It was a sea of supporters in Calabar South on Wednesday as the All Progressives Congress, APC direct primaries turned into a massive show of solidarity.
Hon. Effiong Ekarika and Hon. Mayorie Asuquo emerge as the clear winners for Calabar South State Constituencies 1 and 2 in the 2027 State Assembly race, with an overwhelming 3,188 backers queuing up behind Ekarika in a triumphant display of grassroots power.
Speaking after his victory, Ekarika pledged to continue championing development initiatives aimed at improving the lives of residents.
He thanked supporters for their confidence in his leadership and assured them of sustained commitment to grassroots service.
According to the government must remain focused on the welfare and security of citizens as provided by the Constitution.
The lawmaker stressed that effective leadership requires constant interaction with the people and a quick response to their needs.
“My people know that I always respond whenever they call on me,” he said.
Ekarika highlighted efforts to revive economic activities in Marina, Calabar, as part of his legislative agenda.
He disclosed that he sponsored a motion calling for collaboration between the state government, the Federal Government, and the Nigerian Ports Authority to restore marine and commercial operations in the area.
According to Ekarika, the revival of the Marina would boost economic activities and create employment opportunities for residents.
He added that the Calabar waterfront possesses the capacity to drive economic growth across the entire state if adequately developed.
In Calabar South State Constituency 2, Hon. Mayorie Asuquo emerged as the APC candidate for the State Assembly election.
Asuquo said the victory reflected the people’s desire for improved representation and inclusive governance.
She particularly praised women for their overwhelming participation during the primary exercise.
“Women were everywhere. They are expecting a lot from me and I will not disappoint them,” she stated.
The former Women Development Centre Director-General promised to advocate policies that would improve the welfare of women and vulnerable groups.
She also commended Governor Bassey Otu and the First Lady, Bishop Dr Eyoanwan Bassey Otu, for creating opportunities for women in governance.
Asuquo noted that more women are currently occupying political positions in Cross River State than in previous administrations.
Former lawmaker and current Cross River State Representative on the NDDC board, Rt. Hon. Orok Duke PhD, urged constituents to support continuity in legislative representation for effective governance.
He maintained that lawmakers require adequate time to understand legislative processes and deliver meaningful results.
Ward 2 APC Chairman, Mr Nsa Emmanuel Edem, described Ekarika as a grassroots leader whose popularity among residents contributed significantly to his victory.
