By joshua 
2027 sealed for Governor Otu, Cross Riverians wants continuity – Barrister Akiba
By Kingsley Agim
Special Adviser to the Governor Bassey Edet Otu of Cross River State on General Duties and Chairman of the Cross River Forum of Special Advisers, Ekpenyong Akiba, Esq., has declared that the people of Cross River Central—and indeed the entire state—are united in their call for continuity in leadership under Governor Bassey Edet Otu.
Speaking on the sidelines of the Central Progressives Initiative’s endorsement rally for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Otu on Saturday at the Ikom Township Stadium, Akiba described the overwhelming show of support as a “loud and clear message” to the governor: the people are satisfied and want more.
According to him, the massive turnout and unified stance by stakeholders from across the Central Senatorial District were not mere political fanfare but a strategic show of intent aimed at discouraging any distractions as the governor continues to deliver on his campaign promises.
“Some may say it’s too early to talk politics, but the people are simply moving ahead of His Excellency to clear the path,” Akiba said. “They want him to stay focused, because they know what political scheming can do to good governance. This endorsement is a strong signal—they are saying, ‘Governor Otu, we see your work, and we want you to continue.’”
He noted that from elected officials to political appointees and grassroots supporters, the message is unanimous: there is no vacancy in 2027.
“The Forum of Special Advisers, all appointees from Central, elected representatives—we are fully mobilized. We are standing shoulder to shoulder in support of the governor,” Akiba declared.
The legal practitioner praised the governor for staying true to his promises, highlighting the administration’s focus on infrastructure, economic revitalization, and social impact programmes. According to him, these visible efforts have earned the trust and admiration of the people.
“I can sleep well at night because the government is working hard, and the results are visible. The people know what they want—and what they want is to protect the progress we are witnessing today.”
Akiba urged all stakeholders and political actors to prioritize the state’s development by allowing the governor to continue his work undistracted.
“As far as we’re concerned—in the Central, and even in the South and the North—2027 will be a smooth return ticket for Senator Prince Bassey Otu. He deserves to continue this journey of transformation.”
The endorsement event, which drew the political Who’s Who, party stalwarts, and enthusiastic supporters from the central senatorial district, is seen as a major statement of unity and a prelude to what many now consider an inevitable second term for the “People’s First” Governor.