The Northern Senatorial District of Cross River State on Tuesday commenced its maiden Leadership for Growth and Development solidarity and consultation tour, beginning in Obanliku Local Government Area and proceeding to Obudu. The strategic outreach is aimed at strengthening unity, deepening grassroots engagement, and aligning development priorities ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The high-powered team, led by High Chief Dr. Tony Undiandeye, included key figures such as Chief Signor Omang Idiege, Ada Bekwarra II; former Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Maurice Wayas Evey; former Chief of Staff to the Governor, Elder Odo Emmanuel Odo; and Obol Dr. Peter Ojie. The delegation described the tour as both a political and developmental mission designed to consolidate support for the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, and Governor Bassey Edet Otu, while repositioning the Northern Senatorial District for inclusive growth and sustained electoral success.
The tour officially took off in Obanliku LGA, where the team engaged in extensive consultations with political leaders, traditional institutions, women and youth groups, civil society organizations (CSOs), faith-based organizations (FBOs), non-indigenes, and other community stakeholders.
The team was received on behalf of the Executive Chairman of Obanliku LGA, Hon. Chief (Dr.) Sunny Ayang, JP, by the Secretary of Council, Dr. Joseph Agba, who conveyed the goodwill message of the chairman and the people of Obanliku. He assured the delegation of the council’s firm support for state and federal leadership and its readiness to collaborate in driving development.
Stakeholders in Obanliku outlined several priority demands, including the rehabilitation and proper staffing of the General Hospital, comprehensive urban development of Sankwala, and the construction and rehabilitation of key rural roads such as the Ablesang–Buya Road, Amana Market and Border Road, and the Utanga Market–Bessenge II Road.
Other concerns raised included the upgrading of the Bebi Airstrip, the full restoration of the Obudu Ranch Resort to international standards, with a proposal for its renaming to Obanliku Ranch Resort. As well as increased state and federal appointments for qualified indigenes, renewed investment in agriculture, job creation, and enhanced political inclusion.
Speakers at the forum emphasized that timely intervention in these areas would accelerate development, strengthen public confidence, and reinforce political loyalty across the local government.
The Obanliku meeting attracted a broad and representative audience, including traditional rulers, party leaders, elected officials, women and youth groups, and community elders. Dignitaries present included Hon. Sunday Elam, Leader of Council; councillors from various wards; Rt. Hon. Maurice Evey; Hon. Barr. Pius Awah, APC State Legal Adviser; Chief Ukandi Emmanuel Inakefe; and Pst. Amb. George Ejikang, APC Chapter Chairman in Obanliku, among others.
From Obanliku, the team proceeded to Obudu Local Government Area, where the consultation continued under the banner of Leadership for Growth and Development.
Addressing stakeholders in Obudu, High Chief Dr. Tony Undiandeye stated that the essence of the tour was to express gratitude to the people while acknowledging the leadership of Governor Bassey Edet Otu and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for their visible support and developmental strides in the Northern Senatorial District.
Ada Bekwarra II also commended the people for their large turnout, which he described as a demonstration of unity and love for leadership. He urged them to remain supportive of the administration of His Excellency, Prince Bassey Edet Otu, and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Similarly, the former Speaker, Rt. Hon. Maurice Wayas Evey, commended President Tinubu for his unwavering commitment to the advancement of Cross River State, noting that sustained collaboration between the people and government remains critical to unlocking the region’s full potential.
Leaders and representatives from Obudu, speaking on behalf of both men and women, urged the state government to accelerate development projects and further enhance governance efficiency across the district.
The Paramount Ruler of Obudu, His Royal Majesty Utsu Felix Ukudare, assured the team of the community’s unwavering support. He emphasized that traditional rulers are custodians of peace and unity rather than partisan actors, stressing that every vote counts and that community cohesion is essential for progress.
The Chairman of Obudu Local Government Council warmly welcomed the delegation, describing Obudu as a peaceful and progressive community. He expressed appreciation for the visit and reaffirmed the council’s commitment to supporting the developmental agenda of Governor Bassey Edet Otu.
Also in attendance were other local government council chairmen from the Northern Senatorial District, APC chapter chairmen, former top government functionaries, and other key stakeholders, underscoring the significance of the tour.
The maiden tour, which successfully spanned Obanliku and Obudu, highlighted a renewed spirit of unity, consultation, and shared purpose across the Northern Senatorial District, setting the tone for sustained engagement, responsive governance, and inclusive development in the years ahead.
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