CELEBRATING GOVERNOR BASSEY EDET OTU AT CHRISTMAS
At Christmas, when bells bloom with hope and hearts hum with harmony, Cross River State pauses to praise purposeful leadership. This season of songs and sharing, offers a fitting frame to celebrate Governor Bassey Edet Otu, a man whose measured march has rekindled confidence and restored Cross River’s once-fabled flair. Indeed, when the drumbeat of development is steady, the people dance with delight.
It is delightful to note that from Calabar to the corridors of our communities, the Governor has lit the lights, literally and symbolically. Streets once shrouded in shadow now shimmer with seasonal sparkle, improved security, and sweetened commerce. As the proverb says, when the house is lit, even the blind can find the door. Cross Riverians, can now see their city smile again.
Beyond brightness, there is beauty. The cityscape is being beautified, greenery groomed, landmarks lifted, and public spaces polished. Calabar’s charm, long admired and sometimes neglected, is being carefully curated once more. Order is returning, aesthetics are ascending, and civic pride is proudly paraded. Truly, where there is order, there is progress.
Lest I forget, history, too, has been honoured. In a gracious gesture of gratitude and governance, Governor Otu has extended honour to past democratically elected Governors (Clement Ebri, Donald Duke, Liyel Imoke and Ben Ayade) of Cross River State. This statesmanship speaks volumes. It reminds us that leadership is a relay race, not a solo sprint.
Quite beautiful to behold that, tourism, the treasured trade of our terrain, is also tasting revival. Tinapa Business and Leisure Resort is stirring from slumber; Obudu Ranch Resort is regaining its regal reputation; and other tourist centres are being reawakened with renewed resolve. These icons are not mere destinations; they are declarations that Cross River is open, attractive, and ascending again. When tourism thrives, the people prosper, and the state shines.
Yet, even in rejoicing, responsibility requires us to speak sincerely. Commendation must coexist with constructive counsel. There remains the matter of waste piles that persist and pollute our otherwise promising panorama. Regular evacuation of refuse must be relentless, not occasional. Cleanliness is not cosmetic; it is civic culture. A clean city is a healthy city.
Equally urgent is the need to clear the roads of touts who daily harass commuters and commercial bus drivers. These disruptions dent dignity, delay daily duties, and discourage decency. The roads should be routes of relief, not arenas of anxiety. Law and order must be firm, fair, and fear-free.
As we celebrate Christmas, a season of peace, progress, and promise, we applaud Governor Bassey Edet Otu for restoring lost glory and rekindling hope. May this festive fervour fuel further focus. For much has been done, and much more can be achieved. The morning shows the day, and Cross River’s dawn under this administration is bright.
Merry Christmas, Your Excellency and may the New Year bring deeper development, cleaner communities, safer streets, and sustained success for our beloved Cross River State.
Anthony Ekpo Bassey, PhD teaches Journalism at the University of Calabar.
