From Musa Muhammad Kutama, Calabar
The Grassroots Initiative for Otu/Odey 2027 has officially been launched in Calabar, calling on all political parties and stakeholders in Cross River State to come out en masse to adopt a consensus in returning Governor Bassey Edet Otu and Deputy Governor Peter Odey for a second term in office.
Speaking on Thursday at the NUJ Press Centre in Calabar, the Founder and Director-General of the initiative, Awade Friday, described the movement as a people-centered platform for stability, continuity, and progressive leadership in Cross River State.
Addressing media representatives, Awade stressed that the advocacy for the Otu/Odey ticket transcends party lines.
He noted that the administration’s impact has been felt by all citizens, regardless of their political affiliations.
“This is a call for consensus support from all political parties for the continuation of a working government.
“Our insistence on a unified Otu/Odey ticket is grounded in proven performance and tested loyalty.
“Deputy Governor Peter Odey has consistently demonstrated himself as a loyal and dependable partner to his principal — a standard that should be emulated by every young person in Nigerian politics,” Friday stated.
The Director-General cited several achievements of the Governor Bassey Otu-led administration as justification for the group’s support.
These include the successful reclamation of the Tinapa Business Resort from AMCON after 14 years; the ‘Zero Pothole’ policy and improved public lighting in the Calabar metropolis; claims that Cross River has become one of the safest states in Nigeria, allowing citizens to “sleep with both eyes closed”; and the provision of free seasonal transport services during the December and Easter periods, among others.
The group also recognized key figures within the administration who have contributed to these successes, specifically praising the Chief of Staff, Hon. Chief Emmanuel Ironbar, and the Special Adviser on General Duties, Barrister Ekpenyong Akiba, who is also the Convener of the Grassroots Initiative for Otu/Odey.
They further announced plans for a series of community engagements, town hall meetings, and sensitization campaigns across the three senatorial districts of the state.
“Unity in purpose brings strength; consensus in leadership brings progress,” the Director-General concluded, urging a culture of brotherhood as the state moves toward the 2027 elections.