No fewer than 196 councillors across the 18 local government areas of Cross River state on Tuesday endorsed Governor Bassey Otu and his deputy, Peter Odey, for a second term in office NEGROIDHAVEN can report.
The endorsement took place during the Cross River State Congress of the All Progressives Congress held in Calabar, the state capital.
The motion for the endorsement was moved by the Leader of the Akamkpa Legislative Assembly, Hon. Magdalene Ekpe, who is also the Chairman of the Cross River Councillors’ Forum.
Speaking during the congress, Ekpe said councillors across the state had enjoyed significant support under the present administration, adding that the governor had demonstrated commitment to grassroots governance.
“We do not need to come here to endorse you this evening because of your good deeds. You have taken the councillors at heart (sic),” she said.
Ekpe further commended the governor for what she described as efforts in settling gratuities and other entitlements, noting that the councillors were satisfied with the administration’s performance.
“This set of councillors have really enjoyed in your government and we are very happy. Even the blind have seen and the deaf have heard,” she added.
She subsequently moved a motion on behalf of the councillors across the state to endorse the governor and his deputy for a second term in office.
The motion was seconded by the Leader of the Obudu Legislative Assembly, Eneji Sam Ashibi, who expressed support for the continuation of the administration beyond 2027.
“We second this motion that our governor should go for a second term,” Ashibi said during the congress.
Following the motion, participants at the gathering adopted the endorsement through a voice vote, with the majority affirming their support.
Governor Otu assumed office in May 2023 after winning the governorship election on the platform of the APC.
Since taking office, his administration has introduced several initiatives aimed at economic recovery, infrastructure development and strengthening governance structures across the state.
The endorsement by the councillors is seen by party observers as a show of grassroots support within the ruling party ahead of the imminent 2027 general elections in the state.
