- As Ohaneze Ndigbo backs ‘People’s First’ agenda
BY UBON EKANEM, CALABAR – Governor Bassey Edet Otu of Cross River State has urged the people of South East geo-political zone to abandon their persistent agitation for political separation as Nigeria’s current dire situation does not favour such unrealistic and extreme demand.
Speaking during his investiture as the Grand Patron of Ohaneze Ndigbo Worldwide, Governor Otu said the high levels of inter-cultural marriages and business connections in the country are so overwhelming that agitating for separation is not in consonance with realities on ground.
He reminded the apex cultural association of the South East people that having created social and economic bridges across cultures, sharing resources, and developing enhanced skills, dialogue and robust engagement among all stakeholders in the country will be more productive for everyone.
The governor urged the Ohaneze Ndigbo to deploy its goodwill in conflict management, communication and broader professional network to carefully address and navigate present challenges of nationhood.
He thanked the organization for the honour and pledged to continue creating the enabling environment that would attract greater investment to Cross River State, adding that government alone cannot engage and harness the services of vibrant youths who are daily exploring avenues for sustainable livelihood.
Conferring the honour of Ohaneze Ndigbo Worldwide Grand Patron on Governor Otu, former Anambra State Deputy Governor,
Chief Emeka Chubuizor, who represented the organisation’s President General, Senator John Mbata, explained that the Award was in recognition and appreciation of his transformative agenda which has created room for non-indigenes’ appointment to serve in his administration.
He said running an all-inclusive administration devoid of consideration for ethnic, tribal and religious affinity is something that stands the governor out for emulation by others.
Chief Chubuizor also praised Governor Otu for finding one of their sons, Hon Mazi Okey Madweke worthy of appointment as his Special Adviser on Non-indigene Affairs.
Also speaking at the occasion, newly elected President-General of Ohaneze Ndigbo Worldwide, Cross River State chapter, Hon Chief Chukwuemaka Egwuonwu, listed several milestone achievements of the governor, especially in relations to dealings with promoting investments by non-indigenes in the state.
Noting that Governor Otu’s efforts at accommodating the so-called ‘stranger elements’ in the scheme of things remain unparalleled, Chief Egwuonwu promised that their appreciation would properly manifest come 2027 general elections in the State.
He further declared that Ohanaeze Ndigbo will only go for and support candidates who have positively impacted the people’s lives come 2027 polls.
