2027: Group Vows to Oust Otu, Says Religious Activities Take Centre Stage Over Governance

Ukorebi Esien | April 22, 2026

CALABAR – A newly formed pressure group, Cross River Rebirth Alliance, has declared its intention to mobilise voters across the state to unseat Governor Bassey Otu in the 2027 general elections, accusing his administration of prioritising religious engagements over governance.

In a statement issued on Tuesday and signed by its Coordinator, Elder Bassey Christopher Bassey, and Secretary, Comrade Callistus Imong, the group expressed dissatisfaction with what it described as the state’s steady decline, alleging that governance has taken a back seat to church-related activities promoted by the first family.

The group claimed that rather than focusing on critical sectors such as infrastructure, healthcare, tourism, and job creation, the current administration has devoted more attention to organising religious gatherings, including solemn assemblies, which it said have not translated into tangible development outcomes for residents.

According to the statement, “the most disappointing aspect of the current administration is the apparent shift of focus from governance to religious activities, leaving the people to grapple with worsening economic conditions and neglect of essential services.”

The Alliance further alleged that Cross River State has experienced economic hardship, rising unemployment, and deteriorating public infrastructure in the last three years, describing the situation as “a regime of hunger in the midst of plenty.”

It also criticised the administration of former governor Ben Ayade, blaming it for laying the foundation of what it termed the state’s decline, while contrasting the period with the administrations of Donald Duke and Liyel Imoke, which it said recorded notable progress in governance and development.

The group alleged that key sectors such as tourism and healthcare have been neglected, while many communities, particularly in rural areas, remain inaccessible due to poor road infrastructure.

It further accused those in government of lacking transparency in the management of public funds, claiming that the benefits of governance are concentrated among a few individuals close to power, while the majority of citizens continue to struggle.

The Cross River Rebirth Alliance said it would embark on aggressive grassroots mobilisation across the 18 local government areas of the state to sensitise residents and galvanise support against the governor’s re-election bid.

“The 2027 election presents an opportunity for the people to reclaim their state. We are committed to mobilising voters to ensure that this administration does not return to power,” the group stated.

As of the time of filing this report, the Cross River State Government had not issued an official response to the allegations.

Abi Needs Better Laws, Stronger Representation – Victor Bassey Declares

 

Ukorebi Esien | April 20, 2026

ABI – A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Comrade Victor Bassey Emmanuel, has declared his intention to contest the 2027 election to represent Abi State Constituency in the Cross River State House of Assembly, pledging to deliver stronger legislative impact and people-oriented representation.

Emmanuel, who made his declaration after what he described as extensive consultations with stakeholders across Abi, said his ambition is driven by the urgent need to reposition the constituency through effective lawmaking and inclusive governance.

According to him, Abi deserves a higher standard of representation that prioritises development, accountability, and grassroots engagement. He noted that while the constituency has produced competent representatives in the past, there is a need to deepen legislative effectiveness and expand opportunities for the people.

“My decision is born out of a sincere desire to offer effective and egalitarian representation that will usher in meaningful development and sustainable empowerment for our people,” he said.

The aspirant emphasized his commitment to participatory governance, assuring constituents that he would carry them along in legislative processes and ensure their voices are reflected in policy decisions and bills at the Assembly.

He outlined key priority areas of his agenda to include youth empowerment, educational support, women’s economic advancement, and improved access to basic infrastructure in rural communities.

“Our unemployed youths must be trained and empowered. Our students deserve quality education and support grants. Our women need access to business support, while our communities require essential amenities to thrive,” Bassey stated.

He further pledged to sponsor impactful bills and motions that would address pressing socio-economic challenges in the constituency, while also attracting government presence and development projects to underserved areas.

Declaring his readiness for the task ahead, Emmanuel said he possesses the capacity and commitment required to deliver on his promises if elected.

He formally announced that he would be contesting under the platform of the APC, calling on party faithful, stakeholders, and the general public to support his ambition.

Bassey appealed to the people of Abi and Cross River State to join him in what he described as a collective effort to achieve inclusive growth and transformative representation at the state legislature.

The 2027 general elections in Cross River State are expected to witness increased political activity, as aspirants across parties begin to position themselves ahead of the polls.

