Office of the Special Assistant on Communication, Cross River State

23/12/2023

PRESS RELEASE
Obong Stool: Don’t Test Our Patience, Gov. Otu Warns Traducers

Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State has warned all those flouting the State Government’s directive on the settled matter of the Obong of Calabar stool not to test the patience of his administration over their unguarded utterances and other actions that could threaten the existing peace.

Speaking at the 12th Utomo Obong Festival (homage to the Obong of Calabar) at Adiabo, Odukpani local government area on Saturday, December 23, the Governor stressed that it is unbecoming of certain individuals to make insinuations, provocative statements on a matter that the State Government has taken a position on following a ruling by the Supreme Court.

“Enough is enough! We have no problem with anybody or group seeking judicial remedy to whatever perceived grievances there are. But this government will no longer tolerate insinuations, provocative statements capable of truncating the peace.

“Power comes from God, therefore, whoever God has given power to should be supported by all. The State Government has taken a position based on the law, and some people do not want to accept that. We will no longer tolerate any situation that threatens the peace of the state.

“The Obong stool as one of the few Treaty Kings East of the Niger is highly revered and should be supported by all,” the Governor stated.

According to Governor Otu, the State Government would “partner with the Palace of Obong of Calabar in seeking classical and ancient sagacity in providing good governance for our people under a convivial atmosphere and consistent policy framework and implementation.

“The security, peace process, due diligence and decency demonstrated in the Efik kingdom architecture have informed our numerous achievements in the state in the past six months.”
He described His Eminence Edidem Ekpo Okon Abasi Otu V, the 78th Efik monarch, “as a man of peace, a champion of inclusiveness and an evolutionary cultural dynamo.

“His sterling reign has seen to the stable federation of the Twelve Efik principalities. The establishment of Obong of Calabar Executive Forum as the fulcrum of his engagements with his subjects in Efik Language Development, educational support programmes and dynamic preservation of culture and traditions of the Efiks is highly commendable. This cultural fiesta is the icing on the cake as it provides the platform for tangible manifestation of the Efik ethos and cosmology.”

He further commended the Royal Father for his “calmness of mind and stability of disposition in the face of the challenges to the throne,” stressing that, “As a Government, we salute the genuine approach to achieving peaceful reign over the Efiks and the inhabitants of Calabar.”

Governor Otu informed the gathering of Efik sons and daughters as well as well-wishers from far and wide of his administration’s resolve to build a befitting palace for the Obong.

The gathering had in attendance the 12 clans paying homage to the Obong as well as notable personalities like former Governor Donald Duke, Senator Florence Ita-Giwa, Prof. Eyo Etim Nyong, Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong, and Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Dr. Betta Edu.

Mrs. Nella Andem-Ewa SAN was the chairman of the occasion, with High Chief Gershom Henshaw as the chairman of the Obong of Calabar Executive Forum.

20/12/2023

People First

20/12/2023

When Governor Bassey Otu played host to APC National Woman Leader, Dr. Mary Alile Idele, on Tuesday, December 19, 2023 at the temporary Governor's Office, Calabar.

19/12/2023

Press Release

Governor Otu Approves Extended Holiday for Civil Servants

Governor Bassey Edet Otu has approved extended holiday for civil servants in Cross River State.

The Governor in appreciation of the commitment and hardwork of civil servants has approved December 20th to January 2, 2024 as holidays except for those on essential duties.

Governor Otu enjoined the civil servants to use the opportunity to spend quality time with their families while also being actively involved in the Carnival Calabar.

The Governor retierated the commitment of his administration in providing quality and conducive environment for all citizens and residents of the state, while wishing them a Merry Christmas and a Prosperous New Year.

14/12/2023

PRESS RELEASE

Governor Bassey Otu to Launch 2024 Armed Forces Remembrance Emblem and Appeal Week

Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State will launch the 2024 Armed Forces Remembrance Emblem and Appeal Week on December 15 in Calabar.

The annual event aims to honor and remember the sacrifices made by the brave men and women of the armed forces who dedicated their lives to protecting our nation.

It serves as a reminder of their selflessness, courage, and dedication to duty.

During the launch, Governor Otu will officially unveil the 2024 Armed Forces Remembrance Emblem, which symbolizes our respect and gratitude for the sacrifices made by our armed forces personnel.

