Cross River: Otu Charges Rep Member To Sustain Synergy With Grassroots For Rapid Development 

By Dominic OKOH

The Cross River state governor, Sen, Bassey Otu, has charged Hon. Victor Abang, Member representing Ikom/Bolki federal constituency, to sustain his relationship with the grassroots for rapid societal development.

Speaking at a thanksgiving service held in honour of Abang at Lady of Fatima Catholic Church, Bawop, Boki local government area in the Central District of the state, the governor commended the people for standing behind the All Progressives Congress (APC) at the last general elections.

The governor also commended Abang for returning to his people to thank them and also distribute empowerment items barely two months after inauguration, saying it is clear demonstration of his love and commitment to the welfare of his people which should be sustained.

Otu, who was represented by the Deputy Governor, Peter Odey, said the large turn out to the event shows the love and confidence the people have in him at a time when others inaugurated at the same time are still trying to find their feet.

"It is clear that with what Hon Abang has done today that he has a clear vision of what he seeks to achieve for the people of Ikom/Boki federal constituency. I wished that the synergy should be sustained because was God has a hand in his election.

"Those of you who followed his emergence as the candidate of our party, the APC, can recall that the primary election was very tough such that he voluntarily stepped down first saying he was willing to sacrifice himself for peace to reign in his constituency.

"And the night we discussed with then Governor Ben Ayade, I suggested that the man who stepped down first should be given the ticket because it means he means well for the state and his people. Luckily enough, Ayade bought the idea and the next day, Abang emerged as our candidate.

"So, I can say his election is divine and nobody can fight what God himself has ordained. Therefore, I call on those in Court to come out of court and join hands with him to work for the people."

Extolling his leadership qualities, Otu further said Abange has achieved a great feat as he has been able to bring a committee of the House of Representatives to Danare, an area where Cameroon is laying claims to, with a view to working out modalities to ensure peace reigns in the place. 

On his part, Hon Abang said he is ready to work diligently for his people who have considered him fit and worthy to elect h to serve them at the National Assembly.

"I shall serve the Ikom /Boki Federal Constituency faithfully and with all commitment to meet their expectations and desires form my every day responsibility".

He said he thought it worthwhile to thank the people who have first shown him love by standing with him before, during the election and have remained steadfast after his inauguration.

Abang gifted some of his constituents with cars and motorcycles to strengthen the party.

Bishop Donatus Akpan, the Catholic Bishop of Ogoja Diocese commended Abang for his forthrightness, humility and love for the people and admonished him to sustain the relationship and service to his people which is the reason God gave him victory and that no one can stop the hand of God which is set to keep lifting higher to render service to the people.

Delivering a homily at the service, Rev Father Francis Agbor, the Administrator of the Ogoja Catholic Diocese, said Abang is an exemplary figure and full of praises to him for his humility, commitment to the things of God, love for the people and assured that the prayer of the people will continue to uplift and sustain him to continue to serve them."

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