In a bid to strengthen his administration and foster effective service delivery. Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Otu, has approved the appointment of Barr Nsa Ekpo as the chairman of Cross River Social Investment Programme (SIP) and Dr Calistus Aruku as chairman of Cross River State Youth Empowerment Scheme (YES).
Barr Eyo Nsa Ekpo is a seasoned legal practitioner and public policy expert, while Dr Aruku is an accomplished scholar and development strategist.
The governor described both appointments as a deliberate step towards institutionalising people-centred governance and deepening the culture of merit, capacity, and excellence.
He charged the appointees to discharge their duties with diligence, integrity and vision.
In another development, Governor Bassey Otu has accepted the resignation of Mr Darlington Bassey Eyo as chairman of the state Local Government Service Commission, following findings of gross abuse of office and widespread employment racketeering in the commission’s recent recruitment exercise.
A release signed by the Chief Press Secretary and Social Adviser on Media and Publicity to the Governor, Mr Linus Obogo, stated that the governor has ordered the immediate suspension of the compromised employment process pending a fresh, transparent, and merit-based recruitment.
According to the release, a special review committee will be formed to investigate the matter, identify culpable individuals, and recommend appropriate disciplinary and corrective measures in line with the administration’s zero tolerance for corruption.
He stated that no act of impunity will be permitted to undermine the public’s trust in the government.
Meanwhile, Governor Otu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening collaboration with the Nigerian Navy to improve maritime security and protect the state’s coastal assets.
Governor Otu stated this on Tuesday while receiving the new Flag Officer Commanding (FOC), Eastern Naval Command, Rear Admiral Chidozie Okehie, who paid him a courtesy visit at the Government House, Calabar.
The governor described the visit as “a mark of seriousness and purpose,” noting that the promptness of the FOC’s engagement with the state government reflects his readiness for action.
“I want to thank you very much for your seriousness of purpose,” Otu said. “I thought it would take some time before we’d see your face, but the notice of your visit came immediately, and we suspended everything to receive you. That shows your commitment and the fact that you’re ready for action.”
Governor Otu lauded the Navy for its long-standing cooperation with the state, particularly in ensuring safety across the creeks and waterways. He acknowledged that the Eastern Naval Command has been a dependable partner in maintaining peace and curbing maritime crimes within the state’s coastal corridor.
