In a powerful display of support, stakeholders in Odukpani local government area have unanimously endorsed Governor Bassey Otu for a second term and President Bola Tinubu for re-election, highlighting their administrations’ significant positive impact on Cross River State and Nigeria.
The event which held on Monday at the Council Headquarters in Odukpani, drew the Who’s Who in the area, ranging from National Assembly members, traditional leaders, political figures, and residents.
Leading the endorsement campaign, the Paramount Ruler, Etiyin Otu Asuquo Mesembe VI, who spoke through Prof. Eyo Etim Nyong, emphasized that the Governor Bassey Otu-led administration’s achievements are a testament to matching words with actions.
“We were not shouting ‘Back to South’ in vain. God blessed us with a Governor that has proven that indeed the south has something to offer Cross River State and Nigeria,” remarked Prof. Nyong.
He lauded Governor Otu’s holistic approach to development, extending beyond infrastructure to encompass significant advancements in health, education, agriculture, and entrepreneurship.
Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong, representing the Southern Senatorial District, described Odukpani as a “fountain of sweetness” for the state and framed the gathering as a “thank-you assembly” to all 17 LGAs that have endorsed Governor Otu. He further bolstered the endorsement for President Tinubu, citing numerous people-centric policies of the national government, before moving a motion for the adoption of both leaders as sole candidates for their respective offices in the 2027 general elections. The motion received widespread agreement, including from Hon. Bassey Akiba, represented by Chief Victor Ekpo, who confirmed the ratification by Odukpani stakeholders.
Hon. Etim Asido, the Host and Chairman of Odukpani local government area, welcomed attendees and underscored the tangible benefits of a strong state-federal relationship, citing the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway as a prime example. He urged the people of Odukpani to solidify their support and collaborate with other stakeholders to ensure Governor Otu’s return in 2027.
Akiba Ekpenyong, Esq., speaking on behalf of Special Advisers from Odukpani, powerfully stated, “Let me paraphrase the Latin maxim ‘res ipsa loquitur’ – the facts speak for themselves – what the governor has done is ‘visible to the blind’; even the deaf and dumb are hearing and speaking about the revival of the state.” He expressed gratitude for Governor Otu’s role in restoring Cross River’s image and creating new opportunities, noting the consistent leadership demonstrated by the Senatorial District whenever it has assumed state leadership.
Responding to the overwhelming show of support, Governor Bassey Otu, represented by his Chief of Staff, Hon. Emmanuel Ironbar, expressed profound gratitude to Cross Riverians. He reiterated his administration’s commitment to tangible service delivery that meets the aspirations of the people.
Emphasizing the axiom “Where much is given, much is expected,” Governor Otu reaffirmed his dedication to restoring Cross River to its rightful place as an economically prosperous state in Nigeria. He characterized the achievements of the past two years as merely “a tip of the iceberg,” assuring that the strong support received has motivated him to strive for even greater accomplishments.
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