Analytic report has revealed that Cross River is among the five states that show immense signs of  financial independence in 2018 despite  receiving least monthly federal allocation.


Within the period under review, according to the report, Cross River showed great promise of financial independence based on the ratio of its internally generated revenue to the Federal Federal Account Allocation Committee, FAAC, surpassing the 50 percent line vis avis states with huge allocation index.

Economic analysts have attributed Cross River's feat to Governor Ben Ayade's aggressive efforts at ensuring that the state's economy is completely decoupled from the crude oil induced monthly federal allocation.

The need for this has led the governor to embark on an industrialization drive, establishing over 13 industries across the state during his first term.

The other states that ranked at par with Cross River in the Dataphyte report as regard financial independence are Enugu, Rivers, Ogun, Osun and Kwara.

The report also indicates that the 36 states shared a total of N25.03 trillion, and each earned an average of N695.24 billion between 2007 and 2018.

Fantastic view of Calachicka Cross River Frozen chicken factory. On completion, the factory is expected to produce a minimum of 6000 birds per day for export...

Ayade promises government of unity, extends olive branch to Eyo Ekpo, Owan-Enoh, Usani, others

Following his re-election as governor of Cross River State, Professor Ben Ayade has promised to run an inclusive government that will foster unity in the state.
To this end, Ayade has extended an olive branch to all those who contested the governorship election with him to join hands with him to collectively build the state
A statement issued in Calabar and signed by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Mr Christian Ita, said the governor made the pledge at the end of the state security council meeting on Wednesday.
The governor was quoted as describing those who ran the governorship election against him as co-petitors and not competitors or rivals.
"I want every single Cross Riverian, particularly those who ran election against me to recognise the fact that I am ready to provide a platform for us to come together.
“Some of them have great ideas, some of them are intellectually brilliant and I have respect for them all," Ayade is quoted as saying.
He said having them play pivotal roles in his government will help fast-track the realization of his prosperity agenda for the state.
“I am willing to engage with them very seriously to build our state as we can't afford to breed poverty", the statement further quoted Ayade.
The governor is also quoted as thanking the 25 governorship candidates who congratulated him on his re-election victory, and promised to have them play key roles in his government.

Cross River 2019 Elections Most Peaceful in Nigeria - Ayade

Following a review of security challenges faced across the country during the 2019 elections, elections in Cross River have been adjudged the most peaceful.

The State governor Professor Ben Ayade made this disclosure after the state security meeting held at the Governor's office conference room, Calabar and attended by service commanders in the state.

Speaking with news men after the meeting, the governor said the state was ranked the most peaceful during the conduct of the elections.
“I am just rising from the state security meeting to have a little review of the elections and all the issues and I am happy to announce that Cross River was adjudged the most peaceful state in terms of this last election," the governor said.

 Ayade attributed the calm security situation to his brand of politics which abhors malice and mudslinging.
According to him, “this development (peaceful conduct of the elections) is creditably so because we focus on politics with ethics and this political philosophy, morality, integrity, character and honour come above every other consideration,", he said.

Professor said his instruction to his supporters and aides in the run up to elections was to maintain decorum and civility in their conduct.
“When I was charging all our supporters to go back home and vote, I instructed them that at any point in time where their lives comes in danger as a result of trying to protect our votes, they should let me lose as I will rather lose my election than lose a citizen of this state", the Cross River state number one citizen stressed.
 He linked his victory at the polls to the philosophy of 'politics with ethics' which he introduced, the  overwhelming state-wide endorsements for his second term and his achievements, including the engagement of over 2500 teachers and 1000 nurses, expansion of government via appointment of about 8,000 people into government, as well as his industrialization drive and prompt payment of  salaries and pensions in spite of earning less than N2.7B from federal allocation, among others.
 The governor assured that Cross River will create a new prosperity agenda to take the state from a third world to first world under his watch and extended olive branch to all those who contested against him, appealing  to them to join him "in building Cross River filled with a great dream and expectation".

"I want every single Crossriverian, particularly those who ran election against me to recognise the fact that I am ready to provide a platform for us to come together. Some of them have great ideas, some of them are intellectually brilliant and I have respect for all," Ayade said.
Describing his opponents at the polls as compeitors, governor Ayade said he will provide a shoulder for them to lean on.

"For those of them who lost in the election and are not returning to any office, they have no place to go, have no job, no alternative, it is my responsibility as I see them not as opponents but as competitors and owe them a shoulder to lean on during this difficult period as they must have suffered huge financial loss", he said.
The governor applauded the 25 governorship candidates who congratulated  him on his victory despite losing the elections to him.
“I am willing to engage with them very seriously to build the Cross River with great opportunity as we can't afford to breed poverty", he emphasised.

TUC Congratulates Ayade on His Overwhelming Victory


The Trade Union Congress (TUC) has congratulated Cross River state Governor, Professor Ben Ayade and his Deputy, Professor Ivara Ejemot Esu on their overwhelming victory in the March 9 governorship polls.

In a congratulayory letter to the governor signed by its state Chairman, Comrade Clarkson Otu and Secretary  Pastor George Umoh,  the TUC praised  Professor Ayade's industrialisation zeal and expressed optimism that his second term will fast track the development of Cross River and enhance the emancipation of workers.

The labour union stated its readiness to work with the governor for the good of the state.

