……..Distributes relief materials to the victimsdistributes relief materials to the victims
The Honorable member representing Ogoja/Yala federal constituency, Hon. Godwin Offiono has intervened and provided resources for the immediate relocation of the occupants of a 16-room building recently gutted by fire along Glado street in Okuku, Yala LGA of Cross River State.
Upon hearing of the devastating incident on Monday, 22nd January, 2024, where a 16-room apartment with 38 occupants, was razed down by fire on Sunday, 21st January, 2024, the MP directed that a 16-room new accommodation be provided to all affected 38 residents of the compound, and assisted to relocate immediately as a preliminary intervention from his office.
To execute his intervention, he delegated a team led by his constituency officer, Dr. Raphael Ogar Oko, including his Okuku ward coordinator, Mr. Adoga Boniface, Okuku ward PDP Chairman, Mr. Idagu Oluohu and others, to visit and inform the affected families that a new 16 room building has been rented for them. The following relief materials were also distributed to the victims:
Mattresses
Blankets
Sleeping mats
Cooking Pots
Stoves
Buckets, and
Mosquito nets.
The Team on behalf of the MP, conveyed his concerns to the people and informed them that the MP had paid for a new 16-room accommodation for them. They narrated how several personal properties and cash worth millions of naira were gutted by fire and no resident was able to pick anything. The caretaker, Pastor David Ogar and other affected families thanked the MP for his prompt intervention and prayed for God’s continuous guidance.
Hon. Godwin Offiono and family lay their elder sister and husband to rest amidst tears.
The member representing Ogoja/Yala federal Constituency, Hon. Godwin Offiono alongside his family members, earlier today buried their elder sister, Late Ma. Elizabeth Ohiama Odey née Odey Offiono and her husband, Late Pa. Edward Igri Akpa Odey, at Ijegu-Ojor in Yala LGA, Cross River State.
The late couple died few weeks ago separately, and were committed to mother earth together today, 20th January, 2024.
In his tribute, the MP described their death as a sad incident, and a heavy blow to the entire family. He prayed for the peaceful repose of their souls.
Hon. Godwin Offiono, the Member representing Ogoja/Yala Federal Constituency, was present today at the funeral service of his late uncle, Pa Emmanuel Eba Ogar, which held in Imaje community, Yala Local Government Area, Cross River State. His attendance was to offer condolences to the immediate family for the sorrowful loss of their father, who passed away at the age of 78.
The Member of Parliament extended sincere condolences to Engr. Arthur Eba, Barr. Alphonsus Ogar Eba, the Cross River State chairman of the All Progressive Congress, and the entire Eba family. He offered words of encouragement, urging the family to find solace in the positive legacies left behind by their patriarch during his lifetime.
Hon. Offiono, being a cousin to the departed, described Pa Eba as a resilient and compassionate individual, emphasizing the significant void left by his passing. He offered prayers for God to grant Papa eternal rest in His embrace and extended heartfelt wishes for the family to find the strength to endure this unfortunate loss.
Hon. Matthew Ojugbo, Rear Admiral Ogborgu rtd and wife, Alhaji Hussaini, Hon. Charles Eneji, Mr. Joseph Adoga aka Bob T, Mr Emma Odidi, PDP Chapter Chairman of Ogoja, Mr. Elijah Okache, PDP Chapter Chairman of Yala, PDP ward Chairmen, and other dignitaries also paid condolence visit to the Eba family alongside the MP.
…promises to build a house for God at St. Rita’s Catholic Church
Yesterday, Hon. Godwin Offiono, the representative of Ogoja/Yala Federal Constituency, rededicated his electoral victory to God Almighty for His faithfulness during a Thanksgiving mass held at St. Rita’s Catholic Church in Abachor-Igbeku, Yala LGA, Cross River State.
The Member of Parliament stated that his victory at the poll was a clear demonstration of the omnipresence, omniscience, and omnipotence of God. While acknowledging God, he also commended the political leaders, his family, friends, and constituents who were used by God to actualize His mandate.
The event gathered the crème de la crème of Cross River North politics, including the House of Representatives Speaker, friends, family members, well-wishers, constituents, etc. They were in attendance to express gratitude to God alongside Hon. Offiono.
