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  • Otu reaffirms unity, highlights key milestones in 2026 in New Year message

    Otu reaffirms unity, highlights key milestones in 2026 in New Year message

    Cross River Governor, Senator Bassey Edet Otu, has called on Cross Riverians to sustain unity and collective purpose as the surest pathway to shared prosperity, declaring that the state’s steady progress is the fruit of inclusive governance and deliberate collaboration. 

    In his 2026 New Year message entitled: “Together, We Flourish,” the Governor expressed profound gratitude to God for life and preservation, noting that many who began 2025 with the state did not live to see the New Year.

    Reflecting on the journey so far, Otu reminded the Cross Riverians that from the outset of his administration, he made it clear that governance would be participatory. “I was not pretentious of having all the answers,” he said, stressing that development could only be achieved through collective effort. This conviction, he explained, birthed the “Think Cross River” initiative—an attitudinal reorientation project urging citizens to place the state’s interest above personal considerations.

    The Governor said this philosophy of togetherness informed the constitution of key advisory and governance structures, including the State Elders’ Forum (SEF), the Economic Management Team (EMT), the state Strategic Policy Advisory Committee (SPAC), and the Party Caucus Forum (PCF). According to him, these bodies were designed to provide both wisdom and technical guidance in steering the affairs of the state.

    He commended members of the various bodies for their shared vision and cooperation, noting that his cabinet reflects the diversity of Cross River State. “Every ethnic nationality, every local government area and every senatorial district is a stakeholder in my administration,” Governor Otu stated, describing these steps as “verifiable indices of an inclusive government.”

    Otu said the unity of purpose has yielded tangible dividends, evident in improved livelihoods and visible achievements across sectors. He said the gains recorded in the past two and a half years are the direct outcome of collective resolve and consistent teamwork.

    Read Also: Otu opens 2025 bikers’ carnival

    On agriculture, the Governor informed his administration has deliberately repositioned the sector as the backbone of the state’s economy. He announced the establishment of crop-specific clusters across the state, with rice in Ndok Ogoja, cassava in Odukpani and Obubra, oil palm in Boki and Akamkpa, cocoa in Etung and Ikom, alongside coffee cultivation statewide. He also revealed that a Value Chain Policy Strategy committee has been inaugurated for cocoa, oil palm and coffee.

    To enhance productivity, Governor Otu said 108 three-wheel tractors have been distributed to farmers’ cooperatives, while 100 fishing and commercial boats were provided to riverine communities. He added that oil palm estates are being repositioned through Public-Private Partnerships, while digital soil mapping has been completed to guide prospective agro-investors. “We recently performed the groundbreaking for the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zone in partnership with the African Development Bank,” he noted.

    On infrastructure, the Governor described the Bakassi Deep Seaport as the state’s most significant economic game-changer. He recalled that following comprehensive technical studies, the Federal Executive Council approved the project with an initial capital outlay of $2.27 billion. “On December 17, 2025, we received the Certificate of Compliance—the final approval document. We are now counting days to the formal groundbreaking,” he announced.

    Otu also stated Cross River State has successfully reclaimed ownership of the Tinapa Business and Resort Limited from AMCON after years of inactivity. He disclosed that discussions are already underway with investors, particularly in agriculture-related ventures, to revive the iconic facility.

    The Governor urged Cross Riverians to remain united, stressing that togetherness remains the key to sustained progress. “To come together is the beginning, to stay together is progress, and to work together is success,” he said, wishing the people a prosperous New Year and God’s manifold blessings. He reaffirmed his commitment to leading a government anchored on unity, continuity and shared prosperity.

  • Otu opens 2025 bikers’ carnival

    Otu opens 2025 bikers’ carnival

    With a renewed commitment to safety, tourism promotion, and global cultural exchange, Cross River State Governor Bassey Edet Otu has flagged off the 2025 Bikers’ Carnival in Calabar.

    The bikers’ carnival is one of the Carnival Calabar Festival’s signature events.

    Represented at the event by his deputy, Peter Odey, who declared the carnival open amid cheers from bikers, residents, and visitors drawn from within and outside the state, the governor assured participants and the international community that the state remains safe and well-prepared to host large-scale events.

    He disclosed that he personally inspected the carnival routes to ensure they were motorable and free of hazards.

