Cross River South Leaders Affirm Confidence in Governor Otu’s Leadership
By Ebi COLLINS
The Cross River South Consultative Forum (CRSCF) has reaffirmed its support for Governor Bassey Otu, passing a unanimous vote of confidence in his leadership and governance. This endorsement, which highlights his administration’s achievements, was declared during the forum’s inaugural stakeholders’ conference held on Sunday at the Metropolitan Hotel, Calabar.
The motion for the vote of confidence was jointly moved by Prof. Eyo Etim Nyong, Chairman of the State Advisory Council, and Rt. Hon. Francis Asuquo, Leader of the 10th Cross River State House of Assembly and representative of Odukpani State Constituency. The unanimous adoption of the motion by the forum signified overwhelming approval of Governor Otu’s leadership and developmental strides.
“Governor Otu has demonstrated exceptional leadership and a clear vision for the advancement of Cross River State. We are confident in his ability to sustain the ongoing transformation and fulfill his promises to the people,” Prof. Nyong stated.
Hon. Eyo Nsa Ekpo, Esq., Chairman of the CRSCF, commended Governor Otu’s governance style, highlighting the forum’s proactive role since its inception in 2023 in advocating for political alignment and strategic appointments within the state.
“We took decisive steps by engaging our National Assembly representatives and ministers in Abuja, emphasizing the need for total loyalty to Governor Otu as the state’s leader. We are pleased that our stance has been widely accepted,” Ekpo noted.
He highlighted the Governor’s deep connection with the grassroots, his commitment to infrastructure, electricity, and youth empowerment, and how these initiatives have earned him widespread support among the people.
“For the first time, we have a governor who truly resonates with the people. His humility and dedication to the ‘People First’ agenda are unmatched. Roads are being built, electricity is reaching remote areas, and young people are being empowered. This is the hallmark of purposeful governance,” Ekpo added.
Sir Maurice Effiwatt, Secretary of the CRSCF, emphasized the importance of regional unity and cooperation to maximize the opportunities available to the Southern Senatorial District.
“This is our time, and we must take full advantage of it. We must stand united in supporting the Governor’s vision for our region’s development and ensure we create a lasting legacy for future generations,” Effiwatt urged.
The forum highlighted several accomplishments under Governor Otu’s administration, including: Major road construction and rehabilitation projects, such as the 12.5km Ogoja road and the Yache-Wanokom-Wanikade road in Yala; Provision of transformers and rural electrification initiatives to address persistent power supply challenges; Implementation of programs aimed at fostering economic growth and creating job opportunities for young people; and Strengthening agricultural initiatives and providing increased support for farmers to enhance productivity.
The conference concluded with a strong call for sustained collaboration and strategic planning to address the state’s developmental challenges. The forum pledged its commitment to working closely with Governor Otu and other stakeholders to ensure the effective implementation of policies and projects that will benefit the people of Cross River State.
The meeting was attended by prominent political and community leaders, including former Nigerian Ambassador Etubom Nya Asuquo, former Deputy Governor Prof. Ivara Esu, Ntufam Eyo Nsa Willey, Prof. Eyo Etim Nyong, Ntufam John Okon, Ntufam Edim Inok, and Prof. Offiong Effanga Offiong of the University of Calabar.
Also present were Hon. Abigail Duke, the State Commissioner for Commerce; all nine legislators representing constituencies in the Southern Senatorial District, including Rt. Hon. Francis Asuquo (Odukpani), Hon. Linus Bassey Etim (Akamkpa II), Hon. Okon Owuna (Akamkpa I), Hon. Bassey Effiong Bassey (Akpabuyo), Hon. Eyo Bassey (Bakassi), Hon. Francis Onete Ogban (Biase), Hon. Stanley Bassey Nsemo (Calabar Municipal), Hon. Effiong Ekarika (Calabar South I), and Hon. Victor Nsa (Calabar South II).
Additionally, members of the State Executive Council from the southern senatorial district, Director Generals of boards from the south, local government chairmen from Cross River South, traditional rulers, and other key stakeholders were in attendance.
