By Onwa Ekor
After a rigorous editorial review and an independent opinion survey among readers, THE BEAGLE NEWS, has announced the Senator representing Cross River North in the apex lawmaking body, Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, as the recipient of its maiden prestigious 2025 Hero of Democracy award in Cross River.
The award is aimed at celebrating outstanding commitment to democratic values and impactful public service.
In a formal notification dated June 10 and signed by the newspaper’s Editor-in-Chief, Dr. Judex O. Okoro and Executive Editor, Dr. Anthony Bassey Ekpo, the Editorial Board lauded Jarigbe for his “resolute defence of democratic principles, remarkable contributions to human capital development and numerous empowerment initiatives,” that have uplifted lives, particularly in Cross River North Senatorial District.
A statement from the Board said, “This honour reflects your continued efforts to foster inclusive and participatory governance, championing policies and programmes that prioritise the people.”
THE BEAGLE NEWS described the award as part of its broader effort to highlight exemplary leadership and encourage the consolidation of democracy in Nigeria, particularly as the country continues to grapple with challenges of transparent and accountable governance.
Jarigbe, has been widely commended for his grassroots-oriented approach to legislation and advocacy.
Under his leadership, numerous development projects including education scholarships and youth empowerment programmes, have been initiated across his constituency.
Democracy Day, celebrated annually on June 12, commemorates the 1993 presidential election widely considered the freest and fairest in Nigeria’s history and honours the sacrifices of those who fought for the return of civilian rule.
As the South-South-based community newspaper marks the day with this recognition, it beckons on public servants across the nation to draw inspiration from Jarigbe’s example and deepen their commitment to the democratic ideals of transparency, accountability, and service.
The official date for the presentation of the 2025 Hero of Democracy award will be announced soon, according to the editorial board of THE BEAGLE NEWS.