    The governor said, “Let us tell the world that Cross River State is safe. I have gone round the routes myself; there are no potholes, and the roads are smooth.”

    He stressed the importance of strict adherence to safety protocols, urging all bikers to wear helmets, reflective vests, and ensure proper riding discipline to avoid accidents.

    He added that ambulances, medical personnel, and insurance coverage had been put in place to guarantee a hitch-free event.

    “With doctors on the ground, ambulances stationed, and insurance fully covered, we want this carnival to be remembered only for positive reasons,” he stated.

    Chairman of the Cross River State Carnival Commission, Gabe Onah, described the Bikers Carnival as part of a broader effort to preserve cultural heritage and reconnect younger generations with the values and creativity embedded in Carnival Calabar.

    He also revealed the presence of the ECOWAS Commission, with representatives from 12 member nations, noting that their participation underscored the growing business, talent, and creative-sector opportunities associated with Carnival Calabar on the regional stage.

    The event attracted strong international attention, with the Ambassador of Portugal to Nigeria, Paulo Santos, praising the organisation, professionalism, and enduring legacy of the carnival. He described his presence in Calabar as both a cultural and historical “homecoming.”

    “Calabar means ‘the quiet harbour’ in my language,” the ambassador explained, recounting the historic ties between Portugal and the ancient city. He lauded the enthusiasm and scale of participation, saying the carnival looked as though it had been organised for “200 or even 2,000 years,” rather than just two decades.

    Ambassador Santos pledged to encourage other diplomats in Abuja to experience Carnival Calabar, urging them to forgo their usual end-of-year holidays to witness what he described as one of Nigeria’s finest cultural showcases.

    One of the emotional highlights of the event came from 86-year-old UK-based diasporan, Mr. Richard Nzerem, originally from Imo State, who expressed deep gratitude for witnessing what he called a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

    Having lived in the United Kingdom for over 60 years, Nzerem said the bikers’ carnival exceeded his expectations and left him fulfilled. He thanked the state government for granting him the opportunity to be part of the historic moment.

  • Northern Cross River Elders reaffirm support for Otu, blast Eba

    Northern Cross River Elders reaffirm support for Otu, blast Eba

    Leaders and members of the Cross River Elders Advisory Council from the Northern Senatorial District have rebuked former All Progressives Congress(APC) State Chairman, Alphonsus Eba, for what they termed an “unacceptable media outburst” regarding internal party matters.

     The elders, operating under the Cross River State Consultative Forum (CRSECF), also reaffirmed support for Governor Bassey Edet Otu.

    In a statement by seven prominent elders of the district, the CRSECF addressed Eba’s recent public comments, stating they were made without consultation and have “embarrassed and ridiculed” the leadership of the senatorial district, the APC, the state, and well-meaning Nigerians.

    “The Council dissociates itself from his comments regarding an internal APC matter that could have been resolved privately,” the statement reads. 

    “Eba did not consult with the Council, acting solely on his own, and his behavior should not be interpreted as representative of the political leadership of the Northern Senatorial District.”

    The elders emphasised that public office holders should act as stewards of public trust, consulting with constituents and engaging democratically in all decisions.

     They stressed that Eba’s actions do not reflect the character of the Northern Senatorial District, which they described as “unique, hardworking, trustworthy, respectful, and peace-loving.”

    The CRSECF also appealed to Governor Otu and other party leaders at the state and national levels not to judge the district’s leadership capabilities based on Eba’s conduct.

     They passionately requested that the position of State Chairman of the APC be retained within the Northern Senatorial District, asserting that there are “credible, sincere, and respectful individuals” capable of leading.

    “We passionately request that the position of State Chairman of the APC be retained in the Northern Senatorial District,” the statement continued.

    The Council concluded by reiterating its “total commitment and loyalty” to Governor Otu’s administration and pledged to protect and uphold its progressive intentions.

    The statement was endorsed by Prof. John Shiyam (Vice Chairman, North, CRSECF), Dr. Julius Okputu (Secretary, CRSECF), Chief Dr. Tony Undiandeye (Member Elders Advisory Council of CRSECF), Ntufam Fidelis Ugbo (Member Elders Advisory Council of CRSECF), Chief Signor Omang Idiege (Member Elders Advisory Council of CRSECF), Chief Dr. Peter Ojie (Member Elders Advisory Council of CRSECF), and Hon. Chief Boniface Okache (Deputy Chief of Staff to the Governor).

