Otu Inspects Ogoja Roads
Governor Otu, represented by Deputy Governor Peter Odey, today visits Ogoja Local Government to review ongoing road projects, including the Ndok-Abakpa-Igoli-Monaya rehabilitation and the Ndok Junction-Mbube and Stadium Road works. Officials say quality and pace meet specifications, with K-Ton Construction reaffirming commitment to timely delivery. The tour, aimed at improving connectivity and socio-economic activity, underscores continued investments in Cross River State infrastructure, urging strict adherence to timelines and safety on site.
Burial of Fmr Ikom Chairman
The late Robert Obion Eriom, a medical doctor and former Chairman of Ikom Local Government Council, will be buried in Irruan, Boki LGA, Cross River State, on Saturday, July 18, 2026. A family itinerary shows a valedictory session and night of tributes on July 16, a vigil on July 17, and a funeral mass at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Bunyia, Irruan, with interment after Mass. Eriom is remembered for upgrading Ikom Central Market and serving the Cross River community.
Suspension of ASUU Strike Fake
The University of Cross River State (UNICROSS) management says a social media circular claiming the ASUU UNICROSS strike has been suspended is false and did not come from the Registrar’s office. On July 5, 2026, the university urged students, staff, and the public to ignore the message and await official word issued through authorised channels. The Cross River State Government and UNICROSS are working toward resolving the dispute, with no official date set for any strike suspension as at now.
Bekwarra Road Project Launched
Governor Otu flags off a 10km Ugboro-Ukpah-Afrike road project in Bekwarra Local Government Area to boost access for rural communities. The ceremony, attended by the deputy governor and local officials, marks the start of construction aimed at improving transportation for farmers, students, and health services. Officials pledge adherence to engineering standards and local-content use while urging community cooperation to ensure timely completion. The project aligns with the administration’s People First agenda and is expected to boost local commerce and economic opportunities across Bekwarra.
Ayuk Donates Free Internet Facility
Ayuk has provided a free internet facility to Bendeghe-Ekiem community in Cross River State, enhancing digital access for students, traders, and families. The handover in Bendeghe-Ekiem aims to boost learning, communications, and business activities. Local leaders say the facility will improve connectivity, support remote learning, and help residents access online services. The move demonstrates ongoing state efforts to expand ICT access across Cross River communities.
Calabar church toilet death probed
The police in Cross River State are investigating the unexplained death of Blessing Ayebe, a churchgoer who was found inside a church toilet in Calabar after attending a service at the Presbyterian Church, Ikot Ansa Parish, on June 28. Autopsy is pending, and authorities say there is no evidence of foul play at this stage. The inquiry aims to determine the cause of death and circumstances surrounding the incident. The investigation is ongoing.
Police Probe Killing in Cross River
The Cross River Police say they have launched an investigation into the killing of a farmer and the shooting of another during an attack on farmland in Erei Community, Biase Local Government Area, Cross River State. Police responded after reports that gunmen attacked farmers from Orugbam Community, prompting officers to cordon off the area and search for suspects. Authorities urge residents to remain calm as the inquiry continues, with updates promised as of Sunday, July 5, 2026.
England Edge Mexico in World Cup
Mexico’s World Cup campaign ends after a 3-2 Round of 16 defeat to England, with the result sending England into the quarter-finals. The CalabarGist report notes England’s clinical finishing despite Mexico’s brave efforts, as El Tri were eliminated from the tournament. England will now meet a new opponent in the last eight, while Mexican players shift focus to future international fixtures.
Otu flags off 500-unit housing
The Cross River State Government flags off the 500-unit Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu Housing Estate in Okuni, Ikom Local Government, during a ceremony held on Saturday, July 4, 2026. Governor Bassey Otu is represented by the Speaker of the State Assembly, Elvert Ayambem. The project, identified as Phase One of a wider plan to deliver 1,500 homes across the state, targets low-income earners, civil servants, teachers, and young families through a Public-Private-Community partnership to lower costs and speed delivery.
Omini Urges Urgent Security Reforms
Amb. Dr. Charles Omini, Special Envoy to West Africa for the International Human Rights Protection Service, says Nigeria’s rising insecurity stems from government negligence and calls on authorities to act. He arrived in Abuja to press for stronger funding, modern equipment, and advanced training for security agencies. Omini’s remarks come as widespread security challenges impact Cross River residents through broader national threats; he urges swift action to protect citizens and restore confidence in Nigeria’s security framework.
CR-SEMA Moves to Aid Victims After Calabar Fire Disaster
CR-SEMA has begun relief efforts for 12 displaced Calabar Municipality households after a midnight fire at No. 174 Etagbor Layout, Block B, Ward 2. Director General Efa Nyong led a damage and needs assessment to guide government intervention and support from partners. While no lives were lost, homes and belongings were destroyed, prompting immediate needs for shelter, food, cash, clothing, and hygiene items. The state government, with Red Cross and NEMA, will coordinate timely assistance.
Pius Ankpo Inspects Boki Road
The Cross River State Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Hon. Pius Edet Ankpo, conducts an on-site inspection of the 17-kilometer Boki East-West Road project on July 5, 2026, with Engr. Dr. Paul Bapeh, Permanent Secretary, and a team of engineers. He affirms ongoing adherence to approved standards and promises continued quality delivery for Cross River residents, ensuring democratic dividends from the project.
State police threaten democracy warns Omehia
Former Rivers governor Celestine Omehia warns that rushing the State Police Bill could threaten democracy across Nigeria, including Cross River State, where residents rely on stable security governance. In an interview with NAN in Abuja on July 6, 2026, he argues that state police may be weaponised by governors, risking minority rights and local accountability. He urges public debate and a national hearing, with the Federal Government strengthening the existing NPF/NSCDC instead of creating new state forces. Cross River institutions, schools, and communities should follow the consultations and engage with policymakers to protect civil liberties.