By Itam Offor
The Cross River State House of Assembly has confirmed the nomination of Mr Ayuk Obi Afor as a member of the State Executive Council and Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture.
The confirmation followed the consideration and adoption of the report of the House Committee on Judiciary, Public Service Matters, Public Petitions and Conflict Resolution, which conducted the screening exercise.
Presenting the committee’s report, its Chairman, Rt. Hon. Davies Etta (Abi) stated that the nominee possessed the required qualifications, experience, and competence to serve in the State Executive Council.
Members of the House who contributed during the debate described the nominee as experienced and capable, expressing confidence in his ability to contribute to the development of the state.
Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem subsequently put the committee’s recommendation to a voice vote, which received overwhelming support from lawmakers.
The Speaker thanked the Governor for selecting the Nominee from the Constituency of the late Hon. Abubakar Ewa, who died on the 8th of January, 2025, while serving as the Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture.
Ayambem thereafter declared the nominee confirmed after a motion moved by Hon. Martins Achadu (Yala 2) and seconded by Hon Mercy Mbang Akpama (Yakurr 2). He further directed that the resolution of the House be communicated to Governor Bassey Otu for his assent and other action.
Responding after the confirmation, Mr Afor expressed gratitude to the Governor for the confidence reposed in him and thanked the lawmakers for the approval.
He pledged to serve diligently, uphold transparency and accountability, and contribute meaningfully to the implementation of the administration’s policies and programmes.
The nomination of Mr Ayuk Obi Afor by Governor Otu is in full compliance with Section 192(2) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended) and is sequel to the vacancy created by the demise of Hon. Abubakar Ewa, who served as the Commissioner in charge of Tourism, Arts and Culture until his demise on 8th January, 2025.