“As a Labour centre,  we are ready to partner with your government in ensuring welfare package for workers of Cross River state and even for the good governance of our state", it told the governor.

The TUC prayed God to grant Professor Ayade the strength and grace " that you need to fufill your promises to the people of Cross River state.”

TUC Congratulates Ayade on His Overwhelming Victory


The Trade Union Congress (TUC) has congratulated Cross River state Governor, Professor Ben Ayade and his Deputy, Professor Ivara Ejemot Esu on their overwhelming victory in the March 9 governorship polls.

In a congratulayory letter to the governor signed by its state Chairman, Comrade Clarkson Otu and Secretary  Pastor George Umoh,  the TUC praised  Professor Ayade's industrialisation zeal and expressed optimism that his second term will fast track the development of Cross River and enhance the emancipation of workers.

The labour union stated its readiness to work with the governor for the good of the state.

“As a Labour centre,  we are ready to partner with your government in ensuring welfare package for workers of Cross River state and even for the good governance of our state", it told the governor.

The TUC prayed God to grant Professor Ayade the strength and grace " that you need to fufill your promises to the people of Cross River state.”

Election Observers Declare Cross River Polls Free, Fair, Credible


A Coalition of Domestic Observers who were in Cross River state to monitor the 2019 general elections has given a clean bill of health to the exercises, saying they were free, fair and credible.
The Coalition's assessment was contained in a report on the elections it released Monday.
The report was signed by Innuabeye Emmanuel Samuel, leader of the observers.
The body commended the state governor, Professor Ben Ayade for " providing security and ensuring level playing ground for the electorate and other contestants in the governorship election despite being a candidate too.”
It also commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Resident Electoral Commissioner in the state for being above board.
“The Resident Electoral Commissioner Dr B. Frankland maintained his neutrality all through the electoral process and ensured that everything was in accordance to the electoral guidelines", the report said.
The report noted that Cross River voters exhibited decorum and orderliness during the conduct of the elections.
"Their patience at the polling units, waiting in long queues to ensure that they cast their votes peacefully is highly commendable.”
Cross River, according to the report, was largely peaceful during the elections except for minor isolated incidents in Boki, Ikom, Obubra and Etung areas which were immediately contained by security agencies.
The Coalition of Domestic Observers called on INEC to ensure that for future elections matured ad hoc staff were recruited and adequately trained.
The body also recommended that voters education be given serious attention.

Cross River South must produce next governor, says Ayade

Cross River State Governor, Professor Ben Ayade yesterday restated his commitment to ensuring that the southern Senatorial District of the state produces the next governor in 2023.
Ayade, who was overwhelmingly re-elected as governor of the state for another four year term, vowed to do everything within his power to actualise that commitment.
The governor who spoke on a phone in programme on a private radio station in Calabar, insisted that Equity and fairness dictates that the next governor of Cross River must come from the South.
According to him, “2023 is the turn of the South and that was the commitment I gave. I will use every fiber in me to ensure that the next governor comes from the southern Senatorial district.”
He said having insisted on keeping fidelity with the political zoning arrangement in the state in the run up to his re-election, it was therefore, incumbent on him to be ensure that the south takes its turn to produce governor in 2023.
“Fairness is fairness, equity is equity. I have preached equity, so it is my turn to do equity,” the governor stated.
The governor also used the interview to disclose his plans to ensure gender balance in his next cabinet.
The implication of this is that they will be more women in his government, he said.

Ayade thanks Cross Riverians for reelecting Him
renews commitment on industrialization


Cross River state Governor, Professor Ben Ayade has described his re- election as a reward for his achievements in office during his first term.
The governor who spoke to journalists at the Calachicka chicken processing plant in Calabar during an inspection tour of the factory, explained that he felt challenged by his victory, saying it was the reason he hit the ground running by embarking on project inspections few hours after being declared winner.

"Election has come and gone and the task of rebuilding Cross River must continue; it must not be paused by election victory.That is why a few hours after being declared winner, I am here, under the blazing sun inspecting on going projects. Of course, this is Calachika chicken processing plant," the governor said.

Thanking the people of Cross River for re-electing him on the basis of his achievements in office, the state number one citizen, said it would have been strange if he had lost the election. "A governor that does not owe salaries, that lifted embargo on employment, expanded government by appointing 8,000 people into office; a governor that has industrialised the state, why wouldn't such a governor be re-elected? I won in all polling units. It has never happened in the history of Cross River," he further stated.
Governor Ayade urged Cross Riverians to unite and join him in fixing the state, saying his philosophy of politics with ethics abhors making or keeping political enemies. "I don't have a friend in PDP and an enemy in APC or any other party. It's against my politics with ethics philosophy. I see all Cross Riverians as one."
On the Super highway and the Bakassi Deep Seaport, the re-elected governor described the two as key economic projects of his administration that must be realised and called on the federal government to show keen interest in them. According to him, the Bakassi Deep Seaport is key to the economic growth of Northern Nigeria as the Port, when completed will bring the North closer to the Atlantic ocean than Lagos does. Governor Ayade disclosed that the five South East states have already keyed into the project by agreeing to sign a memorandy of understanding for its realisation with his government.