The emblem represents commitment to supporting the welfare of veterans and their families.

The event will be attended by distinguished guests, including top government officials, military personnel, veterans, community leaders, and members of the public.

It will feature ceremonial activities, and a display of military prowess to honor the valor and dedication of our armed forces.

The event is scheduled to hold on December 15, 2023 at the main Bowl of the Cultural Centre Complex, Calabar at 10am

Emmanuel Ogbeche
Chief Press Secretary to Governor
13/12/23

09/12/2023

Gov Otu Condoles With Ex-Gov Ayade Over Sister's Death

Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State has described death as the inevitable end all humans must tread when their work on earth is over.

Otu made the statement when he paid a condolence visit on his predecessor, Sen. (Prof) Ben Ayade, over the demise of his younger sister, Mrs. Janet Ateb Oniga, in Kakim, Obudu LGA of the state.

"I came here to pay the last respect to our dear sister, late Mrs Janet Ateb, who passed into eternal glory though at a very young age.

"Although we cannot question God, because He is the all knowing, we however know that death is a necessary end of all humans on earth.

"So, I came here to commiserate with our dear former governor over this unfortunate situation and to encourage him and indeed all members of the family to remain strong even in the face of adversity such as this, because no matter what happens, God is still on the throne."

Governor Otu, who was accompanied during the visit by top government officials of the state, later signed a condolence register and prayed for the peaceful repose of the deceased.

Reacting, former Governor Ayade commended Governor Otu for his humility and love, describing him as a very compassionate leader.

"I am very humbled for the kind of humility and love the governor has shown towards us at this time of our grief. I am particularly impressed with his humble and kind nature and that is why he is doing very well in the state right now.

"I just want to sincerely appreciate him and the entire people of the state for their prayers at this difficult time for our family," the former governor stated.

Late Mrs. Ateb died on November 24, 2023 at the age of 54 after a brief illness.

02/12/2023

30/11/2023

*NEWS FLASH*

Gov Otu Rewards Youths For Playing Useful Security Roles.

The state governor, Senator Bassey Otu has presented a cash donation to some youths from Nyanghasang community in Calabar Municipality for security consciousness and being vanguards against crime in their locality.

The governor's gesture came in fulfillment of an earlier promise made at his inaugural media parley with journalists in the state where he promised to reward community leaders and persons who will help with useful security information that will lead to the apprehension of kidnappers and other criminal elements in the state.

Represented by his Chief of Staff, Hon. Emmanuel Ironbar, the state governor assured all citizens of his administration's willingness to partner with the people to ensure the security of lives and properties.

Recall that the youths of Nyanghasang community had assisted security operatives in apprehending some criminals who kidnapped, Mrs. Caroline Bassey, a former staff of the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, at her residence in Calabar.

Government House Press
Calabar
30/11/23

30/11/2023

Gov Otu Rewards Youths For Playing Useful Security Roles.

The state governor, Senator Bassey Otu has presented a cash donation to some youths from Nyanghasang community in Calabar Municipality for security consciousness and being vanguards against crime in their locality.

The governor's gesture came in fulfillment of an earlier promise made at his inaugural media parley with journalists in the state where he promised to reward community leaders and persons who will help with useful security information that will lead to the apprehension of kidnappers and other criminal elements in the state.

Represented by his Chief of Staff, Hon. Emmanuel Ironbar, the state governor assured all citizens of his administration's willingness to partner with the people to ensure the security of lives and properties.

Recall that the youths of Nyanghasang community had assisted security operatives in apprehending some criminals who kidnapped, Mrs. Caroline Bassey, a former staff of the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, at her residence in Calabar.

Government House Press
Calabar
30/11/23

27/11/2023

My Administration Will Consolidate On Predecessors' Gains - Gov. Otu

Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River has assured that his administration will consolidate on the gains of his predecessors to make the state a cynosure of infrastructural development and economic prosperity.

Governor Otu made the assertion, weekend, while speaking at a thanksgiving service by the Senator representing the State's Southern Senatorial District, Asuquo Ekpenyong, held at the Duke Town Cathedral of the Presbyterian Church of Nigeria, Calabar.

"In Cross River State, we are laying solid foundations, building on the gains of our predecessors. We know what Governors Donald Duke, Liyel Imoke and Ben Ayade did. This time around, we are going to explode.