  • APC strong enough to manage defections, expectations – Otu ‎

    APC strong enough to manage defections, expectations – Otu ‎

    ‎Cross River Governor Bassey Otu, has said that the All Progressives Congress (APC) remains the most formidable political platform capable of managing the wave of defections and the expectations of new entrants and long-standing members ahead of the 2027 general elections.

    ‎Speaking with journalists on the sidelines of the quarterly meeting of the APC Governors’ Forum in Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State, Otu attributed the growing attraction to the ruling party to what he described as “the steady and deliberate revival of Nigeria’s economy under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.”

    ‎“The attraction is simple. The economy is growing, and it’s very clear that His Excellency, President Bola Tinubu, is doing the right things. Everyone who truly desires progress and the growth of Nigeria is naturally gravitating toward that direction. People can now see a clear path of economic recovery and stability,” he said. 

    ‎The Governor dismissed insinuations of internal tension within the party, assuring that the APC has the structure and maturity to harmonise interests between its founding and new members. 

    “From the day you join APC, you have equal rights. The machinery put in place is such that there will be no issue. Our main agenda is not about internal politics but about delivering to Nigerians the dividends of good governance,” he stated. 

    Read Also: Ondo APC group pledges 400,000 extra votes for Tinubu’s 2027 re-election bid

    ‎According to him, the focus of the APC under President Tinubu remains the transformation of the national economy, deepening democratic governance, and ensuring that citizens feel the tangible benefits of reforms being undertaken at both federal and state levels. “It’s not about who came first or last,” he emphasized, “it’s about uniting to build a country that works for everyone.”

    ‎Responding to questions on the 2027 elections, Otu said the performance of the administration and the trajectory of its policies already provide strong grounds for optimism. 

    “The policies under the Renewed Hope Agenda are delivering real results. This meeting is for retrospection, alignment, and collaboration, to ensure that as governors, we are all moving on the right path of sustainable development.”

    ‎The Cross River Governor expressed satisfaction with the pace of progress being recorded nationwide, citing improvements in key sectors. 

    “From the indices and the physical results, we are doing very well. The country is moving in the right direction. There’s visible improvement in almost all areas, and if you check today, agriculture has contributed even more than oil. That is a testament to true diversification,” he said. 

    ‎Otu maintained that the APC government’s economic reforms were not only stabilising the macroeconomic environment but also promoting inclusivity across the federation.

     “Nigeria is on the proper path to recovery,” he reiterated. “It’s good for inclusive governance, and that’s why everyone should come together to deliver on this collective agenda.”

    ‎He called for confidence and unity, urging Nigerians to sustain their faith in the Renewed Hope project. 

    “We are actually doing it,” Otu declared. “The results are showing, and with continued collaboration, we will deliver the Nigeria of our dreams.”

  • Calabar safe, ready to host NUGA, Otu says

    Calabar safe, ready to host NUGA, Otu says

    Gov. Bassey Otu of Cross River has assured that the state is fully prepared and safe to host the 2026 edition of the Nigerian Universities Games Association (NUGA).

    He gave the assurance on Tuesday when he led a NUGA delegation and the management team of the University of Calabar on an inspection tour of facilities at the UJ Esuene Stadium in Calabar.

    The governor described Calabar as a youth-friendly, peaceful, conducive, and welcoming city with a serene and green environment that makes it ideal for hosting national and international sporting events.

    “The field we are standing on today has produced some of Nigeria’s greatest football icons, including Uwenm Ekarika, Etim Essien, and John Okon, among others.

    “The first captain of the national football team was a Calabar man, who led the team to England for competitive matches,” Otu said.

    Expressing gratitude for the return of NUGA to Calabar after 35 years, Otu said he was confident the event would be a huge success.

    He expressed optimism in the capacity of Dorncklaimz Enamhe, Executive Secretary of NUGA 2026 Local Organising Committee (LOC), to deliver memorable games.

    The governor  highlighted Calabar’s deep historical connection to sports, noting that it was the first city in Nigeria where football was played.

    Read Also: C’River to host AfSNET 2026 as Gov Otu signs agreement with Afreximbank

    “Enamhe is known for his dedication and commitment to any responsibility entrusted to him. I have no doubt he will deliver on this national assignment,” he said.

