Grassroots Group Pushes Consensus for Otu/Odey 2027, Says ‘Nothing to Oppose’ in C'River
By Benjamin GBOR
Grassroots Initiative for Otu/Odey 2027, has called for a consensus arrangement ahead of the 2027 governorship election in Cross River State, insisting that the current administration has delivered results that leave “nothing to oppose” in the state.
DG of the group, Awade Friday, made the call during a press conference at the NUJ Press Centre in Calabar on Thursday, where he announced the formal launch of the movement aimed at mobilising grassroots support for Governor Bassey Otu and Deputy Governor Peter Odey’s second-term bid.
Awade said the initiative emerged from consultations across communities, noting that citizens were demanding continuity, stability and sustained development in governance. He added that the group would work to build consensus among political parties, stakeholders and residents to support the Otu/Odey ticket for the 2027–2031 tenure.
According to him, the advocacy for a unified ticket is based on what he described as “proven performance and tested loyalty,” particularly commending the deputy governor for his support and partnership with the governor.
He maintained that the administration had recorded progress in infrastructure, education, rural development, agriculture and security, citing the recovery of the Tinapa Business Resort as one of the milestones of the government.
Awade also claimed that Cross River had become one of the safest states in the country, attributing the development to ongoing security measures, road rehabilitation, improved traffic systems and seasonal free transport initiatives introduced by the government.
The group further referenced national recognitions received by the governor, including awards from media organisations, as indicators of public acknowledgement of the administration’s performance.
He called on political parties, civil society organisations, youth groups, traditional institutions and women groups to rally around what he described as a consensus arrangement, rather than engaging in “divisive contests.”
“Consensus in this contest is not a limitation; it is a strategy for stability, growth and collective prosperity. There is nothing to oppose in Cross River State,” he said.
Awade added that the initiative would embark on community engagement, sensitisation campaigns and consultations across the state to mobilise support for the proposed second-term bid.
He also acknowledged key government officials and supporters of the movement, while extending birthday wishes to the governor’s wife, Bishop Eyoanwan Otu, for her contributions to social and community development.
The group urged stakeholders to promote unity and issue-based politics, emphasising that collective support for continuity would strengthen governance and sustain development in the state.