"It is in difficult times like this that things happen. I know people would be wondering about the subsidy removal and harsh economic realities, asking: how is he going to do it? But the answer has been provided in the Holy Writ that, "what God cannot do does not exist," the governor confidently remarked.

He assured Cross Riverians of his leadership's resolve to take the state to the next level, quipping that "in less than two years from now, we would not be singing this old tune again; Cross River must have changed.
"Already within a few months, we have added to our Gross Domestic Product (GDP). We would make sure that we succeed. Just a little patience and the future would be very bright."

On the thanksgiving service, Otu said, "we are very proud of Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong and the support from his colleagues in the National Assembly, who are present at the event. To come like this in their numbers shows the acceptability and direction our nation is going.
"I have no doubt in the institution of the legislature. It is a happy day for the All Progressives Congress, APC, and all lovers of democracy."

22/11/2023

BREAKING

Again, Gov. Otu floors Sandy Onor as Appeal Court sitting in Lagos throws out application filed by Sen. Sandy Onor, challenging the judgment of the Election Petition Tribunal for lacking in merit.

07/11/2023

Gov Otu Seeks Increased Security Deployment To State

Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Otu, has sought for increased security presence as a littoral and border state.

Otu made the appeal when he received in audience Course 32 participants from the National Defence College, Abuja.

The Governor said the plea has become imperative as security of the citizens remains the core of his administration.

"With the peculiar topography of Cross River State, we need more security personnel. From the creeks of Bakassi to the hills of Obanliku, we need a strengthened security architecture in order to w**d out any form of crime and criminality in the state," the Governor said.

Applauding the theme for the study tour, "Strengthening National Unity for Security and Development in Nigeria: An Appraisal of Efforts of Cross River State," the governor described it as important, noting that over the years, Cross River has been using its rich cultural heritage in fostering national unity and peaceful coexistence.

He commended the military for their dexterity, saying: "these are men who put their lives in harm's way to defend the territorial integrity of the country, and maintaining peace and stability of the nation."

Earlier, the leader of the team, Commodore Mohammed Adamu Muye, informed that the team is in Cross River on a national study tour to acquaint participants with the socio-political environment of Nigeria.

According to Muye, who is also the Director, Department of Curriculum and Programme Development of the College, participants at the end of the tour would present their findings, highlighting the peculiarities of Cross River based on firsthand information.

He explained that the College, presently designated as the ECOWAS Training Centre of Excellence for Peace and Conflict Studies, since inception in 1992, has trained 2, 758 participants, pointing out that Course 32 comprises 109 trainees, including 19 international participants from Brazil, India, Bangladesh, amongst others.

Muye further explained that the team will also cover Taraba, Ebonyi, Adamawa, Kano and Kwara States as part of the national study tour aimed at generating viable ideas towards strengthening national unity and cohesion.

04/11/2023

Cross River State holds second Solemn Assembly with the theme: Total Recovery

03/11/2023

Carnival Calabar: Gov Otu Woos Investors With Tax Holidays

Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Edet Otu, has offered global investors willing to invest in the state of a tax haven.

Otu made the commitment when he hosted top global CEOs in Lagos, Nigeria's economic capital, at a breakfast meeting aimed at enhancing the tourism fortunes of the state.

"Your presence here speaks volume of your confidence and support for my administration. I don't take that for granted at all. For those of you willing to do business in Cross River State, we assure you of every incentive and support to do business including tax holidays and lots more.

"For all the banks, manufacturers, and every other businesses willing to come to our state, we assure you of great opportunities to make good fortunes in terms of fantastic government policy, regulations and conducive business environment," the governor assured.

Governor Otu expressed his administration's determination to create an enabling environment for all businesses to thrive.

Earlier, chairman of the state’s carnival commission, Mr. Gabe Onah, expressed the state government's willingness to grow the tourism sector, calling on investors to see the state as an investment destination of choice .

02/11/2023

HE, Governor Bassey Otu with Former Minister of Power, Works and Housing, HE, Babatunde Fashola, in an interaction at Lagos airport VIP lounge shortly upon arriving Lagos for Carnival Calabar and Festival CEO roundtable breakfast meeting scheduled for Friday 3rd November 2023 - Thursday 02/11/2023

30/10/2023

24/10/2023

East-West Road: Otu wants more funding for Cross River State

Governor Bassey Otu has commended the Senate for its effort at the completion of the East-West Road, while making case for more funding for the state.

