Former Governor of Cross River State and Chairman of the State Elders Advisory Council, Chief Clement Ebri, has congratulated Governor Bassey Edet Otu on his victory at the governorship primary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), describing the outcome as a strong endorsement of purposeful and people-oriented leadership.
In a congratulatory message, Ebri said the governor’s emergence as the APC standard bearer for a second term reflected the confidence and trust Cross Riverians have in his administration and vision for the state.
The elder statesman noted that Governor Otu’s victory was a reward for what he described as compassionate, inclusive and visionary leadership aimed at restoring public confidence in governance.
According to him, the governor has, within a short period, rekindled hope among the people through programmes focused on infrastructure renewal, agricultural development, human capital advancement and social stability.
Ebri commended Otu for demonstrating maturity, calmness and wisdom in the management of state affairs, qualities he said have endeared him to party faithful and residents across the state.
“Leadership is not measured merely by power, but by the ability to inspire hope, unify diverse interests and create pathways for collective advancement,” he stated.
The former governor described the primary victory as a defining moment in the political evolution of Cross River State and an opportunity to consolidate ongoing developmental strides.
He urged members of the APC to close ranks and work together ahead of the next electoral phase, stressing that the victory belonged to all citizens seeking peace, growth and sustainable progress in the state.
Ebri also appealed to politicians and aspirants who were unsuccessful in their bid for a return to office, not to allow disappointment to create division within the party.
He encouraged them to support Governor Otu and continue contributing to the development of the state, insisting that the collective interest of Cross River should be placed above personal ambition.
Quoting an Ethiopian proverb which says, “When cobwebs unite, they can tie a lion,” Ebri stressed the importance of unity and collaboration in advancing the state’s development goals.
He expressed optimism that a second term for Governor Otu would usher in greater transformation, prosperity and institutional strengthening across Cross River State.
According to him, with sustained public support, the governor would further expand development, empower communities and leave behind a legacy of peace, progress and shared prosperity.