Hon. Peter Akpanke, the Member representing Obudu/Bekwarra/Obanliku Federal Constituency, adeptly represented the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas. Additionally, the State Chairman, Hon. Barr. Venatius Ikem, represented the Cross River State PDP working committee, Hon. Eze Nwachukwu Eze, member representing Ebonyi and Ohaukwu Federal Constituency of Ebonyi State. Also in attendance were Barr. Idi Yakubu, Hon. Matthew Ojugbo, Dr. Ikani Wogar, Rt. Hon. Peter Igbodor, AIG Paul Odama, Hon. Mrs. Beatrice Igwe, commissioner for Housing, Cross River State, Prince Akwaji Offiono aka Akwase, Chief John Joe, Prophet Emmanuel Okpe, Mrs. Talatu Ogborgu, Dr. Paul Ebiala, Amb. Jammy Egbe, Registrar, University of Calabar, Capt. Fred Oko rtd, Chief Ongbinyi, Hon. Egar Mgbantul, Hon. Tom Agi, Hon. Sunday Oko (Otolo), Hon. Charles Omang, member representing Bekwarra State Constituency, Barr. First Baba Isa, Paramount Rulers of Yala and Ogoja, Chiefs and Elders, and a host of others.
Hon. Offiono promised to periodically contribute to the building of a befitting edifice for the church and commenced the project with the sum of Three million Naira (N3,000,000). Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas also sent in his contributions to the church project. Cross River State 10th National Assembly caucus, Prince Akwase Offiono, Senator Jarigbe Agom, Hon. Peter Akpanke, Hon. Barr. Venatius Ikem, Prophet Emmanuel Okpe, Amb. Jammy Egbe, Hon. Mrs. Beatrice Igwe, other respected dignitaries, friends and well wishers, also supported Hon. Offiono in the building of the church.
Hon. Offiono, addressing constituents at St Joseph’s Primary School field in Okuku, expressed gratitude to party stakeholders, Ogoja/Yala constituents, and well-wishers for unwavering support. He reiterated his commitment to competent representation, emphasizing that the mandate belongs to the people. Despite distractions in court, he focused on securing the people’s mandate and looks forward to remarkable progress henceforth through projects, empowerment, bills, and human capital development.
In conclusion, Hon. Offiono generously allocated the substantial amount of Thirty-five million naira (N35,000,000) along with Seven Hundred (700) bags of 50kg rice for New Year celebrations within the constituency.
In his remarks, Hon. Akpanke commended the people of Ogoja/Yala and the entire Cross River North Senatorial District for their support, promising effective representation. “You’ve elected a good man; Hon. Offiono is a good man. We’re friends and brothers working together in the National Assembly, and I’m confident he will not disappoint you.
The PDP State Chairman, Hon. Barr. Venatius Ikem also appreciated the Party faithfuls and constituents of Ogoja/Yala for standing against underdevelopment during the general election. He reiterated that the choice of Hon. Offiono was a direct fight against underdevelopment, lies and corruption. He encouraged the people to keep supporting PDP to attract more development to the region. The Chairman also commended Hon. Offiono for starting strong despite distractions from the legal tussle, he assured of the party’s fervent support.
Thanksgiving mass of Hon Godwin Offiono, member representing Ogoja/Yala Federal Constituency ongoing at St Rita’s Catholic church, Abachor Igbeku in Okuku Yala LGA.
The Member representing Ogoja/Yala Federal Constituency, Hon. Godwin Offiono, today released the sum of Thirty Five Million Naira (N35m) for new year celebration in Ogoja/Yala Federal Constituency.
The Member of Parliament directed the distribution of Five Hundred Thousand (N500,000) to each of the twenty-four (24) wards of Ogoja/Yala, totaling twelve Million Naira (N12m).
Additionally, stakeholders across these wards received Fifteen Million Naira (N15m). Non-Indigenous and the JTF group in the constituency were given Five hundred thousand Naira (N500,000), traditional rulers received two million Naira (N2,000,000). Furthermore, constituents from the various wards who attended the MP’s thanksgiving ceremony today, were demobilised with 2.5m, etc. 700 bags of rice was also distributed across the federal Constituency; each of the 24 wards to get 20 bags.
Hon. Offiono reiterated his dedication to fairly representing the people of Ogoja/Yala with great skill, expressing his readiness to fulfill the mandate graciously bestowed upon him by his constituents, despite facing a challenging legal battle.
On this special day commemorating the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ, Hon. Godwin Offiono, the Member representing Ogoja/Yala Federal Constituency, extends warm wishes to his constituents and the Christian community, celebrating the joyous occasion of Christmas.
The MP emphasized that Christmas provides an opportunity to strengthen our connection with God by engaging in humanitarian efforts and spreading love.
He encouraged Christians to be good ambassadors of Christ on Earth by practicing His teachings, highlighting that Christ was born to save mankind from destruction. During His time on earth, Christ lived a peaceful life and taught us to be our brothers’ keepers. He thus admonished Christians to extend their hands of benevolence to one another.
