The Forum of Vice Chairmen of Local Government Areas in Cross River State, has unanimously endorsed the State Governor, Prince Bassey Otu and his Deputy, Rt Hon. Peter Odey as its sole candidates for the 2027 Governorship Election in the State.
The Forum made the endorsement Thursday during a Solemn Assembly and endorsement press conference at Ogoja.
The Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the group and Vice Chairman of Biase Local Government Area, Hon Ekuma Ngwu, moved the motion for the endorsement and was seconded by the Vice Chairman of the Forum and Vice Chairman of Abi Local Government Area, Hon. Joseph Ukata.
Earlier, the Chairman of the Forum and Vice Chairman of Bakassi Local Government Area, Hon (Princes) Christiana Eso said the decision for their endorsement of the duo was based on the impressive performance of the Governor in his two years in office.
“Your Excellency, in just two years, your administration has not only restored hope but redefined governance with a style anchored on peace, inclusivity, economic growth, and compassion.
“In a very special way, we wish to commend His Excellency, Governor Bassey Edet Otu, on his outstanding achievements and unwavering commitment to the progress and development of our great state.
“We are impressed by his visionary leadership, people-centered policies, and remarkable strides in revitalizing the state’s economy. Under Governor Otu’s administration, Cross River State has witnessed significant growth and development, it is with these outstanding achievements that make this endorsement both necessary and well-deserved,” Eso stated.
The Chairman of the Forum enumerated the outstanding and remarkable achievements of the Governor to include, economic revitalization, People‑First Governance, Security and peace building, Agricultural Revolution, mass roads and infrastructure projects as well as Education and Human Capital Development and health care development.
Others are, Tourism and Culture, support for Local Governments, youth and women empowerment, fiscal prudence and governance excellence as well as Special Vehicles for all Vice Chairmen in the State.
She explained that the Vice Chairmen can boldly testify that the administration has also restored autonomy, dignity, and functionality to local government councils.
“His Excellency stands out as the only Governor in Nigeria who has assigned critical constitutional responsibilities to Vice Chairmen through the amended Local Government Law — a bold and visionary move that has strengthened leadership at the grassroots. You have carried grassroots leaders along and empowered us to function optimally. That, we do not take for granted,” Eso added.
The Forum ‘s Chairman further appreciated the Governor for the donation of official vehicles to Vice Chairmen of the 18 Local Government Areas of the State, stressing that, “this gesture is historic, exciting, remarkable and indelible in the annals of human history. We thank you, Your Excellency.”
Also speaking, the Vice Chairman of Yakurr Local Government Area, Hon. Bassey Kepi, thanked the Governor’s Wife, Bishop (Mrs) Otu, for being a mother to all in the state and her continued support to the Governor to do more to the people.
Kepi, who reiterated that the Forum of Vice Chairmen in the State was happy with the Governor, also thanked members of the Forum for their commitment and support to the leadership.
Conducting the Solemn Assembly, Rev. Fr. Godwin Urokwu of R.C.M Parish, Ugboro in Ogoja Local Government Area, thanked them for bringing God first in their endorsement of the State Governor, Prince Bassey Otu and his Deputy, Rt Hon Peter Odey.
Urokwu also advised them to live lives that would open doors rather than close them, after their departure.
Highlight of the event with the theme: “Sustaining the Season of Sweetness with 18/18 support,” was prayers for the Vice Chairmen, the 18 Local Government Areas, Cross River State as well as the Governor, Prince Bassey Otu and his Deputy, Rt Hon. Peter Odey.