Cross River State Inaugurates Emergency Medical Treatment Committee to Strengthen Life-Saving Services

 The Cross River State Government has inaugurated the State Emergency Medical Treatment Committee at the Calabar General Hospital, marking a significant step toward strengthening emergency response services and ensuring that no poor or vulnerable person dies due to lack of funding for urgent medical care.

Victoria Omini.

Speaking during the inauguration, the national representative, Dr Doubra Emuren the National Cordinator NEMSAS ( National emergency medical services and ambulance system) explained that Section 11 of the National Health Act mandates that at least one percent of the consolidated revenue fund be allocated to provide a basic minimum package of health services for Nigerians, particularly the poor and vulnerable. This allocation is channeled through four gateways which include the National Primary Healthcare Development Agency, the National Health Insurance Authority, the National Emergency Medical Treatment Committee, and the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control. The National Emergency Medical Treatment Committee administers five percent of this fund specifically for emergency medical treatment.

This allocation supports both prehospital and inhospital emergency services. Prehospital care covers the ambulance system, while inhospital care provides up to forty eight hours of stabilization for indigent patients. Services currently covered include under five emergencies, neonatal emergencies, road traffic accidents, drowning incidents, fire incidents, gunshot injuries, snake bites, communal clashes, building collapse victims, and other weapon related emergencies.

The committee’s membership cuts across multiple sectors. The chairman highlighted the need to include the private medical sector which delivers between sixty and seventy percent of healthcare services in Nigeria. Representatives of civil society organizations, the Nigeria Union of Journalists, the Committee of Chief Medical Directors, security agencies, and other key partners also form part of the committee. The absence of private medical practitioners and the Nigerian Police Force was noted, with a call for their integration due to the critical roles they play in emergency response.

The State Health Insurance Agency will be responsible for primary verification of claims to ensure accountability and prevent fictitious billing, while civil society organizations will help gather beneficiary feedback to strengthen service delivery. The Federal Road Safety Corps is also partnering with the program, and personnel will receive basic life support training to improve survival outcomes for accident victims.

The representative further explained the need for the state to map and empanel only facilities that are fully service ready, adequately staffed, and properly equipped to receive emergency cases. Facilities such as the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital and Calabar General Hospital are among those positioned to handle these emergencies. The state ambulance system will also be integrated into the national emergency medical treatment framework to enhance rapid response.

The committee is expected to meet monthly to review operations, verify claims, and strengthen coordination. Members were charged to uphold professionalism, ensure prompt deployment of ambulances, and guarantee that citizens can rely on the system during emergencies. The overall goal is to enhance emergency care, promote health security, and save more lives across Cross River State.

Son stabs father, a Professor of Computer Science, to death

A 27-year-old man, Chukwuebuka Eweni, has been arrested in connection with the fatal stabbing of his father, Samuel Eweni, a computer science professor at Southern University at New Orleans, in a domestic incident on Pebble Street.

The New Orleans Police Department reported the attack happened around 9:59 pm on November 11, 2025.

Police responded to a call about “an aggravated battery by cutting believed to be domestic in nature” and found the elder Eweni unresponsive with a fatal stab wound, along with two wounded adult females—his daughters.

According to the police, “Chukwuebuka Eweni has been located in Jefferson Parish. He is currently in law enforcement custody while undergoing medical evaluation at an area facility.”

Investigators have charged him with one count of second-degree murder and two counts of attempted second-degree murder, adding that “this suspect is believed to be armed and dangerous.”

Family members described the incident as sudden and shocking, revealing that the suspect had a history of mental illness but had never before displayed violence.

Stakeholders mark World Diabetes Day, demand funding and end to stigma.

 Padbank Mobile Outreach, the Network of Persons Living with Diabetes in Nigeria (NPLDN), the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Cross River State Council, and other development partners on Friday, November 14, converged at the Millennium Park, Calabar to mark this year’s World Diabetes Day, with a call on government to increase funding, end stigmatisation, and ensure proper utilisation of the Sugar-Sweetened Beverages (SSBs) tax proceeds for non-communicable diseases.

Victoria Omini.

The event, held under the global theme of “Diabetes and Well-being” and a local focus on “Diabetes in the Workplace,” served as an advocacy platform to address the mounting challenges faced by over 11.2 million estimated persons living with the disease in Nigeria.

Flagging off the campaign, the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Henry Egbe Ayuk, pledged to convey the message to the government for increased budgetary allocation.

The Commissioner who was represented by Mrs. Roseline Ogar, Director of Nursing Services in the Ministry, emphasized the need for holistic support for patients, stating that “In the workplace, most of our diabetic patients, when they complain about being broken down or they are going to the hospital for their checkup, they are being mocked, they are being stigmatized. It is high time we accept those with diabetes, live well with them, support them psychologically, support them physically, and give them holistic care.”

