By Frank Ulom
The Cross River State Consultative Forum (CRSCF) has described the
All Progressives Congress (APC) primary elections in the state as a reflection of democratic maturity and internal party cohesion, while congratulating candidates who emerged victorious.
In a statement issued in Calabar on Saturday and signed by its Chairman, Barr. Eyo Nsa Ekpo, and Secretary, Dr Julius Ochim Okputu, the socio-political advocacy and think-tank organisation commended the APC leadership in the state for what it described as a peaceful, transparent and consultative primary process.
The forum specifically praised the leadership of the party in Cross River, led by Hon. Chris Sunny Etta, for overseeing the primaries for the State House of Assembly, National Assembly and governorship positions.
According to the CRSCF, the conduct of the primaries demonstrated “the growing maturity of the democratic process within the party” and further reinforced Cross River State’s standing as one of the politically stable states in the country.
The group said the emergence of the candidates provides another opportunity to consolidate democratic gains, ensure continuity in governance and accelerate development across the state.
It also congratulated Governor Bassey Otu, saying his leadership and commitment to party unity have continued to serve as a stabilising force within the APC and the broader political environment in Cross River State.
The forum urged party faithful, aspirants, stakeholders and supporters to accept the outcome of the primaries in the spirit of sportsmanship, unity and collective responsibility.
“The larger objective remains the progress, peace, and sustainable development of Cross River State,” the statement said.
CRSCF further called on the successful candidates to sustain issue-based engagement, remain connected to the grassroots and prioritise policies and programmes that directly impact the welfare of the people.
While congratulating the winners, the forum also acknowledged the participation of other aspirants, noting that their involvement enriched the electoral process and strengthened internal democracy within the party.
It reaffirmed its commitment to constructive engagement, policy advocacy and support for initiatives aimed at advancing the economic, political and social development of Cross River State and Nigeria.
