By Ovat Lawrence
The Cross River State Commissioner for Agriculture and Irrigation Development, Johnson A. Ebokpo, has unveiled a political support group, the Ujibhada Progressives Movement for Prince Otu 2027, aimed at strengthening grassroots mobilisation ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The unveiling ceremony also witnessed the inauguration of ward, local government and chapter coordinators from across the state. The coordinators are expected to drive mobilisation efforts at their respective levels in support of the re-election of Governor Bassey Edet Otu.
Speaking at the event, Ebokpo, who is the Director-General of the movement, said the initiative was designed to consolidate support for the Otu administration and ensure continuity of its policies and programmes. He noted that early mobilisation at the grassroots was critical to sustaining the momentum of governance in the state.
Represented by the Deputy Director-General of the movement, Hon. Solomon Ekam, Ebokpo explained that the word “Ujibhada” signifies prosperity and good fortune. He said the name reflects what the group considers the developmental strides recorded by the current administration and the need to sustain them beyond 2027.
Providing an overview of the group’s structure, the Director of Special Duties, Dr Cletus Omono, said the Ujibhada Progressives Movement is a duly registered political support organisation with a statewide presence. According to him, the movement has coordinators in all 18 local government areas of Cross River State, supported by ward and chapter structures.
In his keynote address, former council chairman, Dr. Bassey E. Tom, charged members of the movement to remain united and disciplined. He stressed the importance of teamwork, commitment and strategic engagement in building a strong support base ahead of the next general elections.
Also speaking, elder statesman and politician, High Chief Julius Mbina, expressed satisfaction with the formation of the movement. He noted that Obubra Local Government Area ranks among the areas with significant voting strength in the state and urged members to harness this advantage to attract meaningful development.
Goodwill messages were delivered by other stakeholders, including Mrs. Charity Orokwu, as politicians, party supporters and stakeholders from different parts of the state attended the event.
The highlight of the occasion was the presentation of an Award of Excellent Performance to Hon. Ebokpo by the Director-General of the Johnson Andiambey Ebokpo Movement (AJEMO), Mr. Ekawo Cyprian Awah. Presenting the award on behalf of the group, Awah said it was in recognition of the commissioner’s achievements within a short period in office and urged him to sustain his commitment to the development of his community and Cross River.