The first edition of the Ayade Victory Concert held on the 11th April 2015 @
Transcop Hotel Calabar, after His Excellency was announced winner, on 2015 Governorship Election, the event was a thank you to all CrossRiverians who came out in their numbers to Vote For The Governor and PDP, the event was adjudged the biggest ever in the History Of events ever held at Transcop Hotel calabar. As at when the first event held, we were not appointees Of Government, but we believed in the vision and mission of the Ayade’s Administration.

The event had Her Excellency Dr Mrs Linda Ben-Ayade as the special guest of honor, which she attended and sat till the end of the event.

This is the second edition and it’s being powered by Ministry Of Culture & Tourism Development and Supported by the Office of the Special Assistant On Carnival Planning Effiong Ekpenyong( Double E)

The second edition will Hold at the Most Beautiful City on earth, Calasvegas on the 16th Of March 2019, by 12 noon, come prepared to be entertained, invite a friend and let’s give you the Calasvegas experience as we celebrate His Excellency’s Victory at the poll.

INEC declares Ayade winner of Cross River governorship election

Incumbent governor of Cross River State and candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Professor Ben Ayade has been declared the winner of the March 9 governorship election by The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Ayade, who won in all the 18 local government areas of the state, won the election with a winning margin of 250,323 votes.
He polled 381,484 votes to defeat the All Progressives Congress (APC) that polled 131,161.
Candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Mr Eyo Ekpo polled 4, 818 votes.
Announcing the results at about 4am on Monday, March 11, INEC returning officer and Vice Chancellor, Federal University of Petroleum Resources, Effurun, Warri, Delta State, Professor Akii Ibhadode, said the PDP candidate having scored the highest number of votes and fulfilled the requirements of the law, was returned elected.
According to him, number of registered voters is 1,486,026, accredited voters 542,115, valid votes 522, 309, rejected votes 11,499 and total votes cast 533,808.

Breaking News: Tsunami! Ekpo Okon looses ward, as Ayade sweeps the entire Odukpani LGA

Factional Deputy Governorship candidate of the APC Ntufam Ekpo Okon looses home base of Okoyong to the PDP, as Ayade sweeps entire Odukpani LGA.

Results from Odukpani shows that my ward, Eniong ward which is also the home base of the commissioner of finance Mr Asuquo Ekpenyong Jr polled the highest votes with 2,346 For the PDP as against APC's 566 for the governorship elections.

Odukpani Summary Result

Governorship:
PDP: 13,957
APC: 6,608

State House of Assembly:
PDP: 13,221
APC: 6,761

By Offiong Onoyom
SA New Media to the Governor CRS

Ayade’s adoption by SDP authentic, says state chairman

Barely 48 hours after the adoption of Cross River State governor, Prof. Ben Ayade, by the 18 chapter Chairmen of the Social Democratic Party (SPD), the state Chairman of the party, Chief Ikpi Eni has affirmed that the party has indeed adopted the governor as its candidate in Saturday’s election.
According to Eni, the adoption is in line with the decision of the state Executive Council of the party as well as the National Working Committee.
"The decision to adopt Governor Ayade is authentic. And I am also confirming that it was an act of a resolution we had arrived at as a party to adopt the governor," Ekpo clarified.
Justifying the action of the party to adopt Governor Ayade, the state SDP Chair said: "From what we have seen so far, there is nothing sufficient to indicate the seriousness and preparedness of the SDP governorship candidate for the March 9 election.
"Despite my repeated demand of his blueprint from his campaign organization, there is nothing to convince us that our party in the state is ready for the election."
Eni further said the achievements of Governor Ayade was clear to everyone in the state that he deserves a second term, adding that "SDP can only encourage and be part of the generality of Cross Riverians to support his second term bid. And that was contained in our collective action as the state Executive Council to adopt him to run for a second term. The decision is total and collective."

NLC President Mandates Workers to Vote Ayade


President of Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, Comrade Ayuba Wabba Wednesday mandated workers in Cross River state to cast their votes for the State governor, Professor Ben Ayade in Saturday's governorship election.


Wabba who spoke through Comrade Ofueonyeadi Innocent at  the commissioning of NLC's ultra modern complex in Calabar, the Cross River state capital, told workers in the state that failure to vote Ayade would  be at their own detriment.

"If you stay away, shame on you; this is the only opportunity and time you can come and make a statement, and your votes must be counted....let the right thing be done and at the end of the day, we shall all join in dancing shaku shaku" he told the excited workers.  

The Labour boss thanked Professor Ayade for the new NLC complex, saying there was no doubt that the people of the state are with him.
“The people are with you and the workers are at home with you", he stated

Wabba applauded the Cross River state Governor for his giant strides, describing his achievements in office as making Cross River the Isreal of Nigeria.

"I am not here to read all that you have done, it is unprecedented, you have come to prove to us that, human capital development is far higher than infrastructural development, that is why  Israel stands out, you are making Cross river, the Israel of Nigeria"

Professor Ayade in his remarks took the workers through the Mediaeval history of labour struggles saying " labour got it own domiciliation , reduce to a mere tool yet labour is human being, yet labour is a tool, and so in the 14th century there was a class struggle where the Boers believed that  there were the owners of labour and that labour is a slave. This did not allow for a carnametics balance between government and labour"

Continuing,Ayade said labour has gone through a lot of change, crystallizing into a new philosophy. "Labour is no longer a tool but a collective engine of progress that brings about collectives growth; so your prosperity agenda focuses on coming together with the publics structure of governance to build a fiesta of bliss,of great opportunity, a horiziing of hope for the downtrodden"

The governor pledged to continue to pay salaries of Cross River workers "even if the federal government fails to release allocation"


The state chairman of  NL, Comrade John Ushie described Ayade as a the people's governor who has sustained the payment of salaries and pension of workers while also attending to the industrial and infrastructural needs of the state. Ushie said the new labour House represents the strength of Cross River workers.

