The Deputy Governor of Cross River State, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, PhD, has commended local government legislators (councillors) for their steadfast support of the Senator Prince Bassey Otu-led administration.
Dr. Odey gave the commendation on Tuesday while receiving in audience leaders of the Local Government Legislative Assemblies at the Deputy Governor’s Conference Room, Government House, Calabar.
Rt. Hon. Odey called on them to continue supporting and praying for the Governor, while encouraging strong collaboration with their respective council chairmen to ensure effective governance at the local government and ward level.
He reassured the leaders of the state government’s continued collaboration with local government councils to guarantee efficient service delivery and the successful implementation of the administration’s people first agenda.
He also advised political office holders to remain humble and mindful of the transient nature of power. “When you are at the top, do not become carried away, because the table can turn,” he cautioned, stressing the importance of humility, respect for others, and responsible leadership across all levels.
Earlier in his remarks, the Councillor representing Utugwang North and Leader of the Forum, Hon. Eneji Sam Ashibi, expressed appreciation to the Deputy Governor for the audience granted to them.
Eneji, who also serves as Leader of the Obudu Legislative Assembly, reaffirmed the unwavering loyalty of the legislative leaders to the present administration and pledged their continued support in advancing the policies and programmes of the state government at the grassroots level. He noted that the forum remains committed to promoting unity, stability, and effective legislative oversight within their respective councils.
In their separate remarks, the leaders of the Biase, Etung, and Ogoja Legislative Assemblies, Hon. Egwu Egeh Umet, Hon. ThankGod Ekupnse Ojong, and Hon. Dr. Elizabeth Mbim, respectively commended Governor Bassey Otu for embarking on grassroots-driven projects across the state. They also applauded the Deputy Governor for his leadership and supervisory role over local government affairs.
The legislators, however, appealed for improved welfare packages for councillors, including the provision of mobility to enhance their effectiveness. They noted that the lack of adequate resources has limited their ability to execute constituency projects and called for greater support to strengthen legislative functions at the grassroots level.
A highlight of the visit was the observance of a minute’s silence in honour of their departed colleagues and the presentation of a commemorative portrait to the Deputy Governor.
Deputy Governor’s Press Unit, Government House, Calabar
