Group Defends Otu, Dismisses Sandy Onor’s Criticism

A group, the Coalition of Etung Youth for Good Governance, has defended Cross River State Governor Bassey Otu against recent criticisms by former Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate, Senator Sandy Onor, describing his comments as politically motivated and disconnected from the realities of governance in the State.

In a statement signed by its Convener, Fidelis Okang, the group said Onor’s criticisms should be viewed against the backdrop of his defeat in the 2023 governorship election.

“Rather than engaging in relentless criticism, Senator Onor should reflect on the reasons Cross Riverians overwhelmingly entrusted the leadership of the state to Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu.

His political caterpillar has long somersaulted from the hills of Etara, and no amount of media rhetoric can alter the democratic verdict freely delivered by the people,” the statement said.

The coalition argued that Governor Otu inherited a state burdened by debt, decaying infrastructure and declining investor confidence, but has since focused on rebuilding the state through his “People First” agenda.

“Rather than trade blame, he immediately set about rebuilding the state under his People First agenda,” the group stated.
It said the administration had prioritised security, tourism, infrastructure, education, healthcare and economic development, citing efforts to revive Tinapa, rehabilitate Obudu Mountain Resort, complete the Obudu International Cargo Airport, restore Marina Resort and expand Carnival Calabar across the state’s three senatorial districts.

The statement also highlighted the acquisition of additional aircraft for Cally Air, the push to actualise the Bakassi Deep Seaport, the reconstruction of the Cross River State Library, the establishment of the University of Education and Entrepreneurship Development, road construction, rural electrification, business empowerment programmes, free healthcare for pregnant women and children under five, annual payment of WAEC and NECO fees, transportation subsidies and efforts to restore Cross River’s oil-producing status.

According to the group, these achievements have earned the governor widespread support.

“These are not empty slogans. They are measurable policies, ongoing projects and visible achievements that explain why Governor Bassey Edet Otu continues to enjoy broad public support across the State,” the statement said.

The coalition added that Governor Otu remained focused on governance despite political attacks.

“Political distractions will come and go, but enduring legacies are built through vision, discipline and unwavering commitment to the people,” it said.