C'River Gov't Commences Distribution of Palliatives to Political Parties
By Agba ATUABO
In a move aimed at providing relief, the Cross River state government has commenced distribution of palliatives to various political parties across the state.
The distribution ceremony, held on July 26, 2024, at the CROSPIL Secretariat, State Housing, Calabar, was attended by representatives from over 18 political parties, amplifying the Governor Bassey Edet Otu's administration's commitment and support for all political stakeholders, irrespective of their affiliations.
In her opening remarks, the Special Adviser on Inter-Party Affairs, Hon. Nkoyo Otu, highlighted the government's efforts to ensure that no segment of the political landscape is left unattended in these challenging times.
"Today happens to be the official flag off of palliative distribution to all political parties in Cross River State. This gesture shows clearly that our dear Governor, H.E Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, has the people at heart. He recognises the crucial role that each party plays in our democratic process, and it is the government's responsibility to support and sustain a healthy political environment."
She further elaborated on the government's strategy to ensure equitable distribution, noting that the palliatives were carefully allocated based on the size and needs of each party, ensuring that every group receives adequate assistance.
"The chairmen are here to pick up their palliatives and return to their various parties for equitable distribution. I had to share it party by party because I don't want to hear stories of missing palliatives or being sidelined. I had to arrange them into nineteen representing the nineteen political parties in the state," she concluded.
Representatives from various political parties expressed their gratitude for the government's gesture.
Mr Victor Eyo Harrison, the chairman of the Alliance for Democracy (AD), remarked: "My party is in support of the hygienic democratic leadership content of the 'Sweet Prince," the Executive Governor of Cross River State. I want to put it very clearly here for the good and sensibility of the electorates that brought this very laudable idea. This administration has so much to offer in terms of democratic dividends. They have all it takes to banish hunger, consolidate stomarch infrastructure and provide purposeful leadership."
Also expressing gratitude on behalf of the Conference of Nigerian Political Parties (CNPP), the chairman, Pst Michael Odun, highlighted the symbolic importance of the gesture.
"We are here for the palliatives given to us by His Excellency, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, the Executive Governor of Cross River State. We have received our share on behalf of the CNPP and we are particularly very grateful to his Excellency for reaching us at this very critical time.
"In these times of division and uncertainty, such actions remind us that we are all part of the same political family. This support will go a long way in fostering unity and cooperation among us. He promised us the 'People's First' agenda and that's exactly what we are experiencing," he concluded.
Equitably flagged by Hon. Nkoyo Otu, the distribution of palliatives by the Government of Cross River State to political parties is a significant step towards providing much-needed relief in challenging times.
