Expect more than 50%, Otu tells Cross River women

Cross River State Governor, Bassey Otu, has assured women in the state of fairness and equity in his government.

The governor gave the assurance when a socio-political organisation, Team Mma-Adiaha, hosted him and his wife, Rev. Eyoanwan Otu, to a post-election reception.

While expressing his gratitude for the support shown by the women during the 2023 general elections, Otu said his government would ensure women get more than the 50 per cent positions advocated for.

“I know that as we have started here, the sky is not even going to be the limit. Don’t despair. They talk about 50 per cent, we don’t know how it will be, but I can assure you it might be more than that.

“I believe that women have shown their strength and in order to recognise, strengthen and encourage them, we must appreciate the level of hard work, which they have put in.

“Be assured that there will be more than enough for everybody. All we are begging at the moment is please, exercise some patience.”

On employments, he assured the women that he was planning to unveil a programme that would transform the socio-economic status of the people.

“These are the ladies who took the election to the next level in Cross River State. We have here women who displayed uncommon bravery and it was through their catalytic demonstration that made us to be where we are today.

“I believe that this is the first time women have shown such energy in our election, and it’s not surprising because this is the first time we have Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) on display and it is very clear that without women you cannot win.”

The wife of the governor congratulated the women for the victory, noting that their effort would not go on noticed, as she promised to ensure that women have fair representation in the administration.

She said: “Your Excellency, the women said you promised them 50 per cent inclusion in your administration, you know I will not allow you to rest till you fulfil that to us. I know you are a good man, kind-hearted, with beautiful soul and you always honour your words and I am confident that you will keep to your promise and do even more for our women because a deal is a deal.”

Speaking earlier, the coordinator of the group, Mrs Uduak Efem, disclosed that the group was birthed over a year ago to mobilise women across the 18 councils to support the ambition of Senator Otu, even as she expressed excitement that their support made the dream come true.