A socio-political group, ”Cross Riverians 4 Bassey Otu” has revealed that she is passionately dedicated to highlighting and celebrating the developmental strides of Cross River State governor, Bassey Otu, as well as ensuring that his achievements resonate in every community, whether rural or in the diaspora.
Convener of the group, Gnarly Eyo, made this disclosure in Abuja, when the group paid a courtesy visit to Cross River born businessman and politician, Peter Higgins. Eyo further disclosed that, the group has launched a powerful international support group, marking a monumental step forward in efforts and initiatives geared towards successfully connecting Cross Riverians across Asia, Europe, America, and other parts of the diaspora.
Additionally, to further promote grassroots understanding of the people-centered policies of the state governor, Eyo said the group coined the mantra “Otuism”, derived from the name of Governor Otu, as a governance model that places power in the hands of the populace, ensuring that development reaches every corner, particularly marginalized communities. This mantra aims to bridge the gap between the elites and the underprivileged, fostering governance without class stratification, where all citizens can unite to collaboratively build the state.
On the choice of Higgins as Grand Patron, the group said it was due to his track record of supporting the governor and his positive involvement in the rapid developmental strides happening simultaneously in Cross River State. The group expressed their gratitude to him for accepting to be their Grand Patron and for hosting them despite his busy schedule.
Higgins in his response, reaffirmed his support for Governor Otu. “I’ve been an ardent supporter of His Excellency Governor Otu and will continue to support him and everything related to him. He is a good man. If I don’t support him in his success, it would mean that my support is wasted. I will keep supporting Prince Otu until he completes his eight years. I guarantee you that no one from the North, Central, or South will run against Prince Otu. Active politicians will not support anyone who challenges Prince Otu. Power is rotational, and it is now the turn of the South. We’ve completed our eight years from the North, and the South must now have their uninterrupted eight years. The person representing the South for that eight years is Prince Otu, and nothing will change that. I don’t know how the group came to choose me as your Grand Patron, but within this gathering, I am affirming that I have wholeheartedly accepted your challenge.”
High Chief Higgins Peters is an exceptional leader with a deep and unwavering commitment to the State. As one of Yala’s most distinguished sons, he has made significant contributions to promoting peace and advancing development within his community and across Cross River State. He is undoubtedly a stellar choice for Grand Patron, and his selection is a testament to his remarkable achievements. Highly commendable.