    Otu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to sports development, saying that in the past two years, the state government has significantly promoted sporting activities and restored their pride of place in Cross River.

    Enamhe said that Calabar has the greenest stadium in Nigeria, the best basketball court, and a world-class Olympic-size swimming pool, among others.

    He said that Calabar is home to table tennis, with world-class champions.

    “Calabar is home to the biggest carnival in Africa, where youths will properly interact. Unical hosting NUGA after the 35th is huge for the state,” he said.

    (NAN)

  • Otu rallies Diasporan Cross Riverians at convention in Birmingham

    Otu rallies Diasporan Cross Riverians at convention in Birmingham

    Cross River indigenes in the Diaspora, last weekend, converged on Birmingham, United Kingdom, in what was clearly a new chapter of collaboration with the state government at the maiden edition of the Diaspora Convention.

    With the theme: “Diaspora contribution to the development and sustainability of Cross River State,” the convention signaled a pivotal moment for the state’s international community and its deepening relationship with the home government.

    The event, which drew participants from Europe, North America, Asia, and across Africa, was graced by the state governor, Senator Bassey Edet Otu and his wife, Bishop Mrs. Eyoanwan Bassey Otu, both of whom received a rousing ovation upon arrival at the convention arena.

    Addressing the large audience, Governor Otu who delivered an emotionally stirring keynote said: “My dear brothers and sisters in the diaspora, this gathering is more than symbolic; it is strategic. We are here because the bridge home has finally been built—and I, your governor, have come to walk across it with you.”

    He continued: “You have shown that though distance may stretch across oceans, your hearts have remained anchored to the banks of Calabar, Obubra, Bekwarra, Obanliku, and every inch of Cross River soil. I salute your enduring love, and I declare to you: Cross River needs you now more than ever.”

    Governor Otu emphasized that under his People First governance agenda, the state is actively creating room for diaspora involvement in policy shaping, investments, healthcare, education, and mentorship. “This government is not only about those at home—it is about all our people, everywhere. The talents, capital, and experiences you have acquired abroad must find expression back home. Come, invest in your state, build in your communities, and help us write a story of sustainable transformation.”

    In a particularly impassioned moment, the governor who was presented with an award by the Mayor of Birmingham, Zafar Iqbal, declared: “You are not outsiders. You are stakeholders. You are not mere observers of Cross River’s destiny—you are architects of its future. Let no one tell you that home is behind you. Indeed, home is in you.”

    Echoing like a promise sealed across oceans, Gov Otu charged the gathering: “Let this not be the last time we gather like this. Let Birmingham be the beginning, not the peak of our journey homeward. The world may have you, but Cross River still claims you. Come home—not just to visit, but to build.”

    He announced the creation of a Diaspora Engagement and Development Desk to streamline collaboration and facilitate diaspora-led projects across key sectors. “From Obudu’s rolling hills to Bakassi’s coastal hopes, from our cocoa valleys to our digital dreams—we want your hands, your hearts, and your hopes.”

    The First Lady, Bishop Eyoanwan Bassey Otu, also addressed the gathering, urging women in the diaspora to champion maternal health advocacy and girl-child education. “Every Cross River girl deserves a global sister looking out for her,” she said.

    Read Also: Otu bolsters aviation, tourism with acquisition of two new aircraft

    Earlier in his address, President of the Cross River State Diaspora Forum, Mr. Christopher Lekan, hailed the event as “the rebirth of a long-silenced but powerful voice.” He praised the governor for “breaking the jinx of detachment and building a new bridge of inclusion.” According to him, “This convention is not just about handshakes and photos. It is the beginning of a robust, structured partnership for development. We have watched the renewal happening under your leadership, and we are ready to take our place.”

    Lekan further revealed plans to launch a Diaspora Investment Fund, an initiative to pool financial resources from Cross Riverians abroad for projects in health, ICT, and youth entrepreneurship back home. “We no longer want to send only remittances—we want to return with ideas, technology, and capital. We want to move from the margins of development into the mainstream.”

    Panel sessions throughout the day dissected opportunities for diaspora contributions in sectors such as education reform, digital governance, medical outreach, infrastructure development, tourism, and culture preservation. Several attendees committed to return-home projects, including rural telemedicine schemes, school library refurbishments, and agribusiness cooperatives. Among the keynote speakers was Chief Dr. Asuquo Ekpenyong Snr.

