By Frank Ulom
Bakassi (Converseer) – Leaders and stakeholders from the Mainland bloc of Bakassi Local Government Area have endorsed Bassey Edet Otu for a second term in 2027 as well as demanded the position of the State House of Assembly, while raising concerns over what they described as growing political marginalisation within the area.
The position was contained in a communiqué issued on Thursday, 9 April 2026, addressed to the governor, and jointly signed by political actors, elders, and community representatives from the Mainland bloc, including influential figures like Rt. Hon. Ekpo Ekpo and Rt. Hon. Dominic Aqua Edem.
In the communiqué, the group commended the governor’s achievements, particularly the Bakassi Deep Seaport initiative and efforts to restore the state’s littoral status. They also acknowledged his commitment to peace and development across Cross River State.
“We acknowledge Your Excellency’s achievements, particularly the Bakassi Deep Sea Port initiative, efforts to restore the State’s littoral status, and your commitment to peace and development,” the communiqué stated.
The stakeholders unanimously declared their support for the governor’s re-election bid, pledging mobilisation and full backing ahead of the 2027 polls.
“We unanimously endorse Your Excellency for a second term in 2027 and pledge our full support and mobilisation,” they said.
However, the group expressed concern over what it termed a deviation from earlier agreements on equitable political representation between the Mainland and Riverine blocs of Bakassi.
According to the communiqué, the Riverine bloc has produced four local government chairmen over the years, compared to one from the Mainland bloc, despite the latter accounting for more than 95 per cent of the voting strength in the area.
“For the first time, one bloc now dominates major elective positions—an unprecedented situation that undermines fairness and inclusion, and is widely seen as marginalisation of the Mainland,” the statement read.
The stakeholders demanded that the State House of Assembly position be used to address the imbalance and ensure equitable distribution of political offices between both blocs.
“Our demand is for the State House of Assembly position to be used to strike a proper and equitable balance between the blocs, in the interest of justice, inclusion, and sustained peace,” they stated.
The communiqué further warned of rising discontent among the people, noting that unresolved tensions could lead to political instability and shifts in allegiance within the local government area.
“There is growing discontent among our people. While we have managed tensions, the situation is becoming difficult. If unresolved, it may lead to political instability and shifts in allegiance,” the group cautioned.
They called on Governor Otu to intervene decisively to restore balance, fairness, and public confidence ahead of the 2027 electoral cycle.
“We respectfully urge Your Excellency to act decisively to restore balance, fairness, and confidence,” the communiqué added.
The group expressed confidence in the governor’s sense of justice and commitment to unity, noting that addressing the concerns would strengthen peace and ensure a credible electoral process in 2027.
The communiqué was copied to key state officials, including the Deputy Governor, Secretary to the State Government, Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, and leadership of the All Progressives Congress in the state.
