STRENGTHENING COMMUNITY TIES: DR. PETER ODEY’S STRATEGIC TOUR OF NORTHERN LGAS - Fred Abua, Esq
Rt. Hon. Dr. Peter Odey, Deputy Governor of Cross River State, recently embarked on a strategic tour of the five northern Local Government Areas (LGAs) of the state. The aim: to engage directly with citizens and better understand their needs and expectations. This initiative reflects a clear commitment to people-focused governance and aligns with Governor Bassey Otu’s People First agenda.
Dr. Odey’s outreach signals a shift toward responsive, grassroots-based leadership. Rather than applying generic solutions to complex local issues, the tour provides an opportunity to design policies and programs that are tailored to the realities of each LGA. It addresses a long-standing challenge in governance—misdirected development efforts that result in underused or abandoned infrastructure due to the absence of proper needs assessments.
By listening to community voices and responding directly to their concerns, the administration is laying the groundwork for more effective, sustainable, and inclusive development.
So far, the tour has covered two of the five LGAs. During these visits, community leaders and stakeholders have openly shared their challenges and priorities. A recurring theme in their feedback has been widespread appreciation for Governor Otu’s rural development initiatives, particularly visible infrastructure projects that are transforming rural communities and revitalizing long-neglected public assets.
Among these projects are the construction of the Yahe–Ebo–Wanokom–Benue Border Road in Ukelle, the Ndok Junction–Abakpa–Igoli–Moniaya Ring Road, and the Ndok–Mbube Road in Ogoja. These strategic developments have significantly improved road connectivity, expanded access to remote areas, and unlocked new economic opportunities.
Governor Otu has also demonstrated a strong understanding of ‘government is a continuum’ by his commitment to building on inherited foundations and completing major projects initiated by previous administrations. A prime example in the north is the Obudu Cargo Airport, which has progressed to advanced stages of completion under his leadership.
In Yala LGA, one stakeholder expressed deep appreciation, pledging total support for the Governor and his deputy ahead of the 2027 elections. He highlighted the administration’s magnanimity, particularly its inclusion of several Yala indigenes in key federal and state appointments. “The Yala people are committed to returning kindness for kindness,” he affirmed.
As the tour continues across the remaining LGAs, it is clear that Dr. Peter Odey’s initiative is achieving more than administrative outreach. It is reinforcing trust, promoting inclusion, and reaffirming the principle that effective governance begins with the people.
The Northern tour which was deliberately planned to coincide with the new yam festivals could not have been better timed; His Excellency’s entourage will be celebrating the festivals with fanfare in all the LGAs. He has doled out N15,000,000 to N25,000,000 to stakeholders of each LGA ranging from women and youths to traditional rulers.
Today, in his Idum-Mbube community, the Deputy Governor is celebrating 'Bitchong Ifife' as the festival is called in the local parlance. This gesture is an indication of the government's commitment to cultural heritage and community engagement. As Dr. Peter Odey immerses himself in the local culture, thankfully enjoying traditional delicacies like pounded yam with bansan soup and palmwine, it is clear that this tour will achieve more than just governance, it will lead to the building of stronger relationships and fostering a sense of community.
Fred Abua is Press Secretary to the Deputy Governor of Cross River State.
