Niger Delta

Imoke Hails Party Faithful Over Rallies

Published

4 years ago

August 8, 2021

Two-time governor of Cross River State, Senator Liyel Imoke has commended members and supporters of the Peoples Democratic Party, Cross River State chapter for their dedication and commitment during the statewide rallies held in 196 wards spread across the 18 Local Government Areas of the State.
The ex-federal lawmaker who became the undisputed PDP leader in the state following the defection of Governor Ben Ayade to the All Progressives Congress, (APC) in June tasked supporters of the party to stay true to their political beliefs, adding that the task of rescuing Nigerians from the shackles of mis-governance remains a task that must be achieved.
In a release issued in Abuja and made available to newsmen, Imoke expressed optimism in the unity of all PDP leaders, stakeholders and members in Cross River given the recent twist in political dynamics as a result of Ayade’s defection.
He maintained that over the last twenty years, Cross River State and her people have remain faithful to the PDP, helping to foster a united and prosperous state between 1999 and 2021, saying, “As the PDP once again, comes under one umbrella to foster unity and propagate the PDP manifesto; which is people-driven, I urge you all to stay peaceful and embrace the ethics of rancor-free campaigns and rally, as you take the PDP to the grassroots.”
He continued: “Over the last twenty years, Cross River, hand-in-hand with the PDP built a state that thrives on nearly all sectors of the economy and human endeavours. From tourism, governance, rural development and conducive business environment, Cross River became a global player and a frontline state.
“Our partnership with the PDP was fruitful, yielding positive outcomes and was lucrative within those years. It is regrettable that things have not gone as planned, particularly, with the defection of our brother and Governor, Prof. Ben Ayade to the APC. While we look forward to our brothers and sisters who have strayed to return back to their original stead and umbrella of the PDP – that is capable of providing a covering and shelter for all, it is pertinent that, we rally round ourselves to reposition the PDP in Cross River State,” Imoke stated.
He noted that across the nooks and cranny of the state, people were ready to harness their energies in the interest of the state on the platform of the PDP.
“From Calabar South, Odukpani, Biase, Akampka, Yakurr, Adadama in Abi, Wula and Kakwagom in Boki, Ikom, Obubra, Uganga, Urban Ward, in Ogoja, Obanliku, Obudu, Yala and Bekwara, PDP supporters are actually keeping faith with their party – the PDP in order to return Cross River State to where she belongs.
“I sincerely commend these efforts, steadfastness and foresight to reposition the party and strengthen our support base. I charge every PDP member in Cross River state and beyond to key into this new drive of consolidating PDP’s firm grip of the politics of the state for future electioneering contest.
“Taking cognizance of the ongoing voters’ registration spearheaded by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), and the PDP e-registration headed by the Governor of Edo State, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, I task all PDP members to fully register in those two processes so as to afford you the opportunity to participate in politics and elections during out of season and elections proper,” he stressed.
Imoke also congratulated the Senator-Elect, Hon. Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe who recently won a landmark judgement at the Court of Appeal, Calabar which declared him the authentic winner of the December 5th, 2020 Cross River North Senatorial election.
The former Governor charged Jarigbe to “continue to provide effective representation at the Senate, while balancing robust parliamentary activism and human capital development of the people of Cross River North Senatorial District.”
He further said: “As a true representative of the masses, it is my firm conviction that, you will continue to provide outstanding leadership both to the party, PDP and Cross River North. Your victory at the Court of Appeal remains a historical success that defines the politics of the state and your contributions to the advancement of the electorates who have shown unalloyed support to your ambition within the years.
“I also thank my predecessor, former Governor, Donald Duke, our distinguished Senators, Honourable House of Representatives members, former commissioners, State Assembly members, and specifically the PDP Caretaker Committee led by our amiable former Deputy Governor, Efiok Cobham and his team for injecting flesh blood and reinvigorating the spirit of unity and victory in Cross River PDP. Your efforts and firm resolve to reset PDP and gain victory is entirely worthy of note and commendation. My doors are constantly open for support and assistance in whatever form required to strengthen the PDP,” he stressed.

Niger Delta

Make God Your Anchor To Fulfill Destiny, Cleric Charges Christians … As Jaja Marks 70th Birthday

Published

2 days ago

December 5, 2025

The Tide

The Lead Pastor at Jesus Appointed People’s Bible Church, Ozogbe, Ikwerrengwo-Etche, in Etche Local Government Area of Rivers State, Pastor Promise Nwaelele, has urged Christians to make God the anchor of their lives in whatever position they find themselves, in order to attain the destinies set for them by God.

Pastor Nwaelele, who gave the charge recently in a sermon he preached at the 70th birthday anniversary thanksgiving service of Sir Donald Michael Jaja, a veteran journalist in Rivers State, said this is because any genuine child of God is a permanent target for destabilization and destruction by the devil.

Taking his text from the Bible book of Mark 4:16-17, the preacher stated that fulfilment in life for a child of God required faith, obedience to God’s word, humility and grace to withstand trials and temptations.

According to him, temptations and afflictions are bound to happen in the lives of those who have accepted Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior.

“No wonder the Bible said that those that endure till the end shall be saved”, he said.

The Clergyman said God prospers believers who are humble, not proud and conceited, and leads them to destiny fulfilment.

