Bakassi, Cross River – A coalition of groups, including the Ex-Agitators of Bakassi Strike Force, Concerned Youths of Bakassi and Akpabuyo, National Youth Council of Nigeria Bakassi Chapter, and Bakassi Student Union, gathered at the Bakassi Local Government City Gate to celebrate Democracy Day and express their support for Governor Bassey Otu’s leadership NEGROIDHAVEN has garnered.
In a solidarity message, Mr. Benjamin Ene, leader of the Ex-Agitators, and Mr. Effiong Okon, Director General of Waterways, praised the governor for his effective governance over the past year. They highlighted the importance of democracy in allowing citizens to enjoy basic rights and participate in governance. They also extended their gratitude to President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his Project Hope initiative and the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project.
“We are grateful for Governor Otu’s social intervention programs, particularly the revitalization of the Bakassi Deep Sea Port and the Super Carriage Highway, which will bring significant economic and social benefits to Bakassi, Akpabuyo, and the entire state,” said Messrs. Ene and Okon said in a press statement.
The coalition called for collective efforts to maintain zero tolerance for criminality in Bakassi and Akpabuyo and urged the government to revisit failed amnesty programs to provide sustainable livelihood options for former agitators. They emphasized their commitment to community surveillance, civil-military cooperation, and protecting government projects in their area.
Hon. Grace Bassey, the immediate past councilor representing Ward 7 in Bakassi, added her voice to the commendations, thanking Governor Otu and his wife for prioritizing the welfare of the people, especially women. Comrades Akwa Etim and Victor Anjeh Bassey also spoke at the event, congratulating the governor on his achievements and urging further development for Bakassi and Akpabuyo.
The event concluded with a reaffirmation of support for democracy and the government’s efforts in Cross River State.
