Cross River State governor, Bassey Otu, has unveiled a new mantra for the state: “One Cross River, One Love”, which he says will build on his administration’s established “People First” philosophy.
The announcement was made during an endorsement dinner hosted in his honour by the Northern Cross Coalition, NORTHCCO, a socio-political group of men and women drawn from the Northern Senatorial District of the state.
The event which held at Hogis Royale Hotels, Calabar, featured the presentation of a communique from NORTHCCO, after her General Assembly in Ogoja, where the group unanimously endorsed the governor for a second term in the 2027 governorship race. The group also passed a vote of confidence on the governor and his deputy, Peter Odey, praising their “exemplary performance” less than two years into their administration.
Declaring Otu as their sole candidate for 2027, the group stated that no aspirant from the Northern Senatorial District would contest against him. They further pledged to fund the purchase of the All Progressives Congress, APC, nomination form on his behalf. They also threw their support behind Nigeria’s President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election bid.
In his remarks, Otu expressed deep appreciation to the political stakeholders and traditional rulers of the North for their unwavering support. He reiterated his administration’s commitment to equitable development across all senatorial districts and emphasized ongoing efforts to recover looted state assets, citing the recent reclamation of a major Oil Palm Estate.
Referencing NORTHCCO’s slogan, “One North, One Love”, Otu extended its sentiment to the entire state, declaring “One Cross River, One Love” as a new rallying call for unity and inclusivity.
Several key political and traditional leaders endorsed the Governor’s re-election bid, including NORTHCCO Chairman, Peter Higgins; Director-General of the group’s Central Working Committee, Legor Idabo; Director of Mobilization, Martins Orim; and Chairman of the Communique Drafting Committee, Zana Akpagu. They also advocated for more developmental projects and increased political appointments for the Northern District.
The Paramount Ruler of Obudu Local Government Area, HRM Utsu Ukandi Felix Ukudare, voiced concerns about growing insecurity in the region. In response, the governor assured that security remained a top priority, stating that the state’s security architecture is well-prepared to counter external threats.
The evening was concluded with renewed calls for unity, development, and continued support for the Otu administration as the state prepares for the political road ahead.
Chairman, Board of Trustees, NORTHCCO, Fidelis Ugbo, presenting the communique arrived at the Ogoja General Assembly to Otu.
