2027: Central Cross River Has Spoken Loud and Clear — Otu Deserves a Return Ticket, Says Akiba
By Ebi COLLINS
Special Adviser to the Governor on General Duties and Chairman of the Cross River Forum of Special Advisers, Ekpenyong Akiba, Esq., has declared that the people of Central Cross River have sent an unmistakable signal of unity and support for the second-term bid of Governor Bassey Edet Otu.
Speaking on the sidelines of the Central Progressives Initiative (CPI) endorsement rally held on Saturday, May 10, 2025, at the Ikom Township Stadium, Akiba said the overwhelming turnout and unanimous voice of the people was a preemptive move to eliminate distractions and reinforce the momentum of governance.
“This is not just an endorsement. It is a clear message from the people of Central to His Excellency: ‘We see your work, we trust your leadership, and we want you to continue.’ While the Governor himself may believe it is too early for politics, the people are already laying a foundation for continuity because they don’t want governance derailed by premature political noise,” Akiba stated.
He emphasized that the progress recorded under the Otu administration—particularly in infrastructure, economic reform, and social empowerment—has restored public trust and confidence in leadership, making a second term not only desirable but necessary.
“The Governor is fulfilling his campaign promises. The dividends of democracy are visible. Projects are ongoing across the state, and the people can feel the impact. That’s why they’re saying: no vacancy in 2027,” he added.
Akiba noted that the rally was not just a political gathering but a show of unity across all strata of government. According to him, all Special Advisers, appointees, and elected officials from the Central Senatorial District were present, reaffirming a 100 percent commitment to Governor Otu.
“We are aligned from top to bottom. The Forum of Special Advisers is mobilized, and everyone is on ground. This is a grassroots-driven mandate for continuity,” he said.
He further stressed that the best way to guarantee sustained development is to allow the Governor to remain focused on governance without the distraction of political contestations.
“Governance is about results, and this administration is delivering. The people know this. That’s why they are saying: let him concentrate, let him continue to attract meaningful development and provide quality leadership. 2027, as far as we are concerned, is a return ticket for Prince Bassey Otu,” he concluded.
