In a historic moment of political unity and fervor, the All Progressives Congress (APC) Expanded Caucus meeting in Cross River State marked a pivotal chapter in the state’s governance. Held at the Hogis Royale Hotel in Calabar, the gathering brought together key political leaders, stakeholders, and a host of distinguished guests, all rallying behind the leadership of Governor Bassey Edet Otu and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Governor Otu, renowned for his humility and commitment to the people, welcomed the attendees with a spirit of openness and collaboration. In a night characterized by mutual respect and admiration, the Governor stood as a symbol of transformational leadership, with a focus on progress, unity, and accountability. His presence at the event was not just ceremonial, but a reaffirmation of his dedication to public service.
The meeting, attended by political heavyweights such as former Governor Clement Ebri, Dame Florence Ita-Giwa, Senators Eteng Jonah Williams and Asuquo Ekpenyong, Speaker Elvert Ayambem, Minister John Owan Enoh, and others, was a testament to the broad-based support Governor Otu has garnered across the state. These leaders, who spoke freely and passionately, hailed Otu’s leadership, which they described as deeply rooted in the people-first philosophy.
The night reached its climax when a unanimous vote of confidence was passed, with Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong leading the charge for Governor Otu’s second term. The motion, seconded by Hon. Victor Abang, also included a strong endorsement for President Tinubu’s re-election. The overwhelming support reflected the collective will of the Cross River APC stakeholders, who pledged to continue the trajectory of development and progress under Otu’s leadership and Tinubu’s presidency.
A spirited communiqué followed, underscoring the need for a united delegation to represent Cross River’s interests at the national level, particularly in securing the state’s fair share of the national development agenda. Governor Otu’s call for equity resonated with the attendees, who expressed confidence in his diplomatic approach to securing lasting progress for Cross River.
The meeting also recognized the transformative projects initiated by President Tinubu, including the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway and the Agro-Processing Zone. These projects were hailed as key pillars of the Renewed Hope Agenda, with the potential to revolutionize the state’s economy and create sustainable development opportunities for future generations.
Governor Otu, in his address, reiterated his commitment to serving the people of Cross River with integrity and vision. He emphasized that his primary focus was not on power, but on fulfilling the sacred mandate entrusted to him by the people. “By 2031, I will leave Cross River stronger, safer, and soaked in opportunity,” he declared, encapsulating the aspirations of the people.
As the event drew to a close, the consensus was clear: Governor Bassey Edet Otu is the leader who will guide Cross River into a future filled with hope, prosperity, and progress. The endorsement of both Otu and Tinubu signals a renewed commitment to advancing the people-first agenda and ensuring that Cross River continues to thrive in the years ahead.