He stressed that preventing the disease is as crucial as managing it, advising the public that diabetes is not infectious but can be hereditary or due to lifestyle factors like a sedentary life and unhealthy eating.

The advocacy, spearheaded by the Executive Director of Padbank Mobile Outreach, Comrade Archibong Bassey, highlighted the critical need for policy intervention.

According to her, “Diabetes is no respecter of persons. That’s why Padbank mobile outreach and the NUJ, are standing in solidarity with the Network of Persons Living with Diabetes to call for a stronger policy action to tackle the rising cost of dealing with diabetes and other non-communicable diseases.”

Archibong Bassey who is the Chairman of NUJ, called on the public to get screened, urging, “Please go have yourself screened. Know your status.”

In his address, Comrade Bernard Enyia, National Coordinator, Network of Persons Living with Diabetes in Nigeria, lamented government’s perceived neglect of the disease. He described diabetes as a health care component that “have been relegated to the background by government.”

Enyia expressed sadness over the non-observance of the annual World Diabetes Day by government, the huge out-of-pocket expenditures for patients, and the absence of intervention in state and federal health sector budgets.

He also raised concerns about the SSBs tax revenue, stating that “At the federal level, funds from the sugar sweetened beverages (SSBs) tax deductions by Nigeria Custom Service has not been utilize or channel into the health component of non-communicable diseases.”

On his part, Chief Executive Officer of African Dignity Foundation, Leader Ben Usang, examined the profound impact of the disease on human dignity.

“My organization, the African Dignity Foundation, believes that those who are not able to have resources to treat diabetes are in a situation of indignity,” he stated, referencing complications like severe sores and medical issues that threaten a person’s dignity.

Leader Usang assured the network of his organisation’s continued support, saying, “We are supporting this network and will continue to support this network until this message is heard.”

Meanwhile, the second part of the event commemorating the day involved the free distribution of sanitary pads to female students at the government secondary school, Nsemo, Ikot Ishie and as well as free blood sugar screening of both teachers and students of the school.

Hon. Felix Akposi Issues Tough One-Week Deadline as Akamkpa Power Crisis Deepens

 The Chairman of Akamkpa Local Government Council, Hon. (Ophot) Felix Akposi KSJI, has issued a firm one-week ultimatum to Sterling Global and the Port Harcourt Electricity Distribution Company PHEDC to fix and restore electricity in Akamkpa or face sanctions, including the impounding of their trucks. He described their handling of the situation as negligent and, in his words, nothing short of “witchcraft.”

Victoria Omini.

The directive followed a tense interface held in his office on Thursday, November 13, 2025, where the Chairman confronted both parties over the prolonged blackout and the slow response to issues that should have been resolved weeks ago.

Akamkpa was expected to have its power restored on November 1 after several stakeholders meetings that addressed outstanding arrears and commitments by PHEDC. That expectation collapsed abruptly when a Sterling Global truck transporting materials to a contract site in Ikot Abasi crashed into a PHEDC pole, leading to the death of two persons while another narrowly survived.

Akposi, who had stepped in earlier to help mediate and encourage a swift resolution, said he was alarmed that both Sterling Global and PHEDC had allowed the matter to drag on despite reassurances. He noted that he even visited the company personally and appealed to PHEDC on their behalf to reduce the cost implications tied to energy loss under the electricity act.

“I intervened so this problem could be fixed immediately,” he told the representatives. “I am surprised that more than two weeks after, nothing has been done. You cannot frustrate the efforts of Government or sabotage what has already cost millions of naira to restore. If a company in Lagos could replace a transformer when we had issues with them, how much more you whose own negligence caused this setback in the first place.”

Offering their explanation, Sterling Global’s Chief Security Officer, Mr. Victor Usang, claimed PHEDC presented inflated quotations and also attempted to downplay the vandalism that occurred along the Isong Inyang axis after the accident. The meeting forced both sides to go through the facts again, including the past disconnection of Akamkpa from the national grid due to poor bill remittances and the widespread vandalism that has kept the community in darkness for over eight years.

After hearing all submissions, the Chairman directed PHEDC and Sterling Global to jointly review the disputed quotations and begin remedial work immediately. He stressed that power must be restored within one week or the council would impound Sterling Global’s trucks operating in the local government.

Beyond the immediate electricity issues, Akposi cautioned Sterling Global about improving safety standards among its drivers. He expressed deep concern over what he described as a troubling pattern of reckless driving and preventable fatalities associated with the company’s vehicles. According to him, persistent incidents could push the council to introduce tougher measures to curb the recurring dangers on Akamkpa roads.

The Chairman reaffirmed that the people of Akamkpa deserve steady electricity and safe roads and that no company would be allowed to undermine those goals through carelessness or indifference.

