Opinion: From Political Marginalisation To Regional Recognition: Obubra Gains Visibility Under Governor Bassey Otu
By George Sunday
Inclusive governance remains one of the strongest pillars of true leadership in any democratic society. A government that deliberately accommodates every section of the State naturally earns the trust, confidence, and support of the people. Since the inauguration of Governor Bassey Edet Otu on May 29, 2023, the people of Obubra Local Government Area have witnessed a remarkable shift in political inclusion, recognition, and representation within the governance structure of Cross River State.
For many years following Nigeria’s return to democracy in 1999, many stakeholders in Obubra often expressed concerns over limited representation in key government positions despite the area’s contributions, loyalty, and commitment to the growth and stability of the State. Successive administrations came and went, yet meaningful political visibility for Obubra remained relatively minimal.
Today, that narrative is gradually changing under the leadership of Governor Bassey Edet Otu, whose administration has continued to demonstrate commitment to fairness, balance, and inclusiveness in governance. Beyond political recognition, the administration has entrusted competent sons and daughters of Obubra with strategic responsibilities aimed at contributing meaningfully to the development of Cross River State.
Some of the notable appointments from Obubra under the present administration include:
✓Hon. Edema Irom — Commissioner for Women Affairs
✓Hon. Johnson Andiabey Ebokpo — Commissioner for Agriculture and Irrigation Development
✓Hon. Emmanuel Abeng — Commissioner I, Cross River State Forestry Commission (CRSFC)
✓Hon. Gladys Egut — Commissioner, Cross River State Sports Commission
✓Hon. Peter Egba — Special Adviser on Industry
✓Hon. Blessing Egbara — Special Adviser on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
✓Comr. Dan Obo — Special Adviser on Youth Mobilisation
✓Hon. Edibi Okem — Special Adviser to the Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly
✓Chief Mark Nomba — Member, Cross River State Mining Taskforce
✓Barr. Owa Owa — Federal Commissioner, Public Complaints Commission, among others.
Beyond appointments, the administration has also initiated infrastructural development projects in Obubra, including the ongoing Chief John Oyom Okpa Road project and other developmental interventions across the area.
In addition, several qualified sons and daughters of Obubra have reportedly secured employment opportunities through the Cross River State Civil Service Commission under the present administration. This development has renewed hope among many families and strengthened the confidence of young people who desire a government that promotes competence, fairness, and inclusion.
Without doubt, Governor Bassey Edet Otu’s leadership has increased Obubra’s political relevance and visibility within the State. His actions continue to reinforce the principle that governance should not be selective and that no part of Cross River State should be left behind in the collective pursuit of growth and development.
The people of Obubra Local Government Area sincerely appreciate this demonstration of leadership, fairness, and political goodwill. Leadership is remembered not only for policies and projects, but also for the lives impacted, the people empowered, and the opportunities created.
As the administration continues its drive toward the transformation of Cross River State, the people of Obubra remain supportive, hopeful, and committed to contributing positively to the success of the government.
God Bless Cross River State.
George Sunday is the Deputy Director General (DDG) of Grassroots Initiative For Otu/Odey
