Accept Court Verdict, Join Hands With The People First Agenda – Governor Otu To Sandy After Appeal Court Ruling

By Sylvia Akpan, Government House Correspondent

The Executive Governor of Cross River State,  Senator Bassey Otu has prayed litigant – Senator Sandy Onor to accept the recent Court of Appeal ruling affirming him as the authentic winner of the March 18th Governor election.

Governor Otu said the affirmation is a true reflection of the people’s mandate given to him in confidence.

He prayed the aggrieved parties to sheath their sword and join hands in the People’s First Agenda promise.

“The ruling of the Court of Appeal today is a welcome development and affirms that we were overwhelmingly voted in by the people on March 18, 2023.

“This ruling should bring an end to litigation on the outcome of the governorship election. For those in the opposition, especially my brother, Prof. Sandy Onor, I once again offer you a hand of friendship. Come and join my administration so that together we can move our state forward and bring about the dividends of democracy.”

The number one citizen of the State – Otu reiterated that his administration will not segregate irrespective of tribe, gender, and age, adding that a level playing ground will be given to all and sundry to showcase their prowess.

“My administration is fully re-energized to deliver on the People First Mandate, which is on track to repositioning our State for effective and responsive governance. I solicit the support and patience of all Cross Riverians as we navigate the challenging times toward the Cross River of our dreams.

“Let me reassure all our citizens that we are working round the clock to ensure that we deliver the best governance for our people. It is important also to note that preparations are in top gear for a robust and successful Calabar festival, while we continue to address other socio-economic and developmental issues.”

Recall that on Wednesday, the Court of Appeal sitting in Lagos affirmed the decision of the Election Petition Tribunal of September 26 upholding the election of Governor Bassey Otu and his deputy, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey as duly elected.

As declared by the Independent Electoral Commission, INEC, Otu garnered 258,619 votes winning in 15 of the 18 local governments of the State against his his rival, Sen. Sandy Onor of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP with 179,636 votes in the gubernatorial election.