By Onwa Ekor
In appreciation of ongoing infrastructural development and economic empowerment in Mbube, Ogoja local government area and Cross River at large, a group under the aegis of ‘Liluom ê Mbe,’ weekend, held a grand thanksgiving and solidarity rally.
The event, which took place at St. Columbus Primary School, Idum Mbube, saw the Chairman of the Central Planning Committee, CP Gabriel Achong (Rtd), informing that the rally was unanimously convened to celebrate and formally endorse President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the governor of Cross River, Prince Bassey Otu, and his deputy, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, for a second term in office ahead of the 2027 general elections.
He noted that the impactful and people-oriented governance of the trio, as well as their visible achievements and commitment to development, informed the decision of the people to publicly declare their support and endorse their return in 2027.
Achong also intimated that the rally was largely organised to commend a son of Mbube who doubles as the deputy governor, for his supportive role to the Governor as well as his loyalty and contributions, which positively influenced development while strengthening ties between the government, Mbube communities, and beyond.
President General of Liluom ê Mbe, Prof. Tony Eyang, reaffirmed the unity and political progress of the Mbube Nation, describing the emergence of Odey as deputy governor of Cross River in 2023 as a historic milestone for the people.
He applauded Otu for his commitment to Mbube, recalling his visit to the community shortly after assuming office and the ongoing rehabilitation of the Mbube-Ogoja Road.
He also appreciated the inclusion of Mbube indigenes in key positions, through appointments within and outside the state.
Like the literary Oliver Twist, Eyang highlighted the pressing needs of the area, including the need to curb illegal logging, reconnection of Mbube to the national grid, rehabilitation of public schools and the commencement of the MbubeEast-Utugwang-Obudu Road, among others.
The retired Police Commissioner also appealed for the establishment of a Polytechnic to cater to the needs of growing number of students from the area.
Responding on behalf of the President, governor and his deputy, Chief Peter Ojie, lauded the organisers and people of Mbube for their show of love and solidarity.
He commended Otu’s administration for its extensive infrastructure drive across the state, particularly in Mbube.
Ojie noted that the administration has given Mbube a pride of place in its development agenda under the “People First” mantra, assuring the people of its commitment to completing ongoing projects in the area.
He further urged the people to remain steadfast in their support for President Tinubu ahead of the 2027 general elections, noting that the President has taken steps to stabilise the national economy, tackle insecurity and advance the development of critical infrastructure across the country.
Highpoint of the event was the formal endorsement of the President, the State governor and his deputy for a second term in office.
The motion for the endorsement was moved by Chief Patrick Agida and seconded by the deputy leader of Ogoja legislative Council and Councillor representing Mbube East Ward 1, Hon. Sunny Achang, and was unanimously adopted through a voice vote by the people.
A minute silence was also observed in honour of the tragic loss of three UNICROSS students and a staff, who died during a recent road crash.
The rally, which featured rich cultural displays, traditional music and traditional dance performances, creating a festive, carnival-like atmosphere, was attended by the Chairman of Ogoja local government council, Hon. Chris Agbeh, Member representing Ogoja State Constituency in the House of Assembly, Hon.Thomas Aruku, political stakeholders, traditional leaders, youth and women groups, as well as supporters from across Mbube communities.