Ekpo Okon: An exercise in amateurish propaganda

By Ushie Ukaani
There is no doubt that the fuji house of commotion that has become of the All Progressives Party (APC), has gravely taken a huge toll on its factional elements led by Mr. John Owan Enoh.
Having lost in an attritive fight for the soul of the party to one of the most calculative politicians in the state, Pastor Uguru Sani Uguru on one hand, and terminally given a hiding a few days ago, by the Court of Appeal, it could not be more sapping and traumatizing for Ekpo Okon who has seen his deputy governorship aspiration vaporized into thin air. What a tragic end to an inordinate ambition!
For a drowning man clutching at the straw, a descent into unscrupulousness and mendacity cannot be considered base. Such was at play yesterday when Ekpo Okon engaged in what his party would have conveniently described as a hate speech by juvenilely reducing himself to a purveyor of fake news.
A crooked and a con man that he has become of late, an attribute that starkly defines his brand of politics, Ekpo Okon would allow his failed deputy governorship ambition get a better of him by peddling rumours of alleged sacking of Governor Ben Ayade as the PDP’s candidate in the Saturday governorship election by an Appeal Court in Lagos.
The reality that Ntufam Ekpo Okon will never be deputy governor is becoming ever too painful for him to bear, validating the suspicion in many quarters that he has lost not only his mind but also his memory and can no longer connect with fact, reality or objectivity.
Else, why is he unaware that Emmanuel Ibeshi filed for a discontinuation of the suit against Ayade at the Federal High Court, Abuja and hence did not go on appeal?
If I did not know this man whose rise to prominence was on the coattails of the PDP since 1999 until he recently became a turncoat, I would have concluded that he was either on a codeine or tramadol diet.
But while it is still difficult to decipher Ekpo Okon’s state of mind, culminating in the fabrication of the fake news about Appeal Court’s purported sacking of Ayade, my take on his impishness is that he was probably recovering from a hallucination induced by an excessive intake of psychotropic substance, the kind that first of all knocks you off, numbs your brain and leaves you with both abject amnesia and dementia.
Steadily, he is graduating into an unstable character less worthy of any leadership reckoning.
If this is the kind of leadership he and his co-travellers of the factional APC hope to offer Cross Riverians, there is no denying the fact that it would have been such a huge disincentive that would terribly help in disorientating the minds of younger generation in the state who look up to him.
Rather than dissipate his already sagging energy on gossip and spreading fake news, Ekpo Okon would fare better helping his principal and factional governorship candidate explain to the national APC how funds released to him for presidential campaign was roguishly diverted for his governorship campaign. But his twisted mind and energy would rather be deployed to inanities that verge on deviousness and ludicrousness.
With his latest slyness, I shudder to wonder what portrait of a father he evinces to his children who by now should be too ashamed to call him daddy with this infamous rubbish of Appeal Court’s sacking of Ayade. Ekpo Okon, again you failed in your amateurish propaganda.

Ushie Ukaani, a commentator on national issues writes from Calabar.

Report of Appeal Court sacking Ayade is fake news- Aide

The Chief Press Secretary to Governor Ben Ayade of Cross River State, Mr Christian Ita, has described as fake news, reports trending on social media claiming the governor has been sacked by Appeal Court in Lagos as the candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Saturday’s election.
Ita, in a statement issued on Wednesday said there was no such pending matter in the Appeal Court.
He maintained that the case instituted in a Federal High Court in Abuja by Mr Emmanuel Ibeshi was discontinued when he filed a legitimate notice of discontinuance and as such never went on appeal.
The report, he said, is the handiwork of political opponents who have been dazed by the reality that the governor’s re-election bid was a fait acompli.
The statement therefore, urged members of the public and the governor’s teeming supporters to disregard the fake report.

Election: Obong of Calabar directs Efiks to vote Ayade
....Says Governor’s re-election unstoppable


