APC Support Groups in Cross River State have held a victory celebration in honor of the Governor of the State, Senator (Prince) Bassey Otu and his Deputy, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, following the recent resounding election victory in March.
Speaking at the event which held at the Dome in the Calabar Municipal Council Premises, the Governor who was represented by the Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey thanked the support groups for their resilience stating that although the candidates in the election could not be in every street and every village, the support groups were everywhere to secure victory at the grassroots. He pledged that the supporters will never regret their support of this mandate as the people-first agenda will surely be fulfilled, assuring them of his track record as a people-oriented leader from his time as Member of House of Representatives, Senator and now Governor.
The Governor assured the supporters that this was indeed the beginning of the season of sweetness because in this era, no one will be left behind, instead the hard work of supporters will be rewarded as exemplified by the few well-considered appointments that have already been made.
In his opening remark, the Chairman of the occasion, High Chief, Prof. Eyo Etim Nyong, appreciated the organizing committee and recognized the physically challenged and all those who had taken great risks for what they believed in. He said the celebration was a sign of victory amongst the major APC Support Groups in the State. He encouraged all to stand firm for what they believe in because hitting the ground running might often involve being dropped into muddy ground which will take time to get moving. He assured the audience that their expectations from the government will come to pass given the pedigree of the Governor.
Prof. Etim Nyong said the efforts of the various support groups at the grassroots levels expanded the victory of the party and that though every individual might not benefit directly, the various communities will all benefit. Speaking, further, Prof. Nyong said the state hand moved from the era of food on the table to that of product on the table. Concluding, he warned that in 2027, the APC will not be preaching ‘Back to South’ as it would be expected that we should leverage on this 4-year opportunity we now have.
Dr. Bassey Ekpenyong, who delivered the keynote address at the event suggested that for the new administration to achieve its set objectives, certain features of good governance must be considered. Expressing confidence in Senator (Prince) Bassey Otu who had long distinguished himself through his contributions to charity and humanitarian efforts, Dr. Ekpenyong said the Governor Ben Ayade government had provided an industrial drive which would be the foundation for the Senator Bassey Otu government to build on.
Speaking at the event, the Secretary to the State Government thanked the support groups and praised the character of the Governor, Senator (Prince) Bassey Otu.
Highlights of the event included musical perfomances, cutting of cake, unveiling of the victory gift and goodwill messages by supporters.