The governor made this known when he hosted the Senate Ad-hoc Committee on the East-West Road at the Dan Archibong Lodge, Calabar, on Tuesday.

“The East-West Road is one of the several critical infrastructures that have been left to decay in our country over time. Even in this period of palliatives, if there is anything worse than not having the palliatives, then it is when the main arteries that connect the state and should help in carrying the palliatives are not there,” Otu told the Senator Abdul Ningi-led committee.

Speaking further, Governor Otu said there was need for modifications to the East-West Road drawings into Calabar to avoid traffic snarl as witnessed in some major cities in the country.

The governor used the opportunity to draw attention to the Calabar-Ogoja Expressway, which he said, was in no better shape and expressed the confidence that the President Tinubu administration will rise to the occasion and provide the much-needed infrastructural repairs and upgrade.

Also, Senator Otu noted that Cross River State has suffered over the Green Tree Treaty which ceded part of the state to a foreign country leading to loss of its littoral assets.

“We have borne and bearing the pain of the country over the Greentree Agreement and it is only fair that Nigeria does right by our state. We need more interventions and my hope is that your committee, though ad-hoc in nature, will present our case to the Senate and ease our burden,” he said.

Speaking earlier, Senator Ningi said the East-West Road which is supposed to represent fairness and justice of a major economic hub of the country has not met that aspiration even by four succeeding presidents starting from Olusegun Obasanjo, Umaru Musa Yarádua, Goodluck Jonathan and Muhammadu Buhari.

“We have traversed the East-West Road from Bayelsa, Delta, Rivers, Akwa Ibom and now Cross River, it is disturbing what we have found in the course of this assignment, the inability of the overseeing agencies of government to come together and give the road the much needed attention.

“There is complete lack of synergy between the NDDC, Federal Ministry of Works, FERMA and the states which the road passes through.

“After the first leg of this assignment, we are going to have a 2-day public hearing on why the East-West Road has remained as it is uncompleted. Who are the contractors, what have they received, so that people will not just collect money from the federal government and disappear,” Ningi said.

Bemoaning the state of the Calabar-Itu Highway, Senator Ningi said, “I have never seen and experienced what we saw on that road anywhere. Thousands of trucks stuck in traffic with little or no motion. If we didn’t have the military with us and even at that, we spent over six hours plus on a major highway.

“So, I believe that something urgent needs to be done including the fifth and final stage of the East-West Road which is the Calabar-Oron end of the road.
“Yes there is infrastructural deficit across the country, but what we witnessed, was something else on that road.”

Senator Ningi praised Governor Otu for his administrative acumen and hoped that he will bring his legislative experience to bear in the affairs of the state and urged Cross Riverians to give the governor the much needed support to succeed.

Some members on the team include Senator Ikra Bilbis, the clerk of committee, Foluke Ogunbayo, the South-South Zonal Director of Federal Ministry of Works, Engr. Clement Ogbuagu, amongst others.

05/10/2023

HE, Prince Bassey Otu, in audience with Management team from Margaret Ekpo International Airport

04/10/2023

Otu Assures Civil Servants of Improved Welfare, To Clear Retirees' Gratuities By December
.. Swears-in Eteng as Head of Service

Cross River Governor, Senator Bassey Otu has assured civil servants of his administration's commitment to improving their welfare and the working conditions in the workforce as well as clearing backlog of retirees' gratuities before the end of the year.

Otu, who made the commitment, today, during the swearing-in ceremony of Dr. Innocent Eteng as the new Head of Service of Cross River State, said "It is saddening that someone would serve for 35 years, save for a rainy day, and then die for lack of cash to attend to their health needs," insisting that "such ugly trend must stop."

Continuing, the governor said: "We want the civil servants to be focused in their places of assignment, knowing that their contributory pension is due them at the end of the day. Because without these people, continuity in governance would not be possible."

The governor, who acknowledged the depletion of personnel especially the older and more experienced ones in the service, informed that his administration was looking for a way to retain some of those retirees in order to mentor and transfer knowledge to the younger generation of civil servants.