Few days to the March 9 governorship election in Cross River State, the Obong of Calabar, Edidem Ekpo Okon Abasi Otu V, yesterday directed every son and daughter of the Efik Kingdom to vote massively for incumbent Governor Ben Ayade.
The first class monarch said nobody or force can stop the re-election of Governor Ayade.
In what appeared a royal proclamation, he said: "From today, no matter the party you have been tagging along with, wherever you have been going, if you are an Efik son or daughter and from the southern senatorial district, withdraw yourself back to the PDP and let us move forward and vote massively for Governor Ayade to complete his four more years, and nobody else.”
Alluding to the power rotation principle in the state, the monarch said nobody can distort what is on ground.
And turning to the governor, he said: “we have sat as traditional rulers and spiritual fathers and we came to a conclusion. We made a statement and that statement holds. Nobody, no power can take that second term from you.”
The Calabar monarch further directed all Efiks to "come back home and let's do what we have to do. Come back and let us form the nucleus and let's build up and vote our sitting Governor and his deputy"
Assuring the Governor of total Efik votes, he said "there is no vacancy in Government House. It is you that we want."
Turning to his Cabinet, the Obong told them that Governor Ayade has done a lot for Cross River and for the Efik nation in particular to deserve re-election..
"There are so many things he has done...we all àre aware he doesn't need to come here and begin to tell us because when you walk out, you will see most of this things or feel them. If you look at the whole state, it is calm and quiet. We have a governor and we are not looking for another one", he said.
In his reaction to the royal endorsement , Professor Ayade told the Obong and Etubom in council that his vision and master plan was to create a new cross river state that would shift from third world to first world noting that he is a Governor with the fear of God who is committed to the industrialization of the state thereby creating jobs for the teaming youths.
"I am not a product of complex, cheap politics, I am a product of calculated, sophisticated and well thought out process set on a mission to decouple the state from dependenc on federal allocation", he said
Ayade explained that upon assumption of office in 2015, the state was at the verge of economic collapse having lost its oil wells. "Our people had been reduced to want in body , spirit and soul and so we needed to construct a new economy", he stated
While cataloguing his achievements in three and half years, governor Ayade said inspite of the state being the third most indebted and 35 out of 36 state of the federation in terms of federal allocation, his administration is not owing salaries and pension, and has engaged over 8000 appointees and avalanche of industries built across the state.
He assured the Obong that after his second term in 2023 power will rotate to the southern Senatorial district in line with the state's power rotation formula.

March 9: SDP, Labour Party adopt Ayade
...laud Governor's Industrialization Drive

Ahead saturday's gubernatorial election, Cross River State governor, Professor Ben Ayade's support base received a boost with his endorsement Tuesday by the leaderships of Social Democratic Party, SDP and Labour Party, LP in the state.
The two parties said their adoption of the governor was predicated on his record in office in the last three and a half years.
At a meeting with the state’s number one citizen at the governor's office in Calabar, chapter chairmen of the two opposition parties from the 18 council areas in the state pledged to join forces with the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, to deliver him for a second term.
Chairman of Forum of Chairmen of SDP, Clement Ene told Governor Ayade that his signature projects speak for him. "After a critical assessment of your giant strides, especially your industrialization efforts across the state, including the 275 km super highway, we have come to join forces with you in the interest of the state to move it to higher heights," Ene stated.
On his part, state Chairman of the Labour Party, Baron Eyo assured that Ayade's re-election was a fait accompli. "Other candidates have not shown any act of seriousness which is why we are here to support you, we will do everything within our capacity to mobilize support for the PDP and the governor to succeed, " Eyo said.
Director-General of the PDP campaign council in the state and the immediate past Deputy governor, Barrister Effiom Cobham commended the courage of the two opposition parties to stand firm on the side of truth and history.
Reacting to his adoption by the parties, Governor Ayade described the action as a manifestation of common love for Cross River.
"Our brothers and sisters in the Labour Party and the SDP have come together to say, let's have peace, let's keep the catalytic political balance that has created Cross River as a unique state where power migrates from South to central, North and then returns to south," the governor said.
Ayade said he accepted his adoption and thanked leadership of the SDP and Labour Party, describing the action as "a celebration of civilization and purity of our people."
He maintained that upon the completion of his second term in office in 2023, power, in line with the rotational principle in the state, will shift to Cross River Southern Senatorial zone.

