Official Clarification & Correction

Following further verification, I wish to sincerely clarify and correct an earlier report.

The bags of rice distributed were not personally donated by Monday Igiri, but were distributed on behalf of the Governor of Cross River State through Monday Igiri, to a specific political ward, and not to the general youths of Igede as earlier reported.

The earlier report was based on initial information available at the time, which has now been properly clarified. I take full responsibility for the oversight and sincerely appreciate those who provided accurate details to ensure the truth is properly stated.

This clarification is made in the spirit of transparency, accuracy, and responsible journalism.
Thank you all for your understanding and patience.

— Joseph Iyaji
Akahi News

Christmas: Governor Otu Distributes Rice to Eminyi Ward Through Monday Igiri.

The spirit of the Christmas season was felt across parts of Igede land as the Governor of Cross River State, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, extended a goodwill gesture through the distribution of bags of rice to members of a political ward in Eminyi community.

Akahi News gathered that the food items were distributed as part of the governor’s Yuletide outreach aimed at easing the festive burden on grassroots communities and reinforcing the administration’s people-centred governance approach.

Distribution Carried Out Through Local Leadership

The distribution was coordinated through Chief Monday Igiri, a respected leader within Igede Ward, Eminyi, who acted on behalf of the state government to ensure the items reached the intended beneficiaries.

According to findings by Akahi News, the rice was not a personal donation by Chief Igiri but part of a broader humanitarian gesture initiated by the Cross River State Government and implemented through recognised political structures at the ward level.

Community members who spoke with Akahi News confirmed that the exercise took place within Eminyi and was directed at a specific political ward, rather than the entire Igede ethnic bloc.

Clarification on Earlier Report

Akahi News wishes to clarify that an earlier version of this report inaccurately suggested that the rice distribution was a personal donation by Chief Monday Igiri and broadly targeted at Igede youths. This has now been corrected following further verification.

The initial report was based on preliminary information available at the time. However, in keeping with our commitment to factual accuracy and responsible journalism, the story has been reviewed and updated to reflect verified facts.

Commitment to Truth and Accountability

Akahi News remains committed to ethical reporting, transparency, and public trust. Corrections and clarifications are part of responsible journalism, and we appreciate the cooperation of community members who provided additional insights to ensure accuracy.

As the festive season continues, the message of unity, gratitude, and peaceful coexistence remains paramount across communities in Cross River State.

By Joseph Iyaji | Akahi News
Joseph Iyaji is a journalist, educator, and founder of Akahi G. International, Akahi Tutors, and Akahi News. Read more about him here.

Akahi News www.akahinews.org

In the true spirit of Christmas and community service, the Igede Ward Relations Officer, Chief Monday Igiri, has extended a generous gesture to youths of the Igede nation by donating bags of rice to support their festive celebrations.

The donation, which came as part of activities marking the 2025 Christmas season, was warmly received by youths across the community, many of whom described it as a timely intervention amid prevailing economic challenges.

Speaking during the presentation, Chief Igiri urged the youths to remain united and uphold values that promote peace, mutual respect, and collective progress. He emphasised that unity remains the strongest foundation for sustainable development within the Igede nation.

“As a peace-loving people, I urge you all to continue to live in harmony with one another and remain security conscious, especially at a time when our nation is facing various security challenges,” he said.

According to Akahi News, the ward relations officer stressed that peace, vigilance, and cooperation among youths are essential in building a safer and more prosperous society.

Commitment to People-Centred Leadership

Reaffirming his dedication to the welfare of his people, Chief Igiri called on the Igede nation to sustain its support for the administration of Cross River State Governor, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, and his deputy, Dr. Peter Odey, whom he described as leaders genuinely committed to people-oriented governance.

Akahi News gathered that he praised the administration’s developmental vision, noting that its policies and programmes are designed to prioritise grassroots empowerment and inclusive growth.

“We must continue to stand firmly behind leaders who are genuinely committed to the wellbeing of the people and to governance that puts the people first,” Chief Igiri stated.

A Season of Gratitude and Reflection

As the Christmas season unfolds, Chief Igiri encouraged the people of Igede to reflect on the values of gratitude, compassion, and unity, describing the season as a reminder of the blessings of life, good health, and peace.

“As we celebrate this Christmas, let us be grateful for the gift of life, sound health, and the peace we continue to enjoy,” he added.

Observers note that the gesture has further strengthened community bonds and reinforced the importance of leadership rooted in service and empathy.

Akahi News learnt that similar outreach initiatives may continue in the coming months as part of efforts to foster unity and social stability across the region.

By Joseph Iyaji | Akahi News
Joseph Iyaji is a journalist, educator, and founder of Akahi G. International, Akahi Tutors, and Akahi News. Read more about him here.

Akahi News www.akahinews.org