NUJ Cross River State Council Chairman, Comrade Archibong Bassey (3rd from left), flanked by, Director of Finance, Pillars of Equity, Comrade Kenneth Etim (2nd left) and others at the event.
By Ita Williams, Calabar
A coalition of support groups has announced plans for a large-scale rally to bolster public backing for Cross River State Governor Bassey Otu, Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong Jr. and President Bola Tinubu.
The Nigeria Diaspora Business Network (NDBN) USA and the Pillars of Equity revealed the initiative during a press briefing with the Cross River State Council of the Nigerian Union of Journalists in Calabar on Monday.
The Director of Finance for Pillars of Equity, Comrade Kenneth Etim, addressed journalists at the Ernest Etim Bassey Press Centre on Monday, stating the rally aims to showcase the achievements of the current administration.
“We are here to seek your partnership for the exercise we have planned for April 2026,” he explained. The event is scheduled for Saturday, April 4, 2026, at Mayn Avenue, Atu Primary School.
Etim emphasized the coalition’s history of grassroots mobilization, noting its role in the 2022 elections, saying “We played a prominent role in mobilizing support across seven local governments”..
The group argued that the current leaders have earned continued support through tangible results. “The reward for work is more work,” Etim stated, adding, “One good turn deserves another.”
Detailing the administration’s accomplishments, Etim highlighted progress in education, security, and tourism.
He pointed to the establishment of the University of Education and Entrepreneurship and the revitalization of the Cross River State University of Forestry and Agricultural College.
“Educationally, he has done something quite significant beyond routine renovations,” he noted.
On security, Etim claimed noticeable improvements. “The security apparatus has been revamped. We’ve got results where at least you and I can sleep with less concern,” he said.
He also cited efforts to revive tourism assets like the Sinapa and Ubudu resorts and the successful return of the Calabar Carnival as evidence of the governor’s commitment.
Infrastructure and employment were also underscored as Etim acknowledged that road repairs are an expected government duty but praised the administration’s consistency.
Regarding job creation, he referenced a recent issue with bus drivers in Calabar that was resolved within a week. “This shows leadership,” he argued, “because if you can do something small, you can do something a lot better.”
Etim praised Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong, while detailing his legislative record, saying “As a first-time senator, he has sponsored 22 bills and raised eight motions in two and a half years, that’s a record,” he said.
He specifically cited the senator’s role in advancing the South Side Development Commission bill and his hands-on oversight of constituency projects, including road repairs that have reduced travel time to Wuyo.
Etim appealed for media collaboration to ensure a successful rally and to build momentum toward the 2027 elections. He expressed confidence that with sustained support, the leaders could achieve even more.
“Let’s partner to take him to the next level,” he urged, framing “the rally as a celebration of performance” and a called for continued progress.
