By Our Correspondent
The Eight years of Governor Liyel Imoke’s administration in Cross River state has been eventful and free of press gagging.
This was the commendation given to the outgoing governor of Cross River state, Senator Liyel Imoke during a valedictory media parley in government house, Calabar yesterday.
The event was moderated by the state Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Pastor Ndoma Akpet, and witnessed a large turn out of journalists who came in their numbers. The NUJ chairman said part of what Imoke will remembered for is the freedom that members of the press enjoyed during his eight years rule as governor of Cross River State, a feat he said journalists found very scarce during the previous administration of Donald Duke.
“Your Excellency, you will be remembered among other things that as Governor of Cross River State, journalists operated under a conducive Environment. No single journalist was killed, harassed or brutalized during your eight years as Governor of Cross River State, this cannot be said of your predecessor.
“It is not that we do reports that favor you at all times, but you understand our roles In the society and found a place to accommodate us in your large heart. This will be in the history and we want you to recommend this to your successor.”
The journalists urged Imoke to recommend the development of an all year round tourism program, the entrenchment of party internal democracy, cleaning up the environment and solution to water scarcity, as immediate priorities to his successor.
Responding, Governor Imoke who said he came prepared to answer questions said he was humbled by the commendations coming from those “who see more, say more and report more,” explaining that there is nothing more gratifying than seeing journalists commending a public officer.
He promised to always do his best to serve the people where ever he finds himself in his retirement.
Those who spoke at the emotion laden valedictory session include, Sir Victor Effiom, Charles Eniang, Aniete Ben-Akpan, Mary Akpet, Ukandi Nawa, Sam Egbala, Eme Offiong and Judex Okoro.