Odukpani Joins 17 LGAs, Endorses Otu & Tinubu in Massive Show of Unity.

Odukpani Joins 17 LGAs, Endorses Otu & Tinubu in Massive Show of Unity. By Andrea Ekeng Stakeholders in Odukpani Local Government Area have unanimously endorsed Governor Bassey Otu and President Bola Tinubu for second terms, praising their impact on Cross River State and the nation.

At the gathering on Monday at the Odukpani Council Headquarters, attendees ranged from National Assembly members and traditional rulers to political figures and residents. Paramount Ruler Etiyin Otu Asuquo Mesembe VI, through Prof. Eyo Etim Nyong, commended Governor Otu’s record of action and development, saying, “We were not shouting ‘Back to South’ in vain…indeed the south has something to offer Cross River State and Nigeria.” He noted progress not only in infrastructure but also in health, education, agriculture, and entrepreneurship.

Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong, addressing Odukpani’s position as a “fountain of sweetness” for the state, also extended support to President Tinubu, citing his administration’s people focused policies. The motion to endorse both leaders for 2027 was unanimously approved, with representatives like Hon. Bassey Akiba formally ratifying the resolution. Local government chairman Hon. Etim Asido highlighted the importance of strong state federal collaboration pointing to projects like the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway and called on all stakeholders to ensure Governor Otu’s re-election. Echoing this support, Akiba Ekpenyong, Esq. remarked, “res ipsa loquitur … what the governor has done is ‘visible to the blind’,” recognising Otu’s restoration of the state’s image and creation of new opportunities. Represented by his Chief of Staff, Hon. Emmanuel Ironbar, Governor Otu thanked Cross Riverians for their support. He promised continued service, stating that “where much is given, much is expected,” and described the achievements of the past two years as “just the tip of the iceberg” in his vision to return the state to economic prosperity.