Akamkpa Chairman Hon. (Ophot) Felix Akposi Showcases Transformative Achievements in Governance Scorecard

 

Akamkpa Chairman’s Scorecard: Hon. (Ophot) Felix Akposi, KSJI

Executive Chairman, Akamkpa Local Government Council

1. Human Capital Development

Hon. Akposi’s administration continues to prioritise human development through empowerment, training, and economic engagement.

Raised 15,000 improved oil palm seedlings to be distributed to farmers to boost agribusiness and encourage self-reliance.

2. Education

Education remains central to his governance agenda.

Payment of bursary to over 600 Akamkpa students in tertiary institutions as a show of support for academic pursuit.

Assisted schools in minor renovations and provision of furniture in collaboration with community-based organisations.

Encouraged educational excellence through mentorship and scholarship advocacy for brilliant but indigent students.

3. Infrastructure

The Akamkpa Council under Hon. Akposi has made visible investments in infrastructure renewal and expansion.

Ongoing construction of 36 lock-up shops at the Awi Trailer Park, with 12 already completed, creating a new hub for trade and revenue generation.

Grading of rural access roads at Mbobui, Nneghe, Ntebachot and several adjoining communities to ease transportation of goods and farm produce.

Ongoing drilling of boreholes across different wards to provide safe and clean water to residents.

Ongoing total renovation and furnishing of the Legislative Chamber, restoring dignity and functionality to the legislative arm of government.

Renovation and furnishing of the Executive Block, Administrative Block, and Works Department at the Council Secretariat, enhancing workplace productivity.

Clearing of electricity lines to support the restoration of power supply to Akamkpa township, in collaboration with local youth and PHED officials.

4. Peace Initiatives

Recognising peace as the foundation of progress, Hon. Akposi has continued to mediate disputes and foster community harmony.

Held peace talks in Iko Esai, Obung, Aking, and Osomba, resolving long-standing boundary and leadership disputes.

Mediated Doveline vs Ekpiri Ibami, Akwa Ibami vs Budeng, and other inter-village disputes to prevent escalation.

Facilitated dialogue between Wilmar Plantations in Aningeje and affected locals to ensure peaceful coexistence and corporate-community understanding.

5. Capacity Building

Hon. Akposi has remained intentional about institutional strengthening and staff development.

Organised periodic orientation and training sessions for council staff to improve administrative efficiency.

Encouraged transparency and accountability by digitising parts of the council’s documentation and financial processes.

Fostered collaboration with state and federal agencies to enhance project management and service delivery skills.

6. Health

The administration has prioritised access to quality primary healthcare.

Renovated select Primary Health Centres in rural wards and ensured the availability of essential drugs.

Supported health awareness campaigns and immunisation drives across the local government.

Ensured periodic environmental sanitation to maintain community hygiene and reduce disease outbreaks.

Partners with Medicin De Franc for several health interventions and renovation of health centres.

7. Interventions

Hon. Akposi’s proactive leadership style is evident in his prompt responses to pressing challenges.

Led the campaign that attracted both Federal and State Government attention to the deplorable federal roads in Akamkpa, resulting in NDDC’s intervention with the contract awarded to FaithPlant Global Ltd.

Provided relief support and logistics during community emergencies and conflict situations.

Supported bereaved families, indigent patients, and disaster victims with financial and moral assistance.

8. Investment

He has continued to promote Akamkpa as a destination for sustainable investment.

Encouraged partnerships with private investors in the oil palm and agro-processing sectors.

Facilitated the geophysical survey of forty (40) communities to identify potential mineral and water resources, opening new windows for agricultural and industrial investment.

Strengthened local market systems through the development of lock-up shops and business-friendly policies.

A key factor in the smooth transition of the take over of former Eng-Haut Industry to Wilmar International.

9. Security

Security has remained a top priority under his leadership.

Supported security agencies with logistics and welfare to improve surveillance and response.

Intervened in the Wilmar–Aningeje security tension, ensuring lasting calm between the company and host communities.

Renovated the Police Station and pushed for the commencement of the Oban Police Division, which is now awaiting official takeoff, a key step toward decentralised policing and rural safety.

Maintained strong collaboration with traditional institutions and youth vigilante groups to sustain community peace.

Conclusion

Hon. (Ophot) Felix Akposi, KSJI, has demonstrated a clear vision of leadership rooted in development, peace, and accountability. His achievements across the nine sectors reflect a balanced governance style that addresses both immediate community needs and long-term sustainability.

Good Governance Advocacy International Calls for Human-Centered Policy Shift in Nigeria

 Good Governance Advocacy International (GGAI) on Wednesday inspired conversations around ‘People Governance Policy’ at a one-day public lecture held at the Channel View Hotel, Calabar.

Victoria Omini.