Our votes as birthday gift to Ayade

By Linus Obogo


About this time exactly four years ago he blazed forth upon us like a comet. But unlike the comet which appears and never to be seen again, he has remained ever glued to us with such celestial phenomenon. The Ayade phenomenon. And with such singularity of purpose and clarity of vision, it was not long before he quickly morphed into a movement with an infectious and fanatical amalgam of disciples, apostles and converts.
Imbued with all the bravura and gravitas, he stamped his presence on Cross River political firmament with so much conviction. Often extraordinary in his ways, he made no bones or pretensions telling everyone that he was not your everyday politician.
His mantra of politics with ethics was no rhetoric. He lives it, exemplifies and practicalizes it. Following on the footfall of his predecessor of taking government to the people, Governor Ben Ayade set about taking it a notch further by not only taking government to the people but also bringing the people into government.
Today, Cross River ranks highest with a pool of political appointees numbering over five thousand and still counting.
Consciously, Ayade demystified governance by denouncing exclusivity as well as shunning political prebendalism which he railed, has characterized governance across the country. He broke the veil of cabalism, an exclusive clan of a few individuals sharing the spoils of office.
Despite severe austerity and crushing recession, the governor would not up give on his well-guarded philosophy of providing a shoulder for “our weaker brothers and sisters” to lean on. He calls it “putting food on the table”.
While many sneered at the policy and described it as totally unsustainable, others adopted a wait and see attitude, insisting he would sooner than later run out of steam. But as more doubt trails his steady pronouncement on bringing more and more people into government, the more exponentially the number grew with unremitting drop of alerts very early in the month. Four years down the line, the tables of his numerous appointees have not been empty of food.
His consistency in salary payments has earned him several sobriquets, from Salary Master, Governor-talk-and-do, Alerts Governor to a governor who will give his right eye to ensure no Cross River child goes to bed on an empty stomach.
Since his advent, many Cross Riverians who hitherto thought Government House or the Exco Chamber was a mystery have all woken up today to the realization that indeed, it is real as times without number, they have had uncountable sessions with the governor at his official residence as well as the Exco chamber as appointees. That is the extent to which Ayade has not only simplified governance but has equally commonized salary payments, while clawing many from the jaws and labyrinth of despair, despondency and hopelessness. Consequently, he has been able to quell the likely throwbacks of social tensions that would have sprouted.
No doubt, his ascension into the governance architecture of the state was considered by many as messianic. Instructively, he has never looked like one veering off and cutting short the expectations of those who hold him in such redemptive awe.
As a solution architect, the governor sees every challenge, every stricture and obstacle in his way as an opportunity to adroitly prove his resourcefulness and ingenuity in tackling the many socioeconomic miasmas he inherited.
A leader with I-can-do spirit, just when you doubt Ayade’s capacity, he springs forth and astounds you, leaving you captive and speechless.
Call him the Joseph of our time, if you like or the Nostradamus of our era, you will never be farther from the truth. As a dreamer, he has envisioned his dreams morphing into reality. For him, it does not matter how long it takes. But they will for sure,
assume a life of their own.
And as the Nostradamus of our time, Governor Ayade had long seen our tomorrow while we slumbered and snored, as he continues to hew a pathway to the state’s economic Eldorado in a bid to put the future in our hands and wealth in our pockets.
With a near zero allocations from the federal purse and a lean internally generated revenue, many in his position would have baulked or thrown in the towel and screamed in helplessness, the governor kept his eyes on the ball while yet focussing on his lofty dreams.
Obviously bent on punching above his weight and beyond the carrying capacity of the state, the teacher-turned Senator-cum governor would soon embark on a number of multibillion naira projects across the state, which source of funding could only be strange to Cross Riverians but not so to Ayade, the inventor of “Intellectual Money” and proponent of “Other People’s Money (OPM).
Ranging from the Calabar Garment Factory, the Rice Seedling and seeds multiplication Centre, Calabar Pharmaceutical Company (Calapharm), the 21megawatts power plant all completed under three years, with ongoing noodles manufacturing factory, chicken processing plant with capacity of processing 600,000 birds per day, located in the Southern Senatorial Zone of the state, as well as the recently commissioned toothpick factory in Ekori, Yakurr council area, the ongoing equipment installation at the 30,000 metric tons cocoa processing plant in Ikom in the Central Senatorial District and the vitaminized automated rice milling plant in Ogoja which equipment installation is nearing completion, the British/Canadian international school, the ongoing asphalting of the dualized 147 kilometre Mfom-Yala-Bekwarra-Obudu-Obanliku road, in the Northern Senatorial Zone, the ongoing dualization of Tinapa/Odukpani federal road, among others, Ayade’s financial wizardry remains the propelling force in the realization of these economically uplifting projects.
For Ayade, wishes could never be horses. And so, it was a new age, a new dawn; a time to ride without let, where every step must morph into a stride and where every stride must be a conquest over the tides. It was time to defy the odds.
Shaped by these dialectics, hopes immediately sprang eternal in the leader that has come to be viewed every passing moment as a sphinx. In his audacity to dare, Ayade is one leader who easily gets his mojo from difficulties and daunting challenges. And like a Delphic Oracle, the more of him you assume you know, the more enigmatic he unravels before you.
That is the stuff the governor is made of. Doubt his capacity and get the shocking surprise of your life.
For instance, when he made it a cardinal plank of his administration to ensure an early and an unbroken flow of salaries for the state’s workforce, coupled with the enlarged political appointments, his critics hissed and huffed and concluded that he was merely on a flight of fancy. Today, the over five thousand appointees can only revel in the value addition the governor has wrenched upon their lives.
When he dared to magnify his dream of a deep seaport and a superhighway, that would create an elixir for economic emancipation for the state, same armchair critics insisted he was merely chasing after a wild goose. But with the spate of work currently going on at the Bakassi deep seaport and the 276 kilometre six-lane superhighway, the governor has beaten them to a silent stupor.
In what began like an eerie and mysterious start to the superhighway and the deep seaport, is gradually showing the way to an epic adventure that will definitely end in a flourish.
Industrially, he has continued to point the way forward and raising the bar, quietly challenging leaders at all tiers of government on what a difference vision, creativity, focus and persistence can make in the life of a state.
In every direction one turns in the state, the marks of good governance are all too striking: industries with zonal spread, reengineered schools, rehabilitated and well equipped hospitals, peace and security, economic empowerment and agricultural transformation.
Allied to these laudable feats is the enthronement of inclusive government where his politics with ethics has ensured the appointment of some opposition elements into his government as well as guaranteeing of contrary views on matters of state.
He has re-defined the concept of leadership and effective governance by effectively re-orientating the mindset of the political class to see politics as a call to service.
As we march to the polls a few days hence, let us collectively do so, with a retelling of countless stories from his glittering and robust achievements in the areas of industrialization, socioeconomic uplift of Cross Riverians, all taking place on a shoestring budget.
As we file out to vote on March 9th, let us be conscious of the fact that our votes are a poignant statement of validation of Governor Ayade to return to complete the many industries and allied projects scattered across the state. Our return to the polls on Saturday places on us not only a civic but equally a moral responsibility to reinforce the true meaning of equity, justice and fairness, that what is sauce for the goose is also sauce for the gander. Let our outing be a mark of appreciation for a man who labours in the face of nothing to change his state’s ugly past by trying to pen a new chapter worthy of flipping over.
As he turned 51 a few days ago, on March 2nd, he could hardly remember it was his birthday. It came and went like every other day. Not exactly because he forgot, but simply that he was not ready to yield himself to the needless distractions of a birthday bash amidst pressing demands of office. Little wonder when he touched down at the Margaret Ekpo International Airport from Abuja, a day after his anniversary, he could only be reminded of the august date by well-wishers who came to receive him.
That said, it could as well mean that he did not forget his birthday but merely postponed it for a double-barrel celebration after his March 9 divinely ordained victory. Until then, the only spice or ingredients we can add to make the festivity enduring and joyous is our votes to ensure his unassailable return to Diamond Hill Government House. But for now, we can only hold our applause and await the second coronation of Ben Ayade as governor of Cross River State to be delivered on March 9. For it is only after eight years of his stewardship that we can truly evaluate and appreciate his essence as a servant leader who has earned his rightful place among the pantheon of Cross River State past leaders. As anything short of this is a gross travesty of justice.