Voice of Central Honours Ironbar with Humanitarian Award

 

Ukorebi Esien | April 20, 2026

IKOM – The Chief of Staff to the Governor of Cross River State, Hon. Dr. (Chief) Emmanuel Ironbar, has been honoured with a humanitarian award by the Voice of Central (VOC) in recognition of his contributions to grassroots development and welfare in the state.

The award was presented during the Prince Is Coming endorsement rally held in Ikom, Central Cross River, where leaders and members of the group gathered to demonstrate support for the administration of Governor Bassey Edet Otu.

Presenting the award, the Director-General of the movement, Comrade Victor Bassey, said the recognition was in acknowledgment of Ironbar’s commitment, dedication, and genuine concern for the wellbeing of the people of Central and Cross River State at large. He commended the Chief of Staff for his visible role in supporting policies and initiatives that directly impact communities.

Victor Bassey also lauded the Otu-led administration for initiating and executing development projects across Central Cross River, noting that Ikom, as the headquarters of the region, is receiving renewed attention. He reaffirmed the group’s readiness to continue supporting and partnering with the government to ensure sustained development.

He further highlighted Ironbar’s interest in mentorship and youth development, stating that his efforts in grooming young people and promoting leadership at the grassroots have not gone unnoticed.

In his response, Ironbar expressed appreciation to Voice of Central for the recognition, describing the award as both humbling and motivating. He recalled the consistent warm reception he receives in Central Cross River, which he referred to as home, and pledged to remain committed to the service of the people.

The Chief of Staff reiterated the administration’s dedication to the “People First” agenda of Governor Otu, assuring that ongoing projects in Central Cross River would be completed before the end of the year. He emphasized that such projects are aimed at improving the living standards of the people and stimulating economic growth in the region.

Ironbar also pledged continued support for the activities and initiatives of Voice of Central, encouraging the group to sustain its engagement in promoting unity, development, and constructive political participation.

The event featured goodwill messages, interactions among stakeholders, and reflections on the developmental strides of the current administration, further reinforcing collaboration between government and community-based groups in advancing the state’s progress.

No Ambition Is Worth a Life – Youth Leaders Send Strong Message to Politicians and Supporters

Ukorebi Esien  |  April 20, 2026 

OBUDU – Youth leaders in Cross River State have issued a strong warning against political violence ahead of the 2027 elections, declaring that no political ambition is worth the life of any young person.

The message was delivered during a stakeholder engagement by the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Cross River State chapter, as part of its ongoing statewide tour aimed at promoting unity, peace, and responsible civic participation among young people.

Speaking during a visit to a traditional institution in Obudu, the State Chairman of NYCN, Emmanuel Olayi, emphasized that youths must resist being used as tools of violence by political actors. He stressed that while young people have the right to support candidates of their choice, such support must be exercised within the confines of the law and without resorting to violence.

“No young person should kill another young person because of someone else’s ambition,” Olayi said. “What we owe any leader is our support, not our lives. We must protect ourselves, our communities, and our future.”

The youth council noted that with young people forming the majority of the population, their role in shaping a peaceful electoral process is critical. The leadership warned that the recurring trend of election-related violence, often driven by youths, poses a serious threat to community stability and development.

As part of its “Future First” campaign, the council is engaging youth leaders, institutions, and community stakeholders across local government areas to reinforce the values of unity and non-violence. The initiative also seeks to create platforms for young people to voice their concerns on development issues and channel them to appropriate authorities.

In his remarks, HRH Chief Felix Abanbeshie Okudare-Paramount Ruler OF Obudu commended the youth leaders for their proactive approach and urged them to intensify grassroots sensitization. He advised that direct engagement, such as town hall meetings and youth conferences, would further strengthen the message of peace and responsible conduct.

The monarch also cautioned young people against allowing themselves to be manipulated by politicians, urging them instead to focus on education, skill development, and lawful participation in governance processes.

The NYCN further revealed plans to monitor ongoing development projects across communities and relay feedback from youths to government and relevant stakeholders, ensuring that grassroots concerns are adequately represented.

Reaffirming their commitment, the youth leaders called on all political actors to prioritize peace and desist from actions that could incite violence, insisting that the future of the state depends on the protection and empowerment of its young population.

