…Cite performance, impactful leadership
By Onwa Ekor
The people of Obudu local government area, Cross River, have formally endorsed the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, his Vice, Senator Kashim Shettima; the governor of Cross River, Prince Bassey Otu, his Deputy, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, for second terms in office.
The well-attended and colourful reception and endorsement rally took place at the Obudu local government council secretariat field, Saturday.
Organized to appreciate and recognize the performance and achievements of the current administrations at both federal and state levels, the event drew sons and daughters of the area from far and wide.
Cross River Commissioner for Sports Development and Chairman of the Central Planning Committee, Hon. Agnes Atsu, described the event as a sincere expression of gratitude and confidence in leadership.
“This endorsement is not borne out of sentiment, nor is it a mere political ritual. It is a bold and deliberate statement, anchored on the performance and tangible impact of their leadership in both the federal and state governments,” she said.
For the State Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Barr. Alphonsus Eba, he commended the Obudu Council Chairman for his results-driven approach to grassroots governance, lauding the people of Obudu for endorsing Tinubu, Shettima, Otu, and Odey to continue leading the country and the state until 2031.
“This show of solidarity is a confirmation that the APC-led federal government has not disappointed Nigerians.
“The people have spoken, and the message is clear: continuity is the way forward,” Eba stated.
Responding to the endorsement, the governor represented by his Chief of Staff, Dr Emmanuel Ironbar, expressed deep appreciation to the people of Obudu for their unwavering support.
He reiterated his administration’s commitment to the “People-First” agenda, with a focus on rural development, agriculture, and enhanced social services.
“This endorsement is not just an honour, it is a challenge to do even more. Your support inspires us to deepen our efforts.
“Obudu and all parts of Cross River will continue to feel the positive impact of governance which aligns with People First mantra of our dear governor and leader,” the governor’s aide assured.
He also enjoined residents of Obudu to participate in the ongoing Continuous Voters Registration exercise by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), stressing that strengthening voter turnout is key to consolidating their political voice ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In his vote of thanks, Chairman of Obudu local government area, Hon. Peter Akonfe Undiandeye, a Knight of St. Mulumba, lauded Otu for raising the standard of governance in the state, especially in tackling poverty, unemployment, and other socio-economic challenges facing the people.
Acknowledging the efforts and commitments of the members of the Central Planning Committee in ensuring a smooth and coordinated event, he commended stakeholders, traditional and religious leaders, party loyalists, support groups and the entire people for the massive turnout, urging them to continue in their support for President Tinubu and Governor Bassey Otu.
Goodwill messages poured in from various stakeholders, including Chief Eugene Ake, Dr. Paul Adalikwu, Mrs. Kate Agba-Ajibike, and the Paramount Ruler of Obudu, HRM Chief Felix Okudare, who collectively applauded President Tinubu for his bold economic reforms and inclusive governance.
They also commended Otu for prioritizing the welfare of citizens through projects and programmes spread across the three senatorial districts.
High point of the event was the formal motion of endorsement for the President and Vice, moved by the Member representing Obanliku/Bekwarra/Obudu Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Peter Akpanke, and seconded by the Deputy Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Hon. Sylvester Agabi.
Similarly, an elder statesman and community leader, Hon. Chief Tony Undiandeye, moved the motion for the endorsement of Otu and Odey, for a second term.
The motion was seconded by the immediate past Chief of Staff to the former Governor, Hon. Martin Orim, and was overwhelmingly adopted by the crowd, who chorused in approval.
The event, which drew thousands of enthusiastic supporters, political leaders, traditional rulers, and youth as well as women, APC support groups among others, was marked by cultural displays and musical performances.