Congratulating the new Head of Service, Governor Otu reminded him that, "To whom much is given, much is expected. You are coming at a very precarious time where the state civil service is at the brink. We want you to rejig and put things in proper perspectives."

"Dr. Eteng, we want to build a smart civil service. You will understand that we do not play politics with civil servants. The bureaucracy is very important as the engine of government, so we want you to rejig and put it in proper perspectives. Due process must be prioritised at all times," the governor said.

Expressing belief in the newly sworn-in Head of Service, the governor enjoined him to take charge and deliver to the best of his ability for the betterment of the service and the state at large.

He further assured the HoS of his administration's support towards the service, saying "my doors would be open to you at all times."

Earlier, the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Anthony Owan Enoh, said Dr. Eteng, who until his appointment was serving in the SSG's office as Permanent Secretary, is someone who has risen to the echelon of the civil service not by sponsorship, but by achievement and dint of hard work.

He described him as a man of intellect, robust, energetic, charismatic, fearless, hardworking and sound, whose appointment is so well-deserved, expressing confidence in his ability to improve the civil service and bureaucracy of the state.

In his response, the newly sworn-in Head of Service, Dr. Innocent Eteng, thanked the governor for finding him worthy of the onerous assignment of recalibrating and reforming the state civil service, assuring of his best.

02/10/2023

GOODWILL MESSAGE FROM HIS EXCELLENCY, THE GOVERNOR OF CROSS RIVER STATE – SENATOR PRINCE BASSEY E. OTU TO THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE ON THE OCCASION OF THE 63RD INDEPENDENCE ANNIVERSARY OF NIGERIA, 1ST OCTOBER, 2023

PROTOCOL....

My dear Cross Riverians, today we take a retrospective view and celebrate the arrest, intimidation, incarceration and other forms of human indignity our heroes of conscience suffered in order to set Nigeria free from the shackles of colonialism. The continuous reminiscence of who we were under Britain – our colonial masters and who we ought to be as an independent country, leaves much on our head to ponder and much on our hands to do in order to justify our independence. Our independence therefore ought to be the celebration of our self-determination, independent thought and action. Every 1st October of a year is therefore a period for deep reflection on our individual patriotic contribution towards nation building, rather than an occasion for fanfare and media razzmatazz.

When the Nigeria Green-White-Green flag was being hoisted on 1st October, 1960 and the Britain Union Jack lowered, that was a symbolic elevation of the consciousness of Nigerians to take their destiny into their hands by way of patriotic zeal and action.
While we applaud the patriotic consciousness of the late Mike Enohoro for moving a motion for Nigeria independence in the British Parliament in 1953, we should realize the fact that the action was borne out of sheer sacrifice and patriotism. In this auspicious occasion of our independence anniversary, I urge everyone’s watchword to be “the country first”. Our collective resolve and sacrifice we make as a people will make the country greater than what it was prior to 1st October, 1960. It is the only driving force towards a better Nigeria. For it is our sense of unity that will guarantee the indivisibility of our country, sense of ingenuity will give us technological breakthrough while our sense of patriotism will be an enabler of peace and security of our nation.

Fellow Cross Riverians, we are not denying the fact that we live presently in a very hostile economic environment with our compatriots in other States of the Federation. The same or less degree of this unfriendly economic climate is also prevalent in other parts of the world. What is required of all is solidarity, patience, resilience and love to collectively get our economy out of the woods. With our individual ideas put together, we will ultimately bring success to our present suffering.

The past sixty three years of our nation’s independence, has seen us record some modest achievements in the political sphere, infrastructure, and importantly, We have had twenty four years (still counting) of unbroken civilian democratic governance.

In order to consolidate on these gains, I enjoin all of us to bridge the fault lines of ethnicity, crime and criminality, hate and rancour and instead, imbibe the true spirit of brotherhood, patriotism and commitment to protect our democratic experience so that our political leaders can continue to peovide the needed leadership.

My administration will continue to work selflessly and sacrificially to take us to the Cross River of our collective dreams.

I wish all of us a joyous 63rd independence celebration of our dear nativeland - Nigeria.
May God bless Cross River State!
May His face shine upon Nigeria!
Thank you.

Sen. Prince Bassey E. Otu
Executive Governor

29/09/2023

Gov. Otu dedicates victory to Cross Riverians, woos opposition

Governor Bassey Edet Otu of Cross River State has hailed the judiciary on his victory at the Election Petition Tribunal, Tuesday in Calabar, dedicating the outcome to Cross Riverians and urging the opposition to sheath their swords.

