From Musa Muhammad Kutama, Calabar
The All Progressives Congress in Cross River State on Tuesday unveiled a new State Executive Committee at a well-attended congress held at the main bowl of the U J Esuene Stadium.
At the event, Governor Bassey Otu pledged full government support for the newly elected leadership, describing the exercise as a demonstration of unity and maturity within the party.
Addressing delegates and stakeholders, Otu said the congress marked “a great day in the lives of Cross Riverians,” adding that the party had gathered to consolidate on its achievements and move forward.
“We came to consolidate and then move forward,” he said, while appreciating the outgoing executives for their service and assuring them that “you will never walk alone.”
The governor congratulated the newly elected State Chairman, Chris Sunny Etta, expressing confidence in his capacity to lead the party successfully.
“Chairman, I want to congratulate you. You have the experience and the humility, and I know you will navigate this course very easily. The support you need from the government, we are there to give you that support,” Otu stated.
He emphasised the need for the party to sustain its culture of hard work and dedication, noting that such commitment would keep the APC on the path of progress in the state.
Reaffirming the party’s dominance, the governor declared, “There is no other party in this state. It is APC all the way,” assuring members that his administration would continue to deliver the dividends of democracy.
Earlier, the Chairman of the Congress Committee, Samuel Yarnap, commended the peaceful conduct of the exercise and described Cross River as a home of peace. He urged party members to see leadership as an opportunity to serve humanity rather than pursue personal gain.
In his remarks, the outgoing Acting State Chairman, Ekum Ekok Ojogu, welcomed dignitaries and expressed optimism that the new executive would steer the party to greater heights.
The congress climaxed with the dissolution of the outgoing State Working Committee and the affirmation of the new executive by delegates through a voice vote declared with a resounding “The ayes have it.” Barrister Emmanuel Akinde subsequently administered the oath of office and oath of allegiance on the new officials.
In his acceptance speech, Etta thanked delegates for the confidence reposed in him and his team.
“We are going to hit the ground running. We will not disappoint you. We are here to serve and to strengthen the party,” he assured, promising an open-door policy that would give members and stakeholders a listening ear.
The newly inaugurated 36-member State Executive Committee is expected to steer the affairs of the APC in Cross River State and position the party for future political engagements.