  • Otu lauds South South transformation drive, declares region’s support for Tinubu’s continuity 

    Otu lauds South South transformation drive, declares region’s support for Tinubu’s continuity 

    Cross River Governor Bassey Otu declared the South-South geopolitical zone to be on a firm trajectory of national greatness under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, describing his administration’s transformative strides as “magical” and worthy of continued support.

    Speaking at the All Progressives Congress (APC) South-South Stakeholders meeting  in Benin City on Saturday, Otu traced the region’s political evolution and affirmed the collective resolve of the APC family to deepen its developmental philosophy across Nigeria.

     “We have come with an alabaster of endorsements,” he said, “and we are pouring generously and unreservedly on our dear Captain of the Progressives… the Jagaban of Africa.”

    Reflecting on Cross River’s early decision to align with the APC in the South-South region, Otu noted that the state had once felt politically “orphaned” but never doubted the promise of a better future. 

    “We assuaged the loneliness with the conviction that we took an informed decision because hope was indeed on the horizon,” he stated.

    The Governor lauded the sweeping reforms under the Renewed Hope Agenda, crediting Tinubu’s administration with restoring investor confidence and stabilizing the macroeconomic environment. He cited landmark achievements including the removal of fuel subsidies, the unification of foreign exchange rates, a $40 billion external reserve, and the $13.17 billion trade surplus as clear indicators of progress.

    Otu also praised initiatives like the student loan scheme, consumer credit access, tariff removals on essential goods, and robust agricultural incentives as part of a broader effort to ease citizens’ burdens and stimulate productivity. “Our focus on infrastructure, economic growth and social welfare is well poised,” he said, adding that “our delivery strides at various sectors are gallant and sustainable.”

    Read Also: Governor Otu predicts stronger showing for Tinubu in 2027, cites ongoing reforms

    Emphasizing the importance of consistency in leadership, Otu described Tinubu’s capacity to weather turbulent national challenges while maintaining focus and resolve as emblematic of visionary governance. “Nothing attracts greatness to a personality like the consistency of character and excellency of courage in the face of daunting demands,” he said.

    He called on party faithful and regional stakeholders to close ranks around President Tinubu and the APC as a whole, warning against disrupting a working formula. “It is a great error to change a working formula, a productive philosophy or an efficient workman,” Otu declared. “We in the South-South have tasted and trusted the capacity of Mr. President.”

    Otu offered benedictions for the South-South, the APC, and the Nigerian federation, expressing confidence that the Renewed Hope vision would continue to inspire national restoration. “God bless the South-South APC! God bless the APC! God bless Nigeria!” he proclaimed.

  • Crowd roars, mandate sealed as Tinubu, Otu get 2027 green light

    Crowd roars, mandate sealed as Tinubu, Otu get 2027 green light

    By Linus Obogo

    In a scene akin to a triumphant homecoming, the U.J. Esuene Stadium in Calabar became the epicentre of electrifying unity on Wednesday, as the Cross River Southern Consultative Forum marshalled what many now call the “Mother of All Endorsements” — a grand rally teeming with thousands of fervent supporters from the nooks and crannies of the state, united in one purpose: the emphatic endorsement of Governor Bassey Edet Otu and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a second term come 2027.

    Bedecked in party colours and pulsating with rhythmic drumming and ululations, the stadium transformed into a living canvas of joy and conviction. Against this backdrop of soaring hope, Governor Otu mounted the podium with the grace of a statesman and the humility of a servant-leader. His voice, both steady and stirring, resonated across the field as he offered thanks for the people’s unwavering loyalty. “I am humbled by this overwhelming show of love,” he said, his words laden with gratitude. “This is not just about politics; it is an affirmation of the silent revolution we are championing — a people-first governance rooted in economic rebirth, infrastructural renewal, and the dignity of labour.”

    With the cadence of a visionary and the clarity of purpose, the governor elaborated on his economic blueprint, painting a picture of a Cross River rising anew — where young people are not just employed but empowered, where investors knock with confidence, and where the fertile soils of agriculture meet the lifeblood of innovation. “Our productivity index is rising. Investors are knocking. Tourism is awakening. With the Bakassi Deep Seaport and the smart city projects underway, Cross River is on the march to sustainable prosperity,” Otu declared, prompting a wave of jubilant cheers.

