A large political gathering in Calabar on Wednesday offered an early sign of support for President Bola Tinubu and Governor Bassey Otu’s second-term bids, as thousands gathered at the U.J. Esuene Stadium under the banner of the Cross River Southern Consultative Forum.
The event, attended by supporters from across the state, marked a formal public endorsement of both leaders ahead of the 2027 general elections. While the elections remain nearly two years away, Wednesday’s rally reflected growing mobilisation within local political structures.
Governor Otu, addressing the crowd, expressed appreciation for the public show of support. “This is not just about politics; it is an affirmation of the silent revolution we are championing — a people-first governance rooted in economic rebirth, infrastructural renewal, and the dignity of labour,” he said.
The governor outlined a series of initiatives he said were positioning Cross River State for long-term growth, including the Bakassi Deep Seaport and ongoing smart city projects. He highlighted rising investor interest and increasing productivity, particularly in agriculture and tourism.
Otu also spoke of his administration’s approach to security and social reintegration, stating that over 16 camps linked to criminal activity had been dismantled. He described the state’s amnesty programme as a tool for restoring “dignity and purpose” to affected youths.
The rally included remarks from other political and community leaders. Rt. Hon. Legor Idagbo, representing the northern senatorial district, said the support for Otu and Tinubu extended beyond southern Cross River. “This is not a southern charade. This is a Cross River consensus,” he said.
Architect Eyo Ndem described the Otu administration’s governance as “focused,” while former Deputy Governor Prof. Ivara Esu and Senator Florence Ita-Giwa led the formal endorsement declaration.
Speakers also referenced federal-level support, with Otu relaying President Tinubu’s appreciation to Cross River residents. The governor announced that the 20th edition of Carnival Calabar would take place in December as part of a broader plan to revive the state’s cultural and tourism sectors.
The rally concluded with multiple endorsements from community leaders, including Ambassador Nyong Asuquo and Ntufam John Achort Okon, who cited improvements in local empowerment and healthcare outreach as reasons for backing a second term.
Wednesday’s event is the latest in a series of regional political activities pointing toward early alignments ahead of the 2027 general elections. Governor Otu is currently serving his first term, while President Tinubu is also expected to seek re-election.