The Elections Petition Tribunal led by Justice Oken Inneh dismissed all the reliefs sought by the petitioners in Suit No. EPT/CR/GOV02/2023 and affirmed the election of Senator Otu and his deputy, Rt. Hon Peter Odey, on March 18, 2023.


Reacting to the tribunal judgement, Otu said, “It is with great delight and a high sense of responsibility that I welcome the judgement of the Election Petition Tribunal, which gave us our deserved victory and has affirmed the mandate Cross Riverians freely and overwhelmingly gave to us on March 18, 2023.

“Our confidence in the judiciary has never been in doubt. And it has been reinforced by today’s dispassionate ruling on the elections. I commend the Election Petition Tribunal for proving their mettle once again by upholding the virtues of justice, fair play and responsibility.

“I call on all Cross Riverians to join hands with my administration as we continue to put in place the administrative framework needed to realize the noble objectives of our People’s First mandate.

“With this judgment, I call on members of the opposition, who are our brothers and sisters, to take the ruling in good faith, jettison any further appeals and join hands with my administration to bring the much needed dividends of democracy to our people.

“It is expedient for me to stress that if our dear state, Cross River, must be counted amongst the Comity of States with bright future and great economic potential and social security, then all hands must be on deck to make the lofty dream come true.

“Our well-thought out People First Agenda remains sacrosanct in attaining its goals. What I urge of all citizens and those who have found here as home whether for business, investment, pleasure or education, is to be patient and give us the needed support as we work to reposition the state for the better.

“Fellow Cross Riverians, the present times call for sacrifices on the path of everyone. We must remain resolute and strive to play our various roles in the development of our beloved State.

“Finally, I thank the executive and members of our great party, the APC, and all Cross Riverians for their support, loyalty and unflinching solidarity before, during and after the elections.

“As we take our destiny in our hands and resolve never to be left behind, may the Almighty God reward our efforts and remain our crowning glory.”

26/09/2023

Gov. Otu dedicates victory to Cross Riverians, woos opposition

Governor Bassey Edet Otu of Cross River State has hailed the judiciary on his victory at the Election Petition Tribunal, Tuesday in Calabar, dedicating the outcome to Cross Riverians and urging the opposition to sheath their swords.

The Elections Petition Tribunal led by Justice Oken Inneh dismissed all the reliefs sought by the petitioners in Suit No. EPT/CR/GOV02/2023 and affirmed the election of Senator Otu and his deputy, Rt. Hon Peter Odey, on March 18, 2023.


Reacting to the tribunal judgement, Otu said, “It is with great delight and a high sense of responsibility that I welcome the judgement of the Election Petition Tribunal, which gave us our deserved victory and has affirmed the mandate Cross Riverians freely and overwhelmingly gave to us on March 18, 2023.

“Our confidence in the judiciary has never been in doubt. And it has been reinforced by today’s dispassionate ruling on the elections. I commend the Election Petition Tribunal for proving their mettle once again by upholding the virtues of justice, fair play and responsibility.

“I call on all Cross Riverians to join hands with my administration as we continue to put in place the administrative framework needed to realize the noble objectives of our People’s First mandate.

“With this judgment, I call on members of the opposition, who are our brothers and sisters, to take the ruling in good faith, jettison any further appeals and join hands with my administration to bring the much needed dividends of democracy to our people.

“It is expedient for me to stress that if our dear state, Cross River, must be counted amongst the Comity of States with bright future and great economic potential and social security, then all hands must be on deck to make the lofty dream come true.

“Our well-thought out People First Agenda remains sacrosanct in attaining its goals. What I urge of all citizens and those who have found here as home whether for business, investment, pleasure or education, is to be patient and give us the needed support as we work to reposition the state for the better.

“Fellow Cross Riverians, the present times call for sacrifices on the path of everyone. We must remain resolute and strive to play our various roles in the development of our beloved State.

“Finally, I thank the executive and members of our great party, the APC, and all Cross Riverians for their support, loyalty and unflinching solidarity before, during and after the elections.

“As we take our destiny in our hands and resolve never to be left behind, may the Almighty God reward our efforts and remain our crowning glory.”