Cross River State Governor, Bassey Otu, at the weekend, delivered what he described as a “State of the Union” address, rallying elders and critical stakeholders of Cross River State to unite behind his administration’s quest to restore justice and reclaim the state’s status among oil-producing states in the Niger Delta.

Addressing a high-powered gathering in Calabar, the governor said his administration was committed to “righting the wrongs and injustice occasioned by the malicious deletion” of the state from the oil-producing bloc, assuring that ongoing efforts would ultimately return Cross River to its rightful position.

He thanked the leaders for their steadfast support while appealing for patience as the government works to “get the state out of the woods.”

The event drew an array of prominent figures, including former governors, Donald Duke and Pam Ogar, alongside former and serving lawmakers, ex-deputy governors and the current Deputy Governor, Peter Odey.

Speaking on the theme: ‘Justice and Welfare Through Strength and Unity’, Otu struck a reflective tone, declaring: “I stand before you today, humbled by the weight of history and the responsibilities that lie ahead. Cross River, like the legendary Phoenix, has risen from the ashes time and again to reclaim its rightful place.”

He acknowledged prevailing concerns among some leaders, noting “whispers of withering faith and echoes of opposition for opposition’s sake.” Otu insisted that his administration would remain resolute. Quoting wartime rhetoric, he declared: “We shall fight… we shall never surrender, not because we won’t, but because the people will not allow it.”