The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Cross River State has thrown its weight behind President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, and Governor Bassey Edet Otu, endorsing both for a second term in office ahead of the 2027 general elections. This declaration came alongside a resounding vote of confidence passed on the duo, including the state’s Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey.
The endorsement, which has sparked political interest across the South-South, was anchored on what party stakeholders described as “visionary leadership and people-centered governance.” They praised President Tinubu for his bold economic reforms and commitment to rebuilding Nigeria through the Renewed Hope Agenda, citing growing national optimism and critical infrastructure projects like the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway as proof of impact.
Governor Otu was equally commended for transforming Cross River through inclusive governance, strategic security measures, and socio-economic initiatives that have improved lives in rural and urban communities alike. The stakeholders noted that under his leadership, Cross River is experiencing a revival of purpose, unity, and direction.
The motion to back Governor Otu’s re-election was moved by Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong (Cross River South) and seconded by Hon. John Ulafor. A similar motion in support of President Tinubu’s second term was moved by Hon. Victor Abang (Ikom/Boki Federal Constituency) and seconded by the Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem.
In a strategic move to deepen federal presence in the state, the party resolved to set up a high-powered delegation led by Governor Otu and his deputy to engage President Tinubu over what they termed “the underrepresentation of Cross River in federal appointments and infrastructural distribution.” This development is expected to spark conversation at the national level as the state seeks a more balanced share in Nigeria’s development agenda.
Party leaders also expressed appreciation to the President for establishing a Special Agro-Processing Zone in the state, a project they described as a “game-changer” for agriculture, job creation, and food security. These, they stressed, are legacy projects that solidify Tinubu’s and Otu’s place in history.
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Security achievements under the Otu administration were also highlighted, with stakeholders urging the governor to sustain efforts that are already restoring peace and stability to restive communities.
The APC caucus emphasized unity as a pillar for sustained dominance in the state, calling for harmony among party members and more frequent government-stakeholder engagement to foster transparency, synergy, and development across sectors.
In his response, Governor Otu expressed gratitude for the endorsement and unwavering support from party leaders and grassroots members. He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to delivering on campaign promises, stating that he remains focused and unshaken by political distractions or opposition theatrics.
“My commitment is to the people of Cross River State, not to political noise. I urge everyone to work with me to build a stronger, more prosperous state,” Otu declared.
With a firm eye on the future, the governor concluded with a powerful message: “By 2031, I intend to leave Cross River far better than I met it—economically robust, socially cohesive, and brimming with opportunities for all.”
As political momentum builds toward 2027, the Cross River APC’s strategic endorsements and renewed unity may prove pivotal in shaping both state and national electoral outcomes.