The engagement forms part of broader efforts by the council to build a united, responsible, and development-driven youth constituency across Cross River State as the political season approaches.

Calabar South Rallies Behind Otu at Prince Is Coming Movement Endorsement

Ukorebi Esien  |  April 20, 2026

IKOM — Calabar South Local Government Area on Friday demonstrated strong political solidarity as it joined stakeholders across Cross River State at the Prince Is Coming Movement endorsement rally held at Ikom Stadium, throwing its weight behind Governor Bassey Edet Otu ahead of the 2027 elections.

The Calabar South delegation, led by the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Dr. Emmanuel Ironbar, and the Executive Chairman of the council, Hon. Patrick Archibong, arrived the venue alongside the Vice Chairman, Lady Atim Martins, members of the State House of Assembly representing the area, Hon. Effiong Ekarika and Hon. Victor Nsa, as well as councillors, political appointees, and party faithful.

Their arrival added colour and energy to the event, with coordinated cultural displays, chants, and branded attire reflecting a high level of organization and grassroots mobilization. The rally drew participants from all 18 local government areas of the state, underscoring growing political momentum within the movement.

Speaking at the event, Dr. Ironbar commended the Prince Is Coming Movement for promoting unity and continuity, noting that the administration of Governor Otu has recorded significant strides in infrastructure, governance, and economic revitalization. He stated that the governor’s performance has strengthened public confidence and justified calls for continuity beyond the current term.

Also speaking, Chairman of Calabar South Hon. Archibong described the governor’s leadership as impactful and people-oriented, emphasizing that the administration’s achievements have resonated across communities. He expressed confidence that sustained leadership would consolidate ongoing development efforts in the state.

The rally reached its peak with a collective endorsement of Governor Otu for a second term, alongside President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as stakeholders reiterated their commitment to continuity and stability.

The Prince Is Coming Movement, which has continued to gain traction across the state, is widely seen as a political platform mobilizing grassroots support in anticipation of the 2027 general elections.

The Ikom gathering marked a significant show of unity and alignment among political actors and supporters, reinforcing Calabar South’s position as a key bloc in the evolving political landscape of Cross River State.

Duke Mourns Edisua Ita, Celebrates Her Selflessness, Courage, and Humanitarian Impact

Ukorebi Esien | April 19, 2026

CALABAR – The Cross River Representative at the Niger Delta Development Commission's board, Rt. Honm Orok Duke, has mourned the death of late Associate Professor Edisua Ita, describing her as a symbol of selflessness, courage, and humanitarian service whose impact will endure across generations.

In a tribute at her funeral service, held recently in Calabar, Duke said the late academic lived a life dedicated to uplifting others, noting that she consistently deployed her knowledge and influence to address societal challenges. He emphasized that Edisua Ita was not only a scholar but a committed advocate for humanity who used theatre as a tool for social transformation and healing.

Duke, who was her classmate at the University of Calabar, recalled her passion for mentoring young people and supporting vulnerable groups, describing her as a “voice for the voiceless” whose home and work reflected deep compassion for the downtrodden.

He further commended her courage in standing for values that promoted development and inclusion, adding that her contributions to Theatre for Development and children’s theatre through her Dreamboat Development Theatre Foundation positioned her as a pacesetter in using the arts for societal impact.

While condoling her family, colleagues, and the academic community, Duke urged them to take solace in her enduring legacy of service, noting that her life remains a reference point for purposeful living.

He also extended financial support to individuals and groups present at the funeral as a mark of solidarity.

Born on December 30, 1964, in Calabar, Edisua Ita hailed from a distinguished lineage, being the daughter of Etubom Asuquo Okon Ita and Elder Princess Mabey Essien Ita. Her early years were shaped by international exposure, having grown up in Santa Isabel, Equatorial Guinea, where her father served as a diplomatic attaché.

Until her passing, she was an Associate Professor and immediate past Head of the Department of Theatre and Media Studies at the University of Calabar. Her career spanned journalism, research, and academia, with significant contributions to children’s theatre and community development through her Dreamboat Development Theatre Foundation.

Late Associate Professor Edisua Ita is remembered for her contributions to academia, humanitarian service, and social development, with tributes highlighting her legacy as one defined by selflessness, courage, and lasting impact on society.