    The governor’s address was not merely celebratory — it was deeply human. He spoke of peace reclaimed and hope restored, highlighting the dismantling of over 16 miscreant camps and the ongoing amnesty and reintegration programme designed to offer second chances. “We do not build with bricks alone, but with hearts and futures,” he said with palpable emotion. “Peace is returning. Dignity is being restored. Our people are being rearmed with purpose.” In this, Governor Otu reasserted a philosophy of governance steeped in compassion and practical deliverables.

    Echoing the governor’s sentiment, he conveyed President Tinubu’s gratitude to the people of Cross River and reaffirmed their joint commitment to national progress. He unveiled ambitious plans for tourism revival, symbolised by the 20th anniversary of Carnival Calabar this December — not just a celebration, but a global renaissance of the state’s cultural pride. “We shall return to the world stage with splendour, for our story is worth telling,” he promised.

    Read Also: Tinubu’s Conference Centre generated N650m in three weeks – Wike

    Speaker after speaker lent their voice to the crescendo of praise. Bishop Alex Ukam of Biase, in a tone brimming with reverence, declared, “The governor has neither disappointed God nor man.” Architect Eyo Ndem of Akpabuyo lauded Otu’s focused leadership, saying, “Your works speak louder than banners.” From the north, Rt. Hon. Legor Idagbo cut through the political divides: “This is not a southern charade. This is a Cross River consensus. We in the north stand firmly with Governor Otu and President Tinubu.”

    In Odukpani, Ambassador Nyong Asuquo extolled Otu as the finest governor in the state’s history, while Akamkpa’s Ntufam John Achort Okon praised the administration for empowering locals and elevating grassroots voices. The First Lady’s health outreach was also saluted as a transformative pillar for rural women and children. When it was time to formalise the endorsement, Senator Florence Ita-Giwa and Prof. Ivara Esu led the charge with declarative passion. “We judged him by his past and endorsed him for the future,” said Ntufam Edim Inok Edim, sealing the pact of loyalty with poetic finality.

    As the stadium reverberated with chants, songs, and the promise of continuity, it became clear that this rally was far more than a political showpiece. It was a gathering of hearts, a coalition of dreams. “2027 is not just a date,” thundered Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong. “It is a destination. And with Governor Otu and President Tinubu, we are already on the journey.” The sun may have set on the rally, but the fire ignited in Cross River shall burn brightly until destiny is fulfilled.

    Obogo is Chief Press Secretary and Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to Governor Bassey Otu

  • C/River Waterboard MD sues Otu’s aide over alleged assault, others

    C/River Waterboard MD sues Otu’s aide over alleged assault, others

    The Managing Director of the  Cross River State Water Board Limited, Dr Godwin Nyiam has dragged retired Maj. Gen. Okoi Obono, the Governor Bassey Otu’s Security Adviser, to court over alleged assault. 

    Nyiam’s  lawyer Barr. E. E. Osim confirmed his client demanded N500m compensation from Obono for allegedly slapping him in the public.

    The incident reportedly occurred at Fogg Petrol Station in Calabar on May 24, 2025 during an unexpected altercation between the two.

    The legal practitioner stated his client decided to  drag the Security Adviser  to Court, seeking legal redress to put an end to any further unruly behaviour stressing that that singular act caused his client pain, intimidation  harassment and  emotional distress because of the way he was publicly humiliated.

    The petition averred the alleged slap by the Security Adviser got his client demoralised, especially after he ordered operatives attached to him to assault, intimidate and harass him. 

    Read Also: Midterm assessment: Critical review of Cross River’s socio-economic struggles under Governor Otu

    A petition from The Advocates Chambers addressed to The Brigade Commander 13 Amphibious Brigade Headquarters Calabar, demanded N500m compensation from  the state security adviser, an apology  letter to be published in two National Dailies for infringement on his fundamental human rights.

    The  petition  signed by  E.E. Osim & Co and two other lawyers from the Lord Advocate,  with Our Ref: TAC/ADM/001/Vol. 1/2024 warned that failure to tender an apology to their client, Dr. Godwin Nyam would risk litigation.

    The petition asked the Brigade Commander to use his good office to fish out the officers allegedly ordered by the state security adviser to harass the waterboard Limited MD.

