By Ukongikwen Adie
The Deputy Governor of Cross River State, an astute Politician, seasoned administrator, and worthy son of Mbube Nation, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, was this weekend received by the thirteen communities of Mbube Nation and conferred with a Chieftaincy title, Lekwel E’Mbe1 (Pillar of Mbube) in recognition of his political achievements, contribution and dedication to the Ogoja people and Cross River State.
The event took place at the Lutheran Primary School Grounds, Ekumtak, Mbube, Ogoja. It was a cacophony of colours, rhythm and celebration as dignitaries, government officials, traditional rulers, and well-wishers came from far and near to show their solidarity.
In his response, Odey thanked the Paramount Ruler of Ogoja, HRM, Oti Mathias Odey Abua, the entire Chiefs, sons and daughters of Mbube nation for finding him worthy of the conferment.
“I am overwhelmed by the show of love, kindness and commitment by my people. This recognition means so much to me and I cannot thank you all enough.
Together, we will make Mbe nation proud. I cannot do it alone, l need your wise counsel, support and love so that our nation can grow stronger and better ”
In his opening remark, the President-General of LlLUOM E’MBE, Brig. Gen. Mannix Nyiam (Rtd), used the medium to thank the amiable Governor of Cross River State, His Excellency, Sen. Prince Bassey Otu, for his choice of their son as his running mate in the 2023 gubernatorial election.
“This non-partisan civic reception is held at the instance of the entire Mbube people, to congratulate and welcome home our beloved son, His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, whose political rise is both a source of pride and an inspiration to us as a people. His political friendship, generosity, compassion, intelligence, resourcefulness, integrity and commitment to good causes all come together to make Rt. Hon. Odey an embodiment of the Mbube Spirit as well as a priceless asset”.
In a separate earlier development, Rt. Hon. Odey commissioned a skill acquisition center donated by Chief (Engr) David Abang, a retired staff of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPC) and founder of Rural Africa Industrial Skills and Empowerment (RAISE) Foundation.
The skill acquisition center, situated in Idum-Mbube, will provide learning facilities for members of the community.
Speaking at the flag-off, the Deputy Governor commended the donor, for giving back to the society and admonished the youths, women, and members of the community to protect the facilities and ensure it serves its purpose. He made a cash donation of 5M to kick start the center.
“Engr David Abang is not a politician but he has defeated all the politicians by what he has done,” the Ogoja-born Deputy Governor lauded.
The All Progressive Congress (APC) State Chairman, Barr. Alphonsus Eba, represented His Excellency, Sen. Prince Bassey Edet Otu at the occasion. Also present were the Chief whip of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Hilary Bisong, Commissioner for Finance, Mr. Mike Odere, Commissioner for Information, Mr. Erasmus Ekpang, Commissioner for Science and Technology, Dr. Justin Beshel, and a host of other government functionaries and political leaders.