Vice Chairman of the Cross River State Planning Commission, Dr. Bong Duke, opened the discourse with a compelling keynote lecture on “People Governance Policy: Recalibrating the Compass of Development in Nigeria.”

Duke, in his presentation, called for a paradigm shift in Nigeria’s development approach, emphasizing that governance must prioritize people at its core.

He stated that while infrastructure and economic indices have dominated conversations on governance, the new focus must be on people as co-creators, not passive beneficiaries.

“People Governance Policy is not merely a fancy synonym for social welfare; it is a fundamental recalibration where the citizen is the ultimate metric of success,” he explained.

Duke criticized the practice of building infrastructure that does not serve the community’s needs, citing examples such as roads to nowhere and underutilized hospitals. “We must shift our mindset from asking ‘What are we building?’ to ‘Who are we building for?’” he challenged.

Highlighting Cross River’s wealth of natural and human resources, he reiterated that “Our people are our assets.” He argued that People Governance Policy should rest on three pillars, which are “People as Purpose, People as Priority and People as Partners.”

“Policies must be designed with direct involvement and insights from the people they aim to serve.

“Success must be measured by tangible impacts on citizen well-being, such as reduced commute times and improved healthcare outcomes, not just infrastructure counts.

“Governance should be collaborative, involving citizens, civil society, and the private sector through participatory decision-making,” he elaborated.

Duke then announced progressive initiatives undertaken by the Prince Bassey Otu-led administration, including a human-centered development dashboard approved by the Governor to track metrics like happiness, safety, and citizen satisfaction.

“No project will receive approval without a mandatory people-based impact assessment,” he affirmed.

Earlier in his welcome address, Sir Leonard Anyogo, Director-General of GGAI, emphasized the urgent need for people-centered governance amid global policy crises.

“Good governance is not rocket science. It’s basically a policy of governance drawn from the people and for the people,” he said.

Anyogo also called for constructive dialogue, stressing that solutions must accompany critiques of governance policies.

The public lecture commemorated the 50th birthday anniversary of Sir Leonard Anyogo, an ardent advocate of good governance in Cross River and Nigeria in general.

The event was attended by dignitaries, including government officials, business magnates, academics, legal luminaries, among others.

Awards were also bestowed on deserving personalities, including the state governor, Prince Bassey Edet Otu.

UNICAL students protest alleged unfair screening in Nursing, Medicine departments

Protest has erupted at the University of Calabar as students of the Nursing Science and Medicine departments accused the school management of conducting an unfair screening exercise that forced many of them to change their courses after writing their examinations.

Victoria Omini.

The students, mostly in their second year, alleged that despite paying all approved school and departmental dues, their admission status was abruptly altered on the school portal without prior notice or official explanation.

Speaking with journalists on campus on Monday, some of the affected students described the development as “unjust and frustrating,” saying the management had failed to communicate any clear criteria for the screening.

According to a Nursing student who pleaded anonymity, “We paid every due required by the university school fees, faculty and departmental dues yet after writing our exams, we saw ‘change of programme’ on our portals. When we asked questions, the management kept saying different things some said it was because of one failed course, others said it was because we didn’t do departmental screening.”

She lamented that some officials allegedly demanded extra payments before conducting the departmental screening, leaving many students unable to meet up. “We were told the screening was free, but suddenly they started asking for money. We are here to study, not to be extorted or frustrated,” she added.

Another student from the Department of Medicine and Surgery said many of those affected were admitted after being assured by school officials that “regularization” would secure their place. “They asked us to do regularization because of the number of students admitted. We complied, paid all required fees, and worked hard to maintain good grades. Now they are saying that those who did regularization or had an ‘F’ should leave the department,” he said.

Some of the affected students alleged that the university admitted more than its approved quota, which has now led to a mass downsizing exercise. “The quota for Nursing by the Nursing Council is 150, but we were told the school admitted over 900 students. Now they are asking us to change our programmes when lectures have already begun,” another student lamented.

Speaking on behalf of the parents, a concerned father described the situation as “frustrating and unjust.” He said, “You cannot punish the students for a mistake caused by the management. Some of these children have spent years trying to gain admission, and now that they’ve made it, they are being forced out unfairly.”

Reacting to the development, the university’s Public Relations Officer, Dr. Effiong Eyo, dismissed the students’ claims, saying many of those protesting were not officially admitted to study Medicine or Nursing.

According to him, the Deputy Vice Chancellor had met with the affected students, and it was discovered that some of them gained admission “through side ways,” while others were not listed on the JAMB admission portal. “Some of them were originally offered admission into other programmes like Human Nutrition, not Medicine or Nursing,” Dr. Eyo said.

He added that the discovery followed an internal audit after an earlier issue involving the Dentistry department exposed multiple irregularities. “The best option for the affected students is to change their course of study.