    But in a swift reaction, Obono denied ordering his men to beat Nyam, wondering why he should do that.
    He told The Nation “On what grounds will I do that please?”

    Effort to speak  with Army’s  Public Relations Officer PRO Capt. Jimoh Jamila failed. 

    He neither responded to text messages and calls l since Thursday afternoon.

  • Mandate of grace as C/River APC, stakeholders endorse Tinubu, Otu for second term

    Mandate of grace as C/River APC, stakeholders endorse Tinubu, Otu for second term

    By Linus Obogo

    The occasion appropos. Timing precise. In a night woven with political grandeur and electrifying unity, the heartbeat of Cross River State pulsed with renewed vigor as Governor Bassey Edet Otu graced the APC Expanded Caucus meeting with his trademark humility and unmatched statesmanship. The setting—Hogis Royale Hotel in Calabar—became a temple of democratic fervor, where voices harmonized in a singular symphony of purpose, progress, and unshakeable confidence in a leader who has redefined governance as a love affair with the people.

    There, beneath the golden chandeliers and amidst echoes of applause, stood a governor whose very presence calms storms and stirs hope. Senator Otu, clad in the grace of wisdom and the dignity of duty, welcomed stakeholders with an open heart and listening ears, proving once again that leadership, at its finest, is a sacred dialogue, not a distant decree. It was not a gathering of sycophants but a congregation of truth-tellers—who spoke freely, fervently, and fearlessly.

    A constellation of political titans adorned the hall: former Governor Clement Ebri, the formidable Dame Florence Ita-Giwa, Senators Eteng Jonah Williams and Asuquo Ekpenyong, Speaker Elvert Ayambem, Minister John Owan Enoh, Vice Chairman of Bekwarra Local Government Council, Honourable Egbung Odama, among others. They came not merely as attendees but as witnesses to the Otu phenomenon—an unfolding era of transformational leadership laced with compassion, clarity, and commitment.

    Read Also: Alleged defamation: Yahaya Bello petitions IGP, demands investigation, prosecution of Natasha

    And it was a harvest of encomiums. From the fertile plains of agriculture to the revitalized corridors of healthcare, from the soaring ambition of aviation to the sanctity restored in security, the hall echoed with testimonies of a governor who walks his talk and works his dreams into reality. They hailed his “People First” mantra not as a slogan but as a living creed—etched into every road paved, every school rebuilt, every life touched.

    Then came the crescendo: a unanimous, thunderous vote of confidence—an ovation wrapped in resolve. Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong, with sonority of voice befitting his humongous size, moved the motion for Governor Otu’s second term. Like a divine chorus, Hon. Victor Abang followed suit, championing President Tinubu’s re-election. The hall swelled with pride, its walls absorbing a promise of continuity rooted in excellence.

    A spirited communiqué emerged—more than mere paper, it was a declaration of resolve. It charged the governor and his deputy to lead a noble delegation to the nation’s capital, to speak boldly on behalf of Cross River’s fair share in the national mosaic. This was no act of defiance, but a clarion call for equity, led by a man whose every step exudes both diplomacy and determination.

    The meeting brimmed with gratitude for President Tinubu, whose Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway and Agro-Processing Zone are poised to awaken the economic lion sleeping within Cross River’s verdant belly. These projects, drenched in the promise of generational transformation, were hailed as jewels of the Renewed Hope Agenda.

    As thunderous praise continued, the governor remained the picture of humility, his words flowing like a gentle stream of sincerity. “I am here to fulfill the sacred mandate given to me by Cross Riverians—not to chase power for its own sake,” he declared, his voice steady and rich with purpose. It was a masterclass in restraint, focus, and visionary governance.

    His final pledge rang like a covenant: “By 2031, I shall leave Cross River State stronger, safer, and soaked in opportunity.” In that moment, the crowd didn’t merely hear a promise—they felt a prophecy.

    Let it echo across the emerald hills of Obudu, the misty waters of Bakassi, the red earth of Biase, and the bustling streets of Calabar: in Governor Bassey Edet Otu, Cross River has found a beacon. A man of the people. A steward of dreams. A governor whose very soul is embroidered with the hopes of his people—and who, by divine design, is destined to lead them into a brighter, bolder, and more beautiful tomorrow.

    Obogo is Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State. linusobogo@gmail.com