Linus Obogo is Deputy Chief Press Secretary to Governor Ayade

Appeal Court Justices withdraw from Owan Enoh’s case over N250m bribery allegations


Justices of the Court of Appeal in Calabar, Monday, withdrew from hearing an appeal filed by Senator John Owan Enoh against the judgement of a Federal High Court that recognizes Pastor Usani Uguru Usani as the governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Cross River State.
This follows a petition by the Godwin Etim John-led leadership of the party in the state, accusing the justices of collecting N250 million bribe to swing judgement.
Speaking with journalists moments after the justices withdrew from hearing the appeal, counsel to Senator John Owan Enoh who is one of the factional APC governorship candidates in the state, Bernard Afu (esq), said they have been served the petition.
"What happened today is awkward, it is something that is strange to judicial proceedings. We were served with two strange petitions written by Godwin Etim John against the justices of the Court of Appeal."
According to him, "one of the petitions alleged that the justices have been given N250 million and the second petition did not allege any financial inducement.
"We addressed the court accordingly and the Honourable Justices of the Court of Appeal took a stand that they were withdrawing from the proceedings.”
Following the development, he said he expects that a new panel will be constituted constituted soon.

Cross River North APC house of Representatives candidate Mr Koko Dan apologises to Governor Ben Ayade and his aides for viral video that emerged last week.

As part of his administrations resolve to site one industry per local government, Governor Ben Ayade today commissioned the Ekori toothpick factory. More details later.

PDP Accuses APC of Moving 2.5bn into Cross River to Buy Votes

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP ) Campaign Council in Cross River state has raised the alarm that the All Progressives Congress (APC) is seeking to influence the outcome of tomorrow’s presidential and National Assembly elections in the state with N2.5billion .

The campaign council in a statement issued in Calabar on Friday by its Director-General, Mr Efiok Cobham said the money was channeled to the state chapter of the APC through the Central Bank of Nigeria branch in Calabar.

While urging Cross Riverians not to mortgage their future and sell their birthright by accepting APC”s Greek gift, the party wondered why APC is now resorting to compromising the electoral process if it was popular as it had often claimed.

The council also called on the leadership of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in the state, which the APC seeks to compromise using the slush fund, to resist any attempt to be bought and conscripted into an unholy alliance aimed at thwarting the will of the electorate.
“It is now crystal clear to all that APC is fake, not on ground, desperate and afraid of defeat. APC is the opposite of what it pretends to be or how else can one describe a party that claims to be an agent of change and fighting corruption but is currently neck deep in monumental electoral thievery? APC ‘s evil mechanizations in Cross River will fail because Cross Riverians have since made up their minds to go with the PDP which represents hope.

“We appeal to INEC to assert its independence and remain steadfast in its avowed commitment to protecting the sanctity of the ballot box. They should resist every inducement and intimidation that the APC would subject it to.”
The statement further berated the APC for trying to pollute the sane political atmosphere in Cross River state by introducing monetary inducement into the electoral process.

“ Cross Riverians are politically sophisticated and the level of electoral education here is excellent but the APC, aware of its utter hopelessness in the state, is working hard to pollute the system. Cross Riverians should beware of APC’s antics”

“Ignore the APC and its desperation, don’t allow them to pollute you.Go out there tomorrow and vote Atiku and all PDP candidates en mass.We must reclaim our country from these buccaneers”, the statement quoted the campaign council as charging the people of the state

