By Frank Ulom
CALABAR (CONVERSEER) – Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State has received commendation from the Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Cross River State Chapter, for his inclusive governance and fulfilment of promises to both indigenes and non-indigenes in the state.
The commendation was made on Sunday in Calabar by the Cross River State President of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Chief Chukwuemeka Egwuonwu, during a reception held in his honour shortly after a Thanksgiving Mass at St. Bernard Catholic Church.
Chief Egwuonwu, who was elected in June 2025 as the new state president of the socio-cultural organisation, announced that Ohanaeze Ndigbo will only support political candidates in the 2027 general elections who have positively impacted their communities.
He said the organisation would no longer remain passive in political affairs, stressing that it will openly reject leaders who manipulate citizens and inflict hardship on the populace.
“Every human being is a political animal, and Ohanaeze will not be different. Any person who has performed will have the blessings of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, but if we discover that someone has gone there to manipulate the masses and cause hardship, we will make a statement,” Egwuonwu declared.
He praised Governor Otu for running a people-oriented administration and creating a sense of belonging for all residents irrespective of origin. Egwuonwu described the governor’s leadership as inclusive and responsive, noting that his policies have benefited both indigenes and non-indigenes.
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Addressing members of the Igbo community at the event, Governor Otu called for continued partnership between the government and the Igbo people in advancing the development of Cross River State.
He highlighted the significant contributions of the Igbo community to the state’s economic and commercial growth, stressing that his administration values their role as key stakeholders.
“My coming here today is to salute the dexterity of the Igbo nation. They have been wonderful partners in our economy and commerce, and together we will build a greater future,” Otu stated.
The governor’s presence and remarks reinforced his administration’s emphasis on unity and shared responsibility among all residents in driving development.
In his remarks, the President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Senator John Mbata, urged the newly inaugurated state executive to uphold unity, progress, and cultural pride. He explained that the national leadership is restructuring Ohanaeze into a global voice and unifying force anchored on heritage and collective purpose.
High Chief Egwuonwu, who succeeded the previous executive whose tenure had expired, pledged to strengthen unity within the Igbo community in Cross River and deepen the organisation’s impact in the state’s socio-political landscape.
The event was attended by community leaders, government officials, and members of the Igbo community, marking a renewed commitment to collaboration between Ohanaeze Ndigbo and the state government under Governor Otu’s leadership.
Converseer reports that Governor Otu was also awarded as Grand Patron of the association.
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