Top leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) on Friday received massive backing at the Obudu Reception and Endorsement Mega Rally in Cross River State, where party faithful, community leaders, and political stakeholders declared support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, Governor Prince Bassey Otu, and Deputy Governor Peter Odey.
The rally, convened by Hon. Agnes A. Atsu, drew thousands of supporters and featured the presence of APC State Chairman Alphonsus Ogar Eba, Chief of Staff to the Governor Emmanuel Ironbar, Deputy Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly Peter Akpanke, High Chief Higgins Peter, and traditional ruler HRM Utsu Felix Ukudare. Their attendance underscored a unified political front for the ruling party in the South-South region.
Speakers at the event praised President Tinubu’s policy reforms, including fuel subsidy removal and changes to the foreign exchange system, describing them as bold steps toward long-term economic stability despite short-term challenges. Infrastructure projects in power, transportation, and housing were also highlighted as evidence of the administration’s commitment to national growth.
Vice President Shettima was commended for his role in advancing security and driving economic diversification programs, with participants noting his synergy with the President’s vision.
At the state level, Governor Otu’s “People First” agenda drew applause for initiatives in rural development, healthcare, education, tourism, and small business empowerment. His efforts to revive the Obudu Cattle Ranch were cited as a model for sustainable local growth. Deputy Governor Odey was praised for strengthening governance in northern Cross River through grassroots engagement.
Hon. Atsu described the rally as a statement of continuity and progress, emphasizing that the overwhelming turnout reflected public confidence in APC leadership.
Analysts said the event marked a significant milestone in consolidating APC’s influence in Cross River, particularly in the North where traditional rulers and political elites demonstrated rare cohesion. The endorsement, they noted, strengthens Governor Otu’s legitimacy and further aligns Cross River’s political direction with the federal administration.
