Ukorebi Esien | January 21, 2026
CALABAR — In a move aimed at consolidating support for the re-election of Governor Bassey Edet Otu in 2027, the Commissioner for Agriculture and Irrigation Development, Johnson Andiambey Ebokpo, KSM, has unveiled the UJIBHADA Progressives Movement, a socio-political support platform designed to mobilise grassroots backing for continuity of the current administration in Cross River State.
The unveiling ceremony, which drew political stakeholders, party faithful and community leaders from across the state, also featured the inauguration of ward, chapter and local government coordinators to drive the activities of the movement at the grassroots level. The structure, according to organisers, is intended to ensure early mobilisation and sustained engagement ahead of the next general elections.
Speaking at the event, Ebokpo, who serves as the Director-General of the movement, said UJIBHADA was formed to galvanise widespread support for Governor Otu's second-term bid, stressing that continuity would guarantee the consolidation of the administration's people-oriented policies and developmental programmes.
Represented by the Deputy Director-General of the movement, Solomon Ekam, Ebokpo explained that "UJIBHADA," a term symbolising prosperity and good fortune, reflects the positive socio-economic direction of the Otu-led government and the need to sustain its reform agenda beyond 2027.
Providing an overview of the organisation, the Director of Special Duties, Dr. Cletus Omono, JP, disclosed that the UJIBHADA Progressives Movement is a duly registered political support group with coordinators across the 18 local government areas of Cross River State, ensuring a broad and inclusive reach.
In his keynote address, former council chairman of Obubra LGA, Dr. Bassey Eric Tom, urged members of the movement to remain united, disciplined and strategic in their engagements, noting that effective grassroots mobilisation would be critical to achieving success in 2027.
Also speaking, elder statesman and seasoned politician, High Chief Julius Mbina, highlighted the electoral strength of Obubra Local Government Area, calling on stakeholders to harness the voting capacity of the area to attract increased development and political relevance.
Goodwill messages were delivered by several stakeholders, including Mrs. Charity Orokwu, as the event attracted a wide spectrum of politicians, traditional leaders and party supporters who pledged their commitment to the ideals of the movement.
The high point of the event was the presentation of an Award of Excellent Performance to Ebokpo by the Director-General of AJEMO (Johnson Andiambey Ebokpo Movement), Mr. Ekawo Cyprian Awah. Presenting the award, Awah said the recognition was in appreciation of the commissioner's notable achievements within a short period in office and his contributions to community and state development.
Observers say the emergence of the UJIBHADA Progressives Movement signals the commencement of early grassroots political realignment ahead of the 2027 governorship election, with continuity of the Otu administration now gaining organised support across the state.
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