“David said in Psalm 51:17, that the sacrifices acceptable to God are a broken spirit, not an impatient or proud spirit”, the preacher said.

He called on Christians not to allow persecutions and afflictions to sway them from the love and blessings of Jesus Christ.

On his part, Jaja, a seasoned Journalist who retired as an Acting Editor of the Rivers State Government-owned The Tide Newspaper, gave thanks to God for honouring him by giving him the grace of attaining 70 years.

“I cannot capture what the good Lord has done for me in my entire life in this fleeting moment of thanksgiving. But, I know that without Him, I wouldn’t have been who I am today, in all spheres. Therefore, my joy knows no bounds as I give thanks to my creator today, alongside my family. Praise be His holy name”, Jaja said.

Niger Delta

Remember Me As Fighter Against Sexual Harassment – UNICAL VC

Published

2 days ago

December 5, 2025

The Tide

The outgoing Vice-Chancellor of the University of Calabar (UniCal), Prof. Florence Obi, has said she will want to be remembered for fighting sexual harassment and delayed results.

Obi made the remark recently at an event in Calabar, organised by the university to mark the end of her five-year tenure as the 11th substantive Vice Chancellor of the institution.

It would be recalled that Obi, whose tenure expired on November 30, was appointed Vice Chancellor on September 10, 2020, but officially assumed office on December 1, 2020.

She said her commitment to protecting students, especially the female ones, remained one of her greatest achievements as Vice Chancellor.

She said, “I fought against sexual predators and ensured timely release of students’ results to curb frustration within the institution.”

While expressing fulfilment at completing her tenure and thanking God for enabling her finish strong after five years in office, she said she would return to the classroom because teaching remained her passion.

Earlier, she addressed staff and students outside her office during a carnival-like, marching out parade in her honour, thanking them for their support throughout her administration.

She also encouraged them to support her successor to enable him to succeed and take the university to greater heights.

“This institution has recorded significant growth and I am confident that my successor will advance the progress already made”, she said.

The Tide’s source reports that under her leadership, the largest solar power plant in Cross River State was built in UniCal, ensuring stable electricity for the university and its teaching hospital.

Other achievements included upgrading the Faculty of Education to a College, getting Mass Communication accredited and elevated to a Faculty.

Her administration also constructed new hostels, introduced departmental scholarships, built a fire service station, and completed the Law Faculty complex.

Niger Delta

Oborevwori Presents N1.664tn 2026 Appropriations Bill

Published

2 days ago

December 5, 2025

The Tide

Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oboreveori, on Wednesday, presented the 2026 Appropriation Bill of N1.664 trillion to the State House of Assembly.

Presenting the bill during plenary of the Assembly in Asaba, Oborevwori said, “I wish to announce a budget proposal of N1.664 trillion for the services of Delta State Government in 2026.”

He said the amount comprised the sum of N499 billion, representing 30 per cent of total budget for Recurrent Expenditure, and N1.165 trillion representing 70 per cent of total budget for Capital Expenditure.

The Governor added that the 2026 budget size indicated an increase of N685 billion, or 70 per cent over the 2025 Appropriation.

He also said sources of funds for the 2026 budget as proposed would be mainly from statutory allocation, internally generated revenue, mineral derivation, and Value Added, Tax among others.

Giving breakdown of the budget proposal, he said the state was earmarking N450 billion for road projects across the state in the 2026 fiscal year.

He said, ”A well-developed road infrastructure is a catalyst for economic growth.

”It facilitates easy movement of goods and services, reduces transportation costs, attracts investment, and improves access to markets and thereby boosting socio-economic development and generating employment opportunities.

”Agriculture is key to economic diversification and sustainable development.

”We shall continue to devote considerable attention and resources to fast-track developments in the agricultural sector towards enhancing food security in Delta State.

”This will also enable economic diversification, promote self-reliance, and generate employment opportunities.”

The Tide’s source reports that the sum of 10 billion has been earmarked for the Ministry of Agriculture and Natural Resources in the 2026 Budget.

Oborevwori, who is the immediate past Speaker of the Assembly, commended the House for its partnership and urged members to expedite consideration and passage of the budget to sustain ongoing development momentum.

He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to building “a prosperous, secure, and stronger Delta where no one is left behind.”

In his remarks, the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Mr. Dennis Guwor, commended Oborevwori’s administration for the steady strides recorded under the “Renewed Hope for MORE Agenda”.

”Over the past year, we have witnessed sustained investments in critical infrastructure, impactful social interventions, prudent fiscal management of resources, and strategic initiatives aimed at promoting peace, security, and economic stability across the State”, he said.

Guwor also commended the Governor for approving the Consolidated Legislative Salary Structure (CONLESS) and initiating the construction of permanent offices for the Assembly Service Commission.

He assured the Governor of the Assembly’s resolve to undertake a thorough and timely review of the appropriation bill, stressing that the Legislature remains committed to people-centered governance, accountability, and equitable development.

“Your Excellency, I want to assure you that the entire Members of this 8th Assembly are united behind your vision for the transformation of the State.

”While our roles in government are distinct and protected by the Constitution, our objectives remain aligned; delivering the greatest good to the greatest number of the people of the state”, he stated.