He invoked prayers for peace, joy, happiness, and divine protection to prevail throughout the festive period.
Yesterday, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, along with other members, felicitated with Hon. Godwin Offiono, the member representing Ogoja/Yala Federal Constituency, on his birthday in his National Assembly office.
The speaker, ably represented by Rt. Hon. Dr. Nnamdi Chamberlain Donkwu, his Deputy Chief of Staff, and other lawmakers, presented a cake and birthday card. They eulogized Hon. Godwin Offiono for his humility, legislative dexterity, readiness to serve, and friendliness. The speaker described Hon. Godwin as a perfect gentleman with a burning desire and zeal to serve the people of his constituency and Nigerians at large.
In extending birthday wishes, the Speaker expressed, “Hon. Godwin Offiono, your birthday is the ideal occasion to commend your selfless service, not just to your constituency but to humanity. You’ve exemplified that leadership is about serving the people. I join your family, supporters, and friends in wishing you good health, peace, and happiness on this special day. Happy Birthday.”
In his comments, Hon. Godwin Offiono, the representative of Ogoja/Yala, appreciated the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, His Deputy, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, and all members of the 10th Assembly for their leadership and legislative skills. He particularly applauded the National Assembly’s leadership for their considerate gesture in commemorating lawmakers’ birthdays. He emphasized that the celebration reflects camaraderie, and serves as a platform to foster inclusivity among both seasoned and new members.
He expressed gratitude to the leadership of the NASS and all his colleagues for deeming it important to celebrate him. He also commended the people of Ogoja/Yala for electing him to the National Assembly, allowing him to engage with remarkable brothers and friends, his colleagues.
Hon. Godwin Offiono Esq, and other PDP leaders, pay late PDP National Women Leader, Prof. Stella Atoe last respect earlier today in Calabar, Cross River State as she will be laid to rest tomorrow.
Comr. Ogar Emmanuel Oko –Public Relations Officer of Ijegu Ojor autonomous community
In the realm of nation-building, the pivotal role of education cannot be overstressed. It serves as the bedrock for societal progress, economic development, and individual empowerment. Unfortunately, some states such as Cross River State grapple with educational disadvantages, hindering the potential growth and prosperity of their citizens. This piece delves into the imperative of prioritizing education at the constituency level, specifically through the initiatives of the honourable member of the House of Representatives within his immediate constituency — Ogoja/Yala.
Understanding educational disadvantages is essential to all and sundry. Before addressing the solutions, it is important to comprehend the challenges faced by educationally disadvantaged regions. These areas often contend with insufficient infrastructure, limited access to quality educators, and inadequate learning resources. The consequences are profound, as generations may be denied the opportunity to break the cycle of poverty through education.
Members of the House of Representatives, as elected representatives closest to the grassroots, wield significant influence in shaping policies that directly impact their constituencies. One of the most impactful avenues for positive change lies in the prioritization of education. By championing educational initiatives, representatives can uplift their constituents and pave the way for lasting transformation. Realising these roles, Hon. Godwin Offiono on two occasions has facilitated educational materials to the various primary and secondary schools in his constituency. He has moved motions and sponsored a number of bills for the establishment of some higher institutions within his legislative domain.
Having understood the importance of education in a disadvantaged locality like ours, and knowing the essence of entrusting task to seasoned individuals, the lawmaker has placed the burdens of education on the shoulders of an experienced educator, Dr. Raphael Ogar Oko, his Constituency officer.
Dr. Raphael in collaboration with his Hon. Offiono believed education is a veritable catalyst for economic empowerment; a source of community development, and a means of breaking the cycle of poverty amongst indigent students, parents and guardians. Hence, the distribution of stationeries, instruments and sporting materials to the ill-equipped libraries, laboratories and deteriorated sports facilities in selected schools Ogoja/Yala federal constituency is a testament to the fact that the lawmaker is giving premium to the educational wellbeing of his constituency. With this, access to learning resources which ensures that schools are equipped with sufficient learning materials is achieved.
Going forward, it’s envisaged that the Honorable member may envisioned providing conducive learning environment for students, introducing academic soft loan or scholarship programme, workshops for teachers training and programme aimed at fostering educationally community engagement.
Prioritizing education at the constituency level is not just a noble endeavor; it is a strategic investment in the future of the nation. By focusing on the unique needs of educationally disadvantaged states, the action of Hon. Godwin Offiono can catalyze positive change, empowering citizens to break free from the shackles of ignorance and build a brighter, more prosperous future for this generation and generations to come. It is a call to action that resonates not only within the confines of the constituency but reverberates throughout the nation as a whole.
The Goffio Gazette 