Governor Bassey Otu expressed that 25 years of unbridled democracy have provided valuable lessons and blessings for Cross River.During an interdenominational Christian service at the Apostolic Church on Edgerly Road in Calabar, Governor Otu, represented by his Deputy, Rt Hon Peter Odey, expressed gratitude for the patriotic leaders who have guided Cross River State and Nigeria.
He emphasized the importance of allowing democracy to flourish, as it leads to development and ensures that the voices of the people are always heard.
Governor Otu highlighted the significance of June 12, 1992, presidential election and its subsequent annulment in fueling Nigeria’s democratic struggle.
He paid tribute to heroes like Moshood Bashorun (M.K.O.) Abiola for their contributions to democracy in Nigeria.
The Governor reassured the people of Cross River that his administration prioritizes the welfare of its citizens and is committed to addressing issues such as the backlog of unpaid gratuity for retirees.
He urged Cross Riverians to remain supportive of his administration, pray for their leaders, and continue to have faith in the progress of the state.
In a sermon titled “Cross River shall prosper again,”Pastor Ekpe Offiong emphasized that prosperity will come to the state if its leaders act justly and truthfully before God.
The clergyman commended the ‘People First’ approach of the Otu-led administration, which focuses on meeting the needs and aspirations of the masses, and encouraged the governor to maintain this commitment to delivering democratic dividends to the people.
Government officials, elder statesman, political figures, traditional leaders, security agency heads, and other dignitaries attended the event, where readings from the Bible were shared by Deputy Governor Rt Hon Peter Odey and Speaker of the State House of Assembly Rt Hon Elvert Ayambem.