Ayade doesn’t need to campaign in Yakurr, he’s got the votes already-Obol Lopon

The Obol Lopon of Ugep, Obol Ofem Obongha, has declared that the March 2, governorship election is a no contest for the incumbent governor, Senator Ben Ayade, given his record of achievements in just three and a half years.
Accordingly, he said there was no need for Ayade to campaign, but rather to roll out drums and start celebrating his return to Government House, Calabar.
Obol Obongha stated this, Tuesday, at his Umor Otutu palace, Ugep, Yarkurr Local Government Area of Cross River State, when the governor paid him homage to solicit the support of the people ahead the forthcoming governorship election.
"We are not here for campaigns but to celebrate our governor. Ayade is not a politician because politicians don't keep to their words. Our governor here has passion for his people and each time he says he wants to do a particular thing, he ensures he does it and does it well," the royal father explained.
According to the monarch, "Ayade has restored peace through the strengthening of security in the community. He has also ensured that the Institute of Technology and Management (ITM- Ugep) is back in full swing."
Other achievements recorded, according to Obol Lopon included "employment of over 600 workers into the Ugep Urban Development Authority, asphalted the Ikpaka pit road and like he also promised, today, he has brought electricity to Ugep."
Obol Obongha further added: "The generators you brought to Ugep are superior to what we used to enjoy as NEPA, not excluding the number of our sons and daughters you have offered appointments. We have not had it so good like this. Truly, the governor has given us a sense of belonging."
On how the governor was able to achieve these feats in spite of the lean federal allocation and without any indebtedness, the Obol Lopon intimated that "President Buhari was even surprised about how you do all these after his two visits to this state to see the giant strides on ground, so, I ask, what is the magic?"
Continuing, the royal father maintained: "If I was not a traditional ruler, I would mount the podium and tell the people to vote for Ayade, he must repeat because in my life, I believe in celebrating greatness and this is a great man," adding that "this is payback time and we must pay him back by returning him to office."
Earlier, Governor Ayade informed the monarch that he was in his territory to pay homage as well as solicit support from the Yarkurr people as the forthcoming general election draws near.

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Equity, industrialization behind our support for Ayade’s 2nd term -Akpabuyo leaders


Leaders and traditional rulers of Akpabuyo Local Government Area of Cross River State, yesterday declared their total support for Governor Ben Ayade's reelection bid, insisting that their decision was based on equity as well as the governor's industrialization drive.
Speaking during a consultation meeting Governor Ayade held with opinion leaders at the council headquarters, Ikot Nakanda, before the flag off the state wide campaign, Architect Bassey Eyo Ndem, said Akpabuyo people were known for justice and equity and would therefore do what was equitable.
He lauded the giant strides the governor has recorded in his first term in office, describing him as one of the best products Cross River has had in recent times.
While assuring the governor of their unalloyed support throughout the electioneering, Ndem stated: “Your Excellency when you first came four years ago, Akpabuyo took a decision to score you 100 percent and since then, we have been steadfast.”
Continuing he said: “Four years after, we have decided to climb the political tree of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and searched with the aid of our political binoculars throughout the land and we must confess that at the end of the day, the scintillating light that we saw is non-other than Senator Professor Ben Ayade and his amiable deputy.”
Insisting that the people of Akpabuyo do not go with people with vain and empty promises, Ndem said: “We do not follow for the sake of following in Akpabuyo, rather, we took this decision based on an empirical evidence. Some of us have been in government since the early 1990s and so, we know that for the first time someone came and laid a solid foundation to industrialize the length and breadth of the state and it is very obvious that it is in the second term that those things will be actualized as a fulfilment of your promises, hence, we stand firm to support you 100 percent.”
He disclosed that “Akpabuyo is a land of justice, equity and fair play which is why we are at the forefront of the zoning principle that will allow every component of the whole have its fair share at the centre as well as provide them the opportunity to showcase their best. So, when people come with strange theories other than what we ascribe to, we simply show them the door because we are not interested in any other principle than the one on ground.”
While assuring the governor and PDP of an overwhelming support in the February 16 and March 2, 2019 elections respectively, Ndem said: "To ensure that our 100 percent support is intact, we are launching a door to door and person to person campaign across the local government area."
He, however, appealed to Ayade to extend his laudable industrialization programme to the area to take the teeming unemployed youth off the streets, while thanking the governor for the recent amnesty granted some restive youths in the area which he noted has restored peace and security in the area.
Responding, Governor Ayade said he was deeply humbled by the recognition and acknowledgement of his achievements by the people achievements.
The governor told the leaders that Akpabuyo occupied a special place in life of his administration, which informed his decision to site a social hospital in the area. “We are bringing the biggest and the best social hospital in Cross River to Akpabuyo. The hospital will not take the form of the traditional hospital. Of course, we know that the characteristics of a typical hospital entail that you visit the facility and pay for your diagnoses and the treatments, but this social hospital is designed to provide a referral support system for people who don’t have money.”
Continuing he said: “So, this is the first time we are providing a hospital that you walk in and get treated without paying a dime and the implication is that, very soon, we will be seeing exodus of people trooping to Akpabuyo to get themselves treated in the facility, once we commence operation because it will be for free.”
Ayade reminded the leaders that Akpabuyo will always remain special, which was why “In my fist three and a half years, I have brought a lot of young people on board my government, we have decided to bring this hospital as a showpiece to demonstrate the hospitality, meekness and warmth of the people.”
On plans to make the facility a world class one, Ayade hinted that “We have concluded an arrangement to bring expatriates from America, Italy and Canada including our home-grown professionals under the auspices of doctors with borders who will man the facility for optimal service delivery particularly to the no income earners.”
Justifying the siting of the facility in the area, the governor explained that “We made the choice of Akpabuyo because of the peace, tranquility and character of the people, and because you have the patience to accommodate the Bakassi returnees, you will be patient enough to accommodate the entire Southern Senatorial District when they come for medicare. It is in recognition of the character of the people that we decided that the hospital be sited here in Akpabuyo for the Southern Senatorial District.”
Earlier, while interacting with the Paramount Ruler and his cabinet members at their chamber, governor Ayade assured them that all elected clan and village heads would soon be presented with their certificates as they had all been signed by him, even as he promised an upward review of their monthly stipend. The governor also promised to build the royal father a befitting palace.