Special Advisers Forum Passes Vote Of Confidence On Gov Otu’s Leadership, Says No Vacancy In 2027

By, Promise Imoh

Cross River State Special Advisers Forum has harmoniously passed a vote of confidence on leadership of the Governor of Cross River State, His Excellency Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, asserting that there is “no vacancy in the government house” come 2027.

This decision was made known during a press briefing held on Friday 7th of March 2025, at the Ernest Etim Bassey Press Centre in Calabar, where the Forum recognized and recounted the governor’s remarkable developmental strides in the state.

Speaking on behalf of the Forum, the Special Adviser to the Governor on General Duties, who is also the chairman of the Forum, Barr. Ekpenyong Akiba,  described Governor Otu as a  leader with the vision of transforming the state through critical infrastructure projects, economic revitalization, and strategic political influence even at the national level.

Akiba further highlighted the ongoing road construction projects, economic rejuvenation and improved investor confidence as evidence of the governor’s commitment to the state’s progress, while emphasizing that Cross River State is witnessing a turnaround under Governor Otu’s leadership which extends beyond the state, making him a strong voice at the national level.

Speaking also, the Special Adviser on Asset Management and Recovery, Barr. Gilbert Agbor, applauded Governor Otu for prioritizing infrastructure, healthcare, agriculture, and rural electrification, particularly in the Central Senatorial District. He also highlighted major road projects in Ikom, Ugep, and Obubra, and the construction of a ₦470 million General Hospital in Ikom, and the revival of Songhai Farms and the Starch Processing Factory, which are creating jobs and boosting agricultural productivity.

Meanwhile, Barr. Agbor who spoke on electrification, noted that the government’s partnership with the Federal Government’s Rural Electrification Agency has brought solar power to several communities, improving security and economic activities. He further guarantee residents of Governor Otu commitment to delivering on his promises and positioning Cross River as an economic powerhouse.

Similarly, the Special Adviser on Events Management, Effiong Ekpenyong, also lauded the Governor’s interventions in infrastructure, security, education, and tourism and noted some of his key developments which are, the reconstruction of key roads in Calabar South, Akamkpa, and Bakassi, the restoration of electricity to Bekwara LGA after 15 years, and the introduction of scholarship schemes and youth empowerment initiatives.

Acknowledging the First Lady of the state, Bishop Mrs. Eyoanwan Bassey Otu, Ekpenyong lauded her humanitarian efforts through the Humanity Without Borders Empowerment Initiative (HWB–EI) and also commended her initiatives in free medical outreaches, vocational training, and support for orphans, the elderly, and internally displaced persons (IDPs).

The Special Advisers Forum reaffirmed their resolute support for Governor Otu, noting that his developmental agenda must continue beyond 2027. They further pledge their allegiances to making sure that Governor Otu’s visionary leadership and track record of achievements continues come 2027.